Pure Green Cars
Tesla to Deliver 2 EV Prototypes to Toyota
Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} Earlier on Friday, Toyota President Akio Toyoda told reporters in Japan Toyota was interested in experimenting with Tesla’s approach of using lithium-ion battery cells developed for the electronics industry as a potential alternative to developing batteries tailor-made for its own vehicles.
The project with Tesla is separate from a previously announced electric car Toyota plans to sell by 2012, Toyoda said. Toyota has said it's working on a two-passenger “urban commuter” electric car that will likely have range of 50 miles or less per charge.
Toyota struck a partnership with Tesla in May, in which it sold Tesla a factory in California and invested $50 million in the electric car maker, which went public earlier this month.
“Since our announcement in May, Toyota and Tesla engineering teams have made a lot of progress in a short amount of time, and it is exciting to start seeing some initial results,” JB Straubel, Tesla's chief technology officer said in an e-mail message.
Tesla has signed an agreement to deliver two prototypes to Toyota by the end of July. Both prototypes are modified Toyota vehicles, CNN reported.
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The project with Tesla is separate from a previously announced electric car Toyota plans to sell by 2012, Toyoda said. Toyota has said it's working on a two-passenger “urban commuter” electric car that will likely have range of 50 miles or less per charge.
Toyota struck a partnership with Tesla in May, in which it sold Tesla a factory in California and invested $50 million in the electric car maker, which went public earlier this month.
“Since our announcement in May, Toyota and Tesla engineering teams have made a lot of progress in a short amount of time, and it is exciting to start seeing some initial results,” JB Straubel, Tesla's chief technology officer said in an e-mail message.
Tesla has signed an agreement to deliver two prototypes to Toyota by the end of July. Both prototypes are modified Toyota vehicles, CNN reported.
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JFE Builds Super-Fast Charging System for Electric Vehicles
Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} In tests JFE conducted with its “Super-Rapid Charging System” device, Mitsubishi’s i-MiEV electric vehicle, which has a driving range of 160km (about 100 miles) on a full charge, was able to drive for 80km (50 miles) continuously after a 3-minute charge. A 5-minute charge supplies 70% of battery capacity, making it possible to drive the i-MiEV about 110km (68.5 miles), according to JFE.
This range covers the average daily travel distance for almost all passenger cars.
The “Super-Rapid Charging System” device stores power at night-time in a storage battery incorporated in the device. This power is then transferred to a separate special battery, which discharges to the EV almost instantaneously, enabling charging in a short time of only 3 minutes.
JFE also developed a low-cost version of its charger, which doesn’t require a power transformer and therefore costs roughly half the usual amount. Both that device and the high-cost model meet the specifications of the CHAdeMo standard for electric vehicles that was brought to life by a Tokyo Electric Power Company,Nissan, Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} Mitsubishi, Subaru and Toyota in March.
JFE's “Super-Rapid Charging System”should be available in Japan by March 2011.
[source: JFE Engineering]
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This range covers the average daily travel distance for almost all passenger cars.
The “Super-Rapid Charging System” device stores power at night-time in a storage battery incorporated in the device. This power is then transferred to a separate special battery, which discharges to the EV almost instantaneously, enabling charging in a short time of only 3 minutes.
JFE also developed a low-cost version of its charger, which doesn’t require a power transformer and therefore costs roughly half the usual amount. Both that device and the high-cost model meet the specifications of the CHAdeMo standard for electric vehicles that was brought to life by a Tokyo Electric Power Company,Nissan, Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} Mitsubishi, Subaru and Toyota in March.
JFE's “Super-Rapid Charging System”should be available in Japan by March 2011.
[source: JFE Engineering]
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Renault-Nissan and Bajaj to Make Ultra-Low-Cost Car
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Car sales have been robust in Asia's third-largest automobile market in recent months, driven by new models, government stimulus efforts and generally rising incomes. Small car sales are the highest and represent more than two-thirds of India's market, driven by rising middle-class incomes.
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The agreement follows the earlier MoU signed between the Renault-Nissan Alliance and Bajaj Auto in 2009 that allowed them to start work on the proposed low-cost car.
The car, scheduled for a launch in 2012 plans to rival the world's cheapest car -- the Nano -- being produced by India's leading vehicle maker Tata Motors.
The design, engineering, sourcing and manufacturing of the unnamed new model will be handled by Bajaj Auto, while marketing and selling will be done by the Renault-Nissan alliance.
Bajaj Auto, which unveiled a snub-nosed prototype of the car in 2008, has a 50 percent stake in the venture while Renault and Nissan have 25 percent each.
Car sales have been robust in Asia's third-largest automobile market in recent months, driven by new models, government stimulus efforts and generally rising incomes. Small car sales are the highest and represent more than two-thirds of India's market, driven by rising middle-class incomes.
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Solar-Powered Plane Flies for 26 Hours
Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} The Solar Impulse HB-SIA took off from Payerne Air Base, in Switzerland, Wednesday morning, ascended through the day, flew on solar-cell power through the night and landed back at Payerne Thursday.
Solar Impulse flew 26 hours and 9 minutes, powered only by its 12,000 solar cells absorbing solar energy stored during the day.
"The deal is done, we’ve won, we’ve won! HB-SIA and pilot André Boschberg are back from the night skies," said team member Lucas Chambers. Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} The organizers said the flight was the longest and highest by a piloted solar-powered craft, reaching an altitude of just over 28,000 feet (8,564 meters) above sea level at an average speed of around 26 miles per hour.
The Solar Impulse HB-SIA has 12,000 solar cells built into its 64.3-meters (193-foot) wings. The solar plane is powered by four electric motors designed to save energy from its solar cells in high-performance batteries.
The achievement - seven years in the making - is only the first step. The next milestone will be crossing the Atlantic using a second prototype which goes into construction soon.
Eventually, the Solar Impulse team hope to make a round the world trip.
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Solar Impulse flew 26 hours and 9 minutes, powered only by its 12,000 solar cells absorbing solar energy stored during the day.
"The deal is done, we’ve won, we’ve won! HB-SIA and pilot André Boschberg are back from the night skies," said team member Lucas Chambers. Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} The organizers said the flight was the longest and highest by a piloted solar-powered craft, reaching an altitude of just over 28,000 feet (8,564 meters) above sea level at an average speed of around 26 miles per hour.
The Solar Impulse HB-SIA has 12,000 solar cells built into its 64.3-meters (193-foot) wings. The solar plane is powered by four electric motors designed to save energy from its solar cells in high-performance batteries.
The achievement - seven years in the making - is only the first step. The next milestone will be crossing the Atlantic using a second prototype which goes into construction soon.
Eventually, the Solar Impulse team hope to make a round the world trip.
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Hybrid Car Sales Fell 19 Percent in June
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Toyota stands on top once again. The big seller was once again Toyota’s Prius which sold 10,998 units, a decrease increase of 22.8% from last month and 15.4% decrease compared with June 2009.
Sales of the Ford Fusion Hybrid felled by 19.1 percent to 2010 units, while Mercury managed to move only 93 hybrid Milans compared to last month.
Hybrids as a whole accounted for 2.2 percent of the entire car market.
Toyota reported overall sales of 14,639 hybrids in june. The Prius Hybrid sold 10,998 units; the Camry Hybrid sold 1,097 units; the Highlander Hybrid sold 611 units; the Lexus RX450h sold 1,304 units; the GS450h sold 22 units; the LS600h sold 4 units. The new HS250 sold 603 units.
Ford sold 3,463 hybrids last month. The Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids sold 2,010 and 93 units respectively. The Ford Escape sold 1260 and Mercury Mariner sold 100.
Honda sold 2,086 hybrids. The new Honda Insight Hybrid sold 1,491 units while the Civic Hybrid sold 595 hybrids.
General Motors sold a total of 543 hybrids almost 43% less than last month. The Cadillac Escalade Hybrid sold 68 units; the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid sold 36 units; the Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid sold 82 units; the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid sold 168 units; the GMC Yukon Hybrid sold 132 units; the GMC Sierra Hybrid sold 38 units. The Saturn VUE Hybrid and Saturn Aura Hybrid sold only 14 and 5 units respectively.
Nissan reported total sales of 479 Altima Hybrids during the month, while Mazda sold 55 Tribute Hybrid SUVs.
Mercedes-Benz sold 275 hybrids in May. The new Mercedes S400 Hybrid sold 63, while the Mercedes ML450 Hybrid sold 212 hybrid SUVs.
Other German carmaker, BMW reported total sales of 128 BMW X6 xDrive ActiveHybrid units and 11 units of its $103,000 ActiveHybrid 7.
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Toyota stands on top once again. The big seller was once again Toyota’s Prius which sold 10,998 units, a decrease increase of 22.8% from last month and 15.4% decrease compared with June 2009.
Sales of the Ford Fusion Hybrid felled by 19.1 percent to 2010 units, while Mercury managed to move only 93 hybrid Milans compared to last month.
Hybrids as a whole accounted for 2.2 percent of the entire car market.
Toyota reported overall sales of 14,639 hybrids in june. The Prius Hybrid sold 10,998 units; the Camry Hybrid sold 1,097 units; the Highlander Hybrid sold 611 units; the Lexus RX450h sold 1,304 units; the GS450h sold 22 units; the LS600h sold 4 units. The new HS250 sold 603 units.
Ford sold 3,463 hybrids last month. The Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids sold 2,010 and 93 units respectively. The Ford Escape sold 1260 and Mercury Mariner sold 100.
Honda sold 2,086 hybrids. The new Honda Insight Hybrid sold 1,491 units while the Civic Hybrid sold 595 hybrids.
General Motors sold a total of 543 hybrids almost 43% less than last month. The Cadillac Escalade Hybrid sold 68 units; the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid sold 36 units; the Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid sold 82 units; the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid sold 168 units; the GMC Yukon Hybrid sold 132 units; the GMC Sierra Hybrid sold 38 units. The Saturn VUE Hybrid and Saturn Aura Hybrid sold only 14 and 5 units respectively.
Nissan reported total sales of 479 Altima Hybrids during the month, while Mazda sold 55 Tribute Hybrid SUVs.
Mercedes-Benz sold 275 hybrids in May. The new Mercedes S400 Hybrid sold 63, while the Mercedes ML450 Hybrid sold 212 hybrid SUVs.
Other German carmaker, BMW reported total sales of 128 BMW X6 xDrive ActiveHybrid units and 11 units of its $103,000 ActiveHybrid 7.
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Renault’s Electric Vehicles Available for Road Tests
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Kangoo Express Z.E. and Fluence Z.E. were unveiled on April 15, 2010, since which time it has been possible to place pre-orders for the two models via the website www.renault-ze.com. After registering online, visitors to the site are able to select their vehicle and thereby enjoy priority access to their choice when the two models go on sale next year.
The Renault’s electric vehicle range will be extended to include two new, all-electric models which will have their own specific, innovative design based on the Twizy and Zoe concept cars.
To date, Renault-Nissan has signed more than 60 agreements across the world aimed at preparing markets and establishing the necessary infrastructure for the mass marketing of electric vehicles from 2011.
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Kangoo Express Z.E. and Fluence Z.E. were unveiled on April 15, 2010, since which time it has been possible to place pre-orders for the two models via the website www.renault-ze.com. After registering online, visitors to the site are able to select their vehicle and thereby enjoy priority access to their choice when the two models go on sale next year.
The Renault’s electric vehicle range will be extended to include two new, all-electric models which will have their own specific, innovative design based on the Twizy and Zoe concept cars.
To date, Renault-Nissan has signed more than 60 agreements across the world aimed at preparing markets and establishing the necessary infrastructure for the mass marketing of electric vehicles from 2011.
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SGL Group Breaks Ground on Carbon Fiber Plant in Moses Lake
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During the initial phase of development, BMW Group and SGL Group will invest US $100 million. 80 new local jobs will be created with an additional 200 for site construction. The state-of-the-art facility will be constructed on 60 acres of land. There is the option to purchase an additional 60 acres to cater future growth. The plant will initially run two carbon fiber lines, each with annual capacity of 1,500 metric tons. The first carbon fiber line will be commissioned in the third quarter of 2011.
The carbon fibers manufactured in Moses Lake will be used exclusively for BMW Group’s demand, the first application being the upcoming Megacity Vehicle. In February of this year, BMW Group announced that this new vehicle for urban mobility – set to be launched in 2013 under a BMW sub-brand – will be assembled in Leipzig, Germany.
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During the initial phase of development, BMW Group and SGL Group will invest US $100 million. 80 new local jobs will be created with an additional 200 for site construction. The state-of-the-art facility will be constructed on 60 acres of land. There is the option to purchase an additional 60 acres to cater future growth. The plant will initially run two carbon fiber lines, each with annual capacity of 1,500 metric tons. The first carbon fiber line will be commissioned in the third quarter of 2011.
The carbon fibers manufactured in Moses Lake will be used exclusively for BMW Group’s demand, the first application being the upcoming Megacity Vehicle. In February of this year, BMW Group announced that this new vehicle for urban mobility – set to be launched in 2013 under a BMW sub-brand – will be assembled in Leipzig, Germany.
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Toyota Prius Clinches Top Spot for 14th Month in Japan
Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} The world's largest automaker sold 31,876 of the Prius gas-electric cars, 43% more compared with last June. Honda’s Fit was second in sales in June at 15,955, followed by two of Toyota's smaller models, the Vitz and Corolla.
Among hybrids, Honda’s Insight hybrid, which debuted last February, finished 21st selling 3,724 units.
Association Spokesman, Yukio Kogoshi said that the Demand for Toyata’s electric car remain favorite of customers wanting to buy an energy efficient hybrid vehicle. Sales of the gasoline-electric hybrid increased more than threefold from a year earlier thanks to government subsidies and tax breaks for purchasing fuel-efficient vehicles.
Toyota Prius was also Japan's best-selling car in the January-June period with sales of 170,426 units, Suzuki’s WagonR minicar came in second with sales of 106,017 units, down 5.0 percent from a year earlier, followed by Daihatsu's Tanto minicar with sales of 104,530 units, up 30.0 percent.
The Toyota Prius has been selling well since its newest model was launched on May 18, 2009.
[source: JADA]
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Among hybrids, Honda’s Insight hybrid, which debuted last February, finished 21st selling 3,724 units.
Association Spokesman, Yukio Kogoshi said that the Demand for Toyata’s electric car remain favorite of customers wanting to buy an energy efficient hybrid vehicle. Sales of the gasoline-electric hybrid increased more than threefold from a year earlier thanks to government subsidies and tax breaks for purchasing fuel-efficient vehicles.
Toyota Prius was also Japan's best-selling car in the January-June period with sales of 170,426 units, Suzuki’s WagonR minicar came in second with sales of 106,017 units, down 5.0 percent from a year earlier, followed by Daihatsu's Tanto minicar with sales of 104,530 units, up 30.0 percent.
The Toyota Prius has been selling well since its newest model was launched on May 18, 2009.
[source: JADA]
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Toyota Announces Another Lexus Recall
Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} All the vehicles involved are Lexus sedans with V8 or V6 engines. Models that could be involved in the recall are model year 2007 and 2008. Approximately 137,000 vehicles are potentially affected in the U.S., including the GS 450h and LS 600h L hybrids.
Lexus officials noted that the likelihood of problems developing in the vehicles was slight -- estimated at 0.2 percent.
There have been no reports of any accidents or injuries related to the problem, Lexus said.
Lexus, just recently recalled some 17,000 2010 HS 250h hybrids over potential fuel leakage issues.
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Lexus officials noted that the likelihood of problems developing in the vehicles was slight -- estimated at 0.2 percent.
There have been no reports of any accidents or injuries related to the problem, Lexus said.
Lexus, just recently recalled some 17,000 2010 HS 250h hybrids over potential fuel leakage issues.
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Fiat’s 1.4 MultiAir Engine wins Best New Engine of 2010 Award
Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} The FPT 1.4 four-cylinder engine combines MultiAir, the electro-hydraulic management of the inlet valves, with a turbocharger, setting new efficiency standards.
Developed and manufactured by FPT – Fiat Powertrain Technologies – the 1.4 MultiAir Turbo engines, with power outputs ranging from 135 to 170 bhp, now equip the Alfa Romeo MiTo and Giulietta, as well as the Fiat Punto Evo and Abarth Punto Evo, and will soon be introduced to the Fiat Bravo.
The top of the range 170 bhp version, with 124 bhp/liter, has an outstanding specific power output which, combined with peak torque of 250 Nm, guarantees sporty performance, together with record-setting fuel consumption and emissions (134 g/km of CO2 in the new Alfa Romeo Giulietta).
The judges were predictably enamoured with a system that offers such impressive benefits. “Fiat’s MultiAir gives traditional internal combustion a breath of fresh air via an entirely new set of valvetrain strategies,” was the verdict of respected technical journalist, Dennis Simanaitis of Road & Track.
Fiat plans to roll MultiAir out across additional engine families. Next to benefit will be the eagerly anticipated two-cylinder turbo, which is on track to offer an astonishing 105bhp!
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Developed and manufactured by FPT – Fiat Powertrain Technologies – the 1.4 MultiAir Turbo engines, with power outputs ranging from 135 to 170 bhp, now equip the Alfa Romeo MiTo and Giulietta, as well as the Fiat Punto Evo and Abarth Punto Evo, and will soon be introduced to the Fiat Bravo.
The top of the range 170 bhp version, with 124 bhp/liter, has an outstanding specific power output which, combined with peak torque of 250 Nm, guarantees sporty performance, together with record-setting fuel consumption and emissions (134 g/km of CO2 in the new Alfa Romeo Giulietta).
The judges were predictably enamoured with a system that offers such impressive benefits. “Fiat’s MultiAir gives traditional internal combustion a breath of fresh air via an entirely new set of valvetrain strategies,” was the verdict of respected technical journalist, Dennis Simanaitis of Road & Track.
Fiat plans to roll MultiAir out across additional engine families. Next to benefit will be the eagerly anticipated two-cylinder turbo, which is on track to offer an astonishing 105bhp!
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VW Introduces New Sharan MPV
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The engines all come with start-stop system and brake energy regeneration as standard issue.
The Sharan equipped with the 140hp TDI—the most popular engine version in Europe for the existing Sharan—will consume 5.5L/100km (42.8 mpg US), emitting just 143 g/km CO2.
Both TDI models are also fitted with a Selective Catalytic Reduction exhaust after-treatment system that works with AdBlue to convert nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gas stream to nitrogen and water.
The two TSI engines develop 110kW/150hp and 147kW/200hp respectively. Each of these Euro-5 engines is also available with a 6-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG); it is even standard equipment on the 200 PS TSI.
The new Sharan will be offered on all markets in the three equipment versions Trendline (base vehicle), Comfortline (mid-level) and Highline (most exclusive version) as well as in 9 different body colours.
The base version comes with pretty advanced features such as semi-automatic climate control, radio-CD system, mobility tires (self-sealing in case of puncture) plus 7 airbags and ESP.
The VW Sharan will be manufactured in Palmela, Portugal.
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The engines all come with start-stop system and brake energy regeneration as standard issue.
The Sharan equipped with the 140hp TDI—the most popular engine version in Europe for the existing Sharan—will consume 5.5L/100km (42.8 mpg US), emitting just 143 g/km CO2.
Both TDI models are also fitted with a Selective Catalytic Reduction exhaust after-treatment system that works with AdBlue to convert nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gas stream to nitrogen and water.
The two TSI engines develop 110kW/150hp and 147kW/200hp respectively. Each of these Euro-5 engines is also available with a 6-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG); it is even standard equipment on the 200 PS TSI.
The new Sharan will be offered on all markets in the three equipment versions Trendline (base vehicle), Comfortline (mid-level) and Highline (most exclusive version) as well as in 9 different body colours.
The base version comes with pretty advanced features such as semi-automatic climate control, radio-CD system, mobility tires (self-sealing in case of puncture) plus 7 airbags and ESP.
The VW Sharan will be manufactured in Palmela, Portugal.
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Toshiba Working with Mitsubishi on EV Batteries
Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} Toshiba said the companies have been working together for a year on battery systems containing its "super-charge ion battery" (SCiB) for use in electric cars, citing the battery's long life and recharging speed.
Toshiba said the SCiB has already been used for electric bicycles. The SCiB can recharge up to 90 percent of full capacity in less than five minutes.
Presently, batteries for Mitsubishi's i-MiEV electric vehicles are being supplied by Lithium Energy Japan, which is a joint venture with Mitsubishi Motors, battery maker GS Yuasa Corp., and trading house Mitsubishi Corp.
Toshiba, meanwhile, is also cooperating with Volkswagen to develop automaker's next-generation electric vehicles.
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Toshiba said the SCiB has already been used for electric bicycles. The SCiB can recharge up to 90 percent of full capacity in less than five minutes.
Presently, batteries for Mitsubishi's i-MiEV electric vehicles are being supplied by Lithium Energy Japan, which is a joint venture with Mitsubishi Motors, battery maker GS Yuasa Corp., and trading house Mitsubishi Corp.
Toshiba, meanwhile, is also cooperating with Volkswagen to develop automaker's next-generation electric vehicles.
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Automotive X PRIZE Concludes Knockout Qualifying Stage
Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} This second stage is part of a rigorous multi-stage and multi-month testing of viable and super fuel efficient vehicles from around the world.
At the end of day Tuesday, June 29, 15 of the original 26 vehicles from 12 of the original 21 teams that started Knockout testing have passed the necessary range and dynamic stability tests overseen by the competition's testing partner, Consumer Reports. The remaining vehicles - two in the Mainstream class and 13 in the Alternative class - will now proceed to the Finals Stage, set for July 19-30 at Michigan International Speedway (MIS) in Brooklyn, Mich.
During Knockout, Progressive Insurance Automotive X PRIZE competitor vehicles had to pass a repeat of technical inspections and on-track safety tests featured in the first stage of testing - the Shakedown Stage- which took place in May. Vehicles also had to complete emissions, efficiency, and range events in which they had to achieve at least two-thirds the minimum fuel economy and range requirements. For fuel economy, this translates to at least 67 mpg, or two-thirds of the 100 mpg target for both vehicle classes. For emissions, vehicles had to meet the minimum US EPA emissions standards in on-track challenges. For range, vehicles had to reach a minimum of 134 miles for Mainstream class entries (200 miles range required at the Finals Stage) and 67 miles for the Alternative class (100 miles range required at the Finals Stage).
Established automakers, start-ups, universities, inventors, and even a high school were among the diverse groups of teams that entered the Knockout Stage, the gateway to the grand prize. The following is a complete list of the remaining teams, along with the class in which they compete and their fuel type:
Mainstream Class (Two vehicles, one team)
· Edison2 Very Light Car #97 (Charlottesville, VA) Internal Combustion Engine
· Edison2 Very Light Car #98 (Charlottesville, VA) Internal Combustion Engine
Alternative Class - Tandem (Five vehicles, four teams)
· Commuter Cars, Tango (Spokane, WA) Battery Electric
· Edison2, Very Light Car #95 (Charlottesville, VA) Internal Combustion Engine
· Spira, Spira4u (Carrollton, IL/Banglamung, Thailand) Combustion Engine
· X-Tracer, E-Tracer 7002 (Switzerland) Battery Electric
· X-Tracer, E-Tracer 7009 (Switzerland) Battery Electric
Alternative Class - Side-by-Side (Eight vehicles, eight teams)
· Amp, amp'd Sky(Cincinnati, OH) Battery Electric
· Aptera, Aptera 2e (San Diego, CA) Battery Electric
· Li-ion Motors, Wave II (North Carolina) Battery Electric
· RaceAbout Association, RaceAbout (Finland) Battery Electric
· Tata Motors, Indica Vista EV X (Coventry, UK) Battery Electric
· TW4XP, TW4XP (Italy) Battery Electric
· Western Washington University, Viking 45 (Bellingham, WA) Gas/Electric Hybrid
· ZAP, Alias (Santa Rosa, CA) Battery Electric
The car in each class that exceeds 100 mpg, meets the emissions and performance requirements, and completes the on-road challenges with the fastest time wins. The ten million dollar prize purse will be presented at an Award Ceremony in September.
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At the end of day Tuesday, June 29, 15 of the original 26 vehicles from 12 of the original 21 teams that started Knockout testing have passed the necessary range and dynamic stability tests overseen by the competition's testing partner, Consumer Reports. The remaining vehicles - two in the Mainstream class and 13 in the Alternative class - will now proceed to the Finals Stage, set for July 19-30 at Michigan International Speedway (MIS) in Brooklyn, Mich.
During Knockout, Progressive Insurance Automotive X PRIZE competitor vehicles had to pass a repeat of technical inspections and on-track safety tests featured in the first stage of testing - the Shakedown Stage- which took place in May. Vehicles also had to complete emissions, efficiency, and range events in which they had to achieve at least two-thirds the minimum fuel economy and range requirements. For fuel economy, this translates to at least 67 mpg, or two-thirds of the 100 mpg target for both vehicle classes. For emissions, vehicles had to meet the minimum US EPA emissions standards in on-track challenges. For range, vehicles had to reach a minimum of 134 miles for Mainstream class entries (200 miles range required at the Finals Stage) and 67 miles for the Alternative class (100 miles range required at the Finals Stage).
Established automakers, start-ups, universities, inventors, and even a high school were among the diverse groups of teams that entered the Knockout Stage, the gateway to the grand prize. The following is a complete list of the remaining teams, along with the class in which they compete and their fuel type:
Mainstream Class (Two vehicles, one team)
· Edison2 Very Light Car #97 (Charlottesville, VA) Internal Combustion Engine
· Edison2 Very Light Car #98 (Charlottesville, VA) Internal Combustion Engine
Alternative Class - Tandem (Five vehicles, four teams)
· Commuter Cars, Tango (Spokane, WA) Battery Electric
· Edison2, Very Light Car #95 (Charlottesville, VA) Internal Combustion Engine
· Spira, Spira4u (Carrollton, IL/Banglamung, Thailand) Combustion Engine
· X-Tracer, E-Tracer 7002 (Switzerland) Battery Electric
· X-Tracer, E-Tracer 7009 (Switzerland) Battery Electric
Alternative Class - Side-by-Side (Eight vehicles, eight teams)
· Amp, amp'd Sky(Cincinnati, OH) Battery Electric
· Aptera, Aptera 2e (San Diego, CA) Battery Electric
· Li-ion Motors, Wave II (North Carolina) Battery Electric
· RaceAbout Association, RaceAbout (Finland) Battery Electric
· Tata Motors, Indica Vista EV X (Coventry, UK) Battery Electric
· TW4XP, TW4XP (Italy) Battery Electric
· Western Washington University, Viking 45 (Bellingham, WA) Gas/Electric Hybrid
· ZAP, Alias (Santa Rosa, CA) Battery Electric
The car in each class that exceeds 100 mpg, meets the emissions and performance requirements, and completes the on-road challenges with the fastest time wins. The ten million dollar prize purse will be presented at an Award Ceremony in September.
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GM Announces Chevrolet Volt Production Volume
Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} The Chevrolet Volt will go on sale later this year in California, Washington, D.C., Austin, Texas, and around New York City. Additional Volts will go on sale next year in Michigan, New Jersey, Connecticut and the rest of New York and Texas, the auto maker said.
GM has told Chevrolet dealers that they are all required to certain guidelines in order to sell the Volt.
Before receiving Volts for retail sales, dealers will be required to complete specialized sales and service training, and install 240-volt charging stations at their dealership.
The price has yet to be decided. Chevrolet expects to have nationwide service coverage available through Chevrolet Authorized Volt Service Dealers during the 12 to 18 month national rollout.
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GM has told Chevrolet dealers that they are all required to certain guidelines in order to sell the Volt.
Before receiving Volts for retail sales, dealers will be required to complete specialized sales and service training, and install 240-volt charging stations at their dealership.
The price has yet to be decided. Chevrolet expects to have nationwide service coverage available through Chevrolet Authorized Volt Service Dealers during the 12 to 18 month national rollout.
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BMW Releases First Official Teaser of Megacity Electric Vehicle
Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} The Megacity will be electric only and features a carbon-fiber chassis produced in a new carbon-fiber plant BMW is building together with composites expert SGL Group specifically for its new Megacity Vehicle.
The Megacity EV is expected to have a range between 100 and 130 miles to a charge.
The Megacity will employ SB LiMotive lithium-ion battery pack with roughly 35 kWh of capacity, mounted below the floor of the car. The battery delivers the juice to a 134 horsepower electric motor driving the rear wheels. Top speed will reportedly be limited to 95 mph.
Despite its small proportions, the vehicle will be a four-seater. Earlier this year, BMW announced plans to build its electric vehicles at its plant in Leipzig, Germany.
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The Megacity EV is expected to have a range between 100 and 130 miles to a charge.
The Megacity will employ SB LiMotive lithium-ion battery pack with roughly 35 kWh of capacity, mounted below the floor of the car. The battery delivers the juice to a 134 horsepower electric motor driving the rear wheels. Top speed will reportedly be limited to 95 mph.
Despite its small proportions, the vehicle will be a four-seater. Earlier this year, BMW announced plans to build its electric vehicles at its plant in Leipzig, Germany.
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Range Rover Evoque Unveiled
Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} The Range Rover Evoque will join the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport line-up in the summer of 2011.
The Evoque, to be built at the company's Halewood plant on Merseyside, will create 1,000 jobs - though an axe does hang over one of the companies other two factories in the West Midlands.
The Range Rover Evoque will hit the dealerships next summer and will be priced from £30,000 to around £45,000 (from $45,450 to $68,180).
Customers have a choice of both a 4WD and a 2WD version, with a sub 130g/km CO2 demonstrating the Range Rover brand's commitment to environmental sustainability.
The Range Rover Evoque was also unveiled at the celebrity party co-hosted by Vogue, which was attended by 300 guests including Prince and Princess Michael of Kent, Victoria Beckham, model Erin O'Connor and presenter Gabby Logan.
The Range Rover Evoque, to be officially launched at the Paris Motor Show in September, is based on the Land Rover LRX concept exhibited at the Detroit Auto Show in January, 2008.
The Land Rover LRX Concept was a hit, winning the "Concept Truck of the Year" award in the North American Concept Vehicle of the Year Awards.
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The Evoque, to be built at the company's Halewood plant on Merseyside, will create 1,000 jobs - though an axe does hang over one of the companies other two factories in the West Midlands.
The Range Rover Evoque will hit the dealerships next summer and will be priced from £30,000 to around £45,000 (from $45,450 to $68,180).
Customers have a choice of both a 4WD and a 2WD version, with a sub 130g/km CO2 demonstrating the Range Rover brand's commitment to environmental sustainability.
The Range Rover Evoque was also unveiled at the celebrity party co-hosted by Vogue, which was attended by 300 guests including Prince and Princess Michael of Kent, Victoria Beckham, model Erin O'Connor and presenter Gabby Logan.
The Range Rover Evoque, to be officially launched at the Paris Motor Show in September, is based on the Land Rover LRX concept exhibited at the Detroit Auto Show in January, 2008.
The Land Rover LRX Concept was a hit, winning the "Concept Truck of the Year" award in the North American Concept Vehicle of the Year Awards.
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Tesla Roadster 2.5 Unveiled
Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} The Tesla Roadster 2.5 gets a fanny lift and nose job and will debut simultaneously with the opening of Tesla's two new stores in Copenhagen, Denmark, and Newport Beach, California.
The most obvious changes to the Roadster 2.5 can be found right up front. A revised front fascia features a more aggressive look with new vents and a new integrated and color-matched chin spoiler.
At the opposite end of the Roadster 2.5 is a revised rear diffuser that's been tweaked for a more aggressive appearance, rather than enhancing aerodynamics.
Opting for the Roadster Sport unlocks a new wheel design, available in silver or gloss black finishes. Everything in between is more or less identical to the now old Roadster 2.0.
New features in Roadster 2.5 include:
- A new look, which includes a new front fascia with diffusing vents, and rear diffuser reflecting the future of Tesla design.
- Directional forged wheels available in both silver and black.
- New seats with improved comfort, larger more supportive bolsters and a new lumbar support system.
- Power control hardware that enables spirited driving in exceptionally hot climates.
- An optional 7” touchscreen display with back-up camera.
- Improved interior sound reduction including new front fender liner material make the cabin even quieter.
Tesla has sold over 1200 Roadsters around the world and the Roadster 2.5 is currently available for order and soon will be available at Tesla stores worldwide.
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The most obvious changes to the Roadster 2.5 can be found right up front. A revised front fascia features a more aggressive look with new vents and a new integrated and color-matched chin spoiler.
At the opposite end of the Roadster 2.5 is a revised rear diffuser that's been tweaked for a more aggressive appearance, rather than enhancing aerodynamics.
Opting for the Roadster Sport unlocks a new wheel design, available in silver or gloss black finishes. Everything in between is more or less identical to the now old Roadster 2.0.
New features in Roadster 2.5 include:
- A new look, which includes a new front fascia with diffusing vents, and rear diffuser reflecting the future of Tesla design.
- Directional forged wheels available in both silver and black.
- New seats with improved comfort, larger more supportive bolsters and a new lumbar support system.
- Power control hardware that enables spirited driving in exceptionally hot climates.
- An optional 7” touchscreen display with back-up camera.
- Improved interior sound reduction including new front fender liner material make the cabin even quieter.
Tesla has sold over 1200 Roadsters around the world and the Roadster 2.5 is currently available for order and soon will be available at Tesla stores worldwide.
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Fuel-Cell Research is Worth Risk Says National Academy of Sciences
Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} Bush administration-established FreedomCAR (Cooperative Automotive Research) and Fuel Partnership, which includes which includes the Energy Department, major automakers, five major oil and gas companies and two electric utilities, primarily focused
on hydrogen fuel-related technologies, including production and storage, automotive fuel-cells, codes and standards, and infrastructure for the longer term.
But after the Bush Administration spent $1.2 billion on developing hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles over five years, the Obama administration proposed cutting it from $169 million 2009 to just $68 million in 2010 -- a $101 million cut.
Currently the FreedomCAR is focusing its research at other emerging vehicle technologies, such as internal combustion engine efficiencies, vehicle lightweighting, hybrid-electric, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicle technologies.
However the National Academy, which advises the government, says investment into fuel cells is worth risk.
"The FreedomCAR and Fuel Partnership have made significant progress in all of the technologies it is developing, including hydrogen-based technologies. Although it’s important to work on near-term technologies, it’s equally important for the partnership to perform the type of high-risk research in areas such as hydrogen that would not otherwise be taken on by the private sector, especially as the economy is still recovering,” said one of the authors of the report, Vernon P. Roan, professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at University of Florida, who has been involved in fuel-cell development and activities for 20 years.
The full review of the FreedomCAR and Fuel Partnership is available on the National Academies' website at http://www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_id=12939.
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on hydrogen fuel-related technologies, including production and storage, automotive fuel-cells, codes and standards, and infrastructure for the longer term.
But after the Bush Administration spent $1.2 billion on developing hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles over five years, the Obama administration proposed cutting it from $169 million 2009 to just $68 million in 2010 -- a $101 million cut.
Currently the FreedomCAR is focusing its research at other emerging vehicle technologies, such as internal combustion engine efficiencies, vehicle lightweighting, hybrid-electric, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicle technologies.
However the National Academy, which advises the government, says investment into fuel cells is worth risk.
"The FreedomCAR and Fuel Partnership have made significant progress in all of the technologies it is developing, including hydrogen-based technologies. Although it’s important to work on near-term technologies, it’s equally important for the partnership to perform the type of high-risk research in areas such as hydrogen that would not otherwise be taken on by the private sector, especially as the economy is still recovering,” said one of the authors of the report, Vernon P. Roan, professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at University of Florida, who has been involved in fuel-cell development and activities for 20 years.
The full review of the FreedomCAR and Fuel Partnership is available on the National Academies' website at http://www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_id=12939.
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GM Adds New York, Austin to Initial Volt Launch
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The Chevrolet Volt is an extended range electric vehicle with a gasoline engine. It is geared for drivers and commuters that travel 40 miles or less a day. If the battery becomes depleted, the gasoline engine kicks in to give the Volt an additional range of about 300 miles.
It can be recharged using a conventional household electrical outlet and is a cornerstone of GM's efforts to recast itself.
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GM's chairman and chief executive, Edward Whitacre Jr., is expected to announce those plans today at a speech at the Austin Chamber of Commerce, the Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday.
New York and Austin joins California, Michigan and Washington D.C. as the initial retail markets where Chevrolet will sell the Volt. The Chevrolet Volt is expected to go on sale in November in limited numbers. GM expects to sell about 10,000 to 11,000 Volts in the first year of production. The automaker expects to sell 50,000 to 60,000 annually afterward.
The Chevrolet Volt is an extended range electric vehicle with a gasoline engine. It is geared for drivers and commuters that travel 40 miles or less a day. If the battery becomes depleted, the gasoline engine kicks in to give the Volt an additional range of about 300 miles.
It can be recharged using a conventional household electrical outlet and is a cornerstone of GM's efforts to recast itself.
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Allison Transmission Opens New Hybrid Drive Plant in Indianapolis
Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} The new plant will employ nearly 100 production workers will be capable of producing more than 20,000 commercial-duty hybrid propulsion systems a year, the company said.
"Over $130 million is being invested in the renovation of this facility and the development of our new commercial hybrid truck product," Allison Transmission Chairman and CEO Lawrence E. Dewey told a group of employees, government officials, state and local representatives and project collaborators gathered at the plant's dedication recently.
The new Allison hybrid propulsion system captures kinetic energy otherwise wasted as a vehicle decelerates and later reuses the energy to propel or reaccelerate the vehicle. The recovered energy can also be used to power vehicle accessories.
The company received a $62.8 million federal grant last year for the $130 million hybrid project.
Allison is working on the hybrid systems with Delphi Corp. and Remy International. All three companies received stimulus grants last August.
[source: Allison Transmission]
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"Over $130 million is being invested in the renovation of this facility and the development of our new commercial hybrid truck product," Allison Transmission Chairman and CEO Lawrence E. Dewey told a group of employees, government officials, state and local representatives and project collaborators gathered at the plant's dedication recently.
The new Allison hybrid propulsion system captures kinetic energy otherwise wasted as a vehicle decelerates and later reuses the energy to propel or reaccelerate the vehicle. The recovered energy can also be used to power vehicle accessories.
The company received a $62.8 million federal grant last year for the $130 million hybrid project.
Allison is working on the hybrid systems with Delphi Corp. and Remy International. All three companies received stimulus grants last August.
[source: Allison Transmission]
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