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Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Hydrogen Fuel: Honda FCX Clarity Sedan
Honda unveiled the FCX Clarity fuel cell vehicle at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show, and an announced that a limited number of southern Californians will have the opportunity to lease one next summer. This is the first time a customer can obtain a fuel cell car directly from a retail dealer. The company is also showing progress with the creation of a hydrogen home fueling station.
A lease on the Honda FCX Clarity will cost $600 per month, including service, maintenance, and collision insurance. The term on the lease will be three-years.
In terms of appearances, the futuristic four-door Clarity will closely resemble the FCX concept, aside from some minor front-end design modifications. The Clarity will be powered by a hydrogen fuel cell stack—running along the car’s center tunnel between the front seats—that generates electricity but produces zero exhaust emissions at the tailpipe. Functional improvements in the FCX Clarity over the previous concept model include a 20 percent increase in fuel economy, a 30 percent increase in vehicle range to 270 miles, and an advanced new lithium-ion battery pack that is 40 percent lighter and 50 percent smaller.
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Hydrogen Fuel
Hydrogen fuel-cell: Honda FCX Clarity
For a nearly a generation, hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles have been championed as the long-term solution to auto emissions. Vehicles like the Honda FCX Clarity and the Chevrolet Equinox have brought that dream a little bit closer to reality. But the BMW Hydrogen 7 steers through the hydrogen highway in a different direction—because it isn’t a fuel-cell vehicle at all.
Instead of using hydrogen to generate electricity in a fuel cell, the BMW Hydrogen 7— essentially a 7 Series sedan—burns hydrogen in its conventional V-12 engine. And it can switch to straight gasoline at the driver’s whim. Think of it as a dual-fuel gasoline-hydrogen hybrid. A full tank of liquid hydrogen will grant a vehicle range of more than 125 miles. Add a full tank of gasoline for another 300 miles of interstate driving. Put those two together and the BMW Hydrogen 7 can drive about 450 miles on a full supply of fuel.
Whether using an engine or fuel cell, burning hydrogen produces only water vapor at the tailpipe. But the Hydrogen 7 faces a number of obstacles that fuel-cell vehicles—already challenged enough—don’t have to consider.
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Hydrogen Fuel
Sedan Hybrid: Lexus LS 600h L
If solar panels on Al Gore’s 20-room mansion and Vanity Fair’s 300-page annual green issue make you feel queasy about the eco-chic spin on our sustained environmental and energy crisis, then the Lexus LS 600h L might make you feel downright nauseous.
The Top 10 list of why the Lexus LS 600h L is the most bizarre and misguided hybrid:
1. A hybrid powertrain on a 5-liter V8 engine.
2. 430 horsepower (equivalent of 6-liter V12).
3. City/highway mileage rating in the low 20s.
4. 70-percent cleaner emissions than the “cleanest” of its V8 competitors.
5. Noise and vibration levels are about half of conventional cars. (“This is the kind of vehicle that travels slightly detached from the road, the local environment, and anyone else that doesn’t have a near 7-digit income,” writes Art Vatsky in AutoBlogGreen.)
6. Since you can’t hear anything outside the cabin, the vehicle uses two-cameras and a radar system to detect approaching objects and humans. A third camera mounted on the steering column monitors if the driver’s head is turned to the side. If a car, object, or pedestrian gets too close, the “advanced pre-collision system” alerts the driver with a chime and a flashing light.
7. Each vehicle is hand-sanded twice during the painting process.
8. Lexus aims to sell 1,200 to 2,000 units in the U.S. (Is this profitable for Lexus?)
9. Starts at $104,000. (At this price, you could buy four Priuses, keep one for yourself, and give three away as cute gifts).
10. The Lexus LS600h L is an amazing showcase of Lexus’s creativity and technological sophistication—all applied to a vehicle that is completely out-of-step with our times.
If any of our more affluent readers are thinking about the Lexus LS600 L, by all means, have some fun. But don’t kid yourself that you are doing anything to help the world.
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Lexus Hybrid
Along Body: Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, along with its GMC counterpart, the Yukon Hybrid, are the first vehicles to utilize the advanced two-mode hybrid powertrain developed jointly by BMW, DaimlerChrysler, and General Motors. This full-size SUV launches a new breed of larger vehicles that are significantly greener than their gas-powered versions. Maybe that's why the Tahoe Hybrid received the questionable title of “Green Car of the Year” at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show. The panelists may have jumped the gun a little, as this hybrid doesn’t even meet the corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standard.
The crux of the Tahoe Hybrid’s powertrain is GM’s 6-liter Vortec V8 with cylinder deactivation technology. In other words, this engine can shut down four of its eight cylinders when the additional power is not needed. That saves fuel. Beyond the engine, there’s a 300-volt battery that hides below the second-row seats. The vehicle's two electric motors are housed within the transmission.
In order to keep the vehicle running at peak efficiency, this hybrid system is able to run in one of two separate modes—hence the name "two-mode hybrid." For low-speed, low-impact driving, the powertrain works just like other hybrids; it stops the V8 engine whenever possible so that it may draw power from one or both of the electric motors. The second mode is mostly for highway driving, at which time one or both electric motors can run concurrently along with the V8 engine in order to provide a power boost. The two-mode transmission is the key to the whole system, which attempts to keep the engine running at the optimum rpm for low fuel consumption. Essentially, it manages a balancing act between the V8 engine and the electric motors. It is also responsible for making the transitions between the two modes practically seamless
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Chevrolet Hybrid
Lexus GS 450h Hybrid Sedan
Automobile shoppers can get a taste of the F1 gas-hybrid future today—by driving the new Lexus GS 450h sedan.
While it'll never compare with Formula 1 cars for speed, this gas-electric hybrid provides race-car-like acceleration and luxurious appointments in the same package.
The Hermes of Hybrids
Slip behind the wheel of this $55,000 machine, and "hybrid" will be the first—and last—thoughts that come to mind. First you'll note, with geeky chic, that the car has not a tachometer but a "kW" gauge for—that's right—kilowatts. A display near the 160 mph speedometer shows a battery in various stages of charge. The center console's screen will toggle to hybrid mode and display your energy consumption.
And consume you will. Ever so gently depress the accelerator and the GS will stalk silently to 15 mph on full electric mode. But mash the go pedal, and five Mississippi's later you're passing 60 mph—a fraction of this car's top speed—and looking for gobs of open pavement ahead for decidedly un-environmental antics.
See, the GS 450h is perhaps the purest expression of power harnessed for the "no compromises" side of the hybrid ledger. Toyota mated a high-output, electric motor-generator rated at 197 horsepower with a 297-horsepower, 24-valve, 3.5-liter gasoline engine to yield the Hermes of hybrids, a 339-horsepower brute (don't ask; Toyota wizardry at work here) that motivates this 4,100-pound luxury sedan.
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Lexus Hybrid
Lexus RX 400h Hybrid
The RX 400h is powered by a 3.3-liter V-6 engine and the latest version of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive. Front-wheel drive models utilize two separate electric motor/generators, one each at the front and rear axles, working through a continuously variable automatic transmission. All-wheel-drive models add a third electric motor to drive the rear wheels. Combined, the engine and the electric motors together, generate the equivalent of 268 horsepower. The hybrid RX 400h can reach 60 mph in 7.3 seconds, tow up to 3500 pounds, and has fuel economy of 27 city/24 highway for front-drive models. The all-wheel-drive model rates at 26 city/24 highway.
This crossover’s full-hybrid system operates in various modes: gas-only, electric-only, or a combination of the two. Energy is stored in a nickel metal hydride battery that is tucked away under the rear seat of the vehicle. The RX 400h draws solely from battery power while standing, coasting, or accelerating lightly, thereby conserving fuel.
In terms of drivability, this hybrid crossover offers a quick off-the-line launch and brisk acceleration. Even better than that of the gas-powered RX 350. Its performance is well-suited for both city and highway traffic. For those with a careful foot, the RX 400h can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour on electric-only power.
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Lexus Hybrid
Friday, March 14, 2008
2008' Toyota Highlander Hybrid
For 2008, Toyota completely redesigned the Highlander Hybrid. It offers more refinement and a larger body, while still maintaining the same level of fuel economy as its predecessor. That’s an achievement because a change in size (an therefore, weight) usually has an immediate and noticeable effect on the fuel efficiency of a vehicle. Not so with the Highlander Hybrid. This versatile SUV grants more room and better packaging, while keeping its green stripes.
Power for the Highlander Hybrid comes from a 3.3-liter gasoline V6 engine, which is rated at 208 horsepower. In addition, two electric motors join this powertrain, one in the front and one in the rear, boosting the overall horsepower to a very respectable 270. There is a third electric motor that operates soley as an engine starter. The whole system mates to a continuously variable transmission, which is engineered to manage the various sources of power in a way that maximizes the Highlander Hybrid’s efficiency. In the way of performance, expect brisk acceleration and capable handling. You will have little to complain about in that department.
For even greater emphasis on efficiency, Toyota has outfitted the Highlander Hybrid with both "EV" and "Econ" driving modes. In EV, this hybrid functions solely on electric power, but only at low speeds and distances up to one mile. The more practical “Econ” mode works to limit throttle response in order to promote greater fuel economy. In other words, it restrains the engine’s ability to operate at its full potential. The ideal time to use this function is during stop-and-go traffic. The EPA rating for the Highlander Hybrid is 27 city/25 highway. Its city rating is actually better than its highway rating because the Highlander Hybrid makes more frequent use of its electric propulsion when traveling at lower speeds.
Though the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a four-wheel-drive vehicle, it is not very well suited for harsh road or weather conditions. It usually operates in front-drive mode, and is configured much differently than the all-wheel-drive version of the non-hybrid Highlander, which favors more power to the rear wheels. In the end, the Highlander Hybrid may be a very capable family/commuter/touring vehicle, but it is not ideal for those needing a heavy-duty utility truck for more demanding climates or terrain
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Hybrid Car,
Toyota Hybrid
Sedan:"Toyota Camry Hybrid"
The first half of the Camry Hybrid drivetrain is a 147 horsepower version of the standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine. The second half is a 105-kW electric motor and 244-volt battery pack that delivers a peak of 45 hp. The battery pack consists of 34 nickel metal hydride modules, each of which contains six 1.2-volt cells. Run it all through a continuously variable transmission, and it adds up to 192 horsepower, versus the standard Camry's 158 hp. For a point of comparison, the Camry Hybrid moves from 0 – 60 in about 8.9 seconds, nearly a second faster than the Toyota Prius.
Toyota employs the full regimen of safety features for the Camry Hybrid, from the standard Vehicle Dynamic Integrated Management (VDIM) system, which orchestrates antilock brakes, traction control, stability control, and steering boost—to the Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) seat design found in the Prius.
Toyota set the price for the Camry Hybrid at $25,200. The first set of Camry Hybrids were all produced in Japan. In 2007, Toyota began producing approximately 4,000 Camry Hybrids per month in its Georgetown, KY, plant, where it currently turns out Camrys at the rate of 30,000 per month.
Toyota plans to sell 60,000 Camry Hybrids, or 15 percent of all Camry sales. Naysayers believe gas-electric hybrids will reach the limit of their market potential when the East Coast and West Coast fringe have bought their Priuses. The Camry Hybrid will test that premise like never before. Are 15 percent of mainstream American buyers willing to invest in a technology that will help the United States wean itself off oil, reduce our environmental impact, and protect us against price shocks at the pumps? Are you in the 15th percentile?
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Toyota Hybrid
Toyota Hybrid: "Toyota Prius"
Toyota has sold more Priuses than all other hybrids combined—and for good reason. Since the debut of the second generation Prius in 2003 (as a 2004 model), the midsize hatchback sedan has racked up award after award. Years later, it continues to be a red-hot seller.
The Prius inspires a cult-like devotion from its drivers. Satisfaction rates, consistently at 98 percent, are unparalleled. Prius owners are already looking 20 years ahead, when they can claim with great pride, "Yes. I drove one of the first Priuses."
The Prius drives like a charm, humming along silently in all-electric mode at low speeds and revving up its 110 combined gas-electric horsepower for a respectable 0-to-60 rate of 10.2 seconds.
Its stability control system makes it very safe. And the Prius has loads of bells and whistles, from keyless entry, a high-tech fuel use dash display, and a rear-view camera system to help you squeeze into a tight parking spot.
When Toyota released the second generation Prius in 2003, the vehicle was bigger, faster, more efficient, and more stylized than its predecessor. The third-generation Prius, due out as a 2009 model, promises a similar bump in the key metrics. That model will not use next-generation battery technology (lithium ion) or offer a plug-in option. Toyota has opted to squeeze out additional efficiencies in its tried-and-true hybrid system for more incremental improvements, which could send the Prius's mpg into the 50s. That should allow the Prius to maintain its position as the most fuel efficient vehicle on the road.
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Toyota Hybrid
Sedan:"Mercury Mariner Hybrid"
The Mercury Mariner Hybrid combines the most robust gas-electric system available today—it will stay in electric mode longer than any competitor—with the body of a stylish yet rugged-looking sport utility. With its mix of digital-era sophistication and creature comforts, the Mariner Hybrid works so well that one wonders whether, if it had been more aggressively marketed since its debut in late 2004, it could have been the hit that the ailing Ford Motor Company so desperately needs.
Does the Mariner Hybrid have the rugged sex appeal of other S.U.V.’s? Is that even possible? Until now, hybrids could hardly be considered babe magnets or or hunk attractors. The comedic actor Will Ferrell, a Prius owner, has said, “In addition to being obviously economical and environmentally friendly, they drive great and are just plain sexy.” He tells jokes for a living.
Consider my brother. Fed up with the cost of feeding a gallon of imported fuel into his Range Rover for every 11 miles driven, he picked up a hybrid crossover utility, a Lexus RX 400h, instead. A year later, the drumbeat of teasing from friends and loved ones—they accused him of driving a girlie car—compelled him to ditch the Lexus and get another Range Rover.
He should have held out for the Mariner Hybrid. Its shape is pugilistic, like the Escape’s. It is square and muscular but has flourishes like accent grilles on the taillights and gauges rimmed in chrome. The Mariner is technically a crossover, but it seems solid and upright like a real S.U.V. Although the ’07 model comes only with all-wheel drive, a front-drive version will be offered for 2008.
Sedan Hybrid: "Nissan Altima Hybrid"
If you’ve been intrigued by the fuel savings and advanced technology of a hybrid, but find a lack of styling in other hybrid offerings, then the Nissan Altima Hybrid might be the hybrid that puts you behind the wheel of a gas-electric vehicle.
Before we get too far, stop reading this article unless you live in one of these states: California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island or Vermont. The Altima Hybrid is available only in these eight states. More about this in a moment.
The Altima Hybrid is essentially a Toyota hybrid wrapped in Nissan’s attractive packaging. Nissan licensed Toyota’s hybrid technology, and except for a few key adjustments along the way, has simply transplanted the hybrid system and drivability into its own product.
The Altima carries a 2.5-liter engine versus the Camry’s 2.4-liter version, but the relative difference in performance between the vehicles is mostly a product of software. Nissan engineers inherited Toyota's computer control system, but didn't leave it entirely alone. Toyota opted for calm and comfort, the signature qualities of the Camry, while Nissan allowed a little more noise and rumble in exchange for more power in passing. The Altima Hybrid’s fuel tank, at 20 gallons, is almost three gallons larger than the Camry, boosting the driving range another 100 miles or so.
The Altima Hybrid is noticeably more responsive than the Camry Hybrid. If the extra pep is essential to you, and you’re willing to sacrifice the ultra-quiet (some may call it “numb”) ride of the Camry, then your decision is made.
Before we get too far, stop reading this article unless you live in one of these states: California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island or Vermont. The Altima Hybrid is available only in these eight states. More about this in a moment.
The Altima Hybrid is essentially a Toyota hybrid wrapped in Nissan’s attractive packaging. Nissan licensed Toyota’s hybrid technology, and except for a few key adjustments along the way, has simply transplanted the hybrid system and drivability into its own product.
The Altima carries a 2.5-liter engine versus the Camry’s 2.4-liter version, but the relative difference in performance between the vehicles is mostly a product of software. Nissan engineers inherited Toyota's computer control system, but didn't leave it entirely alone. Toyota opted for calm and comfort, the signature qualities of the Camry, while Nissan allowed a little more noise and rumble in exchange for more power in passing. The Altima Hybrid’s fuel tank, at 20 gallons, is almost three gallons larger than the Camry, boosting the driving range another 100 miles or so.
The Altima Hybrid is noticeably more responsive than the Camry Hybrid. If the extra pep is essential to you, and you’re willing to sacrifice the ultra-quiet (some may call it “numb”) ride of the Camry, then your decision is made.
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Nisan Hybrid Car
Honda Hybrid: Honda Civic Hybrid
As soon as the second-generation Prius arrived on the scene in 2003, the Civic Hybrid was cast in its role as runner-up in the hybrid world. It’s true that the Civic Hybrid is not quite as fuel-efficient, not quite as comfortable and roomy, and not quite as powerful as the Prius. But the gas-electric Civic, like Rodney Dangerfield, deserves more respect than it receives.
In fact, it’s the Civic Hybrid’s un-hybrid-like looks and sticker price that makes it such a compelling proposition. Prius buyers usually spend at least a couple thousand more dollars to buy Toyota’s celebrity hybrid than those who drive off with a Civic. And yet the Civic’s 40-mpg in the city and 45-mpg on the highway, places it right next to the Prius as the only two vehicles with average fuel economy in the 40s.
Perhaps more importantly, the Civic Hybrid looks like a cool car, not a cutesy electronic device. Auto critics have heaped praise on the Civic's design, calling it "gorgeous" and "head-turning."
The Civic matches a sporty design with all of Honda’s engineering prowess put to action. Honda is on the fourth generation of its integrated engine/motor hybrid design. The system combines a 1.3 liter iVTEC 4-cylinder engine with a 20-hp electric motor to deliver a total of 110 hp. The Civic can save gas by de-activating all of its cylinders when they are not needed, and uses eight spark plugs to allow greater flexibility with the firing order for more complete combustion of fuel in the cylinder. Add improved battery packs and regenerative braking from the previous generation to produce a hybrid with Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions status. The feather in its cap is top safety rankings from NHTSA and IIHS.
So if the Prius design is not your cup of tea, and you can live with a compact rather than a mid-size sedan, then the Honda Civic Hybrid is worth a little respect and consideration.
In fact, it’s the Civic Hybrid’s un-hybrid-like looks and sticker price that makes it such a compelling proposition. Prius buyers usually spend at least a couple thousand more dollars to buy Toyota’s celebrity hybrid than those who drive off with a Civic. And yet the Civic’s 40-mpg in the city and 45-mpg on the highway, places it right next to the Prius as the only two vehicles with average fuel economy in the 40s.
Perhaps more importantly, the Civic Hybrid looks like a cool car, not a cutesy electronic device. Auto critics have heaped praise on the Civic's design, calling it "gorgeous" and "head-turning."
The Civic matches a sporty design with all of Honda’s engineering prowess put to action. Honda is on the fourth generation of its integrated engine/motor hybrid design. The system combines a 1.3 liter iVTEC 4-cylinder engine with a 20-hp electric motor to deliver a total of 110 hp. The Civic can save gas by de-activating all of its cylinders when they are not needed, and uses eight spark plugs to allow greater flexibility with the firing order for more complete combustion of fuel in the cylinder. Add improved battery packs and regenerative braking from the previous generation to produce a hybrid with Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions status. The feather in its cap is top safety rankings from NHTSA and IIHS.
So if the Prius design is not your cup of tea, and you can live with a compact rather than a mid-size sedan, then the Honda Civic Hybrid is worth a little respect and consideration.
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Honda Hybrid
Monday, March 10, 2008
2008 Volkswagen Golf TDI Hybrid Car
GENEVA — Volkswagen has introduced a Golf TDI Hybrid concept at the 2008 Geneva Auto Show. VW says the concept returns 69 mpg but emits less than 90 g/km of CO2, making it one of the most eco-friendly solutions to the twin issues of energy conservation and pollution reduction.
The Golf TDI Hybrid looks fully finished and virtually showroom-ready. VW says the car "is currently a concept vehicle, but a version is likely to go into production in the future."
In addition to a 27-horsepower electric motor, the key ingredients are VW's new seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission and a 1.2-liter three-cylinder common-rail turbodiesel rated at 74 hp and 132 pound-feet of torque. The electric motor, which makes 103 lb-ft, can power the car on its own at low speeds, and replaces the conventional starter motor and alternator.
The Golf TDI Hybrid stores energy in a nickel metal hydride battery pack. In addition, the diesel engine is equipped with a stop/start system that can shut the engine down at idle to conserve fuel.
What this means to you: We're still waiting for a diesel-hybrid response from Detroit — but it probably isn't going to happen. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
Auto Industry: Brazil tops five million hybrid cars
SAO PAULO (AFP) - More than five million vehicles and almost nine in ten new vehicles in Brazil now run on both gasoline and ethanol derived from sugar cane, the car manufacturing association Anfavea said Monday.
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Anfavea president Jackson Schneider told reporters in Sao Paulo that Brazil -- a pioneer in biofuels -- has made more than five million so-called "flexi-fuel" vehicles since the first came off the production line in 2003.
Some 4.97 million vehicles were sold nationally by the end of February and "the five million vehicle mark has already been passed", he said.
Last month, 168,744 new hybrid vehicles were registered -- 88.3 percent of the total -- compared to a total of 2,003,090 last year.
Schneider predicted that such vehicles would make up 52 percent of the market by 2013, up from 12 percent in 2007.
The biofuel industry is rapidly expanding as governments and companies try to wean themselves off oil, and Brazil is a world leader, last year producing 22 billion liters of ethanol biofuel derived from sugar cane.
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Anfavea president Jackson Schneider told reporters in Sao Paulo that Brazil -- a pioneer in biofuels -- has made more than five million so-called "flexi-fuel" vehicles since the first came off the production line in 2003.
Some 4.97 million vehicles were sold nationally by the end of February and "the five million vehicle mark has already been passed", he said.
Last month, 168,744 new hybrid vehicles were registered -- 88.3 percent of the total -- compared to a total of 2,003,090 last year.
Schneider predicted that such vehicles would make up 52 percent of the market by 2013, up from 12 percent in 2007.
The biofuel industry is rapidly expanding as governments and companies try to wean themselves off oil, and Brazil is a world leader, last year producing 22 billion liters of ethanol biofuel derived from sugar cane.
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Auto Industry,
Hybrid Car
Nissan’s Hybrid' lithium-ion electric car arriving in 2010
Nissan’s lithium-ion electric car arriving in 2010
While Nissan may not be at the top of its hybrid game, the number three Japanese automaker is ready to move ahead with plans to introduce an electric car in 2010 for testing with fleet customers in Japan and the United States. Nissan will market the lithium-ion powered electric car worldwide in 2012.
Speaking to the press at the Geneva Motor Show, Masahiko Tabe, Nissan’s manager of advanced vehicle engineering, said “The first production vehicles will be for regional areas like California. We will later expand the EV all over the world.”
While Nissan may not be at the top of its hybrid game, the number three Japanese automaker is ready to move ahead with plans to introduce an electric car in 2010 for testing with fleet customers in Japan and the United States. Nissan will market the lithium-ion powered electric car worldwide in 2012.
Speaking to the press at the Geneva Motor Show, Masahiko Tabe, Nissan’s manager of advanced vehicle engineering, said “The first production vehicles will be for regional areas like California. We will later expand the EV all over the world.”
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Nisan Hybrid Car
2008 ZAP Launches Sale of Plug-In Hybrid Electric Car
Electric car pioneer ZAP (OTC BB:ZAAP.OB - News) is now offering plug-in hybrid conversion systems for the Toyota Prius and Ford Escape Hybrid through a collaboration agreement with Hybrids Plus.
Hybrid vehicles retrofitted with systems from Hybrids Plus of Boulder, Colorado can achieve a significantly greater fuel economy. In tests these systems increased hybrid fuel economy up to 120 miles per gallon in the city and up to 90 mpg on the highway. The cost for the conversion ranges from $24,000 to $36,000 depending on the vehicle and size of battery pack.
All gasoline electric hybrids currently produced by major automakers today are essentially gasoline-powered vehicles. They reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency compared to conventional cars, however they are fueled exclusively by gasoline. The plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) will allow the owner to charge their vehicle from a normal household wall outlet. By integrating a larger battery pack and a plug-in charging system, it becomes a new vehicle drawing energy from two fuel sources.
Hybrids Plus has sold PHEV systems to private individuals, fleets, power companies, and governmental entities. Deliveries can be provided in approximately four weeks from the initial order.
"This is a natural extension of our growth plans," said Hybrids Plus CEO Carl Lawrence. "ZAP has sold more city speed electric vehicles than any other company and has an established, growing dealer network that can provide sales and service for our vehicles."
"This collaboration allows more hybrid owners to have the most efficient vehicles on the road today," said ZAP CEO Steve Schneider. "ZAP dealers are preparing to offer a new level of service in the coming years involving mass-market hybrid and electric cars from Detroit Electric, so experience with plug-in hybrids can accelerate this process."
About ZAP
ZAP has been a leader in advanced transportation technologies since 1994, delivering over 100,000 vehicles to consumers in more than 75 countries. At the forefront of fuel-efficient transportation with new technologies including energy efficient gas systems, hydrogen, electric, fuel cell, ethanol, hybrid and other innovative power systems, ZAP has a joint venture called Detroit Electric to manufacture electric and hybrid vehicles with Youngman Automotive Group, one of China's leading manufacturers of buses and trucks. Detroit Electric is developing a freeway capable electric vehicle called the ZAP Alias in collaboration with Lotus Engineering. ZAP is also developing a new generation of vehicles using advanced nanotech batteries with Advanced Battery Technologies. The Company recently announced a strategic partnership with Dubai-based Al Yousuf Group to expand its international vehicle distribution. ZAP also makes an innovative, new portable energy technology that manages power for mobile electronics from cell phones to laptops. For product, dealer and investor information, visit http://www.zapworld.com.
About Hybrids Plus
Hybrids Plus, Inc., a privately held corporation in Boulder, CO, converts hybrid-electric vehicles into plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles (PHEV). The company is also a leader in vehicle to grid (V2G) technology, which allows battery energy stored in a PHEV to be fed into the electrical grid or a stand-alone house. It is deploying the first V2G fleet in the world in collaboration with a major electric power utility. Hybrids Plus is presently the second largest PHEV conversion company in North America, and it has the PHEV conversion technology that is the most seamlessly integrated into the original vehicle. It currently converts the Toyota Prius and the Ford Escape Hybrid, and may soon be offering a Toyota Highlander Hybrid conversion. For more information, visit http://hybrids-plus.com/.
This press release contains forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, continued acceptance of the Company's products, increased levels of competition for the Company, new products and technological changes, the Company's dependence upon third-party suppliers, intellectual property rights, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
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Contact:
ZAP
Alex Campbell
707-525-8658
acampbell@zapworld.com
Hybrid vehicles retrofitted with systems from Hybrids Plus of Boulder, Colorado can achieve a significantly greater fuel economy. In tests these systems increased hybrid fuel economy up to 120 miles per gallon in the city and up to 90 mpg on the highway. The cost for the conversion ranges from $24,000 to $36,000 depending on the vehicle and size of battery pack.
All gasoline electric hybrids currently produced by major automakers today are essentially gasoline-powered vehicles. They reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency compared to conventional cars, however they are fueled exclusively by gasoline. The plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) will allow the owner to charge their vehicle from a normal household wall outlet. By integrating a larger battery pack and a plug-in charging system, it becomes a new vehicle drawing energy from two fuel sources.
Hybrids Plus has sold PHEV systems to private individuals, fleets, power companies, and governmental entities. Deliveries can be provided in approximately four weeks from the initial order.
"This is a natural extension of our growth plans," said Hybrids Plus CEO Carl Lawrence. "ZAP has sold more city speed electric vehicles than any other company and has an established, growing dealer network that can provide sales and service for our vehicles."
"This collaboration allows more hybrid owners to have the most efficient vehicles on the road today," said ZAP CEO Steve Schneider. "ZAP dealers are preparing to offer a new level of service in the coming years involving mass-market hybrid and electric cars from Detroit Electric, so experience with plug-in hybrids can accelerate this process."
About ZAP
ZAP has been a leader in advanced transportation technologies since 1994, delivering over 100,000 vehicles to consumers in more than 75 countries. At the forefront of fuel-efficient transportation with new technologies including energy efficient gas systems, hydrogen, electric, fuel cell, ethanol, hybrid and other innovative power systems, ZAP has a joint venture called Detroit Electric to manufacture electric and hybrid vehicles with Youngman Automotive Group, one of China's leading manufacturers of buses and trucks. Detroit Electric is developing a freeway capable electric vehicle called the ZAP Alias in collaboration with Lotus Engineering. ZAP is also developing a new generation of vehicles using advanced nanotech batteries with Advanced Battery Technologies. The Company recently announced a strategic partnership with Dubai-based Al Yousuf Group to expand its international vehicle distribution. ZAP also makes an innovative, new portable energy technology that manages power for mobile electronics from cell phones to laptops. For product, dealer and investor information, visit http://www.zapworld.com.
About Hybrids Plus
Hybrids Plus, Inc., a privately held corporation in Boulder, CO, converts hybrid-electric vehicles into plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles (PHEV). The company is also a leader in vehicle to grid (V2G) technology, which allows battery energy stored in a PHEV to be fed into the electrical grid or a stand-alone house. It is deploying the first V2G fleet in the world in collaboration with a major electric power utility. Hybrids Plus is presently the second largest PHEV conversion company in North America, and it has the PHEV conversion technology that is the most seamlessly integrated into the original vehicle. It currently converts the Toyota Prius and the Ford Escape Hybrid, and may soon be offering a Toyota Highlander Hybrid conversion. For more information, visit http://hybrids-plus.com/.
This press release contains forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, continued acceptance of the Company's products, increased levels of competition for the Company, new products and technological changes, the Company's dependence upon third-party suppliers, intellectual property rights, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
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Contact:
ZAP
Alex Campbell
707-525-8658
acampbell@zapworld.com
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Privacy Policy
http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com
Privacy Statement
What follows is the Privacy Statement for all http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com websites (a.k.a. blogs) including all the websites run under the http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com domain.
Please read this statement regarding our blogs. If you have questions please ask us via our contact form.
Email Addresses
You may choose to add your email address to our contact list via the forms on our websites. We agree that we will never share you email with any third party and that we will remove your email at your request. We don’t currently send advertising via email, but in the future our email may contain advertisements and we may send dedicated email messages from our advertisers without revealing your email addresses to them. If you have any problem removing your email address please contact us via our contact form.
Ownership of Information
http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com is the sole owner of any information collected on our websites.
Comments/Message Boards
Most http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com websites contain comment sections (a.k.a. message boards). We do not actively monitor these comments and the information on them is for entertainment purposes only. If we are alerted to something we deem inappropriate in any way, we may delete it at our discretion. We use email validation on most of our message boards in order to reduce “comment spam.” These email addresses will not be shared with any third party.
Cookies
Currently we assign cookies to our readers in order to save their preferences. This data is not shared with any third party. Accessing our websites is not dependent on accepting cookies and all major browsers allow you to disable cookies if you wish.
Third Party Cookies
Many of our advertisers use cookies in order to determine the number of times you have seen an advertisement. This is done to limit the number times you are shown the same advertisement. http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com does not have access to this data.
Traffic Reports
Our industry-standard traffic reporting records IP addresses, Internet service provider information, referrer strings, browser types and the date and time pages are loaded. We use this information in the aggregate only to provide traffic statistics to advertisers and to figure out which features and editorials are most popular.
Legal proceedings
We will make every effort to preserve user privacy but http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com may need to disclose information when required by law.
Business Transitions
If http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com is acquired by or merges with another firm, the assets of our websites, including personal information, will likely be transferred to the new firm.
Links
http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com websites frequently link to other websites. We are not responsible for the content or business practices of these websites. When you leave our websites we encourage you to read the destination site’s privacy policy. This privacy statement applies solely to information collected by http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com
Notification of Changes
When http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com makes changes to this privacy policy we will post those changes here.
Contact Information
If you have any questions regarding our privacy policy, please contact us.
Privacy Statement
What follows is the Privacy Statement for all http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com websites (a.k.a. blogs) including all the websites run under the http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com domain.
Please read this statement regarding our blogs. If you have questions please ask us via our contact form.
Email Addresses
You may choose to add your email address to our contact list via the forms on our websites. We agree that we will never share you email with any third party and that we will remove your email at your request. We don’t currently send advertising via email, but in the future our email may contain advertisements and we may send dedicated email messages from our advertisers without revealing your email addresses to them. If you have any problem removing your email address please contact us via our contact form.
Ownership of Information
http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com is the sole owner of any information collected on our websites.
Comments/Message Boards
Most http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com websites contain comment sections (a.k.a. message boards). We do not actively monitor these comments and the information on them is for entertainment purposes only. If we are alerted to something we deem inappropriate in any way, we may delete it at our discretion. We use email validation on most of our message boards in order to reduce “comment spam.” These email addresses will not be shared with any third party.
Cookies
Currently we assign cookies to our readers in order to save their preferences. This data is not shared with any third party. Accessing our websites is not dependent on accepting cookies and all major browsers allow you to disable cookies if you wish.
Third Party Cookies
Many of our advertisers use cookies in order to determine the number of times you have seen an advertisement. This is done to limit the number times you are shown the same advertisement. http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com does not have access to this data.
Traffic Reports
Our industry-standard traffic reporting records IP addresses, Internet service provider information, referrer strings, browser types and the date and time pages are loaded. We use this information in the aggregate only to provide traffic statistics to advertisers and to figure out which features and editorials are most popular.
Legal proceedings
We will make every effort to preserve user privacy but http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com may need to disclose information when required by law.
Business Transitions
If http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com is acquired by or merges with another firm, the assets of our websites, including personal information, will likely be transferred to the new firm.
Links
http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com websites frequently link to other websites. We are not responsible for the content or business practices of these websites. When you leave our websites we encourage you to read the destination site’s privacy policy. This privacy statement applies solely to information collected by http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com
Notification of Changes
When http://autoshybrid.blogspot.com makes changes to this privacy policy we will post those changes here.
Contact Information
If you have any questions regarding our privacy policy, please contact us.
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