Driving tomorrow

When the Leaf hits dealers here in less than 18 months’ time, it will look very different. An all-new platform allows the car’s lithium-ion batteries to be mounted under the rear seats, so there’s no impact on cabin space. Up front is an electric motor that delivers 108bhp and 280Nm of torque to the front wheels.

Range is limited to 100 miles (160 km) and a full recharge takes eight hours from a normal mains socket. With a 400V supply, the car can be powered up to 80% of its capacity in only half-an-hour.

As its charging system is in constant contact with a central computer, owners get a text message when the car is topped up – and if they have an Apple iPhone, they can start or stop the process remotely. Jump inside, select drive from the switch on the centre console and you’re met with silence. But all that torque is available from zero rpm, so acceleration is impressive – Nissan claims 0-60mph (95 km/h) in around 10 seconds. And although response tails off a little at speed, our model was happy to cruise at 70mph (110 km/h). Around bends it handles safely, while strong brakes stop it fast. It all adds up to a family car that’s ideal for short journeys – Nissan says 90% of drivers do less than 35 miles (50 km) a day.

The problem is the lack of a charging infrastructure to give owners the same freedom as those of conventional cars. Nissan and Renault are in talks with 30 governments, including Britain’s, to ensure this changes within the next few years.

Source : AutoExpress, by Sam Hardy, October 28th, 2009

Axon unveils its PHEV

New UK car manufacturer Axon Automotive has previewed its plug-in hybrid electric vehicle at the Milton Keynes Science Festival. The vehicle combines full electric mode for local travel and uses a petrol or bioethanol powered engine for long distance or motorway travel. Axon Automotive uses revolutionary manufacturing techniques to make carbon fibre technology, which has been associated with racing cars, affordable for eco cars. “By designing light cars and giving them good aerodynamics you can radically lower vehicle emissions,” says Axon’s Managing Director, Dr Steve Cousins.

“As a plug-in hybrid we have no limitation on range but we can maximise the benefits of electrics day to day without the cost and weight of large batteries.” He added. The Axon car is a multipurpose vehicle built for two adults plus substantial amounts of luggage. Stressing that carbon fibre can be recycled, the car has fashion house designed seating made from recycled fabrics (jeans and recycled pinstriped suits) and door panels made from recycled carbon fibre to complete this new approach to cars in a low CO2 world.

Axon insists that electric powered vehicles should be clear about the emissions to make the electricity they use. “We have had our greenhouse gas emissions calculated to include typical UK powerstation emissions when driving in electric mode. The result gives us just under 50g/CO2 per km for the mix of electric and petrol used in the Government test. This is just half the level needed for free annual road tax in UK for this car,” (band ‘A’ is below 100g/CO2 per km = zero road tax in the UK).

Axon Automotive Ltd. is the only UK owned car company making a plug-in hybrid EV and is funded by the UK Technology Strategy Board and private investment. The first cars will be on sale in 2011 with full production in 2012. The manufacturing roll-out will be via small factories in UK and in Europe including Spain, France, Ireland, Denmark, and Holland.

Source : GirlRacer, October 27th, 2009

Fisker could use old GM plant for PHEV production

Fisker Automotive's arrival could herald a new era of automaking in this state, one in which electricity takes the place of gasoline and nimble start-ups replace established giants. Or the plug-in hybrid electric automaker based in Irvine, Calif., could join the junkyard of failed auto ventures such as DeLorean and Tucker.

Fisker is expected to announce Tuesday that it has picked the former General Motors near here to build a family-oriented plug-in hybrid sedan, a project backed by a $359 million federal loan. Vice President Biden and Gov. Jack Markell will be on hand for the event at the 62-year-old factory. The event likely will focus on the "green jobs" that would be created if Fisker's venture goes according to plan. But automotive experts said Fisker faces a difficult road to gain customers and profits. And auto giants including GM, Ford, Toyota and Volkswagen also have plug-in hybrids in the works.

"You'd have to say it's a very high-risk proposition," said Jim Hossack of industry consultants AutoPacific. "On the other hand, it has tremendous backing from various levels of government. That improves their odds." Fisker was awarded a $528 million loan from the Department of Energy in September, part of a $25 billion program to fund development of alternative vehicle technologies. About $169 million was designated for engineering for the Karma, Fisker's first car, a luxury sedan with a base price of $87,900 that will be built in Finland. The Karma is due on the market next summer.

The remainder of the loan is going to Project Nina, the development of a family car, expected to sell for about $40,000 after a $7,500 federal tax credit, that will be built at the old GM plant beginning in 2012. Production of the Karma may also shift here when the plant reopens.

Fisker's plug-in hybrid technology features a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that powers an electric motor. When the plug-in charge is used up, a gasoline engine powers a generator. Fisker's management team includes Danish-born CEO Henrik Fisker, a designer with 20 years in the business, including stints with BMW and Ford. German native Bernhard Koehler is COO. Fisker Automotive is a joint venture between Fisker Coachbuild, a company launched by the two executives in 2005, and Quantum Technologies, a publicly traded supplier that developed Fisker's Q-Drive technology.

Source : USA Today, by Andrew Eder, October 27th, 2009

Companies hybrid plugs into the future

The CSIRO and energy distributor, SP AustNet, have started a three-month road trial of a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), which could one day end up in every Australian driveway, after modification of the car using a US-developed conversion kit at the CSIRO’s laboratories in the Melbourne suburb of Clayton.
Over the next three months, staff from SP AusNet will use the PHEVs for their daily drive to work and for leisure as part of the CSIRO and SP AusNet trial.

The CSIRO’s Energy Transformed Flagship scientist, Dr Phillip Paevere, told iTWire today that running as an all-electric vehicle, the modified Toyota Prius will travel at up to 70 kilometres an hour (43.5 mph) over a distance of 40 kilometres (25 miles), which is more than a normal Prius running in all-electric mode.

Dr Paevere said “this car is ideal for running over short distances, taking the kids somewhere or doing the shopping, and as battery technology improves so will vehicle speeds and distances.”

CSIRO engineers have modified the PHEVs to carry a 30Ah NiMH battery which they say is capable of holding a 6kWh charge, and a battery charger, to allow the cars to plug into and charge with electricity from the grid or from on-site renewable energy sources. The conversion of the car took scientists only one week to complete using the kit developed by enthusiasts in the US.

Dr Paevere said the road trial is collecting extensive information on how the existing PHEV technology could be used for a new application, using the car as a large mobile battery which can be integrated and used in the home.

“The PHEVs have been fitted with instruments which will monitor the travel patterns of different users, and the residual battery power left in the car at the end of the day, which could be available for other uses.
“When not needed, the parked car in the driveway could potentially become a large battery store and energy source for the house, running appliances or storing off-peak or surplus electricity generated from on-site renewable generators, such as solar panels.”
And according to SP AusNet spokesperson, Sean Sampson, the trial will also allow thorough analysis of what the electricity demands are likely to be when PHEVs are connected to the network for charging.

“The introduction of electric vehicles into the mainstream market could have a significant impact on the electricity network. They may also dramatically affect the output at residential and retail outlets and the forecasted growth of peak and base demands.”
According to the CSIRO and SP AusNet, Australia’s transport sector accounts for 14% of Australia’s total greenhouse gas emissions, and it says the PHEVs have the potential to "reduce our emissions and may also provide a way to manage peak demand on the electricity grid".

They also say that, by controlling when PHEVs are recharging from the electricity network the burden of demand can be shifted, and Dr Paevere says that, furthermore, the car battery can be drawn upon to provide “power during peak periods of demand, prevent blackouts when there is a network supply interruption and assist in maintaining the overall stability of the network.”

Dr Paevere says the road trial is the first phase in understanding the potential for using PHEVs, and for now the PHEV technology will also be used in the home energy system of CSIRO’s Zero Emission House (AusZEH) project, with the demonstration home open to the public in summer this year.

Source : IT Wire, by Peter Dinham, October 26th, 2009

The Green Car race

When the Toyota Prius originally went on sale in 1997, it was the world’s first mass-produced hybrid car, meaning the Japanese automaker effectively stole a march on its rivals. The vehicle scooped the Car of the Year award in Japan in its debut year, and the third generation of the model took the prize again in 2009.

Toyota has now built a plug-in version of the Prius, which may again see the company beat its rivals to the punch on name value alone.

Crucially, Toyota’s success doesn’t revolve solely around the Prius. It has pushed several hybrid cars in the USA including the Camry Hybrid and Highlander Hybrid, and a number of luxury hybrid vehicles through its Lexus brand. In Europe, the likes of the Yaris and the iQ have kept average fuel consumption levels low, while Toyota is working on several new concepts such as the FT-EV which has a claimed range of 50 miles (80 km) per charge.

On its launch in 2003, the Honda Civic Hybrid was seen as the first true competitor for the Prius with its continuously variable transmission and Integrated Motor Assist and won the International Engine of the Year “one litre to 1.4litre” size category award for three years straight from 2002 through 2004 as well as the “Best Fuel Economy” category for 2003 and 2004. When sales of the Civic Hybrid started to flag, Honda introduced the Insight Hybrid earlier this year. It also plans to introduce the CR-Z, which has been dubbed the world’s first hybrid sports car; a hybrid version of the Fit; and both the EV-N and Skydeck concepts.

German manufacturer Volkswagen has taken an alternative route to early success in the green car race by placing the emphasis on clean diesel models, which it has been marketing in Europe since 2003. It developed turbocharged direct injection technology for diesel engines and has a wide range of TDI powertrains. The 2009 clean-diesel Jetta TDI for example, has scooped numerous ‘Green Car of the Year’ titles and reduces emissions by 90%. Despite focusing on clean-diesel technologies, VW has not been immune to alternative fuels. It has teamed up with Sanyo to develop a hybrid battery system with future VW models to be constructed with hybrid concepts. It has also launched flexible fuel vehicles in Brazil.

Having been universally panned for its disregard of the EV1 and failing to get off the ground with a group of comparatively unsuccessful hybrids, the new GM is aiming to hit back with the Chevrolet Volt – arguably the most eagerly anticipated green car in North America. The Volt will launch in 2010 and is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle that can travel for up to 40 miles (64 km) on electricity alone, satisfying the daily commute for 75% of Americans. After 40miles it reverts to a small four-cylinder internal combustion engine that creates electricity on-board to extend the Volt’s range to more than 300 miles (480 km).

The bulk of Ford’s green efforts have centred on flex-fuel vehicles with E85 versions of the Focus and Mondeo among its most successful models. In 2005, it launched the Ford Escape Hybrid – the first hybrid electric SUV. In March 2009 however, its efforts really picked up pace as Ford launched to the US market the Ford Fusion Hybrid and the Milan Mercury Hybrid, both as 2010 models. The company has enjoyed a 73% increase in hybrid sales this year.

Source : TheGreenCarWebsite, October 27th, 2009

Tokyo 2009: Passion to go with the Plug-Ins

Walking around this year’s Tokyo Motor Show (which slogan was "Fun driving for us, Eco driving for Earth"), which felt more like a small-town affair than a grand international event, I couldn’t help but notice the plethora of plug-in electric vehicles.

Every Japanese automaker -- miniscule-volume Lotus was the only European manufacturer in attendance, and the Koreans were no-shows -- had some sort of EV on display. From the Nissan Leaf four-door hatch and Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cargo minicar to the Suzuki Swift plug-in hybrid and Honda’s cute-as-a-button EV-N, there was absolutely no shortage of the green transporters that will be whirring along our city streets over the next few years.

While I applaud these battery-powered pollution-free vehicles, it was refreshing, at least for the enthusiast in me, to see that Japan had not lost its passion for performance.

Source : MotorTrend, by Ron Kiino, October 25th, 2009

PHEVS will soon change transportation

Plug in Hybrid cars can be fueled from a standard home electrical source. Car owners will soon be able to plug in their vehicles from a wall outlet and drive their daily commutes. There is a new revolution coming called the plug in hybrid car. It was once laughable to even think that a person could use a standard home outlet to fuel their vehicle. However, times are changing and plug in hybrids will soon enter the market.

We can now say that plug in rechargeable vehicles are becoming a way of life. A way to reduce our dependency on foreign oil, to save our environment, and to save money for consumers. Most of the automakers are betting everything on future electric vehicles as the most efficient way to meet cleaner global objectives.

For example, General Motors Corp is betting everything on its Chevrolet Volt car. Some argue that the vehicle is not a hybrid, but a true plug in electric car solution. The eco-friendly vehicle has gone through several revisions in an effort to extend its mileage.Does anyone remember the EV1? It was an electric car built by GM. You couldn't buy the car, but you could lease it for one year. Unfortunately, GM took back the vehicles and had them crushed. This decision stirred a lot of controversy. Most experts agree that they had these automobiles crushed to satisfy the oil companies. What irks me the most is that some of these domestic car manufacturers already developed this technology.

Then, they asked the American taxpayer for a bailout. The Toyota Prius is also converting to a plug-in vehicle. It will sell for $48,000 (32.000 €) and offer a driving range of up to 12 miles (20 km). The car will deliver faster speeds of up to 60 mph (96 km/h). However, is this another EV1 decision? What I mean is, why only 12 miles on a single battery charge? I'm sure Toyota could do better than that. Most plug-in hybrids can travel anywhere between 40 to 50 miles (64 to 80 km) on a single battery charge. This is an impressive revelation, that a battery powered automobile can already achieve those distances. The travel involves clean energy, zero carbon emissions, and all without using a single drop of gasoline. Technology is rapidly advancing, probably more so during the past 25 years than any other time before, and the ability to travel in an automobile that was charged from an electrical outlet is simply amazing.

Hybrid automobiles are advancing as fast as computers did during the mid-1980s. The next challenge for automakers is to design a plug-less vehicle. Perhaps during the next 25 years, scientists and engineers will develop ways for cars to travel without the need of electricity or batteries. The cars tomorrow might even use the Earth's gravitational pull to travel. Who knows what the future will hold? It is important to reduce our foreign oil dependency while helping our environment. There have been a lot of stories published by the press regarding these new automobiles. Some good, some bad. Some articles suggest that these plug in vehicles have a long way to go. I have no idea where they get their information from, but plug in electric vehicles are already here.

Source : NewsOXY, by Andy Hodges, October 20th, 2009

Honda May Soon Go Electric

Despite being one of the strongest advocates for hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles, Honda is now considering launching electric cars in Europe, Japan and the United States. According to reports, slow progress in setting up hydrogen fueling stations could limit the sale of the company's fuel-cell vehicles. This is something we've been saying for years. While fuel-cell vehicles do offer the promise of zero or very low emissions, the infrastructure issue continues to make it unrealistic on an economic and logistical basis.

Electric vehicles, on the other hand, already have the necessary infrastructure in place. And according to a report issued by the DOE's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, off-peak electricity production and transmission capacity could fuel 84% of the country's 220 million vehicles if they were plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Of course, as we continue to move forward with the electrification of our personal transportation, battery advancements will also be necessary. But we're seeing that already. In fact, just a few weeks ago, researchers at Japan's National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology developed the first Nickel-Lithium battery that can hold more than 3.5 times the energy of a normal Lithium-Ion battery.

When you're talking about an all-electric range of anywhere between 40 (64 km) and 200 miles (321 km) - that's a pretty big deal. Especially at the upper end, where this kind of technology can actually bring the all-electric range to a typical range for a gas-powered vehicle today. Point is - and as we've been saying for years - electric vehicles really do represent the next logical evolution in vehicle development. And as you probably know by now, the major automakers are proving it - as nearly every one of them now has an electric or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle in development.

Source : GreenChipStocks, by Jeff Siegel, October 20th, 2009

China top 10 carmakers to set EV standards

As the electric vehicle (EV) is becoming the auto industry's future trend for energy efficiency and environmental protection, the top 10 carmakers in China have decided to jointly lay out the EV industry standards.

Earlier this week, the 10 auto companies signed the program of action for China's EV industry development. They include SAIC Motor, FAW Group, Dongfeng Motor Group, Changan Auto, Guangzhou Auto, Beijing Auto, Sinotruk Group, Brilliance Auto, Chery Auto, and Jianghuai Auto.

These Chinese automakers formed an EV industry alliance in July 2009 in order to clear away obstacles amid the new energy vehicle production and sales. They strive for a combined annual output of 500,000 all-electric vehicles, rechargeable electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles. Domestic and global automakers are scrambling to launch new electric vehicles in China. Chery Auto has unveiled its first plug-in hybrid the S18, while BYD Auto has launched its F3DM (dual-mode) EV and plans to launch an all-electric crossover, the e6 later this year. Global majors such as BMW, Daimler, Nissan and Toyota have also announced their intention to enter the field. Competition will be intense in China's EV market. China's EV industry is confronted with low R&D capacity and high production costs. However, the government plans to have about 10,000 hybrid, electric and fuel-cell vehicles on the road by 2010.

Source : TheAutoChannel, October 16th, 2009

Mitsubishi Lancer EVO XI could get PHEV Option

The next iteration of the amazing Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution could be offered as a plug-in hybrid. Due out in 2013, the EVO XI model could use the all-wheel drive plug-in hybrid setup that will officially be unveiled on Wednesday October 21st at the Tokyo Auto Show. For the show, however, Mitsubishi is displaying this new technology in a crossover vehicle called the PX-MiEV Concept.

The vehicle’s name combines the automakers “MiEV” nomenclature, which stands for Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle, with a new “PX” designation, which stands for Plug-in Hybrid Crossover.

As a full plug-in hybrid, the Concept PX-MiEV can operate using either the 1.6-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine, the electric motor, or both. On pure electric power it can travel up to 30 miles (48 km). Mitsubishi rates that crossover at an impressive 117.6 mpg (2 l/100 km) !

In EV mode the vehicle uses just electric power for the short 30 mile (48 km) distance. When the batteries are depleted, the gasoline engine then kicks in to recharge the batteries and power the electric motor (much like on the Chevy Volt). At higher speeds, the gasoline engine takes over completely. In addition, the PX-MiEV features the company’s S-AWC and E-AYC all-wheel drive systems, along with a new center differential electric motor that works to send power to the rear wheels. All these technologies are part of what Mitsubishi calls E-4WD, which uses electric rather than mechanical systems to optimize grip.

Currently Mitsubishi hasn’t made a decision about actually bringing a hybrid version of the EVO to market and recent repots have suggesed that development of the EVO XI has stalled completely.

Source : AutoGuide, by Colum Wood, October 19th, 2009

French carmaker gears up for EV launch

French vehicle manufacturer Peugeot will launch its Ion electric vehicle (EV) at the end of next year. The Ion, developed in cooperation with Japan’s Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC), is aimed at retail and fleet customers, such as government authorities and large companies.

It has a range of 130 km (80 miles) before it must be recharged. The vehicle’s lithium-ion batteries are 
rechargeable in six hours, using a conven
tional 220-V socket, with an 80% recharge 
within 30 minutes. The small four-door vehicle has four seats, and is 3,48 m (11.4 Ft) in length. It has a turning 
circle of 4,50 m (14.7 Ft). The Ion develops maximum power output of 47 kW, and torque of 180 Nm. Maximum speed is 130 km/h (80 mph).

It also includes some interesting onboard features. The vehicle’s localised communication unit provides the location of the vehicle at the time of an accident, triggering the dispatch of suitable emergency services. It also provides data on battery status, distance covered, and distance to travel before maintenance is due.

The launch of the Ion will be followed by the 2011 introduction of Peugeot’s 3008 Hybrid4 vehicle. A hybrid vehicle is a vehicle that uses two or more power sources to move the vehicle. The term most commonly refers to hybrid electric vehicles, which combine an internal combustion engine and one or more electric motors.

Source : Engineering News, by Irma Venter, October 16th, 2009

Volkswagen's Golf TwinDrive PHEV

The Volkswagen Golf TwinDrive Plug-in hybrid prototype, introduced in mid-2008, has recently been made available to selected automotive journalists for short test-drives. It features a unique power train architecture which incorporates elements of both series and parallel hybrid configurations. The car's diesel engine is coupled to a 30 kW / 250 Nm mnotor/generator, and both connect to the front axle through a single speed reduction gear and electronically controlled clutch.

A second, larger 85 kW / 650 Nm traction motor is directly coupled to the same reduction gear and the front axle (an all-wheel variant uses a smaller second motor in front and two direct-drive hub motors at the rear wheels).

At speeds up to 35 mph (55 km/h) the TwinDrive Golf is propelled solely by the electric motors. If the battery has sufficient charge, the engine/generator stay off and remain decoupled from the axle. A full charge of the battery can provide up to 30 miles (50 km) at sub-35mph (55 km/h) speeds. If the driver's control-input calls for greater speed or the battery charge falls beneath a pre-determined level, the engine-generator set will activate, feeding current to both the electric motors and the Lithium Ion battery pack. The car will then operate in series-hybrid mode, much as the Chevrolet Volt does.

At still higher speeds or a call for sharper acceleration, a clutch connects the diesel engine directly to the front axle, while the electric motors continue to provide added power as necessary. While most parallel hybridsystems like this one incorporate a continuously variable transmission to blend the output of the two types of motor, The TwinDrive diesel produces enough torque to dispense with this level of complication. A simple reduction gear, in concert with assistance from the electric motors, provides adequate power delivery across the entire range of speeds.The dash-display toggles through three options, one of which shows a virtual control dial allowing the driver input concerning how and when electricity is used. An e-mode button can be used to keep the car operating in all-electric mode as long as the battery level allows.

Aside from the quieter operation, the TwinDrive Golf drives much like a standard Golf. The internal combustion engine ignition is barely audible, and there is no perceptible shudder when it starts or during direct-drive engagement. Acceleration is comparable to a standard Gulf with the 1.6l engine. Passenger space is not compromised in any way, but the space that would otherwise be available beneath the cargo-bay floor is taken up by the lithium-Ion battery. The plug-in hybrid system of the TwinDrive Golf makes an interesting contrast to that of the Chevrolet Volt. Volkswagen has chosen to implement a similar strategy of providing an initial period of battery-only travel, predicted to cover the typical commuting distance of most drivers. However, that EV operation will only take place at urban speeds; highway driving activates the diesel engine to drive the wheels directly.

The Volt, by contrast, might travel some distance on the highway under battery power alone but at that speed it seems likely that it's projected 40 mile range would be cut drastically. So at some unknown distance the range extending engine would be called on to begin generating electricity. So at the point of internal combustion ignition the Golf will begin delivering power from the engine directly to the wheels mechanically while the Volt has to convert it to electricity then re-convert that electricity to mechanical work at the wheel. This would seem to favor the Volkswagen in terms of efficiency.

Or at least this is what Volkswagen is apparently betting, albeit in a cautious way; unlike the Volt which begins ramping up production in 2010, the TwinDrive Gulf will not be in show-rooms anytime soon. Instead,Volkswagen will begin a four-year field test of 20 vehicles before committing to any real production.

Source : AllCArsElectric, by Jan Vandervelde, October 12th, 2009

Volvo will bring PHEVs to U.S.

Struggling Swedish automaker Volvo announced back in June that it will be releasing a new plug-in hybrid vehicle by 2012 as the latest step under its ‘DRIVe Towards Zero’ eco-campaign. Late last month Volvo CEO Stephen O'Dell reaffirmed the company's plans to get the diesel-electric plug-in hybrid on the road, and now the automaker’s U.S. chief has revealed that advanced Volvo plug-inhybrids and diesels will be coming to North America--eventually.

Volvo’s U.S. chief, Doug Speck, has revealed that his company will add diesel models and plug-inhybrids, as well as more fuel-efficient gasoline models, to its U.S. lineup in an effort to meet tougher fuel economy standards.

"It's unclear ultimately what percentage of each is going to drive the industry," Speck said in a recent interview, speaking of the corporate average of 35.5 mpg (6.6 l/100 km) required by 2016. Factors Volvo needs to address include fuel prices, now and into the future, the general interest levels inhybrids and the level of government support offered.

Speck wasn’t willing to confirm a local launch date for any new Volvo plug-in hybrids or diesels in the U.S. but reaffirmed that the automaker will launch a plug-in hybrid in Europe by 2012. Until the new spate of plug-in hybrid and diesel technologies arrives, however, Volvo will busy itself with a range of other improvements, including direct injection and more efficient gearboxes.

Source : Motor Authority, by Viknesh Vijayenthiran, October 12th, 2009

Ford intensifies its green policy

Ford Motor Company has named Nancy Gioia to the new position of director of Global Electrification as the company accelerates its electric vehicle strategy -- Gioia will lead strategy and planning for the next generation of Ford's global electric vehicle portfolio, touching all aspects of electrified transportation including product planning, supplier partnerships and collaboration with the energy industry and government -- Ford has announced plans to produce a pure battery electric Transit Connect commercial van in 2010, a battery electric Focus compact car in 2011, and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle and next-generation hybrid electric vehicle in 2012 --

In Europe, Ford recently revealed the first of a fleet of battery electric vehicle (BEV) prototypes based on the Ford Focus, and specially developed to participate in the U.K. government's "Ultra-Low Carbon Vehicles" demonstration initiative next year Ford Motor Company is intensifying its focus on global electrification with the creation of a new position to lead the planning and strategy for Ford's future electric vehicle portfolio. Nancy Gioia, formerly Ford's director of Sustainable Mobility Technology and Hybrid Vehicle Programs, North America, has been named director of Ford Global Electrification.

"We recognize that pursuing electrification as one of our technology paths presents unique challenges for commercialization of the vehicles," said Sue Cischke, Ford's group vice president of Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering. "It requires us to collaborate with new partners, define new business models, connect to a new infrastructure for the vehicles and meet new customer expectations around the globe." In her new position, Gioia will direct strategy and planning for Ford's global electric vehicle portfolio, touching all aspects of electrified transportation, including product planning, supplier partnerships and collaboration with the energy industry and government. "Ford is strongly positioned to accelerate its electric vehicle strategy thanks in part to the significant research we've already completed," said Barb Samardzich, Ford vice president, Powertrain Engineering. "Nancy's unique background and experience in leading the hybrid technology and electric vehicle product teams position her well to coordinate our electric efforts across product development, sustainability and government affairs as we move to the next frontier of this new form of transportation."

Ford has announced plans to develop three distinct types of electrified vehicles - hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and pure battery electric vehicles. They include: -- Battery electric Transit Connect commercial van in 2010 -- Battery electric Focus passenger car in 2011 -- Next-generation hybrid vehicle in 2012 -- Plug-in hybrid in 2012 Ford's electrification strategy is consistent with its commitment to deliver affordable fuel efficient technology to millions of customers. The company is poised to take advantage of rapid advancements in electrified vehicle technology - particularly lithium-ion batteries - while leveraging the scale of global vehicle platforms to ultimately reduce the cost of new electric vehicles. Global fleet testing under way The globalization of Ford's electrification strategy is well under way, with test fleets on both sides of the Atlantic. At the recent Frankfurt Motor Show, Ford of Europe revealed the first of a fleet of battery electric vehicle prototypes based on the Ford Focus, and specially developed to participate in the U.K. government's "Ultra-Low Carbon Vehicles" demonstration initiative next year. The research program aims to test the technology's suitability for potential future application in Ford's European passenger car range.

A consortium of Ford, Scottish and Southern Energy and Strathclyde University will use the fleet of 15 prototype Ford Focus BEVs and a charging infrastructure in and around the London Borough of Hillingdon starting in early 2010. The Focus BEV prototype is based on the current European Ford Focus and will use a new all-electric powertrain, developed with Ford supplier partner Magna. This technology is based on that being developed for Ford's new-generation C-sized global vehicle architecture that will be launched in North America in 2011. "This fleet of Focus BEV prototypes is an important step toward developing a realistic solution and viable market for electric vehicles in the U.K., Europe and North America," Gioia said. "Our electrification strategy absolutely depends on strong alliances with key partners whose expertise and resources complement our extensive experience and global production capabilities." In North America, Ford and its energy industry partners continue to collaborate on the connectivity issue between electric vehicles and the electric grid. Over the past two years, Ford and its utility partners have logged more than 75,000 miles on a test fleet of plug-in Escape Hybrids. Plug-in hybrid research focuses on four primary areas: battery technology, vehicle systems, customer usage and grid infrastructure. In addition, Ford has developed an intelligent vehicle-to-grid communications and control system for its plug-in hybrid electric vehicles that "talks" directly with the nation's electric grid.

Commercial and retail electric products planned Ford is set to deliver its first electrified vehicle in 2010 when it will launch a pure battery electric Transit Connect small commercial van. The vehicle will be targeted to fleets and businesses with short, defined transportation routes and the ability to return to a central charging location at day's end. In 2011, Ford will launch the battery electric Ford Focus passenger vehicle. Built off the new global C platform, the BEV Focus will be produced at the Michigan Assembly Plant for both retail and commercial customers. "Broad commercialization of electric transportation will require unprecedented collaboration among all stakeholders and new ways of doing business," Gioia said. "Ford is committed to help lead the way to find creative solutions to ensure that electrified vehicles can deliver benefits to our customers, the environment and our business around the globe in a sustainable way."

Source: Reuters, October 10th, 2009

Nissan Land Glider Electric Concept Sees Light

Sway and serve, that’s how it needs to be as you hit the busy city streets! Or at least Nissan thinks so. The tech-laden Land Glider from the Nissan stables is an ultimate statement as far as the Japanese car giant is concerned. Lo and behold as the electric car tilts and sashays up to at least a 17-degree angle as you step on the accelerator.

Positioned as a ‘personal city commuter’, the Land Glider has been fashioned as an experimental concept model that brings zero-emissions to the road. Only 43-inches wide (110cm), the electric vehicle comes with unique wheel segments that can move separately from the cabin and a rather interesting in line seating position, with one behind the other — city sightseeing guaranteed, eh?

Considering that Nissan’s Land Glider has been introduced just ahead of the Tokyo Motor Show which open doors later this month, company’s bosses and engineers are sure to have a more serious sitting to decide when this little piece of technology debuts the busy streets and the crowded parking lots.

Source : Device Magazine, by Sanjeev Ramachandran, October 7th, 2009

Toyota unveils new 'mini' electric car

Toyota Motor Corp. unveiled its new FT-EV2 concept electric vehicle for the Tokyo Motor Show. Designed around the concept of a short-distance ride, the 2.7-meter four-seat vehicle is even smaller than the Toyota iQ micro-compact car.

It can travel about 90 km (56 miles) on a single charge, and drivers can control the brakes and accelerator using a bar beside the driver's seat.

During the event, Toyota will also display its FT-86 Concept vehicle, a lightweight sports car named after the Toyota AE86 (Corolla Levin), which gained great popularity in the 1980s. The new model, which is currently under joint development with Fuji Heavy Industries and is powered by its unique horizontal engine, is scheduled to hit the market in late November.

Source : The Mainichi Daily News, October 7th, 2009

New Mitsubishi SUV PHEV

Mitsubishi has revealed latest pictures of its upcoming SUV PX-MiEV plug in hybrid crossover model that will be revealed at the Tokyo Auto Show 2009 next month. PX is Mitsubishi shorthand for "plug-in hybrid crossover".

The car has a 4WD powered by two electric motors present - one in front and one at the back that produce combined power of 80 bhp. The new plug-in system allows users to tap into the grid with either a 100 or 200-volt outlet. MiEV stands for Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle concept. In EV mode the car can cover at 30 miles (48 km) on full charge. The interiors include heat reflective glass and paint, air conditioning and Active safety systems – ranging from a "Multi-Around Monitor" to a front-facing camera that detects fatigue, then alerts the driver through a series of visual, audio and "vibrational" warnings.

“The Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV is a new-generation concept car that balances high environmental performance with running performance by utilizing differential motors and Mitsubishi's all-new S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control), that utilises E-AYC (Electric-powered Active Yaw Control) which transfers torque to the rear left and right wheels,” says the Press Release.

Source : cartradeindia.com, by Satish Kalepu, October 5th, 2009

Hoval encourages drivers to go green

Renewable energy supplier, Hoval, is to expand its fleet of Toyota Prius company cars. David Hemington, finance director for Hoval, said that the company had no problems with its current crop of hybrids: “I don’t get any feedback from our existing Prius drivers – which is good, because that means they’re happy and have no problems with performance, maintenance or anything else.”

Mr Hemington added that the company is looking to encourage its drivers to choose a hybrid as their company car because its eco-conscious ethos matched that of the firm’s.

A hybrid car that can be recharged by plugging it into a household electrical socket has arrived on British roads this week. The Toyota PHEV is an adaptation of the Prius model, which charges its batteries by recovering energy otherwise lost during braking.

The world’s best selling hybrid car will soon be available with a plug-in option.

The Toyota Plug-In Hybrid Vehicle (PHEV) is a conventional hybrid in the sense that it is powered by a combination of a battery and a petrol engine, running solely on the electric motor on shorter trips in order to reduce emissions. However, the it can be charged in as little as two hours from a household socket.

A spokesperson for the Environmental Transport Association (ETA) said: “Plugging in the car before bedtime may become as much a part of our everyday routine as boiling the kettle first thing in the morning.”

There exists a growing network of public charging points for electric cars and this is expected to grow as demand increases.

Source : ETA.co.uk, October 5th, 2009

Brilliance to launch plug-in hybrid in 2013

Brilliance China Automotive Holdings Co (#7 Auto builder in China, #29 world rank) said it is on track to launch a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) by 2013, Jinghua newspaper reports.

Brilliance Auto began to develop PHEVs in 2008 and is expecting to bring such vehicles to the market in 2013 if there's a mature charging environment by that time.

The company could also consider launching a strong electric vehicle in 2011 that will save energy use by 35% compared with conventional vehicles.

Brilliance has a joint venture with BMW, assembling 3 Series and 5 Series cars at its Shenyang facility. It also produces Zhonghua-brand passenger cars and minivans through the venture. Last year the company sold 285,000 vehicles, with its sales growth down 5% from last year.

Source : The Auto Channel, October 5th, 2009

Suzuki presents the Swift PHEV

Swift plug-in hybrid has got displayed by Suzuki before the authorized release at the Tokyo motor show.

Electric motor is used short, low speed journeys in Swift car. Adding, the petrol engine will be used as a generator and the batteries are charged while running.

Further, the Swift Hybrid will be connectible to mains electricity from a standard household socket, even though no performance, economy or fuel consumption numbers have been leaked out.

Source : Vicki.in, October 5th, 2009