Showing posts with label Electric Vehicle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Electric Vehicle. Show all posts

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Nissan to Releases Global Electric Vehicle on August

Nissan Electric Vehicle Prototype

Nissan will unveil a prototype of their new global electric vehicle when the company officially opens their new headquarters in Yokohama, Japan on August 2.

Nissan Electric Vehicle Prototype

Although little is known about the upcoming EV, AutoCar reports it will be a mid-size five door hatchback with unique styling. The car will be propelled by an advanced lithium-ion battery developed by AESC. Nissan says it offers twice the power of a traditional "li-lo" battery, while providing unparalleled performance and reliability.

Nissan Electric Vehicle Prototype

Nissan will start with a production rate of 50,000 units per year, ramping up the build rate as mass-marketing begins around 2012-13. The EV motor will be produced in Yokohama and the inverter will initially be made at Nissan's Zama plant.

Nissan EV-02 Electric Vehicle Prototype in San Diego

Nissan is also pushing ahead with the next Micra, coyly described as its 'global entry car'. This will launch in spring 2010. Nissan will produce this car both in India (for European markets) and Thailand (for Japan) but China and two other as-yet-unnamed nations will also make the car that's on line to sell one million units a year after manufacturing is fully ramped up.

Nissan EV-02 Electric Vehicle Prototype in San Diego

Look for the production model to be officially unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in October.

Nissan EV-02 Electric Vehicle Prototype in San Diego

Source: autocar via worldcarfans

Sunday, June 7, 2009

Mitsubishi i MiEV production version Unveils


The Mitsubishi i-MiEV is powered by an electric motor that's able to run for 160 km on a single charge. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV can be re-charged from a home outlet or from quick-charge stations that are currently being built in Japan. In case you are wondering, the electric motor of the Mitsubishi i-MiEV outputs 64PS and 180 Nm of torque.

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV price starts in Japan at 4.38 million Yen.


A Mitsubishi spokesman previously said the electric car will "roll out in 2009 in Japan and 2010 in Europe. In the U.S., we're working to be competitive against Nissan and others."


The automaker says the i-MIEV uses a three-way charging system that allows the drive battery to be charged at home "or when out and about." For normal charging, i-MIEV can be recharged from a standard 110- or 220-volt domestic outlet for the home market. It can also be plugged into "quick-charge" stations which are currently being established throughout Japan.



According to Mitsubishi, charge times to replenish the lithium-ion battery pack will be 7-14 hours, although the automaker said that it is developing fast charging stations throughout Japan that will take just half an hour. A full charge delivers up to 100 miles or 160 km of pure electric driving.
via:zercustoms

Thursday, May 14, 2009

Leaked Photo:MINI-i MegaCity?


I’ll make this short and sweet, apparently the photo posted here is the actual MINI-i vehicle we spoke about a few days ago. The MINI-i MegaCity Vehicle is part of the Project i initiative and will be sold under the MINI brand.

Someone close to BMW speaks further of the MINI-i and BMW’s future plans:

The MINI-i will be equally recognizable as a MINI but with the MINI Brand , BMW intend to split the brand with the smaller “MegaCity” cars and then the Austrian built “Urban Adventure” vehicles which will be the MINI-X and the SpaceBox project.

The BMW Motorrad Division will accompany the MegaCity Scooter , For Project-i. Basically a two seater covered scooter similar to the C1 but lower and longer. Think of the BMW Clever Concept.

BMW has not been entirely clear about how these new vehicles will be branded. They seem to be rather bold in claiming it will represent a new paradigm in urban transport and that Project-i will be developing cars for volume production. As things stand now, the MegaCity is set to be a sub-brand of MINI. And some reports surfaced earlier in the year saying that BMW Design Chief, Chris Bangle, left BMW over this very issue, having grave reservations about how Project-i was set to evolve.
Source: Automobile-magazine via:bmwblog


Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Renault Kangoo be bop Z.E. Electric Vehicle Demonstrator Introduced


Renault revealed the Kangoo Z.E. Concept at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. The Zero-Emissions all-electric powered concept has given birth to this Kangoo be bop Z.E. demonstrator that was unveiled to Renault shareholders in Paris. The Z.E. Concept featured technologies that Renault and its partner Nissan will install in their upcoming electric vehicles. Through their alliance the two companies aim to be the leaders in mass-produced electric cars from 2011 when Renault starts.
More Photos

Press Release

RENAULT INTRODUCES THE KANGOO BE BOP Z.E. ELECTRIC VEHICLE DEMONSTRATOR

* Renault profited from the Annual General Meeting of its shareholders today in Paris, France, to take the wraps off its new prototype electric vehicle, Kangoo be bop Z.E.. The technology featured on this vehicle is very similar to that featured on the brand's upcoming production electric vehicles which are currently under development.
* In July, Kangoo be bop Z.E. will embark on a Europe-wide tour during which it will be available for test drives.
* The mass marketing of affordable Renault electric vehicles will begin in 2011.
* The Renault-Nissan Alliance is targeting to become the leading producer of massmarket zero emission vehicles.

Specific, functional styling

Kangoo be bop Z.E. is derived from the production Kangoo be bop and is instantly recognizable by its Energy Blue body colour, while the Renault logos on the grille and wheels are picked out in satin-finish blue-hued chrome. Inside, the satin-finish chrome and metallic acidic green trim ensure a unique ambience which is further expressed by the specific grey velour upholstery and
embroidered 'printed circuit' motifs.

Like the Z.E. Concept concept car which was unveiled at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, Kangoo be bop Z.E. is equipped with low-energy LED (light-emitting diodes) front and rear lighting with a view to optimizing energy use. Meanwhile, the car's aerodynamics have been significantly reworked in order to reduce energy consumption. Kangoo be bop Z.E. sits on 18-inch full disc wheels, and its ground clearance has been lowered by 20mm compared with that of the production Kangoo be bop.

Linear displays on the outside of Kangoo be bop Z.E.'s doors show how much charge is left in the battery by simply activating the remote central locking control. Inside, another gauge to the left of the instrument panel provides the driver with a permanent indication of how much battery charge remains.

An all-electric motor

Kangoo be bop Z.E. is an all-electric zero emission (in road use) vehicle. It is powered by a 44kW (60hp) electric motor which revs to 12,000rpm and which boasts greater efficiency (90 per cent) than an internal combustion engine.

Kangoo be bop Z.E.'s electric motor is coupled to a reducer which replaces the gearbox traditionally mated to heat engines. This reducer has a single, constant output ratio. Electrical energy is transmitted to the motor by a power electronics unit which incorporates the controller that delivers the required amount of energy to the rotor.

Latest-generation lithium-ion batteries

Kangoo be bop Z.E. is equipped with compact, innovative lithium-ion batteries produced by AESC (Automotive Electric Supply Corporation), a Nissan-NEC joint venture which was founded in April 2007. The performance of these batteries compared with former-generation nickel metal hydride batteries is superior in every domain, including performance, reliability, safety and efficiency.

Lithium-ion batteries do not suffer from the so-called memory effect which results from incomplete charge cycles, ultimately leading to a fall in capacity. The AESC battery is expected to deliver between 80 and 100 per cent of its original capacity for a duration of six years.

The compact dimensions of lithium-ion batteries enable the vehicle's configuration to be optimized and a wide range of applications to be envisaged. In the case of Kangoo be bop Z.E., the battery is located underneath the dashboard. It consequently doesn't encroach on either cabin space or boot capacity, making it possible to keep the same arrangement of four individual seats as that seen on the heat-engined Kangoo be bop.

The battery comprises 48 modules, each of which incorporates four elementary cells. It is inside these cells that the electrochemical reactions take place, enabling electrical current to be produced or energy to be stored.

A year and a half ahead of the launch of Renault's production electric vehicles, the 15kWh battery of the Kangoo be bop Z.E. prototype delivers a range of approximately 100km. When released, Renault electric vehicles will profit from an evolution to their battery technology which will take their real-world range to 160km.

Last but not least, lithium-ion batteries are recyclable and the Renault-Nissan Alliance is actively working on establishing recycling processes and infrastructures adapted to automotive batteries.

Express charging

Kangoo be bop Z.E. is charged via a MarechalTM-type socket located behind a flap at the front of the vehicle alongside the right-hand headlamp. The other end of the cable is fitted with a normal plug which connects to the mains supply.

This plug permits two different battery-charging modes:

* a conventional charge via a household mains supply (10A or 16A 220V) which can charge the vehicle in a timescale of between six to eight hours. This mode is perfectly suited to vehicles which are parked up overnight or during the day at the workplace.
* a so-called quick charge using a 32A 400V three phase socket, enabling up to 80 per cent of Kangoo be bop Z.E.'s capacity to be charged in approximately 30 minutes.

Twenty or so car manufacturers - including Renault - and energy groups have been working with the German group RWE with a view to developing a universal standard plug.

This universal standard plug was shown at April's Hanover Messe technology fair and will be used to charge the batteries of future Renault electric vehicles. This three phase plug can be used with a 400V supply and will enable a complete charge in approximately 20 minutes. This multi-partner agreement marks a significant step forward in the development of mass market electric vehicles.

Kangoo be bop Z.E. is also equipped with a brake energy recovery system which enables it to be charged while on the move.

The Alliance's electric vehicle strategy

The Renault-Nissan Alliance has its sights set on becoming the leading manufacturer of mass market zero emission vehicles. The Alliance is actively forging innovative associations with governments, city authorities and energy companies with a view to promoting the widespread use of electric vehicles across the world. Twenty-four such partnerships have already been sealed to date.

Renault and Nissan were among the first manufacturers to commit to achieving significant reductions in carbon dioxide emissions in recent years. Renault's strategy which was unveiled in January 2008 specifies the release of mass market electric vehicles by 2011.

The Renault-Nissan Alliance is planning to have a comprehensive range of high-quality, reliable, innovative and affordable electric vehicles. The first all-electric Nissan vehicle is due to be launched in the United States and Japan in 2010, and Nissan is set to market its electric vehicles worldwide from 2012.

Renault will start marketing all-electric models in 2011, beginning with a family saloon in Israel, and a utility version of New Kangoo in Europe. Two new, highly innovative vehicles are then scheduled for release in 2012.

Renault's zero emission (on the road), silent-running electric vehicles will incontestably break new ground, while at the same being affordable for the majority of road users.

KANGOO BE BOP Z.E.

DIMENSIONS
Length (mm) 3,871
Overall width with/without exterior mirror
(mm) 1,829 / 2,133
Height (unladen) (mm) 1,812
Wheelbase (mm) 2,313
Front track (mm) 1,522
Rear track (mm) 1,536
Ground clearance (unladen) (mm) 170
Weight (kg) 1,591

TECHNICAL DATA
Motor Electric motor
Power (kW) 44
Revs (rpm) 12,000
Maximum torque 190Nm
Transmission Direct drive reducer
Batteries Lithium-ion
Battery energy 15kWh
Tyres Dunlop SP Sport MAX 205/45
R18 Wheels 18-inch full disc wheels

PERFORMANCE
Top speed (electronically capped) (kph) 130




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Sunday, April 12, 2009

Raser Technologies working on 100mpg Hummer H2 plug-in hybrid

Raser Technologies is working in conjunction with powertrain company FEV and its new E-REV is being designed for application in any number of large vehicles, including SUVs and light trucks.


A prototype for the 100mpg SUV is being prepared for its debut at the Society of Automotive Engineers World Congress in Detroit later this month, and while the exact specs about the electric drivetrain are still being kept secret we do know that it will run in a similar fashion to the Chevrolet Volt's plug-in hybrid drivetrain.


Hummer may have been one of the most demonized vehicle brands of the decade, with both poor sales figures and a terrible environmental reputation - but now Utah’s Raser Technologies is using the iconic Hummer H2 as a base for its new electric technology, which it claims can give the Hummer a fuel-economy of around 100mpg.


According to Raser Technologies, the SUV will make use of their E-REV (Extended-Range Electric Vehicle) powertrain and will be able to drive up to 40 miles per day on pure electricity alone. Once this barrier has been reached, petrol in a small four-cylinder combustion engine connected to the electric motor will generate electricity, much the same way that the Volt does.


Whether or not the technology will be sold in consumer applications is unclear as many manufacturers are already developing their own electric vehicles, however, Raser Technologies has already inked a contract with Pacific Gas & Electric to supply that company with two E-REV trucks, with a view to purchasing more. Other commercial contracts may follow, especially considering the need for many businesses to run large vehicles in their fleets as well as the need to cut costs and be seen doing environmentally positive things.
via:motorauthority



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Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Sigma Motorworks creates electric sportscar based on Ford Mustang


That would be true, assuming the GTE ever makes it into production, which is an awfully big assumption. Automakers like Tesla Motors have shown just how difficult it is to enter the established auto market, even with vehicles as highly desirable as the Roadster and the new Model S -- not mention fistfuls of cash. Of course, we wish them nothing but the best of luck. They're going to need it.


Major components like the front and rear differentials are sourced from Ford, and the GTE's entire cockpit was yanked from an older Mustang. Twin DC electric motors offer up about 100 horsepower each and provide all-wheel drive. A lithium ion battery puts out 144 volts and is said to provide up to 100 miles of range. With a claimed top speed of around 145 mph, Steve Kase, head of development at Sigma Motorworks, says the GTE will be one of the fastest electric cars in the world.


We've caught wind of yet another hopeful American automaker with plans to launch a new electric sportscar in 2010. According to Matias Gorfinkiel, head of operations at Sigma Motorworks, "[The Sigma GTE] is a test bed for a commercial high performance sports model we will bring to the market by early 2010, when we expect to sell 500 cars."
via:autoblog




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Friday, March 27, 2009

Tesla Model S Revealed to Media


Tesla is aiming to steal the limelight from much bigger companies by confirming it will bring into production this electric-drive Tesla Model S in the third quarter of 2011. The 196-inch (4.98m) Model S is the more practical vehicle from Tesla who also build the Tesla Roadster sports car.


Tesla does not seem to have traded performance for practicality on this car. The 0 - 60mph sprint is covered in 5.6 seconds, the quarter mile in 14 seconds and top speed is 120mph (193km/h). It will brake from 60 - 0mph within 135 feet. There is a Sport version planned which will dip under 5 seconds in the 0 - 60mph dash.


Lightweight is the way to go and Tesla has made sure the Model S keeps its weight down to 3,825lbs (1735kg) by using mostly aluminium in its body construction. It achieves a drag coefficient of about .27 which is lower than the Roadster's .35. A single-speed transaxle is used to drive the liquid-cooled 9-inch motor so fewer parts are fitted.


Powering the car is a battery pack made up of 8,000 cells. This gives a range of about 300 miles (483km). Batteries are housed on the floor which frees up plenty of space in other places. For example the space under the traditional bonnet is used for storage. It's a big car which can accommodate five adults plus two children in rear-facing seats under the hatch.



A warranty of 3 to 4 years for the car and 7 to 10 years for the battery pack is expected to be offered. Good news for countries like South Africa, Japan, Australia and the UK is that the Model S will also be sold in right-hand-drive. Indicative pricing is US$49,900.
via:World Car Fans



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Wednesday, March 25, 2009

EV Innovations to unveil Wave and Inizio electric-cars in New York


Tesla and Fisker are the only two start-ups making a huge wave with the development of their electric-vehicles and plug-in hybrid cars. EV Innovations from Mooresville, N.C. will now jump in on the game with two new electric sports car that will make their debut at the 2009 New York Auto Show.

The first will be a sporty commuter car called the Wave. EV Innovations says that the Wave will have the capability to travel 170 miles on a single charge with a top speed of 80-mph.
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label:Electric Vehicle

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Kia unveils Forte LPI hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) in South Korea


Kia has introduced Forte LPI hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), it’s first mass production hybrid car, to the South Korean consumers yesterday. In addition to that, Kia also unveiled its new eco-friendly sub-brand, Eco-Dynamics, an initiative which will bring a host of new eco-friendly technologies and models to the international markets.

The Forte LPI hybrid electric vehicle is powered by an economical mild-hybrid drive system consisting of 1.6L gasoline engine and electric motor. The Liquefied Petroleum Injected (LPI) engine generates 114 horsepower, while electric motor brings additional 20 hp. Equipped with this kind of hybrid system and continuously variable transmission, the Forte achieves a very competitive fuel economy rating of 17.2 kilometers per liter of LPG fuel (41 MPG US), which is equivalent to 21.5 kilometers per liter fuel economy in terms of gasoline, the company said.

To differentiate the Forte hybrid from it’s non-hybrid variants and improve the vehicle’s aerodynamics, some changes have been implemented to the existing exterior design. In front, you will notice a slightly different corporate Kia grille and a restyled front bumper with larger air intake and attractive fog lights design, while at rear, Forte now features a radically redesigned rear bumper and LED equipped taillights. On the inside, Forte LPI hybrid features a Super Vision instrument cluster for hybrid system data and a navigation display.
Read More



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Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Video: Tazzari ZERO EV to Arrive in North America Early 2010


A new electric vehicle is to be produced in Italy under the name Tazzari Zero. By the beginning of 2010 these cars will have begun their import journey into North America through a company called Verdek-EV. Verdek-EV was appointed as the sole distributor for the North America, Mexico and the Caribbean islands region. The Tazzari brand is situated in Italy within the same region as Ferrari and Lamborghini, but unlike those exotics it will concentrate on small electric vehicles.



The lithium-ion battery-powered Tazzari Zero has been tested to return a range of about 88 miles (142km) before a recharge which can take 6.5 hours on a 220 volt power supply unit. It has a rear-wheel-drive motor with peak torque of 150Nm. Tazzari says the Zero produces no emissions and has a top speed of 56mph but it can be limited to between 25mph and 45mph if required.

Measured dimensions for the two-door mini car are 2.88 metres for length, 1.55 metres width and 1.4 metres height.


For interior comfort features that are included are a radio/CD/MP3 player, leather steering wheel, air conditioning, fog lamps, LED tail lights, a removable sunroof and 15-inch custom coloured wheels.

The car's first public showing will be at the Bologna International Motor Show in December. The estimated launch price should be less than €20,000 a pop.
via:World Car Fans



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Monday, March 9, 2009

Mitsubishi to Unveil Plug-In Hybrid Crossover in Tokyo


Mitsubishi Motors will launch a plug-in hybrid crossover at this year's Tokyo auto show in a vehicle that is slightly smaller than an Outlander and which is said to rival Nissan's Qashqai.

The hybrid development is part of Mitsubishi's plan to move its focus from large-engined SUVs to smaller, more efficient powerplants, Gayu Uesugi, head of product development, told headlineauto.
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Thursday, March 5, 2009

Video: smart fortwo BRABUS Electric Drive Unveiled in Geneva


Craftiest adjust even on the company in the world seem unable to escape the obligation to thrust on their environment. The BRABUS is one such tuner who ackowledged this model. Previously we have already seen their BRABUS gear stick of the Tesla Roadster, and now electric cars at the Geneva auto show this respect for fine-tuning the company exhibits another small step towards eco-environmental protection with a dash of urban driving pleasure.


Has been the implementation of the feasibility test in London, Berlin, Paris, Rome, Milan and Pisa, smart's fortwo electric production for the end of this year with the lithium ion battery provided by Tesla Motors. Therefore, it is not surprising that well-known tuner BRABUS Mercedes-Benz has been pitcher style Packaging Group.


Smart car has a quiet design, so it's BRABUS saw fit to redesign the effect of a good car should not only help to remind pedestrians of their imminent arrival, they also requested the tenants.


Sports suspension installation, so are the BRABUS mono第七六split spokes alloy wheels, leather and fabric green fabric and white colors. Designed open-air convertible soft-top smart themselves the feelings of these extra outdoor clean-up drive.


Specific date, but must have put on planning BRABUS this little greenie enter the production line some time in the future.
via:egmcartech More Photos




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Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Fisker accepting orders for Karma S hard-top convertible

The Karma S hard-top convertible was designed and engineered by Quantum Technologies and features the Q-Drive powertrain system that allows for 50 miles of zero-emissions driving on a single charge of its lithium-ion battery pack. It produces up to 403-hp from two electric-motors.


While those interested in the Fisker Karma four-door plug-in hybrid sedan will have to make a deposit of $5,000, buyers looking for some fun in the sun with the Fisker Karma S will have to make a deposit of $25,000. How much will the drop-top Karma go for?


Apparently, the Fisker Karma S Concept is no longer just a concept. We spoke with Fisker Automotive’s public relations chief Russell Datz, who confirmed that the company is indeed taking deposits for the Fisker Karma S with deliveries expected to begin at the end of 2011.


“No pricing announced yet – but it will likely be significantly more than the Karma sedan,” Datz told eGMCarTech in an e-mail. He also said that the first 250 units will be “specially configured” and will be “designated as first-run vehicles and perhaps numbered.”
Source: egmcartech



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Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Honda Working On Electric Motorcycle For 2010


Honda has announced plans to put an emissions free all-electric motorcycle on sale sometime in 2010. Honda CEO Takeo Fukui said that an electric bike makes sense as the battery characteristics and driving range fits a motorcycle profile - as they are generally used for shorter trips.
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Mission One EV sport bike unveiled - 150 MPH, 150-mile range

Mission One EV sport bike unveiled - 150 MPH, 150-mile range


Mission Motors has just revealed its all-electric sport bike and the family-friendly version of our initial reaction goes something like, "Holy Mother of God and all that is good and decent!", followed immediately by the sound of our jaws hitting the floor. After a couple of years of staying almost perfectly in stealth mode, the Mission One is being unveiled today at the TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) conference.


The Yves Béhar-designed bike sets a new performance standard for electric two-wheelers with a top speed of 150 mph and an estimated range of 150 miles. Of course, the strength of an electric drivetrain is torque and the Mission One has 100 lb-ft of the stuff on offer from the first twist of the throttle up until 60 mph. When it makes its race debut at the TTXGP on June 12th, we suspect the other entries will be scrappin' it out for second place.


To bring this amazing machine to market, Forrest North and his two co-founders, Edward West and Mason Cabot, have assembled a real dream team with incredible depth and experience and whose resumés list companies like Tesla Motors, Ducati and Google. The first 50 bikes produced will be a special Limited Edition model delivered in 2010 bearing a $68,995 price tag, while a standard, more affordable Mission One model will be announced this summer. If the goal of this company was to create a paradigm-busting object of desire, then we say, "Mission accomplished". Mouth watering specs below and official press release after the break.
Read More



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Tuesday, February 3, 2009

GM, the U.S. prepare for the Volt


That means a very concrete example, that there must be points where flow "refueled" can be. For example in a terraced house with garage lives will still be able to charge home. However, away from home it would be nice to the battery of the Volt's power needs.


Thus, General Motors, together with San Francisco, Washington and other "early adopters" to build the infrastructure to make that possible. In offices, but also in public places must allow the Volt (and other plug-in hybrids) to recharge.


It will also look at measures on the purchase of plug-in hybrids by governments and commercial organizations to promote. Consumers with a plug-in car to buy, get a tax benefit of $ 7500, -.
Source:autoblog.nl



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Saturday, January 31, 2009

Bee Four revives BRM brand, reveals in-wheel motor source



It's been announced that the electric race car we were telling you about from Bee Automobiles Ltd will now contend for the British Speed Hill Climb Championship in 2010 as the BRM Bee Four ERV.

This revives the BRM (British Racing Motors) brand that was born 60 years ago and has a rich and proud history. This also delays the original plan by a year, but should give them the necessary time to introduce a car that is fully tested and ready to win. There is hope that we'll see it before then as it is rumored that it may make some cameos at events this year.
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Wednesday, January 14, 2009

$50K Smart Electric Vehicle set for Limited Production Run - powered by Tesla


In a recent statement, Daimler AG announced, "The next generation prototype of the smart fortwo electric drive is being presented in the US for the first time during the NAIAS Autoshow. At the End of 2009, smart will start the production of the smart fortwo electric drive with a lithium-ion battery. The company is exploring opportunities for the United States market."


These Smart cars should cost US$49,900 when they go on sale this year according to Tesla CEO Elon Musk who confirmed the existence of this business relationship between his company and Daimler AG.


Tesla had been struggling to meet its financial obligations until late 2008 when it announced it had received business financing to the tune of $40 million from investors. The Smart car order should help its balance sheet pick up even more.

Tesla Motors is going to be supplying Mercedes-Benz with 1,000 EV battery packs and chargers. The power packs are to be installed in Smart electric cars as part of a cooperation between the electric car maker and Daimler AG, the parent company of Smart and the Mercedes-Benz Group.
More Photos



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Tuesday, January 13, 2009

BYD release F3DM hybrid and E6 electric vehicles for U.S. market in 2011


Chinese automaker BYD Auto has announced it is planning to enter the US market in 2011 and will be then launching a product line of plug-in hybrids and all-electric vehicles.


BYD claims its Fe battery technology has a quick-charge capacity to 50 percent power in only 10 minutes. The battery also has a life cycle of more than 10 years.


The first two models BYD plans on introducing are the F3DM, the world's first mass-produced plug-in hybrid sedan and the e6, a battery-powered mid-sized crossover with a single-charge range of 250 miles (400 km).


Lending confidence to BYD's prospects in the US market is legendary billionaire investor Warren Buffett. Last year the energy division of his investment firm Berkshire Hathaway, MidAmerican Energy Holdings, acquired a 10 percent stake in BYD Auto.


The Fe battery will also be used in BYD's mid-size F6DM sedan, a plug-in hybrid. Plug-in hybrids can run on pure electrical power until the battery runs out when a gasoline engine kicks in and acts as a generator to create more power for the battery.


Speaking ambitiously on the floor of the Detroit auto show, Wang Chuanfu, President and Chariman of BYD Auto, said that the company would also be setting up manufacturing in the US "when it is appropriate".
More Photos



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