Mitsubishi i-MiEV Leads the All-Electric Cars

One way the government hopes its 2009 economic stimulus plan will help jumpstart the economy is by investing billions of dollars in industries that support energy efficiency - everything from electric car battery technology to wind turbines to modernizing the country's power grid.

Corporations aren't the only ones receiving incentives, however: Individual taxpayers can reap considerable tax benefits by improving their home's energy efficiency - not to mention the long-term savings they'll incur from reducing their utility and fuel bills.

Here are a few highlights:

l The total tax credit you can claim for many energy-efficiency home improvements made during 2009 and 2010 has increased from $500 to $1,500. That's a cumulative total of $1,500, so you can break it up between the two years however you choose.

l You may now claim a tax credit for 30 percent of the purchase price for a variety of home improvements, up to the $1,500 limit. Credit for installation costs is also allowed in certain cases, such as for HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems, biomass stoves, water heaters, solar panels, geothermal heat pumps, wind energy systems and fuel cells.

Tax credits for many energy-efficiency home improvements that were previously allowed in 2006 and 2007 but then disallowed in 2008 are once again eligible during 2009 and 2010. Some common covered expenses include:

l Home shell improvements designed to prevent heating and cooling leaks, including insulation, metal and asphalt roofs, exterior and storm windows, doors (including patio and sliding glass), skylights and weather stripping.

l HVAC systems, including central air conditioning, air-source and geothermal heat pumps, and natural gas, propane and oil furnaces.

l Gas, oil, propane, solar and electric heat pump water heaters.

l Biomass (plant matter) stoves.

l Other renewable energy technology including small wind generators and photovoltaic systems.

l Hybrid, diesel, battery electric, alternative fuel, fuel cell and plug-in electric cars.

Note that there are specific requirements and restrictions for each of these products, so be sure to do your research before purchasing them. For example, with vehicles, there are only a finite number of credits available per manufacturer, so verify with the dealer.

A good resource for rules is the government's Energy Star Web site, which has detailed information on the various tax credits available (www.energystar.gov/taxcredits).

A few additional tips:

l Experts agree that before making major investments like HVAC systems or solar panels, you should first improve your home's insulation. Proper insulation can reduce your heating and cooling bills by 20 percent or more.

- Save all receipts and ask contractors to separate labor and materials costs in case you are ever audited. Also keep copies of manufacturer certification statements for your records.

l Even though they aren't covered under the federal tax credit program, many other Energy Star appliances like refrigerators, washing machines and dishwashers may qualify for certain state and local rebate programs. These energy-efficient appliances consume up to 50 percent less electricity and water than standard models. Ask for details where you buy the appliance.

Feel good about the impact you can have on the environment - and on your wallet - by taking advantage of these energy-efficiency tax credits.

Mitsubishi i-MiEV Leads the All-Electric Cars

No one can accuse Mitsubishi of lousy timing. At least, not this time.

With Canada and the United States going green, its new all-electric i-MiEV has a head start on much of the competition, and as far as Tomoki Yanagawa is concerned, fully electric automobiles from his company and others should be available for purchase in Canada within the next five years (it went on sale in Japan this month).

Yanagawa is vice-president of sales, marketing and corporate planning for Mitsubishi Canada, and has been making the rounds to show off the i-MiEV.

The i-MiEV (Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle) represents the “pinnacle” of Mitsubishi's green technologies, and is a completely clean-running, zero-emissions vehicle. According to the company, even taking into consideration its overall emissions and costs during construction, it emits just 30 per cent of the carbon dioxide of a similarly-sized internal combustion car.

When it hits the road in Canada – probably within a year – the i-MiEV's expenses per kilometre will be one-third that of a comparably sized gas-engined car and during recharge, it'll cost one-ninth of what it costs to fill up a conventional automobile.

Built on Mitsubishi's “i” mini-car platform, the i-MiEV is propelled by a 330-volt, 16-kilowatt, 63-horsepower electric motor that is located in the front of the vehicle. It has a rear-wheel-drive layout and its 22 batteries are of the lithium-ion variety.

Mitsubishi is claiming that the i-MiEV will accelerate from zero to 80 km/h 11/2 seconds faster than its gas-fuelled counterpart, which has been sold in Japan for the past five years or so. The electric car can reach a top speed of over 130 km/h; it seats four adults and weighs about 1,080 kilograms.

More importantly, it will have a cruising range of at least 120 kilometres and can be recharged using either a typical 120-volt or 220-volt household plug, or through a dedicated quick-charge system.

When (and if) it comes on-stream in North America, the quick-charge arrangement will be in the form of a small kiosk supplied by Mitsubishi (at additional cost), and will get the system back up to 80 per cent of a full charge in about 30 minutes. Using a 120-volt plug, recharge time is 14 hours, and it's half that with 220 volts.

All three systems have their own circuits and, in the fullness of time, Yanagawa envisages quick-charge stations located throughout the city – in parking lots and so on.

“Range and recharging should not be an issue,” he says. Just to be on the safe side, the i-MiEV also has a “limp-home” mode that will give you a few more kilometres if you drain the system completely.

Unlike General Motors' ill-fated EV-1, the i-MiEV will not suffer damage if the system is completely depleted. Yanagawa claims the Yuasa-made batteries will last at least 10 years or 150,000 kilometres.

Behind the wheel, the i-MiEV is simplicity itself. Just turn the key, wait a few seconds for the system to power up and then put it drive and away you go.

It has all the usual conveniences, such as air conditioning, power windows, a stereo system and so on, and performance is actually quite lively. It's far too early to talk about price, but unofficially, the i-MiEV will probably start in the low- to mid-$20,000 neighbourhood.

One of the intriguing things about electric vehicles is that torque and power are available almost instantly, with no “spooling up” or engine rpm buildup. The i-MiEV's torque output is pegged at 133 lb-ft, which is almost double that of its gas-engined counterpart.

Aside from the fact that the model Mitsubishi had on hand in Vancouver was right-hand drive, there was no drama or weirdness when under way.

The i-MiEV easily keeps up with traffic, and has an “Eco” setting to help conserve even more power. It also features regenerative braking to recapture energy when decelerating. As an urban runabout, it would seem to do the job nicely.

The powers that be seem to think so, too. Mitsubishi, the British Columbia provincial government, the City of Vancouver and BC Hydro recently signed a memorandum of understanding that will see at least one test i-MiEV added to the fleets of BC Hydro and the city, with more cars being added as they become available – probably in the fall.

A few questions about the viability of this fully electric car remain, however. For starters, its purported range of 120 kilometres is based on driving the vehicle slowly, in perfect weather, on flat ground, with one occupant, and no accessories being used.

As well, the i-MiEV's performance in the depths of winter is still a huge unknown, occupant protection in a crash has yet to be determined, and the whole quick-charge recharging stations scenario is very much up in the air.

“We haven't put the i-MiEv through any cold weather testing at this point,” Yanagawa admitted.

So it's all good, but what may work in Vancouver won't necessarily cut it in Toronto or Winnipeg or Montreal.

Obama Green Vehicles Plan Gained Japan Automakers Praise

Japanese automakers on Wednesday praised President Barack Obama's new rules to push green vehicles and transform the U.S. auto industry – a shift that likely puts Japan's manufacturers at an advantage.

Toyota Motor Corp., the maker of the Prius hybrid, which gets 50 miles per gallon in the U.S., gave Obama "high praise" for promoting technology to boost mileage and fight global warming.

Obama announced rules Tuesday that would bring new cars and trucks sold in the United States by 2016 to an average of 35.5 miles per gallon (15 kilometres per litre), about 10 mpg (4.2 kpl) more than today's standards.

Passenger cars will be required to get 39 mpg (16.5 kpl), light trucks 30 mpg (12.7 kpl). That means cars and trucks on American roads will have to become smaller, lighter and more efficient.

Already, Japan's automakers have benefited from consumer demand for cars with good mileage and lower emissions.

Toyota, which boasts other fuel-efficient models in its lineup, vowed to continue to develop more green technology.

"In addition to the technology we have been developing from the past, Toyota will speed up in pursuing various ecological technologies, including hybrid technology, to deliver better mileage in vehicles," it said in a statement.

Honda Motor Co., Japan's second-biggest auto company, expressed similar sentiments.

"Honda supports President Obama's initiative to establish a single national standard addressing both greenhouse gas emissions and fuel economy," it said in a statement from the U.S.

"Though it will be a challenging standard to meet, we will embrace it," Honda said, adding that it has long worked at fuel efficiency.

The Prius, whose remodeled version rolled out earlier this week, and Honda's Insight hybrid, which went on sale earlier this year, are among just six vehicles on sale today that offer fuel economy of at least 35.5 mpg, according to the auto Web site Edmunds.com.

The others are the Honda Civic hybrid, the Ford Fusion hybrid, the Mercury Milan hybrid and the Smart fortwo microcar.

But Obama's new rules are, in a sense, even more demanding. They require the U.S. auto industry to produce by 2016, vehicles that average 35.5 miles per gallon overall, with passenger cars reaching 39 mpg and light trucks hitting 30 mpg.

The system develops standards for each vehicle class size, and each manufacturer would be required to hit mileage targets.

The plunge in auto demand in the U.S. market, set off by the credit crunch and financial crisis, has slammed Japan's major automakers, sinking all but Honda into the red for the fiscal year that ended in March.

Echoing the view throughout this nation's industry, Nissan Motor Co. said it was behind Obama, stressing its record for supporting proposals for lower emissions and fuel economy, and expressed hopes for taking part "actively" in the effort.

"Nissan supports the Obama administration's plan to reduce greenhouse gases," it said.

Chief Operating Officer Toshiyuki Shiga said Nissan has been working on being ecological not just because of rules, but because of growing global interest in the environment.

"This is not just to clear regulations," he told reporters Tuesday when asked about Obama's expected announcement. "Contributing to a clean environment has become part of automakers' strategy.''

Video: Obama Announced New Fuel-Efficiency & Emission Standard

President Obama announced today new fuel efficiency and emissions rules for auto companies. The proposed plan creates a national fuel economy standard of 35 1/2 miles per gallon for passenger cars and light trucks.

All auto makers would need to reach that standard by the year 2016, four years sooner than under the current law. The administration says the new rules will amount to removing 177 million cars from the road over the next 6 1/2 years and saving nearly two billion barrels of oil.

Flanked by state and Federal law makers and top executives from American and international auto companies, the president said the new rules will help the industry move forward.



BARACK OBAMA, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: At a time of historic crisis in our auto industry, when domestic auto manufacturers are making painful choices and restructuring their businesses to be viable in the future, this rule provides the clear certainty that will allow these companies to plan for a future in which they are building the cars of the 21st century.

DARREN GERSH: Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood was a key player in creating today's new fuel efficiency standards. I spoke with him earlier in the day and I began by asking him if the new plan differs from other efforts to save fuel.

RAY LAHOOD, TRANSPORTATION SECRETARY: I think the reason it happened today is because of the president. He basically told us at DOT and he told the folks at EPA set aside your agendas, set aside your egos. We need to do this for the American people. We need to get to a standard. I just think the leadership of the president and I think really the American people are Fed up with high gasoline prices. And they do want cars that get better mileage.

GERSH: Right, but they also like to drive cars that they can afford and there is a question that this policy over the course of its implementation is going to cost about $1300 more per car as (INAUDIBLE) that the administration has put out. That seems like a lot of money.

LAHOOD: The price of a car is going to go up any way. But I just think people think enough of the environment and they're sick and tired of foreign oil and they're sick and tired of high gasoline prices and I think the American people get it, too.

GERSH: One of the problems we seem to have in our CAFE policy, in our fuel efficiency policies has been that the auto makers are forced to make more fuel efficient cars, but consumers don't buy them. They don't buy smaller lighter cars and unless you push the consumer to do it, they don't buy it. So I'm wondering if this policy really changes very much.

LAHOOD: I think when gasoline prices got over $4 a gallon people were rushing out to buy Prius. And the reason that they were, was because it was getting 40 to 50 miles per gallon. Now, when gas prices have come down, then people kind of go back to their old ways. Gasoline prices are going to go up, there's no dispute about that. At some point in the future, they're going to be $3, $4 a gallon and people are going to be looking for cars that get much better mileage than the ones that are being manufactured today.

GERSH: One of the concerns though about smaller cars is that when you force manufacturers to make smaller cars people have the safety concern. So they don't buy the very smallest cars. Can you address the safety problems there? I'm wondering, are there ways to make smaller cars safer, that could be part of this policy that might overcome that?

LAHOOD: There are ways to do it and that's frankly what our role really has been here at DOT through our safety mode is to make sure that we don't compromise safety with a car that's lighter weight. And our people here believe that it's certainly possible to do it and more importantly, the car manufacturers believe that today, as demonstrated by the fact that every one of them was at the announcement because they believe they can get to the standard and manufacture safe cars.

GERSH: Why does the administration do what European and other nations have done and basically push consumers to buy smaller more fuel efficient cars by either raising gas prices or giving them much larger incentives?

LAHOOD: Well, raising gasoline prices in a lousy economy when so many people are out of work is a very bad idea. People are hurting in America and the last thing they want is an increase in the gasoline tax.

GERSH: You could give them incentives, more incentives.

LAHOOD: Well, I think the car manufacturers over time, as they begin to manufacture these cars, will probably build in some incentives for people, the way that they tried to do now when car sales are way down.

GERSH: All right, Mr. Secretary, thank you very much for your time. I appreciate it.

LAHOOD: Thank you.

Bright Automotive Unveils 100MPG Plug-in Hybrid Truck in Washington

Bright Automotive Chief Executive Officer John Waters shows off a concept version of its 100 MPG plug-in hybrid electric vehicle called IDEA, Tuesday, April 21, 2009, on Capitol Hill in Washington.

Anderson, Ind.-based startup Bright Automotive on Tuesday unveiled the IDEA, a 100-mpg plug-in hybrid electric van that it is looking to sell to fleet customers such as businesses and government agencies.

The automaker's goal is to produce 50,000 vehicles a year starting in 2013. The ultimate outcome, it hopes, will be millions of dollars in savings in gasoline and drastically reduced emissions for fleet users.

"We are ready to provide the necessary automotive leadership our nation is calling for," Chief Executive John Waters said in a conference call with reporters.

Waters, who developed the battery pack for General Motors Corp.'s first electric vehicle, the EV1, unveiled the IDEA on Capitol Hill in Washington.

He said the company has applied for a $450 million loan from a Department of Energy program designed to help automakers develop fuel-efficient technology.

Waters hopes to begin production of the vehicle by 2012 and begin supplying to fleet customers the following year.

He said the company is targeting fleet, rather than retail, customers, because fleet customers buy vehicles "on spreadsheets" in large quantities, which helps bring down the cost and eliminates the emotion present in car-buying.

"We feel there would be a rapid adaptation and adoption of vehicles in the fleet sector," Waters said. He declined to offer an estimated price of the vehicle.

Waters said the IDEA will run on battery power alone for 30 miles. At that point, it will function like a conventional hybrid, drawing on a combination of gasoline and an electric battery to generate power. He said the 100 mpg figure is an estimate that assumes a fleet driver averages 50 miles per day.

Bright Automotive is the latest entrant in a growing field of high-tech automotive startups, many of which have placed their bets on pricey, high-end vehicles.

Tesla Motors, based in Silicon Valley, sells the $109,000 Roadster electric car and recently unveiled a much cheaper sedan, the Model S. EV Innovations unveiled two new electric sports cars at the New York International Auto Show earlier this month.

BMW Magnetic Tow Technology Revealed

BMW’s award-winning EfficientDynamics programme has been taken to the next level with the announcement of an innovative fuel and emissions saving system called Magnetic Tow Technology.

In a bid to retain its World Green Car of the Year crown, BMW will launch MTT across its range today.

The unique system, developed in conjunction with NASA, works via a discreet unit located in the front valance that projects an enhanced magnetic beam 20 metres in front of the BMW.

Once a suitable target car is located and the BMW is magnetically locked on behind it, the driver is then able to take his foot off the accelerator, turn off the engine and let the car in front do all the work. The towing car will not notice any change in manoeuvrability.

The BMW driver can unhook from the towing car at any time by depressing the clutch pedal to start the vehicle. This is the same method used to operate the existing Start Stop system.

Drivers of automatic transmission BMWs need only move the lever into the ‘D’ position to continue on their way. Early research indicates that MTT could save as much as 30% in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Gurus from BMW’s in-house driving etiquette guide suggest flashing the car in front and giving a friendly hand gesture to thank them for the free ride.

BMW’s Head of Innovation, Dr Noitt All, a specialist in Kinetic Ride And Propulsion, said: “BMW has always been a leader in the application of the very latest automotive technology.

Up until now the EfficientDynamics programme has looked at ways of improving the performance of our own products, but we thought why burn your own fuel when you can burn someone else’s?”

The 56-year-old boffin promised more to come from his innovation workshop but in the meantime recommended people email his colleague uve.vollenvorit@bmw.co.uk to be kept abreast of further developments.
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Fiat: European Leader For CO2 Emission Reduction in 2008

Fiat Automobiles is one of Europe’s ten best-selling automotive brands and for the second year running confirmed the lowest average value for CO2 emissions from the vehicles sold in 2008: 133.7 g/km (137.3 g/km in 2007).

The record was corroborated by JATO, a world leader in automotive advisory and research services, founded in 1984 and now operating in over 40 countries. The bottom line shows FIAT ahead of Peugeot (138.1 g/km), Citroen (142.4 g/km), Renault (142.7 g/km), Toyota (144.9 g/km), Ford (147.8 g/km), Opel/Vauxhall (151.1 g/km), Volkswagen (158.8 g/km), BMW (160.6 g/km) and Mercedes (185.0 g/km).

FIAT Group is also in pole position for groups (138.4 g/km), ahead of PSA, Renault, Toyota and Hyundai.

Lorenzo Sistino, managing director of FIAT Automobiles, says: "The result of this important analysis rewards FIAT’s ongoing quest for innovative solutions for reduction of polluting emissions and levels of CO2.

But FIAT’s commitment has always been to the public’s real needs and won’t be stopping here. Our aim is actually to reinforce our European record in emission reduction by introducing new engines, new technologies and new applications.

New engines, like those with the innovative Multiair system, which will gradually be installed in all our Group cars and will enable further reductions in consumption and emissions.New technologies, like the Start&Stop, already presented in the FIAT 500 and soon also to be seen on the range’s latest models.

New applications like the ‘eco:Drive’, an innovative software developed with Microsoft, that uses a USB port from the versatile Blue&Me system to achieve analysis of the driver’s vehicle handling thus helping to optimize behaviour in terms of consumption and hence emissions: currently there are about 10,000 regular users who monitor their driving style in this way".

Worldwide FIAT is one of the automotive companies offering the best response in the battle to beat the environmental impact of transport. To achieve this crucial objective, FIAT provides tangible solutions that are available to everyone and are available now.

Proof lies in the models available to the market, investments in new product development, schemes for research and sustainable mobility developed in partnership with public administrations.

Nor should it be overlooked that FIAT is Europe’s leader in the production of compact vehicles, which are by definition the most eco friendly. For instance, two years ahead of others, the FIAT 500 and the FIAT Bravo both introduced Euro 5 petrol and diesel engines. What’s more, by the end of 2009, most engines in the FIAT range as a whole will be ahead of Euro 5 standards.

FIAT also recently presented two important developments: its LPG range comprising Panda, Grande Punto and Bravo models, as well as the new PUR-O2 line, specifically for the 500, the Croma and the Bravo.

In particular, the latter includes a selected group of versions at the forefront of the international scenario, with high technological content, low consumption and CO2 emissions.

This is due to the application of specific systems and devices like the innovative "eco:Drive", the new "Start&Stop" – developed by Engineering & Design and FPT, with input from supplier partners like Bosch and Magneti Marelli – which manages temporary engine power off and power up (to keep the vehicle ticking over when it is not moving) and special "eco packs" that include green tyres, low viscosity oils, aerodynamic packages and modified gearboxes.

Moreover, FIAT was the creator of Multijet technology that drives all new generation diesel, as well as being the world leader of the OEM methane vehicle market. Of course, FIAT believes that methane engines are the most appropriate technological choice to hand for dealing with pollution issues in urban areas.

This is because the use of methane is a step in the right direction for environmental benefits (approximately a 23% reduction in CO2 emissions and practically 0 for PM emissions), but also for money saving.

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FIAT is a leader in this technology and the first manufacturer to offer an eco line – "Natural Power" – with an extensive range of dual-fuel vehicles using petrol and methane.

These are able to meet the mobility demands of a large category of users, including the professional sector: from the Doblò (also Cargo version) to the Punto (also Van version), from the Multipla to the Panda (also Van version) and even the Grande Punto.

Lastly, apart from research into alternative fuels, FIAT is now downsizing diesel and petrol engines, as can be seen in the new 1.4 T-Jet and 1.6 Multijet families.

In particular, the application of a state-of-the-art turbo compressor combined with reduced engine size means that performance comparable to or better than large blocks can be achieved with lower emissions.

2009 Detroit Live: Mercedes-Benz Concept BlueZERO

Mercedes-Benz is showing the way ahead in environmentally responsible electromobility by presenting its near-series Concept BlueZERO at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Based on a single vehicle architecture, this intelligent, modular concept allows three models with different drive configurations, all of which are able to meet customer requirements in terms of sustainable mobility:

--- the BlueZERO E-CELL with battery-electric drive and a range of up to 200 kilometers using electric drive alone
--- the BlueZERO F-CELL (fuel cell) with a range of well over 400 kilometers using electric drive
--- the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS with electric drive and additional internal combustion engine as power generator (range extender). This version has an overall range of up to 600 kilometers and can cover a distance of up to 100 kilometers using electric drive alone.

The three BlueZERO variants are based on the unique sandwich-floor architecture which Mercedes-Benz introduced some ten years ago, initially for the A-Class and then for the B-Class, one of the aims being to integrate alternative drive systems.

Advantages of the modified construction include the positive effect of the major drive components on the centre of gravity, their space-saving design, and the fact that they are extremely well protected within the vehicle underbody. The five-seater BlueZERO concept cars also set standards in terms of lightweight design, interior layout, and body form.

"The flexible BlueZERO concept allows electromobility for every requirement and highlights the fact that Mercedes-Benz is the world's only car manufacturer to already have in place all the key technologies for electric cars offering full everyday practicality", says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

The BlueZERO principle: flexible design, compact exterior, and generously sized interior

All three BlueZERO variants share the same key technical components, while ?the design and vehicle dimensions are identical. Measuring just 4.22 meters in length, the BlueZERO models combine compact exterior dimensions with a generously proportioned and variable interior and luggage compartment.

Five fully-fledged seats, a payload of around 450 kilograms, and a luggage compartment capacity of over 500 liters make for outstanding everyday practicality. Thanks to their sandwich construction with a raised sitting position, the cars also offer an exceptionally high level of crash safety for the passengers and the technology, not to mention excellent all-round visibility.

Compared to electric cars based on conventional vehicle platforms and originally only designed for use in combination with internal combustion engines, Concept BlueZERO offers the following conclusive advantages:

--- Interior space is retained in full. As the energy accumulators/generators are integrated into the spacious sandwich floor, no compromises are necessary with respect to passenger space, luggage capacity, or variability.
--- The powertrain technology built into the sandwich floor ensures a low centre of gravity and, consequently, extremely reliable and agile handling.
--- Crash safety is of the extremely high standard associated with Mercedes thanks to the sandwich concept and the housing of major powertrain components between the axles.

As a result, the BlueZERO models are very different to conventionally constructed electric cars, which have the heavy and voluminous storage battery housed in the boot or in the rear-seat area, for example.

Modular design assures flexibility and efficiency

"Our modular system allows different drive configurations for every customer requirement", says Dr Thomas Weber, the member of the Daimler AG Board of Management responsible for corporate research and development at Mercedes-Benz Cars.

"The modified sandwich-floor platform provides the perfect basis for ?a wide model range with electric drive systems. We are also developing a new, additional platform for future compact models with power units based on optimized internal combustion engines.

The intelligent networking of both architectures enables us to develop our product portfolio extremely flexibly and efficiently. From 2009, we will be producing the first Mercedes fuel-cell cars on a small scale. Small-scale production of Mercedes-Benz cars with battery-electric drive alone will then commence in 2010. This means we are extremely well equipped for the future."

All three BlueZERO models feature front-wheel drive, which is typical for this class of car. The Mercedes engineers have put together a modular system comprising several flexibly combinable drive components.



These include state-of-the-art liquid-cooled lithium-ion batteries with a storage capacity of up to 35 kWh and the compact electric motor with a maximum output of 100 kW (continuous output 70 kW), which develops a peak torque of 320 Nm.

All three variants accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 11 seconds. Their top speed is electronically limited to 150 km/h in the interests of optimal range and energy efficiency.

Electric drive systems with a range of 100, 200, and well over 400 kilometers

With a charging capacity of 15 kW, the powerful lithium-ion batteries in the BlueZERO E-CELL and the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS can store enough energy for a range of 50 kilometers within 30 minutes.

In terms of purely electrical drive, one or two hours of charging time is needed for a range of 100 and 200 kilometers respectively. The charging times are doubled if the charging capacity is 7 kW, as would be the case in a normal household. Both of these BlueZERO vehicles incorporate an electronic control unit that supports intelligent charging stations and billing systems.

At the rear, the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS has the same 1.0-litre turbocharged gasoline engine as the smart fortwo as an additional range extender. This compact three-cylinder powerplant has an output of 50 kW at a constant 3500 rpm.

If required, it can recharge the 17.5-kWh lithium-ion battery by ?means of a similarly rated alternator. A range of up to 600 kilometers is possible on a single tank. The purely electrical, locally emission-free range is up to 100 kilometers. The BlueZERO F-CELL with fuel-cell drive achieves a range ?of well over 400 kilometers with zero emissions (as per NEDC).



BlueZERO design: both elegant and functional

Leading-edge technology is uniformly and attractively packaged in all three BlueZERO variants. The unique and distinctive Mercedes design idiom displayed by the body highlights the progressive nature of Concept BlueZERO at first glance.

The powerfully elegant front end is dominated by the radiator grille with its centrally located star. The excellent aerodynamics of the BlueZERO are partly due to the closed front apron, whose design means that cooling air intakes are not required.

The 20-inch wheels have also been aerodynamically optimized, while low-friction tires are fitted to reduce rolling resistance.

The striking character lines along the flanks lend the BlueZERO an extremely dynamic side line and accentuate its bionic structure inspired by nature. This characteristic feature of the Mercedes-Benz bionic car was adapted and modified for the BlueZERO models. These elements lend the body its dramatic power.

New-quality light production

The compact rear end of the Concept BlueZERO is characterized by tail lights in the shape of a curved "L". In addition, the Mercedes designers have achieved a new-quality light production: transparent lenses produce a red light curtain which tapers smoothly towards the sides, creating a lightly diffused effect.

This effect is repeated, albeit in white this time, by the front headlamps. What's more, the front lights feature new lens technology and a plexiglass edge to produce "C" shaped daytime driving lights with the help of state-of-the-art LED technology.

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Intelligent technology made visible

Translucent surfaces make the normally concealed technology visible. The light-gray tailgate is made completely from lightweight but highly robust Lexan, allowing a view of the aluminum structure that makes up the rigidifying frame, for example.

At the same time, this transparent tailgate provides a view of the vehicle interior, making the advantages of the sandwich-floor platform obvious ?at a glance: for maximum customer benefit, the luggage compartment and passenger area remain fully usable, since there are no technical components that need to be accommodated here.

"It was very important for us to ensure that the guiding Mercedes-Benz principle of 'Fascination and Responsibility' was clearly reflected in the design of the Concept BlueZERO", says Mercedes-Benz design chief Gorden Wagener.

"This is yet another clear statement that environmental awareness and driving pleasure will continue to go together in our vehicles in the future. We want people to realize at first sight that the Concept BlueZERO is definitively not a lesser option."

The Mercedes-Benz designers have emphasized this aspiration by introducing paint finishes in three new ALU-BEAM colors. Each of the three variants makes its individual mark: the BlueZERO E-CELL is painted in fresh ALU-BEAM yellow, while the BlueZERO F-CELL has ALU-BEAM green paintwork. Confidence-oozing ALU-BEAM orange was chosen for the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS.

LA 2008: Volkswagen's Jetta TDI (2009 Green Car of the Year)

Volkswagen's milestone 2009 Jetta TDI has been named Green Car Journal's 2009 Green Car of the Year(R), besting competitors that included a pair of advanced hybrids, a clean diesel sport sedan, and a trendy fuel-efficient microcar.

This is the first time that a clean diesel model has been awarded the title Green Car of the Year(R). Green Car Journal has been unveiling the Green Car of the Year(R) winner at the LA Auto Show every year since it initiated the annual award in 2005.

"The 2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI epitomizes what the Green Car of the Year(R) honor is all about," said Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of Green Car Journal and editor of GreenCar.com.

"It raises the bar significantly in environmental performance with its EPA estimated 41 mpg highway fuel economy, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and extremely low tailpipe emissions.

This is all the more impressive when you consider the Jetta TDI is a clean diesel, achieving the kind of fuel efficiency offered by gasoline-electric hybrids but in a more affordable way."

Volkswagen's Jetta TDI features a 2.0-liter, turbocharged direct injection engine featuring the latest in diesel injection and emissions technology that allows it to meet strict emissions standards in all 50 states.

Although its mission is to provide buyers a comfortable and fuel efficient five-passenger family sedan at an affordable $21,990, there's a bit of performance in the bargain because of this clean diesel engine's abundant low-end torque and the Jetta's well-tuned suspension.

This Volkswagen's new-generation diesel powerplant is also exceptionally quiet for a diesel, reflecting just how far advanced diesel technology has come in recent years.

A jury of environmental and automotive experts selected the 2009 Jetta TDI from the field of five finalists that also included the BMW 335d, Ford Fusion Hybrid, Saturn Vue 2 Mode Hybrid, and smart fortwo.

This jury is comprised of nine jurors including Carl Pope, executive director of the Sierra Club; Frances Beinecke, president of the Natural Resources Defense Council; Jean-Michel Cousteau, president of Ocean Futures Society; automotive expert and Tonight Show host Jay Leno; automotive icon Carroll Shelby; and four Green Car Journal editors.



+ 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show Opening and Unveiled Vehicles Coverage

About Green Car of the Year(R)
The Green Car of the Year(R) award is an important part of Green Car Journal's mission to showcase environmental progress in the auto industry.

Since 1992, Green Car Journal has focused on the intersection of automobiles, energy, and environment, first with an industry newsletter and then with an award-winning auto enthusiast magazine.

Today, the magazine is considered the premier source of information on high fuel efficiency, low emission, advanced technology, and alternative fuel vehicles. Green Car of the Year(R) is a registered trademark of Green Car Journal and RJ Cogan Specialty Publications Group, Inc.

Additional information about the 2009 Green Car of the Year(R) can be found at GreenCar.com.

Hybrid Fest: World's Biggest Hybrid and Green Car Show

Next weekend in Madison, Wisconsin, hundreds of green car lovers will gather together at an event called HybridFest in order to check out new technology from the green automotive industry.

The show activities officially start on Saturday, but Friday afternoon there will be a hybrid car MPG challenge to whet everyone's taste for the future of high fuel economy vehicles.



However, HybridFest isn't just about high MPG and hybrids -- it's more about the future of the automotive industry. This year the show will feature everything from big automakers Toyota and GM showing off their wares to homespun biodiesel makers and ecomodders like myself.

There will also be speakers on a wide range of green car topics, including the featured talk on plug-in hybrids and the quest for 100+ MPG production vehicles.

Personally, I'm attending under two separate sets of auspices. Firstly, I will be an interested participant looking forward to things like the hybrid car test drives and speeches for tech buffs.

Secondly, I will be there as a representative from my site, showing my car and talking about ecomodding as a way to conserve without chucking your old car.

So, if you're free Saturday or Sunday and live near by, come check HybridFest out! If you'll be there, drop a comment to let me know.

For everyone who can't make it, I'm sure I'll have plenty to blog about over the course of the weekend and afterwards, so stay tuned.

Toyota Prius Hybrid Test Drives

With gas prices hitting the roof, threatening to hit P60 per liter, along with it the skyrocketing prices of basic goods, Congressman Ronald Singson, Ilocos Sur’s first district representative, formulates a bill aiming to lessen the sting of escalating gas prices.

House Bill No. 2084 seeks to grant tax incentives to importers and manufacturers of hybrid cars in the Philippines. These cars that operate on hybrid technology are propelled by both gasoline and electricity.

Carbon dioxide is one of the major problems that cause global warming. With the hybrid technology of the Prius that reaps high mileage and low gas consumption, less carbon dioxide is emitted. Toyota’s hybrid technology saves fuel by storing energy and adjusting intelligently to each situation.

The battery within a hybrid car stores energy that would usually be disposed by the conventional vehicle as heat. As the hybrid’s motor acts as a generator, it converts the stored energy into electricity used upon ignition and to supplement the engine when it accelerates. This cycle of conversion is at its peak when the hybrid vehicle is in full stop therefore, the more the vehicle breaks, the more it regenerates and produces energy.

The alternative option of using hybrid vehicles would be beneficial to the Filipino driver by saving gas money and by being environmental friendly. However, the tariff imposed on parts and components makes the hybrid vehicle too expensive and less feasible for the market. Cong. Singson’s response to this is to try to lessen taxes through House Bill 2084.

This covers exemption from import duties, customs and tariff duties; excise value-added and ad valorem taxes. Passing the bill would significantly lower the price of the price of hybrid cars.

House Bill 2084 has already been referred to the Committee on Ways and Means. Aside from Cong. Singson, other members of the committee, Rep. Eleandro Jesus Madrona Romblon and Rep. Amado S. Bagatsing of Manila’s 5th district were able to test drive the Prius. The bill’s co-author, Jose Ma.III Zubiri, got a chance to drive the car and was amazed at its fuel efficiency.

With the inflation of fuel prices and the environmental crisis, Cong. Singson believes that the Prius’ hybrid technology will be an instrument to alleviate the situation.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class and B-Class Awarded ISO 14052

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class and B-Class ranges have now been certified to the international standard ISO 14052 - "Design for Environment".

This makes Mercedes-Benz the only automaker whose products meet this environmental standard.

Responsible motoring and sustainability are key values within Mercedes-Benz and a combination of new production methods, innovative technologies and a whole-life strategy has enabled the firm to achieve this new standard.

The certificate does not just cover emissions; it also looks at the life-cycle of the vehicle meaning the cars must show they are sustainable over longer periods.

Recycling fraction increased by 156 per cent on the A-Class meaning that the number of components made from recyclable materials was very high, for example, plastic surplus from the dashboard can be used in the front wheel arch lining.

A total of 85 per cent of A-Class’s components can be recycled while 95 per cent can be recovered.

Meanwhile, the Rastatt plant that produces the vehicles has innovative environmental measures including the use of water-based paints, clean natural gas and solar energy.

In addition, drive innovations in engines and bodywork as well as natural gas drive and the ECO start-stop function have all helped to reduce the Blue Efficiency model’s impact on the environment.

Smart ed: Most Environmentally Friendly Car The World

The Mayor of Middlesbrough has described the smart ed as the "most environmentally friendly car in the world".

Middlesbrough Council is aiming to encourage sustainable motoring by introducing electric smart cars as part of a trial set-up by Mercedes-Benz.

Mercedes-Benz has introduced several of the vehicles across the UK and the city’s Mayor has been using one for civic duties.

Charged directly from any UK mains socket, the car emits no carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide or other harmful emissions.

"These two smart eds show the council is determined to keep up the fight to cut carbon emissions and to tackle climate change - one of the greatest challenges to the future of our planet," the Mayor told the Middlesbrough Evening Gazette.

"It is the car of the future. It is the most environmentally friendly car in the world and it is here in Middlesbrough," he added.

Mercedes-Benz began pilot project in November 2006 that saw about 100 of the smart ed models leased to customers in the UK

Although the smart ed is not available to purchase yet, the regular cars are a smart choice.

Mercedes-Benz TrueBlueSolutions 40 MPG Hybrid SUV

The grand rehearsal at the beginning of this year already made heads turn, when the striking Vision GLK entered the SUV stage and was celebrated as a compact character actor marking a new design approach in this vehicle class.

At the 2008 Geneva Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz is going a step further and adding the Vision GLK BLUETEC HYBRID to the line-up.

This study illustrates the possibilities of the "TrueBlueSolutions" strategy in the compact SUV segment, true to the guiding Mercedes-Benz theme of producing the world's most efficient and clean drive systems.

The Vision GLK BLUETEC HYBRID achieved this goal by combining the new BLUETEC four-cylinder diesel engine generation with a hybrid module.

This combination generates an overall output of 165 kW/224 hp, and a torque of 560 Nm.

Superior performance can be taken as read in view of these figures.

And yet the Vision GLK BLUETEC HYBRID returns a fuel consumption of only 5.9 l per 100 km.

With its TrueBlueSolutions strategy, Mercedes-Benz is preparing the way for the introduction of the world's most economical and clean vehicles.

As in the case of the VISION GLK BLUETEC HYBRID, ultra-modern and efficient diesel engines with innovative BLUETEC emissions control, hybrid modules and intelligent energy management are among the centrepieces of this trailblazing generation of drive systems.

The study for this compact characterful SUV has a combined output of 165 kW/224 hp and generates a combined torque of 560 newton metres, the world's highest in this class.

This enables the VISION GLK BLUETEC HYBRID to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds; its maximum speed is 215 km/h.

Despite these performance figures, this multi-talented newcomer consumes an average of only 5.9 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres, and achieves the world's lowest CO2 emissions in the SUV segment, with 157 grams per kilometre.

In conjunction with highly efficient BLUETEC emissions control and AdBlue injection, the GLK BLUETEC HYBRID meets the world's most stringent exhaust emission limits, such as the American BIN5 and the European EU6 standards.

"With the refinement, driving pleasure, outstanding economy and effective environmental friendliness that is typical of our brand, the VISION GLK BLUETEC HYBRID ideally represents our ideas on future model generations in the world of SUVs",

says Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management responsible for Corporate Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.

2008 New York Auto Show: Nissan Denki Cube Concept

Denki, meant for "electric" in Janpanese, is the name of Nissan's new electric Cube concept, to be unveiled at the 2008 New York Auto Show tomorrow.

The Nissan Denki Cube Concept shows that Nissan is also looking at the market viability of EVs. It's not alone, as Subaru will be showing its R1e and Mitsubishi will display its i MiEV along with the i MiEV Sport concept.

The Denki Cube concept details have not been given still, but leaked out photos tell us a lot. The Super Nissans forum has accelerated the unveiling schedule for Nissan, breaking the embargo and posting the shots you see here.

Visually, the Denki Cube is finished in white with lightning-pattern grillework, dressed-up headlamps, and hole-punch patterns on the front and rear bumper covers (the taillamps show through those rear openings).

Solid wheel covers with square centers complete the exterior makeover. Inside, the standard interior gets a swanky new instrument panel, but the layout is essentially unchanged. Yellow seats and trim highlight the otherwise white cabin.

We'll bring you live shots and complete details following the car's official unveiling tomorrow! A series of customized Cubes will also be unveiled for the first time, and we'll be on hand to provide full coverage.

Renault-Nissan To Sell Electric Vehicles in Israel

The French carmaker Renault-Nissan is to supply electricaly powered vehicles to the Israeli market since 2011, via the release of a preliminary agreement of Renault-Nissan on Monday.

The accord was signed in Jerusalem by Renault-Nissan and the Israeli group Project Better Place, established by Israeli investor Shai Agassi.

Renault will provide the vehicles and Project Better Place will build a network of battery recharging stations throughout Israel, the two companies said.

The Israeli government is to support the effort by offering tax incentives to customers.

The companies said the vehicles would be "100 percent electric."

"The objective of zero (CO2) emissions will be achieved," a joint statement said.

It added that customers would buy and own their vehicles and would subscribe to monthly energy supply, including use of the battery, on the basis of distance driven.

The companies said the car would offer a "driving performance" similar to a 1.6-liter gasoline engine and would carrry a cost "significantly lower than that of a fuel-based car over the life of the vehicle.

CES: GM Eco-Friendly Cadillac Provoq Concept

Autos news from the CES (Consumer Electronics Show) in LAS VEGAS, General Motors reveiled its next-gen eco-friendly Cadillac concept, named as Provoq. The Cadillac Provoq concept runs on a hydrogen fuel cell and a lithium ion battery, according to General Motors CEO Rick Wagoner during a keynote speech yesterday at CES.


The new Cadillac Provoq concept is expected to get 300 miles on a tank of hydrogen, and the fuel cell--GM's fifth generation of fuel cells--is half the size of the last one, which increases internal room and storage. On the roof sits a solar panel for running the car's electronics.


"It will go up to 100 miles an hour and from zero to 60 in 8.5 seconds," Wagoner said.

The idea behind the Provoq is to extend some of the eco-friendly features GM has tinkered with in other concept cars into a luxury car.

A shrinking supply of fossil fuels, environmental concerns, and rising demand for cars in emerging nations demand it. Global sales of cars hit 70 million units in 2007 and will grow to 85 million in five years.

Outstanding Design Award: MYBUS Concept Car

The MYBUS electronic concept car, created by Portuguese designer Nuno Teixeira, won the "Outstanding Design Award" in the 2007 Michelin Challenge Design. This MYBUS concept had been displayed at the 2007 Detroit Auto Show before.

This MYBUS concept car is a proposal for a passenger vehicle with an emphasis on safety, for both passengers, pedestrians and other road users, feturing at its electronic stability systems, smart cruise control, brake-by-wire, rear, detection systems, smart wing mirrors, and Michelin "Twell" tires.

To reduce the impact on the environment, and the danger of an explosion in case of an accident, the MYBUS concept car using an electrical power source for the energy.

Power for the MYBUS concept car is provided by batteries placed above the rear wheels, away from the most obvious impact zones. Each wheel has its own independent motor in order to improve safety, so that the onboard computer can determine the ideal power to supply them.

The system reacts according to the road conditions and the type of driving, it also helps anticipate and react to an imminent accident situation. Great concept for MYBUS concept car.

Nissan Green Program at Eco-Products 2007

Nissan Motors had showed their future green program to making it vehicles more environmentally at the 9th Eco Products 2007 - Eco Style Fair,December 13th to 15th, 2007 From 10AM to 5PM, at Tokyo Big Sight (East Exhibition Hall, Hall 1, 2, 3, 4, 5).

The Eco-Products organized by Japan Environmental Management Association for Industry (JEMAI),Nihon Keizai Shimbun, Inc. (NIKKEI), attractting 160,000 persons to see the 1,200 booths exhibition vehicles.

Nissan now is involved in a program called CARWINGS that is helping to develop ways for cars to run more efficiently.


The CARWINGS is part of a three-pronged program that is meant to encourage more fuel efficient driving 'behavior' like help drivers negotiate their way through traffic. Such vehicles, then, emit less emissions since they're not stuck in traffic, for example due to an accident for example.

During the Eco-Products 2007 fair, Nissan permitted visitors to test drive green cars powered by alternative technologies as fuel cells and clean diesel engines.

Nissan’s goal is to reduce CO2 emissions by about 70 percent by 2050 compared to 2000 levels. To do this, in the short term, the company is expanding its range of fuel efficient and low emission vehicles. For the long term, however, the company is developing more advanced technologies with a focus on electric vehicles.