Autoblog Green

REPORT: Chrysler disbands ENVI group, EV development will continue

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 13:05:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Chrysler, Green Daily

Dodge Circuit - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to a report from Reuters, Chrysler has disbanded its ENVI program and integrated the group back into its normal product development organization. Former ENVI head Lou Rhodes will now take the title of group line executive in charge of electric vehicle development and will manage that group for both Chrysler and Fiat. Though we weren't exactly expecting this change, the move isn't entirely unexpected.

At this point, we don't yet know what this reorganization means for the electric vehicles that Chrysler had previously promised to put into production, the first of which was to be the Lotus-based Dodge Circuit that was hopefully supposed to be on the market by late 2010.

Fiat CEO and newly-appointed head of Chrysler Sergio Marchionne said earlier this week during Chrysler's painfully long new product plan presentation that electric vehicles are still a very tough proposition with current battery technology. In fact, the automaker expects that less than two percent of its lineup will be electric by 2014, which would amount to less than 60,000 vehicles per year.

Gallery: Dodge Circuit EV

[Source: Reuters]

REPORT: Chrysler disbands ENVI group, EV development will continue originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 13:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Fisker dealership opens in LA, 120 pre-orders already taken

Sebastian Blanco — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 11:46:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Green Daily, Fisker

Fisker Karma - Click above for high-res image gallery

Take an old Lexus dealership in Santa Monica, repurpose the showroom to display a Fisker Karma, invite a bunch of plug-in hybrid-loving locals over a grand opening and - boom - you've got yourself a fun night. This is what happened recently in Los Angeles, with about 200 people attending the invite-only grand opening of the Santa Monica Fisker dealership, the first. The car was popular with attendees, some of whom put down deposits once they saw the PHEV in person for the first time.

Dealer Mike Sullivan told Automotive News he already has 120 reservations, including many from impatient celebrities, for the Karma. "There's not a guy here who wants to be second in line. Two-thirds of the people waiting, you would recognize on the cover of a magazine. Yet, we all know it has to be a slow roll-out. It's a startup. There are always issues," he told AN.

Still, Sulllivan said he's confident he can sell up to 15 Karma and Karma S models a month once production starts next year. At least 32 Fisker dealerships are scheduled to open. If each is able to garner the same number of pre-orders as Sullivan's Santa Monica store and sells 15 cars a month - a huge if - that would account for 9,600 Karmas sold in the first year, well over the 7,500 that Fisker plans to sell in the U.S. (global sales are a hoped-for 15,000). Thanks to everyone who sent this in!

Gallery: Fisker Karma

[Source: Automotive News (subs req'd)]

First Fisker dealership opens in LA, 120 pre-orders already taken originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 11:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bringing Skinny Back: Tango electric production to restart?

Sam Abuelsamid — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 08:52:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in

Until the Tesla Roadster came along, most electric cars were odd looking, to say the least. Near the top of the list of peculiar EVs you'll find the Tango. This tandem two seater looks like a Japanese Kei car that got stuck in a bagel slicer. It's creator, Rick Woodbury, stopped building Tangos after 11 were completed. But, if you lust after one of these babies, fear not. He is apparently ready to restart production of the three-foot wide car that can slip down between the cars in adjacent lanes like a motorcycle.

The market for such cars is limited, at best, and, when the price tag starts at $150,000, it's no wonder so few people ponied up for one. Even with the market for electric vehicles heating up, one has to wonder how many more people would by such a vehicle even if it does go 0-60 in 4 seconds and travels 120 miles on a charge.

Gallery: AltCar 2009: Tango EV

[Source: USAToday]

Bringing Skinny Back: Tango electric production to restart? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 08:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Greenlings: How do I plug my electric vehicle in at home?

Domenick Yoney — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:47:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Greenlings

As electric vehicles begin to find their way to peoples driveways and garages, knowing what's involved with charging up the batteries becomes more necessary. Over the years, electric vehicles (EVs) have used different kinds of batteries and employed different types of chargers and connectors, so the car that you buy next year may not work with the charger you picked up on eBay last month. While in the future charging may be as simple as parking in your garage or driveway and having an automated system take over, the here-and-now requires you know a thing about chargers and connectors. Hit the jump to read more about how to get hooked up.

Continue reading Greenlings: How do I plug my electric vehicle in at home?

Greenlings: How do I plug my electric vehicle in at home? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM: Volt won't become a brand name

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 18:30:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Chevrolet, GM

2011 Chevy Volt - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Chevrolet Volt isn't scheduled to hit the market for another whole year, but there's so much anticipation for the vehicle that some are already asking if The General will try to make a brand out of the Volt name. The answer, according to Brent Dewar, Chevy's chief of global operations, is no:

Our thought is to take the Volt technology to other products... The Volt was the original vehicle that we started, but I wouldn't see that as a brand marketing direction for us.

While other models in GM's lineup are likely to get their own versions of the Voltec powertrain, those vehicles won't fall under the Volt brand name. Toyota, on the other hand, says it is considering extending the instantly recognizable Prius moniker to a whole family of hybrid vehicles that may include a smaller coupe and a larger MPV.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

GM: Volt won't become a brand name originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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To Infineon and Beyond: TTXGP brings electric motorcycle racing to America

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:15:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, On Two Wheels, USA, Racing

Mavizen TTX02 - Click above to enlarge

Earlier this year at the annual time trials at the famed Isle of Man, the inaugural TTXGP electric motorcycle race proved that battery-powered bikes can be just as entertaining and exciting as their gasoline-swilling and emissions-spewing siblings. Not quite as fast, of course, but still a thrill over the 38-mile winding race course through the mountains.

Now, the event organizers are looking to bring the excitement of electric motorcycle racing to the United States. The first real competition has been scheduled from May 14th through 16th of 2010 and will take place at Infineon Raceway in California. That location strikes us as a good idea as a number of TTXGP participants hail from the West Coast, including Mission Motors, MotoCzysz, Brammo and Electric Motorsport.

In addition to the aforementioned teams, we also hope to see participation from new entrants using the newly-available Mavizen TTX02 platform, which was just officially unveiled at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Hit the jump for the official press release.

[Source: Infineon Raceway]

Continue reading To Infineon and Beyond: TTXGP brings electric motorcycle racing to America

To Infineon and Beyond: TTXGP brings electric motorcycle racing to America originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: GM puts the Volt through its paces to test durability

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:09:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Chevrolet

Chevy Volt durability testing - Click above to watch the video after the break

These days, we hardly give any thought at all to driving our precious cars and trucks over rough, potholed pavement. Sure, it's uncomfortable and we avoid the nastiest stretches when possible, but the worst thing that we expect might happen is a blown tire or bent wheel. In the grand scheme of things, not that big a deal.

Electric cars, though, are different animals entirely. Back when the automobile was in its infancy and the internal combustion engine first staked its claim as the powerplant of choice, it was sometimes possible to practically ruin a car when traveling over harsh terrain. That just won't do in today's modern society. For proof that electric vehicles need just as much care as other cars, look no further than Lyle Dennis from GM-Volt.com, who's own Mini E broke down after hitting a nasty pothole.

So, what is General Motors doing to ensure that the Volt doesn't rattle its delicate electrical bits to pieces over the course of its life? Glad you asked. Click past the break for a video showing the rigorous durability testing that GM is currently inflicting on its fleet of pre-production Volts.

[Source: GM-Volt.com]

Continue reading VIDEO: GM puts the Volt through its paces to test durability

VIDEO: GM puts the Volt through its paces to test durability originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Renault will build Twizy EV in Spain

Sam Abuelsamid — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:04:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Renault

Renault Twizzy ZE concept - click above for high-res image gallery

Renault announced today that its Valladolid, Spain plant will become the home of a new electric vehicle based on the Twizy Z.E. concept that was show at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The Twizy is a peculiar looking two-seat city vehicle and it will be probably change quite a bit before production. The open sides will likely become fully enclosed and the wheel covers probably won't make it to the road, at least not in their current form. That makes two EV production announcements this week for Renault, following yesterday's decision to build a car based on the Zoe concept in France. The Twizy goes into production in 2011 alongside Mégane Hatchback, Mégane Estate, Modus and Grand Modus.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Renault Twizy, Zoe, Kangoo and Fluence EVs

[Source: Renault]

Continue reading Renault will build Twizy EV in Spain

Renault will build Twizy EV in Spain originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Zytek teams up with Gordon Murray for T.27, an all-electric version of the T.25

Sebastian Blanco — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., EV/Plug-in

Zytek Automotive has worked on electric drivetrains for the Smart ED and the Mercedes F1 KERS system. This week, Zytek announced a partnership with Gordon Murray Design for a new all-electric city car called the T.27. Gordon Murray is the force behind the T.25, the tiny three-seater that was designed to use a 660cc turbocharged engine. The T.27 is basically a plug-in version of the efficient T.25.

The UK government, through the Technology Strategy Board, is funding the project with 4.5 million pounds. This is half of the 9 million pounds it will take to make four prototypes by February 2011. Aside from the vehicles, the project will also:

further explore the possibility of scaling up and building a manufacturing facility in the UK, with the ultimate goal of producing the T.27 in Britain; to keep the new technology and intellectual property rights within the UK; and to make this affordable, fun and environmentally friendly car available for purchase.

Many more details after the jump.

[Source: Gordon Murray Design]

Continue reading Zytek teams up with Gordon Murray for T.27, an all-electric version of the T.25

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It's Friday: Swedish automatic PHEV charging prod gets a big WTF? from us [w/VIDEO]

Sebastian Blanco — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:38:00 EST

Filed under: Emerging Technologies, EV/Plug-in, Green Daily

Trinnovator - Click above to watch the videos after the break

Is it too harsh to say that the Trinnovator is a solution without a problem? At the very least, we don't think that a flexible, extendable prod coming out of the front bumper of a plug-in car and creepily finding its way into a grid of receptacles is the best way to recharge a vehicle. This is the method that the Swedish team behind the Trinnovator has come up with to make getting electrons into a PHEV or BEV somewhat automatic. It's kind of hard to explain, so we recommend just watching the video pasted after the jump.

A few immediate thoughts: real-life implementation of this system seems needlessly complicated. The receptacle grids would also have to be much wider (and maybe taller for trucks and SUVs) and installed all over the place - regular plugs make more sense, no? Plus, shouldn't there be prods on the back of the car, too? And what about parallel parking spots? We've used plug-in cars and it's really not that difficult to remember to plug in every night. If we're going to have automatic and easy recharging, we want to see wireless/witricity get real. Thanks to Anders J. for the tip! Watch the video after the jump.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading It's Friday: Swedish automatic PHEV charging prod gets a big WTF? from us [w/VIDEO]

It's Friday: Swedish automatic PHEV charging prod gets a big WTF? from us [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan releases official sketch of NV200-based electric commercial vehicle

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 08:01:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Nissan

Nissan Light Commercial Electric Vehicle sketch - Click above to enlarge

Nissan has electricity on the brain. The Japanese automaker is readying its opening salvo in the alternative propulsion wars in the form of the Leaf compact hatchback. Carlos Ghosn, though, announced at the Tokyo Motor Show that there would be plenty more to come, including an unknown Infiniti model, something like the unique leaning Land Glider concept and an electric version of the NV200 light commercial van that debuted at the Geneva Motor Show.

Naturally, there needs to be some sort of differentiation between the standard-fare NV200 and its battery-powered sibling, and Nissan has just released the first official sketch of that new electric commercial vehicle. As you can see from the above image, the vehicle will take plenty of inspiration from the Leaf, including the steeply-raked windshield, flowing headlamps, front-located plug receptacle and general bottom-feeder shape.

No real details besides the sketch have so far been provided, but you're more than welcome to click past the break to read the sparsely-worded press release.

[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Nissan releases official sketch of NV200-based electric commercial vehicle

Nissan releases official sketch of NV200-based electric commercial vehicle originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA Auto Show Design Challenge entrants reveal Youthmobile 2030 designs

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:57:00 EST

Filed under: Emerging Technologies, Etc., EV/Plug-in, Audi, GM, Honda, Mazda, Nissan, Toyota, LA Auto Show, Green Daily

Mazda Souga Concept from LA Design Challenge 2009 - Click above for high-res image gallery

This year's iteration of the annual Design Challenge at the LA Auto Show asks the question: How will a new generation of drivers age 16-23 - raised with cell phones, web cams and online communities - emotionally connect to the automobile in 2030? We don't know the answer either, but at least six designers from some of the world's top automakers decided to give it a go with their own ideas. if you thought the Aptera was futuristic, check these out.

First up are the eSpira and eOra from Audi, which are controlled by thought and by the minutest adjustments to the pilot's body. Next we have the General Motors Car Hero... yes, the name is borrowed from the popular Guitar Hero line of games and the car, as you might imagine, "turns driving into gaming." What happens when the inevitable "Game Over" comes at the end? Moving along, we come to the Honda Helix, a shape-shifting vehicle that borrows actual DNA from its owner. Yuck, we don't want to be a car, we want to drive a car.

Which brings us to the Mazda Souga, easily our favorite out of this crop of concepts. This vision for the future would have each owner design his own car for the low price of $2,000 while paying an additional monthly usage fee that also covers the price of electricity to power the Souga.

Nissan's vision for the future includes cars that get their power from an electrically-charged roadway called the GRID, and the vowel-challenged V2G UNLMTD is quickly hacked into an OFF-GRID transportation device by the next breed of young hackers. Lastly, we have the Toyota Link. According to Toyota, future college students will have nearly no income and will rely on mass transit vehicles like the Link that allow them to interact via their various social networks on their daily commutes. Sounds boring to us, but what do we know?

Be sure to check out all six designs in our high-res image gallery below and hit the jump for the official press release.

[Source: LA Design Challenge]

Continue reading LA Auto Show Design Challenge entrants reveal Youthmobile 2030 designs

LA Auto Show Design Challenge entrants reveal Youthmobile 2030 designs originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEMA 2009: Mavizen introduces 130-mph TTX02 electric racebike

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:04:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, SEMA Show, On Two Wheels, Racing

Mavizen TTX02 - Click above to enlarge

Right on schedule, Mavizen has released its TTX02 electric motorcycle at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Well, if you listen to Azhar Hussain, TTXGP founder and the entrepreneur behind this racebike, the TTX02 is a "laptop on wheels." How so? For starters, each machine is fitted with an dash-mounted computer that runs on Linux, comes with its own dedicated IP address, on-board web server and connectivity to wireless networks.

While all of that consumer electronics gadgetry is cool, it's the platform of the TTX02 that interests us the most. As rumored, it definitely appears that the TTX02 is based on the chassis of KTM's highly acclaimed RC8 superbike, which means it's a proven platform that's capable of solid handling and high speeds... good thing, as it's reportedly capable of hitting 130 miles per hour.

Twin Agni 95 electric motors push out a total of nearly 100 peak horsepower along with what's surely an admirable torque figure that peaks right off the bat at just about zero RPM. Three lithium ion battery packs will be made available with up to 11 kWh of power, which is reportedly capable of tackling all 38 miles of the TTXGP Isle of Man course. Pricing is not yet announced, but Hussain suggests a competitive machine can be had for around $40,000. Hit the jump to watch a couple videos of the bike's launch at SEMA.

[Source: Asphalt and Rubber]

Continue reading SEMA 2009: Mavizen introduces 130-mph TTX02 electric racebike

SEMA 2009: Mavizen introduces 130-mph TTX02 electric racebike originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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CAFE credits for EVs - will we repeat the E85 system?

Sebastian Blanco — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:49:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Legislation and Policy, USA

What is a plug-in vehicle worth? When it comes to CAFE credits, the answer to this question is a bit complicated. As we discussed in our Greenlings look at CAFE, the system allows for credits. One effect is that automakers who build vehicles that can burn E85 - even if these cars don't actually use the biofuel - get a bit of a pass for their dirtier vehicles. When it comes to EVs, a potential "sell one, get one free" deal is in the works.

Basically, the system might allow plug-in vehicles to count as 1.2 or even 2 vehicles in the fleet calculations,and so each EV could offset something big and fuel inefficient. This might result in getting plug-in vehicles to market while also allowing bug SUVs to remain in production. Unsurprisingly, the Auto Alliance, made up of most of the big OEMs, loves the idea. Alliance spokesman Charles Territo said that, "The ability to earn, trade and bank credits" by producing electric and hybrid vehicles "is essential to meeting the goals of the national program." The next big CAFE goal is 35.5 mpg by 2016.

John DeCicco, senior lecturer at the University of Michigan's School of Natural Resources and Environment, told HybridCars that the EV credit system under discussion is potentially confusing. "Funny math can't substitute for engineering breakthroughs. EVs of any sort can only make a real difference if they succeed on their merits for both customer value and emissions reduction. Bonus credits may fool a few starry-eyed policymakers, they won't fool either the marketplace or the Earth's atmosphere."

Source: HybridCars]

CAFE credits for EVs - will we repeat the E85 system? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Renault partners with Atomic Energy Commission to build batteries in France

Sam Abuelsamid — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:54:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Renault

The French half of the Renault-Nissan Alliance has reached an agreement with two partners to develop and produce lithium ion batteries in France. Renault, the French Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) and the French Strategic Investment Fund (FSI) will create a joint venture for EV batteries. The venture will address the full lifecycle of the batteries, including recycling after they have been used in vehicles.

Production is slated to begin in mid-2012 in conjunction with the start of production of an electric city car at Renault's Flins plant outside of Paris. The partners will put up €600 million to establish a capacity of 100,000 units a year. The new car is based on the Zoe ZE concept. Like Nissan's AESC joint venture, the Renault venture is opening to produce batteries for any automaker that wants to use the technology. Renault has not provided any specifics about whether the new venture will use the same technology developed by AESC or go its own way on cell development.

[Source: Renault]

Continue reading Renault partners with Atomic Energy Commission to build batteries in France

Renault partners with Atomic Energy Commission to build batteries in France originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Renault partnering with L'Oréal on Zoe Z.E electric spa concept [w/VIDEO]

Sam Abuelsamid — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Lincoln

Renault Zoe Z.E. concept - click above for high-res image gallery

At the Frankfurt Motor Show back in September, one of the four electric vehicle concepts shown by Renault was this Zoe which the company now tells us was developed in collaboration with L'Oréal. We just received a bunch of new images of the Zoe and the new release refers to it as an electric "spa" concept.

Anyone that has seen ads for skin car products on TV or in print is intimately familiar with all the snake oil that companies like L'Oréal are constantly foisting on unsuspecting consumers. While the shape of the concept reportedly previews an upcoming BEV to debut in 2012, it seems L'Oréal's main contribution was the flowery language in this press release. Supposedly the air conditioning system hydrates the occupants skin and a system disperses essential oils inside.

While all of this may mean nothing in the end, the shape of the car is pretty interesting and Renault is apparently planning 220V standard charging, 20-minute fast charging and 3-minute battery swaps.

Gallery: Renault Zoe Z.E. concept

[Source: Renault]

Continue reading Renault partnering with L'Oréal on Zoe Z.E electric spa concept [w/VIDEO]

Renault partnering with L'Oréal on Zoe Z.E electric spa concept [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plug-in vehicles will get special license plate in Ontario next year

Sebastian Blanco — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 08:09:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Legislation and Policy, Green Daily, North America

Want to emblazon your ride with Ontario's new "environmentally friendly vehicles" license plate? There are two hurdles you'll have to jump. First, wait until next year when the plate actually becomes available on July 1. Second, you'll need to get a car with a plug. According to the Toronto Star, the new green vehicle plates are for plug-in hybrids and battery-powered cars only.

Like the Clean Access stickers that were so popular in California, the special plates will allow the cars to drive in high occupancy vehicle highway lanes through 2015 no matter how many people are in the car. Drivers will also get to pull up to recharging facilities at GO Transit and some government-operated parking lots, and will be allowed to park in special spots at some Wal-Marts and at the University of Toronto. The provincial government is offering the benefits as a way to reach Ontario's Electric Vehicle initiative goal of getting EVs to make up five percent of the fleet mix in Ontario by 2020.

[Source: Toronto Star]

Plug-in vehicles will get special license plate in Ontario next year originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 08:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SAM begins rebirth as Re-Volt in Poland

Domenick Yoney — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 18:08:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Europe/EU

SAM Re-Volt - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you harbor a fondness for bizarre-looking three-wheeled electric vehicles and are looking for a good excuse to visit Poland, this may be your lucky day. The re-engineered SAM is now for sale in that Central European Republic and has been dubbed the Re-Volt. Those familiar with the project might remember it was expected to be available through the SAM website a couple months back but, for whatever reason, that site is not yet live.

The price to start turning heads (and possibly create panic) on the streets of Warsaw is now set at 60,200 Polish zlotych ($20,780, about 14,000 Euros). That figure includes, among other things, the 7 kWh Kokam lithium ion battery as well as an on-board charger, electric locks and heat. For a reasonable number of extra zlotychs you can upgrade the audio system to a Blaupunkt, get heated seats, a reverse camera with LCD display and alloy wheels. If you want to try before you buy, you can sign up on their website for up to 2 hours of wheel time. If you do go for a test drive, you can expect to get about 60 miles (100 km) of range and a top speed of 55 mph (90 km/h). The Re-Volt also features a two-stage brake regeneration system that kicks in lightly when the foot is removed from the accelerator and more forcefully when the brake pedal is depressed. If you can't make it to Poland in the near future, you can at least content yourself with an ample gallery of pics below. Enjoy!

Gallery: SAM Re-Volt

[Source: Re-Volt]

SAM begins rebirth as Re-Volt in Poland originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 18:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially, Official: Fisker chooses Emil Frey Group for European distribution

Sebastian Blanco — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:57:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Europe/EU, Fisker

Fisker Karma - Click above for high-res image gallery

Speculation that Fisker's new big dealership partner in Europe would be the Emil Frey Group has turned out to be correct. The start-up automaker announced today that Emil Frey will be its largest partner to import, market and service the company's plug-in hybrid cars in Europe, starting with the Karma. Emil Frey's operations span six countries - Switzerland, Germany, France, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland - and over 100 stores offering a variety of brands. Fisker already has distribution deals in place with the Nellemann Group in Copenhagen, Denmark and GP Supercars in Merano, Italy.

Gallery: Fisker Karma

[Source: Fisker]

Continue reading Officially, Official: Fisker chooses Emil Frey Group for European distribution

Officially, Official: Fisker chooses Emil Frey Group for European distribution originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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X Ray Frankenstein wants to keep Halloween going all year

Sebastian Blanco — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 19:49:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Green Culture

Jesse Field wants your input. The designer of the Xrayfrankenstein, a "revolutionary high-tech ultra-light 3-wheel EV" wrote in to say that the website for the snub-nosed trike is now up and running and ready for critics to take a look. Field wrote:

This vehicle was develop by (myself) a former big 3 automotive engineer, and is completely unique from anything else being proposed out there. The web site contains lots of product info because the vehicle is very unique -- including features such as a pressure absorbing impact body shell. [...] I am eagerly looking for feedback and insight as well as exposure--the website is brand new.

The basic idea for the Xrayfrankenstein is that the technology to make more efficient vehicles exists, but it really needs to be mashed together - like Frankenstein's monster - in the most efficient vehicle possible. Currently, the trike only exists in rough renderings on the site, but the concept is a superlight, four-person vehicle. The Xrayfrankenstein can handle a variety of powertrains but is designed to be all-electric. Aside from the mashed-up quality of the vehicle, Field says that this car is well-named because of its attitude:

No mechanismo is hidden, just as bolts sticking out of its neck, or stitches in flesh, motors and attachments become an integral part of its character. And yet it is a monster with a human side, as opposed to today's unholy steel exoskeleton insect-bodies. The Xray is an endoskeleton structure, with an impact absorbing shell, making it less susceptible to dings and scratches, and unsightly, undesired incidental damage.

Thoughts?

[Source: X Ray Frankenstein]

X Ray Frankenstein wants to keep Halloween going all year originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 19:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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