Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com Autoblog Green http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 BMW X6 ActiveHybrid is technologically impressive... but to what end?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/first-drive-2010-bmw-x6-activehybrid-is-technologically-impress/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/first-drive-2010-bmw-x6-activehybrid-is-technologically-impress/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/first-drive-2010-bmw-x6-activehybrid-is-technologically-impress/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 BMW X6 ActiveHybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

BMW's pitch on how great the X6 ActiveHybrid is goes like this: it's the world's most powerful hybrid vehicle, fuel consumption is reduced about 20 percent compared to a similar vehicle without a hybrid drivetrain, and no matter what speed you're going, the incredibly complicated powertrain is performing at the most efficient level possible. All of this power means that the X6 hybrid is no sluggish Toyota Prius, offering frugal but unexciting performance. On the other hand, the size and weight of BMW's luxury hybrid crossover means that, well, the X6 hybrid is no Prius in the mileage department, either.

Let's start by congratulating BMW for bringing its first batch of hybrids to market (the 7 Series ActiveHybrid is launching alongside the X6). In everyday traffic, the hybrid system helps keep fuel consumption down - to a still-lame 18 mpg combined (estimated) - and, since the engine can shut down at stops, the ultra-quiet interior made sitting in Miami traffic during our preview drive almost a pleasure. Nevertheless, there's still a lot of vehicle here that hampers any attempt at real fuel efficiency gains. The X6 ActiveHybrid weighs 5,688 pounds for crying out loud - 400 pounds more than the non-hybrid. This vehicle simply doesn't makes a lot of sense for anyone actually interested in fuel efficiency. Who does it make sense for? Follow us past the break as we try to find out.



Photos copyright (C)2009 Sebastian Blanco / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 BMW X6 ActiveHybrid is technologically impressive... but to what end?

First Drive: 2010 BMW X6 ActiveHybrid is technologically impressive... but to what end? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 bmw x6 active hybrid2010BmwX6ActiveHybridbmwbmw x6bmw x6 activehybridBmwX6BmwX6Activehybridfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivex6x6 activehybridX6ActivehybridWed, 11 Nov 2009 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: We sample Honda's quirky U3-X, stride management assist and bodyweight assist devices]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/quick-spin-hondas-quirky-u3-x-stride-management-assist-and-bo/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/quick-spin-hondas-quirky-u3-x-stride-management-assist-and-bo/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/quick-spin-hondas-quirky-u3-x-stride-management-assist-and-bo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Jim Kenzie of the Toronto Star tries out the U3-X - click above for high res-image gallery

If there is one thing people love, it's personal mobility. After all, what other species regularly harness other creatures for the sole purpose of getting around. The auto industry is all about personal mobility. Since the dawn of the car in the late 19th century, it has been adopted world-wide as one of the preferred means of getting around.

Mobility, of course, is about a lot more than just driving. Just moving around is important and when people find themselves unable to move or having difficulty, It plays havoc with the psyche. As populations in many countries get older, reduced mobility is an increasing problem. A number of automakers are researching ways to expand mobility beyond the automobile and the result is projects like GM's Puma and Toyota's Winglet. Honda, too, is studying the problem and while we were in Japan for the Tokyo Motor Show, Honda took us to their R&D center to check out a few of their recent projects. Read on for a first hand account of what we saw.

Gallery: Honda mobility devices


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Tokyo 2009: We sample Honda's quirky U3-X, stride management assist and bodyweight assist devices

Tokyo 2009: We sample Honda's quirky U3-X, stride management assist and bodyweight assist devices originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BodyWeightBodyweight Support AssistBodyweightSupportAssistfirst driveFirstDrivehondahonda rdHonda U3-Xhonda u3xHondaRdHondaU3-xHondaU3xpersonal mobilitypersonal mobility devicePersonalMobilityPersonalMobilityDevicestride assistStrideAssistu3-xThu, 22 Oct 2009 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Tesla Roadster Sport improves on original, keeps quirks]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/08/first-drive-2010-tesla-roadster-sport-improves-on-original-kee/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/08/first-drive-2010-tesla-roadster-sport-improves-on-original-kee/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/08/first-drive-2010-tesla-roadster-sport-improves-on-original-kee/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Tesla Roadster Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

To get from zero to 60 mph in the original Tesla Roadster takes an official 3.9 seconds. The brand new 2010 Roadster Sport beats that with a wonderful 3.7 seconds. Those two-tenths of a second don't look like much on paper, but they make a difference on the road. Perhaps just knowing about the enhanced acceleration makes the Roadster Sport feel faster in the absence of expensive testing equipment, because having driven both, it does feel that way. A lot.

Whatever the reason, when we recently got to take an Obsidian Black model out for a few hours, we couldn't help but notice how incredibly punchy the Sport is, whether bursting away from a stoplight or accelerating to pass on the highway. Sometimes we even slowed down a bit on the highway just to feel the seamless thrust of getting back up to speed. With the 2010 Roadster Sport, the EV grin is still in full effect. Find out what other kinds of fun can be had in a $125,500 Roadster Sport after the jump.


Gallery: First Drive: Tesla Roadster Sport


Photos copyright (C)2009 Sebastian Blanco / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Tesla Roadster Sport improves on original, keeps quirks

First Drive: 2010 Tesla Roadster Sport improves on original, keeps quirks originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 tesla roadster sport2010TeslaRoadsterSportfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveroadsterroadster sportRoadsterSportteslatesla roadstertesla roadster sportTeslaRoadsterTeslaRoadsterSportThu, 08 Oct 2009 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: VW Passat Ling Yu - The technology of tomorrow in the car of today]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/first-drive-vw-passat-ling-yu-the-technology-of-tomorrow-in-t/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/first-drive-vw-passat-ling-yu-the-technology-of-tomorrow-in-t/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/first-drive-vw-passat-ling-yu-the-technology-of-tomorrow-in-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Volkswagen Passat Ling Yu - Click above for high-res image gallery

In many ways the automotive world - like most industries - runs like 19th century Europe: wars, skirmishes, diplomacy, assignations, shifting alliances, double dealing, imperialism. Everybody wants something the other guy has, and they'll occasionally exercise some ruthless tactics to get it. Of course, the obverse also happens: warring sects can work together to a singular end. That's what happens at the California Fuel Cell Partnership (CFCP), which we recently visited for a drive of the Chinese-engineered Volkswagen Passat Ling Yu and the smell of hydrogen in the morning.

Follow the jump to see what CFCP says the near future is going to be like.

Gallery: First Drive: VW Passat Ling Yu


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: VW Passat Ling Yu - The technology of tomorrow in the car of today

First Drive: VW Passat Ling Yu - The technology of tomorrow in the car of today originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>california fuel cell partnershipCaliforniaFuelCellPartnershipcfcpfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveh2 passatH2Passathydrogen carhydrogen fuel cellhydrogen passathydrogen vw passatHydrogenCarHydrogenFuelCellHydrogenPassatHydrogenVwPassatpassatpassat lingyuPassatLingyuvolkswagenWed, 08 Jul 2009 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: hydrogen-powered Kia Borrego FCEV and Nissan X-Trail FCV]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/first-drive-hydrogen-powered-kia-borrego-fcev-and-nissal-x-trai/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/first-drive-hydrogen-powered-kia-borrego-fcev-and-nissal-x-trai/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/first-drive-hydrogen-powered-kia-borrego-fcev-and-nissal-x-trai/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Kia Borrego FCEV - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's hard to learn much about a car in 10 minutes, but when that's all you've got, you study quick. During the Hydrogen + Fuel Cells 2009 conference in Vancouver, British Columbia last week, we got to spend a few minutes in both the Nissan X-Trail FCV and the Kia Borrego FCEV. Both of these large vehicles participated in the 1,700-mile Hydrogen Road Tour but were rearing and ready to go when we took to the streets of downtown Vancouver for a quick spin. The Borrego performed a bit better than the X-Trail, but both managed to impress us with their zero-emission* selves. Find out why after the jump.

Gallery: Kia Borrego FCEV

Continue reading First Drive: hydrogen-powered Kia Borrego FCEV and Nissan X-Trail FCV

First Drive: hydrogen-powered Kia Borrego FCEV and Nissan X-Trail FCV originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 19:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredkia borregokia borrego fcevkia borrego suvkia hydrogenKiaBorregoKiaBorregoFcevKiaBorregoSuvKiaHydrogennissan hydrogennissan x-trailnissan x-trail fcvNissanHydrogenNissanX-trailNissanX-trailFcvTue, 09 Jun 2009 19:53:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost and MKS EcoBoost]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/15/first-drive-2010-lincoln-mkt-ecoboost-and-mks-ecoboost/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/15/first-drive-2010-lincoln-mkt-ecoboost-and-mks-ecoboost/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/15/first-drive-2010-lincoln-mkt-ecoboost-and-mks-ecoboost/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost - Click above for high-res image gallery

For the last year and a half, Ford has repeatedly discussed EcoBoost as its high volume, mainstream technology for reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. While Ford is putting a lot of effort into developing hybrids, plug-in hybrids and battery electric vehicles, the high cost of those technologies will keep volumes low for the near term. Meanwhile, gasoline engine downsizing combined with turbocharging and direct fuel injection (GTDI) can cut consumption for a much lower cost. The technology arrives this summer, and while it has a green sheen to it, there's plenty of excitement for gearheads, as we have just learned.

Ford's first GTDI engine is the 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 that is set to debut in the Lincoln MKS, MKT, Ford Flex and Taurus SHO. Over the last eight months, Ford has conducted a number of background preview drives with EcoBoost equipped vehicles that we haven't been allowed to discuss. With production starting in the next few weeks, however, Ford allowed us to drive some pilot production examples of the two Lincolns powered by EcoBoost engines at its Romeo Proving Ground in Michigan. This time, however, we can finally tell you about it as well as give you a preview of the new MKT right after the jump.




Photos copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost and MKS EcoBoost

First Drive: 2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost and MKS EcoBoost originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 15 May 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 lincoln mks2010 lincoln mks ecoboost2010 lincoln mkt2010 lincoln mkt ecoboost2010LincolnMks2010LincolnMksEcoboost2010LincolnMkt2010LincolnMktEcoboostecoboostfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivelincolnlincoln mkslincoln mktlincoln mkt ecoboostLincolnMksLincolnMktLincolnMktEcoboostmksmktFri, 15 May 2009 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Quick Drive: Nissan EV-02 prototype]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/04/quick-drive-nissan-ev-02-prototype/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/04/quick-drive-nissan-ev-02-prototype/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/05/04/quick-drive-nissan-ev-02-prototype/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Nissan EV-02 prototype - click above for a high res gallery

Among the world's high-volume manufacturers, two stand apart from the crowd in their efforts to bring battery electric vehicles to the masses. Nissan and Mitsubishi have been diligently developing EVs, and traveling the world to sign agreements with utilities, research organizations and governments to promote the deployment of charging infrastructure to support those vehicles. Nissan, in particular, has formed partnerships Arizona (Phoenix and Tucson), California, Monaco, China, Ireland, Zürich, and Tennessee, among many others. Right now, Nissan North America is in the middle of a nationwide tour with one of its prototype electric vehicles, letting journalists and local officials try it out. Last week, the tour stopped in Novi, MI where we had an opportunity to take a quick drive in the Cube-based powertrain mule.

Nissan is planning to introduce a new purpose-built electric car in the fall of 2010. Nissan has been developing and testing electric cars since at least the mid-1990s and leased limited numbers of its Altra EV late in the decade when California was mandating zero emissions vehicles. The company has continued down that path ever since and VP of product planning Larry Dominique explained that the company believes electrically-driven vehicles will be essential to meeting reduction targets for atmospheric CO2. Meeting those targets will require getting vehicle greenhouse gas emissions down to 20-40 g/km well-to-wheel by 2050. The first step in that process is the company's upcoming EV. Read on to learn more about where Nissan is going and how the current prototype drives.

Gallery: Quick Drive: Nissan EV-02 prototype


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Quick Drive: Nissan EV-02 prototype

Quick Drive: Nissan EV-02 prototype originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 04 May 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featurefeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivenissan ev prototypenissan ev-02NissanEv-02NissanEvPrototypequick driveQuickDriveMon, 04 May 2009 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: Chevrolet Volt powertrain mule w/VIDEO]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/28/first-drive-chevrolet-volt-powertrain-mule/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/28/first-drive-chevrolet-volt-powertrain-mule/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/28/first-drive-chevrolet-volt-powertrain-mule/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Chevy Volt powertrain mule - click above for a high res gallery

It's been 28 months since we watched Bob Lutz drive onto the stage at Cobo Hall in Detroit and step out of the Chevrolet Volt concept. In the intervening period, a corporate drama of epic proportions has transpired as Lutz has gone into semi-retirement, Rick Wagoner has been ousted as CEO and the U.S. government and the UAW are about to take a 90% ownership stake in General Motors.

In the midst of this corporate chaos, a dedicated group of hundreds of engineers, scientists, designers, technicians and drivers have tried to keep their heads down and out of the line of fire as they worked to make the Volt a production reality. From the time we first saw the original concept, GM has selected a battery supplier (LG Chem), defined the final powertrain configuration and released the production design, among countless other tasks. After more than a year of pestering GM, the call finally to get behind the wheel of a Volt prototype. Read the results after the jump.

Gallery: First Drive: Chevrolet Volt powertrain mule


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: Chevrolet Volt powertrain mule w/VIDEO

First Drive: Chevrolet Volt powertrain mule w/VIDEO originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 28 Apr 2009 19:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevrolet voltChevroletVoltchevychevy voltchevy-voltChevyVoltfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveTue, 28 Apr 2009 19:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Quick Drive: Ford Fiesta 5-door hatchback]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/12/quick-drive-ford-fiesta-5-door-hatchback/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/12/quick-drive-ford-fiesta-5-door-hatchback/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/12/quick-drive-ford-fiesta-5-door-hatchback/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Ford Fiesta - click above for a high res gallery

For all the strength that the U.S. automakers have shown in the realm of big trucks and SUVs over the last thirty years, they are remarkably weak when it comes to small cars. However, all that appears to be about to change quite dramatically. A plethora of stylish small cars are coming to market over the next 12-24 months wearing the badges of, at least, Ford and General Motors. Chrysler may even get in the action if it can consummate a deal with Fiat and get the 500. At the moment however, the first and perhaps most exciting example is the Ford Fiesta.

Ford sold the first-generation Fiesta in the U.S. for several years in the late '70s and early '80s in the wake of the second Middle East oil crisis. Since then, the Fiesta has remained a relatively popular option in Europe, but America had to make do mostly with the Escort and Focus along with a few years of the Kia-sourced Festiva and Aspire. Ford is now in the midst of re-focusing its efforts on cars with plenty of help of Europe. The first of those Euro-Fords will be the 6th generation Fiesta which arrives here around the end of this year. We had the chance to spend some time behind the wheel of the Fiesta in Manhattan during the New York Auto Show. Find out if the Fiesta is more Fit or Festiva after the jump.

Gallery: Quick Drive: 2009 Ford Fiesta


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Quick Drive: Ford Fiesta 5-door hatchback

Quick Drive: Ford Fiesta 5-door hatchback originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 12 Apr 2009 19:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ford fiestaford fiesta first driveford fiesta five doorford fiesta five-doorFordFiestaFordFiestaFirstDriveFordFiestaFive-doorFordFiestaFiveDoorSun, 12 Apr 2009 19:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Quick Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML450 Hybrid, two-mode goes German]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/09/quick-drive-2010-mercedes-benz-ml450-hybrid-two-mode-goes-germ/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/09/quick-drive-2010-mercedes-benz-ml450-hybrid-two-mode-goes-germ/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/09/quick-drive-2010-mercedes-benz-ml450-hybrid-two-mode-goes-germ/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high res gallery of the Mercedes-Benz ML450 hybrid

An hour after Mercedes-Benz unveiled its new ML450 hybrid at the New York Auto Show, we got to take our first quick drive in the first German version of a two-mode hybrid. Mercedes-Benz has been collaborating with General Motors, Chrysler and BMW for the last four years to develop the two-mode hybrid system for applications smaller than the buses that GM originally designed it for. GM has now installed the system across the board on all its GMT900 full size trucks and SUVs and Chrysler briefly offered it on the Durango and Aspen before production of those vehicles ended at the end of 2008. In 2010, Dodge will add the system to the Ram pickup trucks.

Mercedes-Benz will be building its own version of the two-mode hybrid transmission at a plant in Germany. Those transmissions will also be supplied to BMW for the X6 hybrid when that debuts. Read on for our first on the road impressions of the ML450.

Gallery: Quick Drive: Mercedes-Benz ML450 hybrid


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Quick Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML450 Hybrid, two-mode goes German

Quick Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML450 Hybrid, two-mode goes German originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 09 Apr 2009 11:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredfirst driveFirstDrivemercedes benz ml450 hybridMercedesBenzMl450Hybridnew yorknew york 2009new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2009NewYorkAutoShowtwo mode hybridTwoModeHybridThu, 09 Apr 2009 11:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford Fiesta first impression: very, very cool]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/03/ford-fiesta-first-impression-very-very-cool/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/03/ford-fiesta-first-impression-very-very-cool/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/03/ford-fiesta-first-impression-very-very-cool/#commentsFiled under: , ,



We'll admit, we're a little bummed we didn't win a chance for the six-month Ford Fiesta visiting rights. Sadly, we're even less enthused about our Fiesta-free 2009 now that we've had a chance to read Autoblog's first impression of this little wonder. This is good news for Ford, which is bringing this popular car (in Europe) to the U.S. next year. Autoblog dug the power, the look and the driveability of the Fiesta. During the hour in New York that our friends had with the car, the city public was intensely interested in the little car (perhaps because it was Simpsons nuclear green, perhaps because it's a sleek little Ford), and constantly asked questions like how much they cost (not sure yet) and what the mpg will be (30+, we epect). But why listen to me get more and more envious? Check out Autoblog for the full details.


[Source: Autoblog]

Ford Fiesta first impression: very, very cool originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 03 Apr 2009 19:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiestaford fiestaFordFiestaFri, 03 Apr 2009 19:54:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Toyota Prius puts up BIG numbers]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/25/first-drive-2010-toyota-prius-puts-up-big-numbers/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/25/first-drive-2010-toyota-prius-puts-up-big-numbers/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/25/first-drive-2010-toyota-prius-puts-up-big-numbers/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Toyota Prius - Click above for high-res image gallery

When you sit in the 2010 Toyota Prius, you notice all those little things that provide the "Prius experience" - the shift lever, information screen, center-mounted instrument panel - are all present, but they're slightly different and noticeably improved. The time it takes to adapt to the revised interior is emblematic of the new Prius experience. It's the same oddly shaped hybrid that almost two million buyers love, but it gets better mileage, looks sharper and is packing more technological whiz-bangery than any vehicle this simple to drive has the right to.

We recently tested the 2010 Prius at its North American launch through the vineyard-covered fields and hills surrounding Napa, California. Through it all, the hybrid, officially rated at 50 mpg, performed well and delivered better-than-expected fuel economy. In fact, when we pushed the car's eco prowess by using the EV mode as much as possible and employing a few other tricks, we blew that EPA estimate out of the water by almost 15 mpg. And we weren't alone.


Gallery: 2010 Toyota Prius - First Drive


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Brad Wood / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Toyota Prius puts up BIG numbers

First Drive: 2010 Toyota Prius puts up BIG numbers originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 toyota prius2010ToyotaPriusfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivepriustoyotatoyota priusToyotaPriusWed, 25 Mar 2009 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[ABG First Drive: Think City electric car]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/13/abg-first-drive-think-city-electric-car/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/13/abg-first-drive-think-city-electric-car/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/13/abg-first-drive-think-city-electric-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a gallery of the Th!nk City in Detroit

Pulling out of the parking lot in the Th!nk City electric car yesterday, the first thing I noticed was the sound. No, not the wonderful silence that is usually first on my mind when I'm on an EV, but something loud coming from the front of the car. Turns out, this is the sound of the vacuum pump for the brakes recharging. It wasn't there every time I slowed or stopped, and once we were underway I was just glad to be cruising through Ann Arbor without any emissions and didn't notice it again. Still, eliminating or getting people used to the sound is just one of many hurdles that Think North America will need to clear before it begins U.S. sales of the City in 2010 (for fleets) and 2011 (for the rest of us).

Right now, though, there's a lot to love about driving the only Th!nk City that Th!nk North America has brought to the U.S. thus far.

Gallery: Think City in Detroit

Continue reading ABG First Drive: Think City electric car

ABG First Drive: Think City electric car originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 13 Mar 2009 14:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>think citythink electric carthink electric carsthink evthink evsthink nathink north americaThinkCityThinkElectricCarThinkElectricCarsThinkEvThinkEvsThinkNaThinkNorthAmericaFri, 13 Mar 2009 14:17:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: Sailing in Stuttgart with Porsche's Cayenne S Hybrid]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/10/first-drive-sailing-in-stuttgart-with-porsches-cayenne-s-hybri/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/10/first-drive-sailing-in-stuttgart-with-porsches-cayenne-s-hybri/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/10/first-drive-sailing-in-stuttgart-with-porsches-cayenne-s-hybri/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid - Click above for high-res gallery

While charging along at 85 mph with a particularly poker-faced Porsche engineer riding shotgun, traffic begins to cluster on the horizon. Not willing to risk our seven-figure prototype, I gently roll off the accelerator, at which point a funny thing happens: Without warning, the tachometer needle dies, unceremoniously plunging to zero RPM. The supercharged, 3.0-liter V6 ahead of us has gone stone dead, yet our Porsche Cayenne continues to waft along unruffled. We are coasting along on the Autobahn, with only a modest bit of wind noise and tire roar as our soundtrack.

Just as quickly as it began to appear, Stuttgart's traffic thins, and after gliding along for perhaps 15 or 20 seconds -- losing remarkably little velocity -- I ease back onto the throttle, at which point the rev counter jumps back to life just as quickly as it had extinguished, and the Cayenne eases back up to 95 mph before I slot in amongst slower traffic in the right lane. Beyond the tachometer's telltale drop and jump, there is exactly no indication that the engine momentarily packed it up just seconds before. My copilot, Dr. Michael Leiters, project manager for Porsche's Cayenne Hybrid, allows himself a brief smile.

Far from indicating a mechanical defect, we've just witnessed what our Deutsche companion refers to as "segeln" -- sailing -- a fuel saving maneuver that Porsche says other automakers have written off as impossible without jolting disruptions. Yet beyond the tach needle's machinations, there has been no drama whatsoever: no untoward thwack in the back, no expensive-sounding noises, no head toss, no coffee spilled, just seamlessly reintroduced acceleration. The gas pedal simply called upon the engine again and the electric motor restarted it in a flawless, 300-millisecond passing of the power baton. Remarkable stuff.

Follow the jump for more.


Continue reading First Drive: Sailing in Stuttgart with Porsche's Cayenne S Hybrid

First Drive: Sailing in Stuttgart with Porsche's Cayenne S Hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 10 Mar 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Audiautoblog greenAutoblogGreenCayenneCayenne HybridCayenneHybridfeaturedFirst DriveFirstDrivefuel economyFuelEconomyHybridparallel hybridParallelHybridPorschestuttgartSUVVW GroupVwGroupTue, 10 Mar 2009 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2009 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid and GMC Sierra Hybrid]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/02/27/first-drive-2009-chevrolet-silverado-hybrid-and-gmc-sierra-hybr/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/02/27/first-drive-2009-chevrolet-silverado-hybrid-and-gmc-sierra-hybr/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/02/27/first-drive-2009-chevrolet-silverado-hybrid-and-gmc-sierra-hybr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra Hybrid

The more things change, the more they stay the same. Once again, this time-honored dictum is proving true as pickup trucks regain their rightful place at the top of the U.S. sales charts following a precipitous fall from grace last summer. As you've undoubtedly noticed, the cost of gasoline has dropped to a more manageable level, with an average gallon of regular-grade fuel going for half the price it was less than a year ago. So is it back to business as usual? Not quite. As we found out (again) in 2008, the volatile nature of gasoline stocks means that the market price for a barrel of crude can and will change on a whim. Does anyone really think fuel is going to stay cheaper than bottled water forever? Not likely.

However, America's love affair with the pickup truck will continue to burn bright even though the status quo is changing. All vehicles, regardless of type, must travel more miles on each gallon of gasoline. Enter GM's latest duo of fuel-saving pickups: the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra Hybrids.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra Hybrids


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Jeremy Korzeniewski / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2009 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid and GMC Sierra Hybrid

First Drive: 2009 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid and GMC Sierra Hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 27 Feb 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevy silveradochevy silverado hybridchevy silverado hybrid testchevy silverado reviewChevySilveradoChevySilveradoHybridChevySilveradoHybridTestChevySilveradoReviewfeaturedfirst drivefirst drive hybrid truckFirstDriveFirstDriveHybridTruckgmc sierragmc sierra hybridgmc sierra hybrid reviewgmc sierra hybrid testGmcSierraGmcSierraHybridGmcSierraHybridReviewGmcSierraHybridTesthybrid truckhybrid truck reviewhybrid truck testhybrid trucksHybridTruckHybridTruckReviewHybridTrucksHybridTruckTestin the autobloggreen garageInTheAutobloggreenGarageFri, 27 Feb 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[ABG Quick Drive: Ford Focus EV mule [w/VIDEO]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/abg-quick-drive-ford-focus-ev-mule-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/abg-quick-drive-ford-focus-ev-mule-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/abg-quick-drive-ford-focus-ev-mule-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click the Focus EV "mule" for a high res gallery

As Ford was getting ready to make its big announcement this week in Detroit that it would build and sell a battery electric car beginning in 2011, I got a call asking if I'd like to come down and drive one of the development "mules." Being loathe to reject such opportunities, we immediately worked on squeezing it into the busy auto show schedule. Right after the Fisker press conference on Monday, I headed over to the Ford booth to get my ride.

A "mule" vehicle in automotive engineering parlance, is a non-representative vehicle fitted with a new powertrain or suspension components for testing purposes. In this case, Ford had a pair of current Focus sedans equipped with an electric drive train and lithium ion battery pack that was developed in partnership with Magna International. I spent some time chatting with chief engineer Greg Frenette and Magna rep Dick Devogelaere about the car and what we would see for production in two years time. The production model will be based on Ford's C-segment platform, meaning it will be Focus-sized. However, Ford has already said it will have several vehicles in the U.S. market off this platform, including an MPV like the European C-Max. Frenette would not say which body style would initially get the electric drive.

One item he would confirm was that there would be none of the whole leasing and taking back of the electric cars that other companies are still infamous for. The new EV will be sold outright to retail customers through Ford dealers beginning in 2011. Pricing is still undetermined. Check out the video after the jump and the full drive report on Green Fuels Forecast.

Gallery: ABG Quick Drive: Ford Focus EV mule


[Source: Green Fuels Forecast]
Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading ABG Quick Drive: Ford Focus EV mule [w/VIDEO]

ABG Quick Drive: Ford Focus EV mule [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 20:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowfirst driveFirstDriveford focusford focus evFordFocusFordFocusEvWed, 14 Jan 2009 20:05:00 EST<![CDATA[ABG First Drive: 2010 Honda Insight, 63.4 mpg!]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/11/abg-first-drive-2009-honda-insight-63-4-mpg/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/11/abg-first-drive-2009-honda-insight-63-4-mpg/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/01/11/abg-first-drive-2009-honda-insight-63-4-mpg/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the 2010 Honda Insight

Honda may not have been first to market with a modern hybrid electric vehicle, but the original Insight did beat the Toyota Prius to the US by a few months. As so many other companies have discovered over the years, being first doesn't necessarily guarantee success. You also need the right product for the market at the time. The original Insight had a lot of interesting technology, but it also suffered from some of the same limitations that doomed the EV1.

Still, the original Insight soldiered on from 1999 to 2006 with the Civic hybrid, using the same technology, joining it in 2002. As 2009 kicks off, Honda is launching a new hybrid-only model that revives the Insight name on an altogether more practical machine. This time Honda is aiming for real mass market appeal with a price the company hopes will make the new Insight "The Hybrid for Everyone." Honda invited us out to Arizona before Christmas to sample the new Insight and we can now tell you all about it. Read on to find out if Honda's Insight is on target.

Gallery: ABG First Drive: 2010 Honda Insight


Gallery: 2010 Honda Insight


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading ABG First Drive: 2010 Honda Insight, 63.4 mpg!

ABG First Drive: 2010 Honda Insight, 63.4 mpg! originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 11 Jan 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 honda insight2009HondaInsightfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveSun, 11 Jan 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/12/13/abg-first-drive-2010-ford-fusion-hybrid-43-1-mpg-on-the-street/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/12/13/abg-first-drive-2010-ford-fusion-hybrid-43-1-mpg-on-the-street/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/12/13/abg-first-drive-2010-ford-fusion-hybrid-43-1-mpg-on-the-street/#commentsFiled under: , ,

43.1 mpg on the streets of LA!


Click above for high-res gallery of the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid

While General Motors and Chrysler basically turned out the lights on their presence at the LA Auto Show last month, Ford kicked off one of its biggest product onslaughts in decades. The 2010 Mustang may have captured the hearts of enthusiasts, but the heavily refreshed Fusion and its Mercury Milan and Lincoln MKZ siblings are the mainstream high volume models that will garner the big sales numbers. The Fusion lineup was expanded in both the performance and efficiency directions with new Sport and Hybrid variants.

When we returned to Los Angeles this week to drive the Fusions, the festivities opened up with an afternoon spent getting a flavor for Ford's newest hybrid. We've already written extensively about the updated hybrid powertrain, but this was our first time behind the wheel. Following a briefing on the key features from the Ford engineering team, fellow Autoblogger Drew Phillips and I were joined by Gil Portalatin, Hybrid Applications Manager, for our test drive. Read all about how we achieved 43.1 mpg after the jump.

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid

First Drive: 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 13 Dec 2008 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ford fusion hybrid2010FordFusionHybridfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveford fusion hybridFordFusionHybridSat, 13 Dec 2008 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[ABG First Drive: 2009 BMW 335d]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/abg-first-drive-2009-bmw-335d/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/abg-first-drive-2009-bmw-335d/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/abg-first-drive-2009-bmw-335d/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click the 335d for a high res gallery

Last week, BMW revealed most of the details on its first new 50-state legal clean diesels and we've now had the chance to spend some quality time behind the wheel of the new US-spec 335d. Following our arrival at Los Angeles International Airport, we were sent off in a brand new US-spec, 50 state legal diesel 3-series for a driving tour of the freeways, surface streets and canyons north of the city.

The 3-series is BMW's biggest selling model by a wide margin, accounting for 45 percent of all the brand's sales so far this year. For the 2009 model year, the 3-series received a minor exterior face-lift with a re-sculpted nose and tail. On the inside, the 2009 3 is the first US-market BMW to get the new redesigned version of the previously dreaded i-Drive interface. Of course, the real reason for ABG's interest is the introduction of the most fuel efficient BMW ever offered for sale in the United States, the 335d. Find out about our first impression after the jump.

Gallery: ABG First Drive: 2009 BMW 335d


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading ABG First Drive: 2009 BMW 335d

ABG First Drive: 2009 BMW 335d originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 19:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw 335dBmw335dfirst driveFirstDriveMon, 24 Nov 2008 19:53:00 EST<![CDATA[ABG Quick Drive: Battery-powered MINI-E w/VIDEO]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/abg-quick-drive-battery-powered-mini-e-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/abg-quick-drive-battery-powered-mini-e-w-video/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/abg-quick-drive-battery-powered-mini-e-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click the MINI E for a high res gallery

For three days before and during the media previews for the Los Angeles Auto Show last week, BMW had about a dozen electric MINIs available for evaluation drives. We finally got our crack at one Thursday morning at the LA convention center. The 6.5 mile loop that BMW laid out was both a terrible route to drive and perhaps the ideal route for an electric car. I don't know what downtown LA streets are like on weekend mornings, but 9 a.m. on a Thursday it's the last place in the world I'd want to be in a car. The 6.5 mile loop took us nearly 45 minutes to complete thanks to what passes for traffic flow in the area. Why anyone would actually want to drive in Los Angeles is a mystery to me, but by the time we were done it was easy to see why Priuses are so popular here. Since you spend more time in hurry up and wait mode than actually driving, an appliance like the Prius is perhaps the ideal choice. But I'm sure you already know that and would rather hear about the MINI E, something you can do right after the jump.

Gallery: Quick Drive: MINI E


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading ABG Quick Drive: Battery-powered MINI-E w/VIDEO

ABG Quick Drive: Battery-powered MINI-E w/VIDEO originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ac propulsionAcPropulsionlithiumlithium ionlithium ion batterieslithium-ionLithiumIonLithiumIonBatteriesmini emini evMiniEMiniEvMon, 24 Nov 2008 11:59:00 EST