Autoblog Green http://www.autobloggreen.com Autoblog Green http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog Green http://www.autobloggreen.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[Next BMW M5 to cut CO<sub>2</sub> emissions by 20%, no hybrid]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/11/04/next-bmw-m5-to-cut-co2-emissions-by-20-no-hybrid/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/11/04/next-bmw-m5-to-cut-co2-emissions-by-20-no-hybrid/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/11/04/next-bmw-m5-to-cut-co2-emissions-by-20-no-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The next generation of BMW's 5-series sedan is expected to debut early in 2010, perhaps at the Geneva Motor Show. The new M5, however, likely won't be launched until the 2011 Frankfurt show. According to Albert Biermann, development boss of the M division, when it does arrive, it will cut CO2 emissions by 20 percent compared to the current model.

To do that, BMW will follow an increasingly common path with direct injection, turbocharging and revised gearing. The M5 will apparently use a version of the 555 hp turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 from the X5M/X6M. The increase in torque from the 383 lb-ft at 6100rpm of the current 5.0-liter V10 to around 500 lb-ft at 1500rpm will allow BMW to use much taller gearing for lower engine rpms.

Contrary to some earlier reports, the M5 will not use any kind of hybrid or KERS system. Biermann told AutoCar that the hybrid system from the new ActiveHybrid 7 would add over 200 pounds to the car. Instead, the cars weight will be reduced further through the use of carbon fiber body panels for the roof and trunk-lid.

[Source: AutoCar]

Next BMW M5 to cut CO2 emissions by 20%, no hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20122012 bmw m52012BmwM5bmw m5BmwM5gtdigtdi engineGtdiEnginem5turbochargedturbocharged-direct-...turbocharged-direct-injectionturbochargingWed, 04 Nov 2009 18:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler to cut weight of next-gen Jeep Liberty by 600 pounds!]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/11/04/chrysler-to-cut-weight-of-next-gen-jeep-liberty-by-600-pounds/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/11/04/chrysler-to-cut-weight-of-next-gen-jeep-liberty-by-600-pounds/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/11/04/chrysler-to-cut-weight-of-next-gen-jeep-liberty-by-600-pounds/#commentsFiled under: ,



The Jeep Liberty is not a particularly large vehicle, but Chrysler engineers managed to pack a lot of mass into it nonetheless. The current Liberty weighs in at nearly 4,300 pounds! At the Chrysler business plan meeting today, product development SVP Scott Kunselman revealed that aerodynamics and weight reduction will be a big part of all future vehicles. Using modern computer design tools and lighter materials the company plans to pare large amounts of excess mass. As an example, Kunselman revealed that the next generation Liberty SUV will shed a whopping 600 pounds!

In addition Chrysler will help drivers reduce fuel consumption through connectivity technologies. New navigation systems will have more intelligence in the routing algorithms with the goal of minimizing the fuel consumption. For example, it could set up the route to minimize left turns even if it might mean going slightly further. UPS has been experimenting with similar technology in its routing and now it looks like consumers will be able to get it.

[Source: Chrysler]

Chrysler to cut weight of next-gen Jeep Liberty by 600 pounds! originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerJeepJeep libertyJeepLibertyweight reductionWeightReductionWed, 04 Nov 2009 12:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Coming Soon to an Automobile Near You: Plastic engines?]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/31/coming-soon-to-an-automobile-near-you-plastic-engines/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/31/coming-soon-to-an-automobile-near-you-plastic-engines/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/31/coming-soon-to-an-automobile-near-you-plastic-engines/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Automakers and consumers alike all want lighter cars. "Adding lightness" has a lot of desirable effects, most notably in overall fuel efficiency and performance. While numerous efforts have been made to reduce the weight of automobiles - including downsizing, subtracting unnecessary components and using lightweight alloys and carbon fiber for structural bits - one item that's awfully hard to lighten without dire consequences is the engine.

Well, perhaps that's not entirely true after all. Apparently, Matti Holtzberg, an engineer and president of Polimotor Research, successfully designed and built a working engine made almost entirely from plastic. Holtzberg created a motor based on the 88-horsepower powerplant from a Ford Pinto that reduced weight from 415 pounds to just 152 while putting out an impressive 300 horsepower.

Polimotor has reportedly partnered up with the Huntsman Corporation of Houston in an effort to get plastic engine components such as the block, cylinder heads, pistons and rods into mass production. While electric motors and high-tech batteries seem ready to take over in the coming decades as the power sources of choice, plastic engines could potentially still be used as lightweight range-extending powerplants. Intriguing, no?

[Source: New York Times via The Kneeslider]

Coming Soon to an Automobile Near You: Plastic engines? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 18:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HuntsmanHuntsman CorporationHuntsmanCorporationmatti holtzbergMattiHoltzbergplasticplastic engineplastic enginesplastic motorplastic motorsPlasticEnginePlasticEnginesPlasticMotorPlasticMotorspolimotorSat, 31 Oct 2009 18:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Greenlings: How does weight affect a vehicle's efficiency?]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/29/greenlings-how-does-weight-affect-a-vehicles-efficiency/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/29/greenlings-how-does-weight-affect-a-vehicles-efficiency/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/29/greenlings-how-does-weight-affect-a-vehicles-efficiency/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Over the last few decades, the average weight of a vehicle sold in the U.S. climbed steadily after we got over the oil embargoes of the 1970s. Today, though, auto companies are putting a lot of effort into reducing weight - Lotus set up an entire lightweight structures division, BMW is investing millions into carbon fiber and Jaguar loves aluminum - because every ounce you take out of a car improves the vehicle's performance and fuel economy. Options for weight savings that automakers are investigating include installing things like plastic fuel tanks (PDF) and using carbon fiber instead of steel. As we discovered in a previous Greenlings, carbon fiber is a remarkable, lightweight substance that will likely not be used widely until prices come way, way down.

Today, one of the main reasons automakers want to reduce weight is because it's a great way to increase MPG numbers. AutoblogGreen reader GenWaylaid sent in a Greenlings question about how, exactly, reducing weight helps efficiency. We investigate his query after the jump.

Continue reading Greenlings: How does weight affect a vehicle's efficiency?

Greenlings: How does weight affect a vehicle's efficiency? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 20:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbon fiberCarbonFiberfeaturedfuel economyFuelEconomygreenlingsLightweightmpgweightThu, 29 Oct 2009 20:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Megacity will be BMW's first to use carbon fiber "on a large scale"]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/29/megacity-will-be-bmws-first-to-use-carbon-fiber-on-a-large-sca/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/29/megacity-will-be-bmws-first-to-use-carbon-fiber-on-a-large-sca/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/29/megacity-will-be-bmws-first-to-use-carbon-fiber-on-a-large-sca/#commentsFiled under: ,

The idea that BMW's line of electric vehicles will cater to the same premium buyers as the company's other vehicles seems more assured with today's announcement that it has established a joint venture with SGL Group to produce carbon fiber and textile semi-finished products for "vehicle construction" with an eye to getting the lightweight materials into production models, starting with something small and efficient.

The two vehicles mentioned in the release are the BMW M6 Coupé and the Megacity, which is part of the automaker's Project i. BMW still isn't spilling the beans about the type of powertrain - is it a hybrid or will it be offered with different powertrain options? - in the Megacity, but did say that, it:
will be launched under a BMW sub-brand in the first half of the next decade, the high-strength yet ultra-light material will make up a significant proportion of the materials used. In the Megacity Vehicle, The combination of the advanced CFRP fibres developed by the SGL Group and the BMW Group's expertise in the industrial manufacture of CFRP components is making it possible, for the first time, to install CFRP on a large scale in a series vehicle at a competitive cost.
Sounds positive.

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Megacity will be BMW's first to use carbon fiber "on a large scale"

Megacity will be BMW's first to use carbon fiber "on a large scale" originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwcarbon fiberCarbonFiberCFRPLightweightsgl bmwsgl carbon fibersgl groupSglBmwSglCarbonFiberSglGroupThu, 29 Oct 2009 17:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Axon Automotive unveils plug-in hybrid]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/28/axon-automotive-unveils-plug-in-hybrid/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/28/axon-automotive-unveils-plug-in-hybrid/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/28/axon-automotive-unveils-plug-in-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Axon Automotive has once again shown off its pre-production plug-in hybrid, this time at the Milton Keynes Science Festival. Two versions of the lightweight city car are planned, the first using a small-bore gasoline-fed engine that's purported to deliver 83.3 mpg U.S. (100 mpg or 2.8 l/km in the UK).

A second version pairs an electric motor that's capable of powering the car without a drop of fuel for city use with a small gasoline engine that theoretically provides unlimited range for longer trips. According to Axon, the PHEV would generate just 50 grams of carbon emissions per kilometer, easily evading European carbon taxes in the process.

Two adults can fit in the little EV, and the interior is fashioned from recycled carbon fiber, denim jeans and pinstripe suits (really!). If all goes to plan and sufficient funding is sourced, Axon plans to begin selling the car in 2011 with full-scale production slated for 2012.

[Source: Green Car Congress]

Axon Automotive unveils plug-in hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 09:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>axonAxon AutomotiveAxon GroupAxon hatchbackaxon phevAxonAutomotiveAxonGroupAxonHatchbackAxonPhevphevWed, 28 Oct 2009 09:04:00 EST<![CDATA[SABA Motors to offer sub-$50,000 Carbon Zero roadster]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/26/saba-motors-to-offer-sub-50-000-carbon-zero-roadster/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/26/saba-motors-to-offer-sub-50-000-carbon-zero-roadster/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/26/saba-motors-to-offer-sub-50-000-carbon-zero-roadster/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Looks like Silicon Valley is home to yet another start-up electric car company, this one with an eye to bring a roadster to market with a low-$40's price tag. That's Chevy Volt and Coda EV country! SABA Motors is just a few short weeks from finishing its first prototype and plans to compete next year with many of the other electric car companies head-to-head for the Progressive X-Prize and possibly the TTXGP as well.. While its website claims the company is currently in stealth mode, the "Carbon Zero" recently made an appearance at Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's Global Climate Summit, where CEO Simon Saba got some face time with the Governator to discuss his vehicle.

While we don't have too many details about the car, we can tell you that one of the keys to its speed and range performance will be its light weight. The two-seater has an aluminum chassis with carbon-fiber body work. Currently powered by lithium batteries from ThunderSky, its range is said to be between 120 and 140 miles and there are also suggestions out there that it may be battery-swap capable. Simon Saba puts its 0 to 60 time "in the range of 5 seconds" though interestingly, our source article puts it below 4. Whatever the case, it should be interesting to see how things develop and we look forward to seeing video of it on the road. For now we can offer up a few minutes of footage with Mr. Saba's Hub Culture interview where he discusses his project after the jump.


[Source metroactive / SABA Motors via Tesla Motors Club]

Continue reading SABA Motors to offer sub-$50,000 Carbon Zero roadster

SABA Motors to offer sub-$50,000 Carbon Zero roadster originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 14:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric roadsterElectricRoadstereletric sports carEletricSportsCarSABA MotorsSABA Motors Carbon ZeroSabaMotorsSabaMotorsCarbonZeroSimon SabaSimonSabaMon, 26 Oct 2009 14:05:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Bentley considers going hybrid, rules out hydrogen]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/07/report-bentley-considers-going-hybrid-rules-out-hydrogen/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/07/report-bentley-considers-going-hybrid-rules-out-hydrogen/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/07/report-bentley-considers-going-hybrid-rules-out-hydrogen/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Bentley Continental Supersports - Click above for high-res image gallery

Bentley is on a mission to lower fuel consumption and carbon emissions. According to Auto Express, once the firm's Continental Supersports hits the market (and, we may add, after it actually becomes flex-fuel capable), the next step in the green train may very well be hybrids.

To reach that conclusion, AE uses the process of elimination. Here's the reasoning: diesels don't historically sell well here in the United States, Bentley's largest market, so an oil-burner is out. Bentley has reportedly already ruled out hydrogen fuel cells, which aren't expected to make any sort of dent in the marketplace at all until about 2015. That leaves biofuels and hybrids, which the automaker is already rumored to be testing.

If there's any truth to the report, its possible that the next Continental for the 2011 model year will feature a flex-fuel hybrid powertrain and a relatively lightweight aluminum body to reduce carbon emissions from today's 396 g/km to less than 225 g/km. Not amazing or anything, but certainly moving in the right direction.



[Source: Auto Express]

REPORT: Bentley considers going hybrid, rules out hydrogen originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 08:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 bentley continental2011BentleyContinentalbentleybentley continentalbentley continental hybridbentley hybridBentleyContinentalBentleyContinentalHybridBentleyHybridcontinentalcontinental hybridContinentalHybridWed, 07 Oct 2009 08:54:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Developing the E-Wolf e1]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/06/video-development-of-the-e-wolf-e1/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/06/video-development-of-the-e-wolf-e1/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/06/video-development-of-the-e-wolf-e1/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The development of the E-Wolf e1 - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Together with the introduction of the E-Wolf e1 during the Frankfurt Motor Show, E-Wolf released a video about the development of the unusual vehicle. The video explains how the car was developed to present the maximum sporting spirit or, as the video says, to make the "extreme sports car." DTM pilot Johannes Seidlitz helped out with the e1 project, which resulted in a car that weighs only 500 kg (1102 lb) and can only be driven by drivers who are no heavier than than 70kg (150lbs). The e1 uses a 110kW, quadripolar, liquid-cooled, AC induction motor (150hp) that propels the car to 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in less than five seconds and offers a maximum speed of 230 km/h and maximum torque of 250 Nm (185 lb-ft). Watch the video after the jump.

[Source: Youtube via Le Blog Auto]

Continue reading VIDEO: Developing the E-Wolf e1

VIDEO: Developing the E-Wolf e1 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e wolfe-wolfe-wolf e1E-wolfE1e1EWolffrankfurtfrankfurt 2009Frankfurt2009johannes seidlitzJohannesSeidlitzTue, 06 Oct 2009 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi shows off lightweight aluminum/carbon fiber A5 prototype]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/01/audi-shows-off-lightweight-aluminum-carbon-fiber-a5-prototype/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/01/audi-shows-off-lightweight-aluminum-carbon-fiber-a5-prototype/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/10/01/audi-shows-off-lightweight-aluminum-carbon-fiber-a5-prototype/#commentsFiled under: ,

Audi Aluminum A5 Coupe Prototype - Click above for high-res image

As much as we like the Audi A5 with it's lovely lines and proportions and good driving dynamics, we have to admit that it's a bit porky. The lightest version currently available in the U.S. market is the 3.2-liter V6 quattro at 3,737 pounds. To date, the A5 has not been the beneficiary of Audi's extensive experience in working with aluminum structures in cars like the A8, R8 and TT. At a recent tech day event in Germany, Audi showed off a prototype A5 with a body fabricated from an aluminum space frame and the work clearly paid off.

Starting with a European spec 2.0-liter TFSI front wheel drive A5 that weighed in at 3,130 pounds, the new body structure allowed the engineers to carve off 220 lbs. In addition to the aluminum space frame, the lightweight A5 also has a carbon fiber hood and rear deck.

Cutting mass will be a significant factor in helping automakers reach future efficiency and emissions standards. However, it's not a trivial problem. Aluminum structures are more expensive than steel and carbon fiber takes significantly more energy to produce then either metal. Carbon fiber components are also difficult to recycle, unlike steel and aluminum. Full details in the press release after the jump.

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi shows off lightweight aluminum/carbon fiber A5 prototype

Audi shows off lightweight aluminum/carbon fiber A5 prototype originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 08:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aluminumaluminum structuresAluminumStructuresaudiaudi a5audi a5 light weightAudiA5AudiA5LightWeightcarboncarbon fiberCarbonFiberfalselightlightweightweight reductionWeightReductionThu, 01 Oct 2009 08:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Meet the MAX: Homemade biodiesel-powered Lotus Seven replica]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/25/meet-the-max-homemade-biodiesel-powered-lotus-seven-replica/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/25/meet-the-max-homemade-biodiesel-powered-lotus-seven-replica/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/25/meet-the-max-homemade-biodiesel-powered-lotus-seven-replica/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



Generally speaking, purchasing an eco-friendly automobile is an expensive proposition. One way to reduce that cost is by going homemade. Such is the case with Jack McCormack from Kinetic Vehicles, who decided that he would love to have fun, practical, affordable and high-mileage two seater under $10 grand.

The resulting car is called the MAX: Mother's Automotive eXperiment. Although the initial goal was to reach the 100 mpg mark set for the Auto X Prize, the resulting car turned out to be a little far from this objective and was totaled in an accident. Thankfully, nobody was seriously injured.

McCormack has rebuilt the car and hopes to accomplish the X Prize target with a custom-built streamlined body on a Locost chassis, a 32-horsepower three-cylinder diesel engine from Kubota, old Toyota Corolla parts and plenty of custom bits and pieces. The car is driven either with diesel, biodiesel or SVO (Straight Vegetable Oil). You can read the complete story at his site. We wish McCormack the best!

[Source: Kinetic Vehicles]

Meet the MAX: Homemade biodiesel-powered Lotus Seven replica originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 09:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>affordable green carAffordableGreenCarauto x prizeautomotive x prizeAutomotiveXPrizeAutoXPrizecheap green autoCheapGreenAutohomemadehomemade green carhomemade green carsHomemadeGreenCarHomemadeGreenCarsJack McCormackJackMccormackkinetic vehiclesKineticVehiclestwo-seaterFri, 25 Sep 2009 09:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Avant Concept: Buick's new look at the small premium market [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/23/avant-concept-buicks-new-look-at-the-small-premium-market-w-v/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/23/avant-concept-buicks-new-look-at-the-small-premium-market-w-v/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/23/avant-concept-buicks-new-look-at-the-small-premium-market-w-v/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Buick Avant Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Need further proof that the premium car market is looking to downsize? General Motors' latest entry on its recently-launched Lab website is the Buick Avant, which the automaker developed to study the future of scaled down models for its upper-level brands.

Innovative ideas abound with the Buick Avant Concept, including doors that can both swing and slide open, a driver's seat that moves laterally to customize interior packaging, a luggage shelf that brings packages to you and a so-called micro pergola roof that can be either opaque or transparent depending on the driver's wishes.

All told, Buick came up with six exterior themes and four interior concepts that it hopes to get feedback on. Check out the image gallery below and click past the break to watch the video. Then, click here to let GM know what you think of its ideas for the small premium market. Thanks for the tip, Ryan!



[Source: GM Lab]

Continue reading Avant Concept: Buick's new look at the small premium market [w/VIDEO]

Avant Concept: Buick's new look at the small premium market [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 23 Sep 2009 09:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avantbuickbuick avantbuick avant conceptbuick conceptBuickAvantBuickAvantConceptBuickConceptsmall buicksmall buick conceptsmall car conceptsmall premiumsmall premium buickSmallBuickSmallBuickConceptSmallCarConceptSmallPremiumSmallPremiumBuickWed, 23 Sep 2009 09:05:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: GM considering hybrid Corvette, other mileage tweaks]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/21/report-gm-considering-hybrid-corvette-other-mileage-tweaks/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/21/report-gm-considering-hybrid-corvette-other-mileage-tweaks/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/21/report-gm-considering-hybrid-corvette-other-mileage-tweaks/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Concept - Is a hybrid powertrain in the Corvette's future?

Is GM really considering a hybrid Corvette? Tom Stephens says it's a possibility. Who is Tom Stephens? He's GM's vice chairman of global product development, so he should know. To be fair, he says that a hybrid would only be considered if the Corvette's very livelihood depended on it. Now that CAFE standards are ratcheting up to a corporate average 35.5 mpg by 2016 though, it might be the 'Vette's only hope.

With Porsche, Audi, Mercedes and others showing electrics and other alternatively-powered sports cars, and some companies doing nothing but plug-in hybrids or electrics (like Fisker and Tesla), it's not that hard to imagine an electrically-boosted fiberglass flyer. The question is whether or not Corvette buyers would even consider a hybrid. We think the idea will grow on them.

For now, GM thinks they have a good enough plan to keep the Corvette electron-free. Until a hybrid is the only option, expect future 'Vettes to be made lighter, and equipped with low rolling resistance tires, direct injection, variable valve timing, and cylinder deactivation to make them more fuel frugal. Even electric power steering can boost mileage by half a gallon. So, although a hybrid Corvette hasn't been ruled out, Stephens does say that we shouldn't expect a six-cylinder engine in that engine bay anytime soon.

[Source: Auomotive News - sub. req'd]

REPORT: GM considering hybrid Corvette, other mileage tweaks originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingchevroletchevrolet corvetteChevroletCorvettechevychevy corvetteChevyCorvettecorvettecorvette hybridCorvetteHybridhybrid corvetteHybridCorvetteMon, 21 Sep 2009 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: E-Wolf e1, the no-compromises racing EV with a driver weight limit]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-e-wolf-e1-the-no-compromises-racing-ev-with-a-d/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-e-wolf-e1-the-no-compromises-racing-ev-with-a-d/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-e-wolf-e1-the-no-compromises-racing-ev-with-a-d/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The e1 and e2 are two lightweight sports cars that recall the Lotus 7, this time fitted to an electric drive. The models come from Germany, and are the result of the work of E-Wolf, the Saxony Lightweight Center and the Institute for Lightweight Structures and Polymer Technology at the Technical University of Dresden. Street-legal, the e1 is being introduced during the Frankfurt Motor Show. The e2 is just an idea at this time, and will arrive in two years.

The most remarkable features of the e1 are the light weight: 500 kg (1102 lb) and that it can only be driven by drivers that are no heavier than than 70kg (150lb, no comment). It uses a 110kW, quadripolar, liquid-cooled, AC induction motor (150hp) that propels the car to 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in less than five seconds and gives the e1 a maximum speed of 230 km/h and maximum torque of 250 Nm (185 lb-ft). The lithium-ion batteries, distributed along the car's floor, weigh only 84 kg and use a signature ceramic membrane that separates the anode from the cathode, giving the car a range over 300 km (200 mi). Want one? The custom cars sell for €150,000.

[Source: Auto news]

Frankfurt 2009: E-Wolf e1, the no-compromises racing EV with a driver weight limit originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e-wolfe-wolf e1E-wolfE1e1ewolfewolf e1EwolfE1Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Mazda MX-5 Superlight makes us wonder how we'd spend our other two wishes]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-mazda-mx-5-superlight-makes-us-wonder-how-wed-s/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-mazda-mx-5-superlight-makes-us-wonder-how-wed-s/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-mazda-mx-5-superlight-makes-us-wonder-how-wed-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Mazda MX-5 Superlight concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you're one of the many enthusiasts out there oohing and ahhing over the pair of pre-production Mini concepts that debuted in Frankfurt today, know that the BMW division isn't the only one here with a tempting speedster on display. Amidst all the exciting and pivotal new vehicle debuts at the show, Mazda took the wraps off the MX-5 Superlight Version.

Unfortunately it's just a show car, and it's not the first time Mazda's toyed with the idea (and us in the process), but the Superlight goes to show what an inventive mind and a skilled hand or two can do with the iconic Mazda roadster. Characterized by its windshield-less shape, the Superlight also features an exquisitely crafted cockpit of brushed aluminum and saddle brown leather, aluminum and carbon-fiber rolls hoops with integrated brake LEDs, an aluminum rearview mirror mounted on the hood, a wider track, dropped suspension and upgraded brakes.

While the engine essentially carries over from the stock 1.8-liter, 126hp four, the Mazdaspeed intake and exhaust, coupled with the reduced 2,194-pound curb weight, bring the 0-60 run down to 8.9 seconds. Which may not sound like breakneck acceleration, but with the wind rushing at your face, we're guessing this junior Veritas is a real thrill ride. Check it out in the gallery below.




Frankfurt 2009: Mazda MX-5 Superlight makes us wonder how we'd spend our other two wishes originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 frankfurt2009 frankfurt auto show2009 frankfurt motor show2009Frankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShow2009FrankfurtMotorShowfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowmazdamazda miatamazda mx-5mazda mx-5 miatamazda mx-5 superlightmazda mx-5 superlight conceptmazda mx-5 superlight versionmazda superlightMazdaMiataMazdaMx-5MazdaMx-5MiataMazdaMx-5SuperlightMazdaMx-5SuperlightConceptMazdaMx-5SuperlightVersionMazdaSuperlightmx-5 superlightMx-5SuperlightsuperlightTue, 15 Sep 2009 19:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Tesla Roadster on four teacups, plus... Jonas Brothers]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/12/tesla-roadster-on-four-teacups-plus-jonas-brothers/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/12/tesla-roadster-on-four-teacups-plus-jonas-brothers/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/12/tesla-roadster-on-four-teacups-plus-jonas-brothers/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Tesla Roadster on teacups - Click above for high-res image gallery

Some days our inboxes contain things we just didn't expect to ever see. Take, for example, the pictures in the gallery in this post. Apparently, this display, at the William Ashley China store in Toronto, is intended to "encourages consumers to rethink, reduce and re-use." Really?

What we certainly do see is a lightweight Roadster perched on four four Wedgwood teacups made of bone china, each of which is supporting 925 pounds, according to the signs (but that gives us a total of 3,700, which is more than the Roadster's curb weight of 2,723 lbs. UPDATE: As reader Tohe points out, the signs for the front cups say the weight there is 500 lbs, which does give us a total of 2,850, much more reasonable). The Roadster will be on display at the store on Bloor Street West through September 21st.

But the quirkiness doesn't end there. Just to spice things up a notch, two of the Jonas Brothers - Kevin and Nick - showed up at the store to give us a little something for the teenybopper crowd. We aim to please.

Gallery: Tesla Roadster at WM Ashley with the Jonas Brothers


[Source: Tesla Motors]


Continue reading Tesla Roadster on four teacups, plus... Jonas Brothers

Tesla Roadster on four teacups, plus... Jonas Brothers originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 12 Sep 2009 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jo jonasJoJonasjonas brotherJonasBrothernick jonasNickJonasteslatesla jonastesla motorstesla roadstertesla teacupsTeslaJonasTeslaMotorsTeslaRoadsterTeslaTeacupswilliam ashleyWilliamAshleywm ashleyWmAshleySat, 12 Sep 2009 18:57:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Lexus could go even smaller than LF-Ch concept?]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/10/report-lexus-could-go-even-smaller-than-lf-ch-concept/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/10/report-lexus-could-go-even-smaller-than-lf-ch-concept/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/10/report-lexus-could-go-even-smaller-than-lf-ch-concept/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Lexus LF-Ch Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Lexus doesn't currently play in the small car segment in any of the markets it competes in. That's set to change in short order, as evidenced by the LF-Ch concept that the premium Japanese automaker is slated to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next week. Interestingly, Lexus could reportedly go yet another size class down. Speaking to Autocar, an unnamed marketing specialist says:
This segment will grow as more premium marques begin to build cars in this size. We already have the Mini and the Alfa Romeo Mito, and the Audi A1 is just around the corner... Indeed, the Mito has been a big success outside Italy, especially in the challenging German market. The Mini is under considerable pressure now.
BMW chose to enter the premium B-segment class with an entirely new brand in the form of its Mini division. That program has been highly successful for the German automaker, and Lexus believes the so-called supermini class will continue to grow. Says the Lexus marketer:
It's probably the third or fourth most important segment. In fact, the 'B' premium sector is already bigger than the large SUV segment. But it is very hard to make money in it.


[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Lexus could go even smaller than LF-Ch concept? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lexuslexus b segmentlexus b-segmentlexus lf-chlexus subcompactlexus superminiLexusB-segmentLexusBSegmentLexusLf-chLexusSubcompactLexusSuperminiThu, 10 Sep 2009 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Lotus announces Elise Club Racer, 31 mpg sports car]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/08/lotus-announces-elise-club-racer-31-mpg-sports-car/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/08/lotus-announces-elise-club-racer-31-mpg-sports-car/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/08/lotus-announces-elise-club-racer-31-mpg-sports-car/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Lotus Elise Club Racer - click above for a high res image gallery

One of the upsides of Colin Chapman's philosophy of "adding lightness" is that Lotus sports cars are typically very efficient relative to their performance levels. Such is the case with the Elise, which is one of the lightest cars on the market today. At the Frankfurt Motor Show next week, Lotus will release a new Club Racer special edition of the Elise. The Club Racer gets the base 134 hp four cylinder engine offered in Europe along with some reduced-weight components.

The Club Racer gets lighter weight wheels than the standard Elise along with special micro-fiber padding on the seats. With only 134 hp, the sub-2,000 pound roadster gets to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds. Along the way, the Elise is rated at 30.9 mpg (U.S.) on the EU combined driving cycle. Even the more powerful 180 hp Elise sold in the U.S. is rated at 21/27 mpg by the EPA, making it one of the most efficient sports cars available.

Gallery: Lotus Elise Club Racer


[Source: Lotus]

Continue reading Lotus announces Elise Club Racer, 31 mpg sports car

Lotus announces Elise Club Racer, 31 mpg sports car originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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For the last century or so, cars and trucks have predominantly been formed from one material in particular: steel. It's not hard to see why - steel is relatively inexpensive, highly abundant and easy to form into somewhat complex shapes that can be repaired with mostly basic tools.

Recently, though, we've seen an uptick in the amounts of alternative materials used in the automotive industry. The most popular material next to steel would be aluminum, which is lightweight and can be made plenty strong enough for use in our vehicles. On the other hand, it takes a lot more energy to produce and is not as easy to work with as steel. What other alternatives are there?

Carbon fiber. You've surely heard of this wonder material, which has certainly made a recognizable appearance on the automotive scene over the last few years. Carbon fiber is light, strong and can be molded into all kinds of interesting shapes. Plus, it looks really cool... but it's not all lollipops and rainbows. Click past the jump to read more about carbon fiber's many promises, and its pitfalls.

Continue reading What are the promises and pitfalls of carbon fiber?

What are the promises and pitfalls of carbon fiber? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 03 Sep 2009 19:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carboncarbon fibercarbon fiber carcarbon fiber carsCarbonFiberCarbonFiberCarCarbonFiberCarsfeaturedgreenlingsThu, 03 Sep 2009 19:47:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Gordon Murray's T25 to seat three; be larger inside that iQ, Fortwo]]>http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/02/report-gordon-murrays-t25-to-seat-three-be-larger-inside-that/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/02/report-gordon-murrays-t25-to-seat-three-be-larger-inside-that/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/09/02/report-gordon-murrays-t25-to-seat-three-be-larger-inside-that/#commentsFiled under: ,

There's no guarantee that Gordon Murray's innovative T25 microcar will ever see the light of day. The designer has no intention of actually building the automobile himself - instead, Murray hopes to sell the rights to build the car using his equally impressive (or so we hear) iStream production method to a number of third-party assemblers. Still, development of the machine seems to be moving full steam ahead.

According to Autocar, the T25 will seat three occupants with the driver front-and-center behind a mid-mounted steering wheel in an arrangement Murray calls iCentre. Out back, two seats flank that single drivers perch. That puts the T25 directly between the two-seat Smart Fortwo and four-seat (or, 3+1 as Toyota puts it) iQ.

Despite seating one fewer passenger than the Toyota iQ, the T25 will reportedly sport more total interior volume (750 liters) and luggage carrying capacity than either of its main competitors. To access the vehicle, there will be two doors, one in the traditional hatchback location and another echoing the old BMW Isetta by opening on a hinge at the very front of the car. Sounds interesting, we look forward to seeing the rest of Murray's interesting ideas take shape.

[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Gordon Murray's T25 to seat three; be larger inside that iQ, Fortwo originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 15:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gordon murraygordon murray designgordon murray designsgordon murray t.25gordon murray t25gordon murray typ-25GordonMurrayGordonMurrayDesignGordonMurrayDesignsGordonMurrayT.25GordonMurrayT25GordonMurrayTyp-25t25type 25type-25Type25Wed, 02 Sep 2009 15:52:00 EST