Tesla Model S: First Pics
Jalopnik has just released the first ever public pics of the Tesla Model S concept electric saloon, as well some fairly detailed specs. How does a 480km range and 5.5 sec 0-100km/h sprint sound? Apparently, the entire platform will be developed in-house. Head over to Jalopnik for more pics and the full scoop.
Poking fun at the Tata Nano
Tata’s Nano was launched last week to much fanfare and very high expectations for the success of the diminutive vehicle, but almost immediately has become the brunt of jokes by motor fans worldwide. While a lot of this criticism might be unfair (at least until the vehicle has actually been driven by independant testers), some of it is quite funny nonetheless.
I found the following particularly offensive and hilarious.
Full article here.
Aptera driven by Edmunds
GreenCars in this year’s SA Blog Awards
Well, it seems that GreenCars is up for nomination for this year’s SA Blog awards in the “Best Green Blog” category. Thanks to everyone who voted for us to be nominated. Competition is very stiff, and there’s some great blogs in this category - wishing everyone the best of luck. I’m fairly certain who’ll win in this category, but will keep mum for now.
Mazda implements improved recycling systems in Japan
HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda has developed a world-first recycling technology which enhances the process it uses to recycle used bumpers from vehicles, whose useful life has ended, into raw plastic resin for use in new vehicle bumpers. The new technology is the first to enable recycling of used bumpers from different manufacturers at the same time. Additionally, by automating processes to remove metal attachments, it significantly increases recycling efficiency.
Obama Announces $2.4 Billion in Funding to Support Next Generation Electric Vehicles
US President Barack Obama made a very important announcement yesterday that should provide a massive boost in the development of future EVs. From the US DoE Web site:
POMONA, CA - Today, President Barack Obama announced the availability of $2.4 billion in funding to put American ingenuity and America’s manufacturers to work producing next generation Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles and the advanced battery components that will make these vehicles run. The initiative will create tens of thousands of U.S. jobs and help us end our addiction to foreign oil. Americans who decide to purchase these Plug-in Hybrid vehicles can claim a tax credit of up to $7,500.
“This investment will not only reduce our dependence on foreign oil, it will put Americans back to work,” President Obama said. “It positions American manufacturers on the cutting edge of innovation and solving our energy challenges.”
While visiting Southern California Edison’s Electric Vehicle Center, the President announced the following:
* The Department of Energy is offering up to $1.5 billion in grants to U.S. based manufacturers to produce these highly efficient batteries and their components.
* The Department of Energy is offering up to $500 million in grants to U.S. based manufacturers to produce other components needed for electric vehicles, such as electric motors and other components.
* The Department of Energy is offering up to $400 million to demonstrate and evaluate Plug-In Hybrids and other electric infrastructure concepts — like truck stop charging station, electric rail, and training for technicians to build and repair electric vehicles.By contributing to the reduction of petroleum use and greenhouse gas emissions, these projects will advance the United States’ economic recovery, national energy security, and environmental sustainability. Today’s announcement will also help meet the President’s goal of putting one million plug-in hybrid vehicles on the road by 2015.
Advanced batteries, capable of meeting standards for durability, performance, and weight, are a key technology for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and other electric vehicles. DOE plans to provide assistance to construct or upgrade battery manufacturing, component, and recycling plants for lithium-ion and other advanced batteries, as well as for production factories for electric drive vehicle power electronics. These agreements will help lower the cost of battery packs, batteries, and electric propulsion systems, enabling manufacturers to establish a thriving domestic electric vehicle industry. These advanced battery factories will also support battery manufacturing for consumer products, as well as military and utility applications.
DOE will also support demonstration, evaluation, and education projects to help develop the market for advanced electric drive vehicles. These vehicles will get up to 100 miles per gallon, achieve a driving range of up to 40 miles without recharging and run much like today’s hybrids beyond that 40 mile range. Under this program, the DOE will also demonstrate other electric vehicle technologies such as truck stop electrification to reduce idling, electric rail, and necessary infrastructure. The solicitation covers demonstration projects that test a variety of vehicles, including small off-road vehicles, passenger vehicles, and over-the-road trucks, in geographically and climatically diverse locations.
These projects will be funded with funds appropriated by the President’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Together, the Administration expects these projects will create tens of thousands of U.S. jobs and help end our addiction to foreign oil. The Act gives preference to activities that can be started and completed expeditiously. DOE’s approach includes jointly funding partnerships with industry to develop technologies that will support the Recovery Act’s goals and accelerate the adoption of successful technologies in high volume production vehicles. More information on the Recovery Act and projects funded by it are available at Recovery.gov
Fiat Group, Chrysler LLC and Cerberus Capital Management L.P. announce plans for a global strategic alliance
Fiat S.p.A., Chrysler LLC (Chrysler) and Cerberus Capital Management L.P., the private investment majority owner of Chrysler LLC, announced yesterday they have signed a non-binding term sheet to establish a global strategic alliance.
Press release: Daimler AG and Continental receive “Yellow Angel” award for lithium-ion technology
Stuttgart – The ADAC (German Automobile Association) has awarded its “Gelber Engel 2009” (Yellow Angel) to Daimler AG and its systems partner Continental in the Innovation & Environment category. The Stuttgart carmaker was selected for the award by Europe’s largest automobile club in recognition of its lithium-ion battery, the first such battery ever to be successfully integrated into a production passenger car. The Mercedes-Benz S 400 BlueHYBRID featuring this pioneering technology will have its market launch in summer 2009.
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Press Release: Lexus debuts HS250h at Detroit
Lexus revealed the HS250h, the world’s first dedicated luxury hybrid vehicle, at the North American International Auto Show. The HS250h will be Lexus’ fourth hybrid and the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its lineup. It also will be the first Lexus to use carbon-neutral Ecological Plastic materials in a new futuristic cockpit and interior design.
Porsche vs Tesla coming soon?
Rumour has it that Porsche is developing their own EV sportscar in-house. This makes a lot of sense for the German automaker, as it should go a long way in helping them meet Europe’s upcoming fleet-wide emissions targets.
To add credence to this rumour, Porsche has placed an order for a Tesla Roadster. Clearly then, the folks at Weissach are keen to put a Tesla through some rigorous testing and study. Can’t wait to see the results of this.
Source: Autobloggreen
