2010 Detroit Auto Show Toyota FT-CH Hybrid Concept Might Join Prius Family

2010 Detroit Auto Show Toyota FT-CH Hybrid Concept Might Join Prius Family

Prius Might Become a Family, 8 New Hybrid Models Coming
Maybe the rumors that have been floating around for a long time were true... Toyota said during its press event at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show that they are considering turning the Prius brand into a family of vehicles. Things are still very hazy, but what we know is that the company plans to introduce 8 new hybrid models in the coming few years (new models, either dedicated or hybrid versions of existing gas vehicles, but not refreshes of existing hybrids), and that the FT-CH hybrid concept is one of the models under consideration right now. Read on for more details about it.FT-CH Hybrid Concept: A kind of teenage Prius (Slightly Awkward)
"The FT-CH is a concept that would address Toyota's stated strategy to offer a wider variety of conventional hybrid choices to its customers, as it begins to introduce plug-in hybrids (PHVs) and battery electrics (BEVs) in model year 2012, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCHVs) in 2015 in global markets."The "CH" in the name stands for "compact hybrid", and that's pretty much exactly what it is. In fact, if you mentally remove all the things that are obviously "concept" about it, it's pretty easy to imagine what a production version would look like. A kind of teenage Prius: "Compared to Prius, it is 22 inches shorter in overall length, yet loses less than an inch in overall width."Hopefully, if the FT-CH makes it to production - under a better name - it will be significantly cheaper than the Prius and allow people who would like a hybrid but can't afford one to make the jump. This could be another hit for Toyota, at least until 100% electric cars and plug-in hybrids are inexpensive enough for the mainstream. Of course, it's still better to not drive a car whenever possible (walk, bike, take transit, telecommute). But if you're going to drive, find the most fuel-efficient model that fits your needs.

Auto Expo 2010: Suzuki unveils SX4 Hybrid Concept, plans for 2015 production

Auto Expo 2010: Suzuki unveils SX4 Hybrid Concept, plans for 2015 production

In addition to the cool R3 MPV, Suzuki is also showing off a new SX4 Hybrid concept vehicle at the New Delhi Motor Show. Interestingly, this SX4 uses a previously unseen hybrid system developed by Maruti Suzuki with assistance from India's National Hybrid Propulsion Program and the (deep breath) Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Sources' High Energy Density Battery Development Program.

This new hybrid drivetrain is a full parallel system – meaning it can run on electricity alone for short distances – utilizing a 1.2-liter gasoline-burning engine with a 50 kW electric motor. Unlike many hybrids that use a CVT transmission, the SX4 is equipped with a five-speed automated manual unit. A lithium ion battery pack of unknown capacity stores the electrons.

Suzuki will be demonstrating its SX4 Hybrid during India's Common Wealth Games in October and plans to have the technology in full production as early as 2015.

Ford Fusion Hybrid named 2010 car of year

Ford Fusion Hybrid named 2010 car of year

DETROIT - Ford Motor Co.'s market momentum got a lift Monday by winning both the 2010 North American Car and Truck of the Year awards.

Ford's Fusion Hybrid midsize sedan took top car honors and its versatile Transit Connect compact van snagged truck of the year at the Detroit auto show.

It was only the third time in 17 years that an automaker has won both awards, selected by 49 auto journalists and given annually since 1994. Finalists for the car award included the Buick LaCrosse and Volkswagen Golf GTI and TDI diesel. The Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Transit Connect and Subaru Outback were finalists for the truck award.
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"It's such a huge motivator for our team," Mark Fields, Ford's president of the Americas, told reporters after the announcements on the first day of media previews for the show. "It's a reaffirmation of all the hard work over the past couple of years."

The awards, given annually by journalists who test cars throughout the year, are often used by automakers in advertising. Vehicles are judged on innovation, design, safety, handling, driver satisfaction and value.

Ford, the only U.S.-based automaker to avoid bankruptcy protection, has fared better than its two Detroit rivals, with overall sales down 15 percent last year compared with a 36 percent drop for Chrysler and a 30 percent decline for GM.

Ford's final month of 2009 was strong, with a 33 percent increase in sales thanks to strong demand for midsize cars. Last year, it gained U.S. market share for the first time since 1995, helped by critical raves for its fuel-efficient cars, like the midsize Fusion. Its compact Focus and popular Escape crossover also boosted sales.

How Hybrid Cars Work

Hybrid cars like the 2007 Honda Civic Hybrid are designed for fuel efficiency and low emissions. See more hybrid car pictures

Have you pulled your car up to the gas pump lately and been shocked by the high price of gasoline? As the pump clicked past $20, $30, $40 or even $50, maybe you thought about trading in your car for something that gets better mileage. Or maybe you're worried that your car is contributing to the greenhouse effect.

The auto industry has the technology to address these concerns. It's the hybrid car. There are a lot of hybrid models on the market these days, and most automobile manufacturers have announced plans to manufacture their own versions.

How does a hybrid automobile work? What goes on under the hood to give you 20 or 30 more miles per gallon than the standard automobile? And does it pollute less just because it gets better gas mileage? In this article, we'll help you understand how this technology works, and we'll even give you some tips on how to drive a hybrid car for maximum efficiency.

Many people have probably owned a hybrid vehicle at some point. For example, a mo-ped (a motorized pedal bike) is a type of hybrid because it combines the power of a gasoline engine with the pedal power of its rider. In fact, hybrid vehicles are all around us. Most of the locomotives we see pulling trains are diesel-electric hybrids. Cities like Seattle have diesel-electric buses -- these can draw electric power from overhead wires or run on diesel when they are away from the wires. Giant mining trucks are often diesel-electric hybrids. Submarines are also hybrid vehicles -- some are nuclear-electric and some are diesel-electric. Any vehicle that combines two or more sources of power that can directly or indirectly provide propulsion power is a hybrid. Most hybrid cars on the road right now are gasoline-electric hybrids, although French car maker PSA Peugeot Citroen has two diesel-electric hybrid cars in the wworks. Since gasoline hybrids are the kind you'll find at your local car dealership, we'll focus on those in this article.

Los Angeles Auto Show Subaru Hybrid Tourer Concept

Los Angeles Auto Show Subaru Hybrid Tourer Concept

Hybrids Operate

Hybrids Operate

Hybrids are a relatively new concept that combines two key technologies together to form a hybrid of the two. They encompass the gasoline engine and electric motor to bring improved fuel efficiency. The technology couldn't have come at a better time due to the increased fuel consumption being seen around the world. Hybrid vehicles are not the final solution to the depleting oil supply, however, they serve a great purpose while the world struggles to find a suitable, clean, and renewable energy source.Hybrid technology often utilizes:

Regenerative Braking: Energy that is usually wasted from coasting or braking is turned into electricity by turning the wheels of the electric motor, which functions as a generator. The electricity is then stored in the hybrid's battery pack until it is needed from the electric motor.
Electric Motor Drive/Assist: In my Honda Civic hybrid, this is called Integrated Motor Assist (IMA). It works from the electric motor, which provides additional power to the gasoline engine so it can retain high fuel efficiency without consuming more gas. Usually it assists in acceleration and hill climbing. Other vehicles like in the popular Toyota Prius work by the electric motor providing all the power during low speed driving conditions, such as city driving less than 30 mph, where gasoline engines are the least efficient.

Automatic Start/Shutoff: This is a feature known to be on hybrids. It simply shuts off all or part of the engine when the vehicle is at a full stop. The vehicle restarts on its own when the brake pedal is off and the gasoline pedal is pressed. This not only prevents wasted energy from idling but improves gas mileage and reduces the amount of harmful car pollutants released into the atmosphere like the known carcinogenic benzene.

The Number of Hybrid Drivers in Massachusetts Jumps 36 Percent in Less Than a Year

Travelers of Massachusetts offers key discounts for those driving environmentally-friendly vehicles

hybrid carWORCESTER, Mass.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Massachusetts drivers are increasingly going green as the number of registered hybrid vehicles in the state has increased by 36 percent during the past nine months. The timing couldn’t be better for those drivers as the state’s new managed competition system for auto insurance allows them, for the first time in state history, to take advantage of auto insurance discounts created especially for hybrid drivers from insurers such as Travelers of Massachusetts.

According to the state Registry of Motor Vehicles, there are currently 22,353 registered hybrid cars in Massachusetts, up from 16,477 in July of 2007, for an increase of 36 percent. Hybrid cars are generally defined as vehicles that use gasoline and an alternative fuel source such as electric or fuel cell.

Travelers introduced the hybrid discount option to stay ahead of one of the fastest-growing markets in the industry. Providing the right insurance solutions that are in-synch with today’s environmentally conscious individuals is one way Travelers of Massachusetts is meeting the needs of its customers.

“Travelers of Massachusetts is pleased to offer a discount up to 10 percent on auto insurance to Massachusetts’ hybrid drivers,” said Dick Welch, president of Travelers of Massachusetts. “Ever since Travelers wrote the nation’s first automobile policy back in 1897, the company has been committed to meeting the evolving needs of the consumer with innovative insurance products. Protecting the environment and conserving natural resources are important principles to us and Travelers of Massachusetts is proud to do our part to encourage the use of fuel efficient vehicles.”

To learn more about the hybrid discount, Travelers has launched a Web site specifically for hybrid enthusiasts at www.hybridtravelers.com. The site features federal and state incentives for hybrid owners and information on how to take advantage of the hybrid discount.

Travelers of Massachusetts is the “umbrella” brand name for all personal insurance policies issued by a Travelers company in Massachusetts. Homeowners policies are written by The Phoenix Insurance Company, The Travelers Indemnity Company, The Standard Fire Insurance Company, and The Travelers Commercial Insurance Company. Auto policies are written by The Premier Insurance Company of Massachusetts, an independent, single-state subsidiary of The Travelers Indemnity Company. For more information, visit www.travelersma.com.

About Travelers

Travelers understands that life and business are inherently dynamic and that the best way to serve agents, brokers and policyholders is to deliver insurance that evolves to stay in-synch with life and business as they change. For more information on being in-synch, visit www.travelers.com.

The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE: TRV) is a leading property casualty insurance company selling primarily through independent agents and brokers. The company’s diverse business lines offer its global customers a wide range of insurance coverage in both the personal and commercial settings, including auto, homeowners, construction, small business, oil and gas, ocean marine, surety and management liability, global technology and public sector services. Travelers is a Fortune 100 company, with 2007 revenues of $26 billion and total assets of $115 billion. The company has approximately 33,000 employees.



Travelers of Massachusetts offers key discounts for those driving environmentally-friendly vehicles

hybrid carWORCESTER, Mass.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Massachusetts drivers are increasingly going green as the number of registered hybrid vehicles in the state has increased by 36 percent during the past nine months. The timing couldn’t be better for those drivers as the state’s new managed competition system for auto insurance allows them, for the first time in state history, to take advantage of auto insurance discounts created especially for hybrid drivers from insurers such as Travelers of Massachusetts.

According to the state Registry of Motor Vehicles, there are currently 22,353 registered hybrid cars in Massachusetts, up from 16,477 in July of 2007, for an increase of 36 percent. Hybrid cars are generally defined as vehicles that use gasoline and an alternative fuel source such as electric or fuel cell.

Travelers introduced the hybrid discount option to stay ahead of one of the fastest-growing markets in the industry. Providing the right insurance solutions that are in-synch with today’s environmentally conscious individuals is one way Travelers of Massachusetts is meeting the needs of its customers.

“Travelers of Massachusetts is pleased to offer a discount up to 10 percent on auto insurance to Massachusetts’ hybrid drivers,” said Dick Welch, president of Travelers of Massachusetts. “Ever since Travelers wrote the nation’s first automobile policy back in 1897, the company has been committed to meeting the evolving needs of the consumer with innovative insurance products. Protecting the environment and conserving natural resources are important principles to us and Travelers of Massachusetts is proud to do our part to encourage the use of fuel efficient vehicles.”

To learn more about the hybrid discount, Travelers has launched a Web site specifically for hybrid enthusiasts at www.hybridtravelers.com. The site features federal and state incentives for hybrid owners and information on how to take advantage of the hybrid discount.

Travelers of Massachusetts is the “umbrella” brand name for all personal insurance policies issued by a Travelers company in Massachusetts. Homeowners policies are written by The Phoenix Insurance Company, The Travelers Indemnity Company, The Standard Fire Insurance Company, and The Travelers Commercial Insurance Company. Auto policies are written by The Premier Insurance Company of Massachusetts, an independent, single-state subsidiary of The Travelers Indemnity Company. For more information, visit www.travelersma.com.

About Travelers

Travelers understands that life and business are inherently dynamic and that the best way to serve agents, brokers and policyholders is to deliver insurance that evolves to stay in-synch with life and business as they change. For more information on being in-synch, visit www.travelers.com.

The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE: TRV) is a leading property casualty insurance company selling primarily through independent agents and brokers. The company’s diverse business lines offer its global customers a wide range of insurance coverage in both the personal and commercial settings, including auto, homeowners, construction, small business, oil and gas, ocean marine, surety and management liability, global technology and public sector services. Travelers is a Fortune 100 company, with 2007 revenues of $26 billion and total assets of $115 billion. The company has approximately 33,000 employees.

Electricity Auto Hybrid

Electricity Auto Hybrid

Electricity has been used to power transportation vehicles since the early 1900s. When used to power electric vehicles (EVs), electricity is stored in an energy storage device such as a battery. EV batteries have a limited storage capacity and their electricity must be replenished by plugging the vehicle into an electrical source. The electricity for recharging the batteries usually comes from coal, but renewable sources such as solar, wind, or geothermal energy can also generate electricity. The range of electric vehicles is limited; thus, they are particularly well suited to short-distance, high-use applications -- they frequently are used inside airports, on college campuses, or in parks or recreation centers. For regular city and highway driving, electricity can work in conjunction with a gasoline-powered engine, as in hybrid vehicles. Fourteen hybrid car models are available for sale today. In total, almost 300,000 American drivers own hybrid cars. For a list of hybrid vehicle makes and models, visit Discover Alternatives.
Hybrid power generation: Hybrid-electric vehicles refer to powertrains that use a battery-powered electric motor, a gasoline internal combustion engine, and a concept known as regenerative braking to power the vehicle. To optimize performance, emissions, and fuel efficiency, a computer manages the energy from these three systems. The computer senses the driving mode and the battery state of charge and then directs energy from either the battery system or the gasoline engine to the most appropriate drive train component, an electric motor or an engine drive shaft. Regenerative braking systems, which recover energy that is otherwise wasted, allow hybrids to be especially fuel-efficient in stop-and-go city driving. Utilizing these hybrid technologies, fuel economy can be improved by up to 25 percent over conventional automobiles.

Toyota FT-HS Hybrid Sports Concept at NAIAS 2007

Toyota FT-HS Hybrid Sports Concept at NAIAS 2007

The Toyota FT-HS hybrid sports concept will make its debut at the 2007 North American International Auto Show.

Pairing a potent hybrid powertrain with essential sports car fundamentals, the FT-HS concept was a joint undertaking of Calty, Toyota's North American-based, research and design center located in Newport Beach, Calif., and Toyota's California-based Advanced Product Strategy Group. The design team was assigned the task of creating a mid-priced sports car that integrates ecology and emotion in a concept that addresses the question "What is a suitable sports car for the 21st Century?"

"Drivers today are not satisfied with cars that are simply fast," said Kevin Hunter, vice president, Calty Design Research. "In addition to driving enjoyment, today's drivers are concerned about safety, ecology and social responsibility."

The FT-HS incorporates hybrid capability while maintaining sports car essentials, such as a sleek profile, lightweight aero-dynamic materials, and an advanced high-output powertrain for revolutionary acceleration and optimal performance. This 21st century sports car is fun-to-drive with eco-friendly benefits such as ultra-low emissions and fuel efficiency. The FT-HS appeals to an emerging buyer who grew up eco-conscious and perceives technology as a necessity, not a luxury.

This two-plus-two concept is a front-engine, rear-drive sports car with a projected zero-to-60 acceleration in the four-second range. A powerful V6, 3.5L-engine is coupled with a 21st century sports hybrid system with a target power output of approximately 400-horsepower. At a mid-priced market position, FT-HS would be a true "attainable exotic" with 21st Century performance.

FT-HS expresses the core values of a Toyota Brand design strategy that combines two key elements: J-Factor and Vibrant Clarity. J-Factor refers to the local and global acceptance of Japanese-inspired design and cultural sensibilities. Vibrant Clarity is the design language used to express the J-factor much in the same way that L-Finesse is the language of the Lexus Division. It is the combination of perfect imbalance, freeform geometrics and integrated component architecture. The result of these three elements is subtractive mass, a minimalist style that is not only lightweight, but also looks lightweight.

The exterior design was led by Calty designer, Alex Shen. From a design perspective, the theme of the FT-HS achieves sleek, taut surfaces in its exterior features – especially in the doors and body style. The front and rear have been sculpted to remove mass around key functional components. Freeform geometrics define the integration of fluid surfaces contrasting hard-edge "Aero-Corners" which promote smooth airflow and reduce turbulence.

The roof has a distinctive scooped-out section designed to reduce aerodynamic drag and provide head room at the key areas. Made from carbon fiber Kevlar, the roof retracts so that the roof panel and back window pivot fluidly in a downward motion to stow in the rear seat space.

The vehicle's triangular profile has a floating "C" pillar, aero corners, a full upper-body pan, and innovative open top. A hood features a scalloped channel, exposing the hybrid engine. Integrated component architecture can be seen in the aerospace-inspired lighting. The tail lamp unit spans the entire rear, and has an integrated retractable spoiler. Light-emitting diode (LED) clusters are located in the headlamps and the wing for energy-efficiency and decreased heat loss. Other exterior features include a speed-activated wing that elevates at high speed for additional stability and traction. The rear showcases a carbon fiber lower diffuser with integrated wide exhaust and carbon fiber wheels.

The driver-oriented interior was created by Calty designer, William Chergosky and exudes sleekness, technology, and performance. The lean skeletal look is achieved with exposed cross-car architecture and high-tech materials such as carbon fiber, and titanium. FT-HS' interior features create a dedicated driver's cockpit which include subtractive mass expressions such as cross-car instrument panel structure and delta wing driver pod. The delta-wing driver's pod integrates many useful functions into a lightweight structural unit. All of the important functions and details are presented almost exclusively to the driver. For example, touch-trace sensors which surround the driver and act as tactile guides for finger controls when traveling at high speeds.

By eliminating the "B" pillar and creating a suspended "C" pillar, the minimalist style works in conjunction with subtractive mass. An integrated instrument panel surrounds the driver, creating an enclosed pod effect. Armrests flow seamlessly into the door and surrounding interior.

Seating is optimized for a lightweight appearance and function: the seating accommodates four and then coverts to a two-seater when the roof retracts. The passenger-seat area is open with a simple exposed airbag on the cross-car beam.

A telescoping hub-less steering wheel incorporates semi-automatic paddle shifters and allows the meter to be shifted forward in order to shorten the driver's focus-time between the road and meter, and ultimately enhance driver focus.

“FT-HS redefines the sports car experience not only with styling but also in function and performance,” said Hunter. “The FT-HS is Toyota’s answer to the question ‘What is a suitable sports car for the 21st Century?’”

TOYOTA FT-HS CONCEPT VEHICLE PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

DRIVETRAIN
3.5 Liter V6 hybrid electric

DIMENSIONS (inches)
Overall Length: 170.27
Overall Width: 73.23
Overall Height: 50.79
Wheelbase: 104.33
Wheels: Carbon Fiber
Tire Sizes: Front 245/35R21 Rear 285/30R21

Hybrid SUV Roundup

Hybrid SUV Roundup

Hybrid SUVs combine the interior space and ride quality of an SUV with fuel-saving capabilities of hybrid cars. Some environmentalists have criticized the hybrid SUV as a misapplication of gas-electric technology. It’s true that hybrid SUVs do not reach the level of fuel efficiency of smaller hybrids in terms of miles-per-gallon. Yet, miles-per-gallon is a non-linear and counter-intuitive form of measurement. An apparently small jump in fuel efficiency—for example, from 14 to 16 mpg—saves as much oil as increasing fuel economy from 35 to 50 mpg, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists.

Which are the Best Hybrid SUVs? That Depends on Your Needs.

With more than 10 hybrid SUVs currently on the market—and more in the works— consumers can choose features and pricing for the best hybrid SUVs suited to their specific needs:

• Affordability and Maximum Efficiency: Ford Escape Hybrid, Mazda Tribute Hybrid, Mercury Mariner Hybrid
• V8 Performance and Towing: Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, GMC Yukon Hybrid
• Seven-Passenger Seating: Toyota Highlander Hybrid
• Luxury: Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, Lexus RX 400h

Dead Auto Hybrids Walking Design

Frank Klegon, Chrysler's Executive Vice President of Product Development, revealed the Chrysler Aspen Hemi Hybrid and the Dodge Durango Hemi Hybrid at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November, 2007. Less than a year later, the Hemi Hybrids are dead. Collapsing full-size SUV sales doomed Chrysler’s hybrids before they had a chance.

October’s auto sales figures were disastrous. And hidden in the dismal numbers were a couple of hybrid oddities. You might view them as thrillers: The Case of the Missing Hybrids, double-billed with Last Hybrid Standing.

Missing from October figures were the Dodge Durango Hybrid and Chrysler Aspen Hybrid, for which not a single sale was recorded. Regular versions were sold—984 Durangos and 1,045 Aspens—but nary a Hybrid. Chrysler explained the missing hybrids it this way: “We have not delivered any through dealers yet, as [the hybrids] are just being delivered to dealers for the first time this week.”

Both vehicles will go out of production next month—when Chrysler shutters its Newark, Del., assembly plant. In other words, those hybrids will arrive in showrooms for the first time only weeks before they die for good. Year-to-date sales of both (non-hybrid) SUVs totaled just 37,049, fully 42 percent lower than the 64,084 sold by October 2007. That rate, said industry analyst Aaron Bragman of Global Insight, probably isn’t even enough to cover the plant’s fixed costs.

And that last hybrid standing? It would be the single, solitary Honda Accord Hybrid sold during October, called out from an overall total of 19,783 Accords. (Last October Honda sold 243 Accord Hybrids within 30,936 Accords.) It’s just a straggler, but it highlights the reality that a handful of fairly old “new cars” is buried within the sales figures every month—this would have been a 2007 model. And it was far from the only one this year; 197 Accord Hybrids found buyers in 2008.

The Accord Hybrid had its own history of headlines. One notable review was titled, “Sips gas. Hauls ass.” And that was its niche; it was the first “performance hybrid”. High-performance hybrids turned out to be a niche so small that few buyers cared. They sold OK in 2005, but 2006 sales plummeted as more hybrids entered the market. In June 2007, Honda threw in the towel. If you want one, check with your dealer; you never know what’s kicking around.

Honda Accord Hybrid

An unknown car shopper, somewhere in America, drove off—perhaps peeling out—a dealership lot with the very last Honda Accord Hybrid in the US. Honda gambled, and lost, that hybrid buyers would be equally interested in efficiency and speed.

The auto hybrid supercar In Auto Market

The auto hybrid supercar In Auto Market

The auto hybrid supercar In Auto Market

Supercar maker McLaren is planning a hybrid sportscar to take on Ferrari and Lamborghini.The maker, which built the world’s fastest production car in the 1990s, recently announced it would return to building production cars, releasing its first model in 2011.

McLaren Automotive, a spin-off of McLaren’s F1 team, has fuelled speculation of a hybrid supercar by advertising for a senior engineer specialising in hybrid technology to join its small Surrey-based team.The advertisement, posted on the company’s website, calls for an engineer to: “lead the technical assessment, integration and application of appropriate hybrid powertrain technology.”

The company has already dabbled in some forms of hybrid technology, developing a kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) for its F1 cars. KERS converts kinetic energy created during deceleration into electrical energy - stored in a battery - or mechanical energy, stored in the flywheel. Both Ferrari and Lamborghini have already revealed plans to integrate hybrid technology into their supercars.

Lamborghini boss Stephan Winkelmann said in a statement last month that hybrid technology was one of a number of options the company was exploring as part of a plan to reduce its vehicles’ carbon dioxide emissions by 35 per cent by 2015. Ferrari boss Amedeo Felisa recently hinted to motoring media in Europe that the Prancing Horse could display its first hybrid concept car at the Los Angeles motor show later this year.

McLaren’s hybrid is part of an ambitious plant to tackle the Italian supercar heavyweights head-on by building up to 4000 supercars a year – with three separate models - by 2015.

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The company’s first supercar has been in development for two years and was recently photographed by Drive’s spy cameras during cold-weather testing.


It is expected to compete with Ferrari’s F430 and Lamborghini’s Gallardo and McLaren is hoping to build 1000 cars in 2011 – considerably more than the 100 McLaren F1s made between 1993 and 1998.

McLaren will this year end its SLR road-car co-operation with majority shareholder and F1 engine partner Mercedes-Benz, paving the way for the new entity, led by former F1 team boss Ron Dennis.

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The original McLaren F1 was powered by a BMW V12 engine and was the world’s fastest product car between 1998 and 2005.

British website Autocar, which first spotted the ad for the hybrid engineer, quotes a McLaren spokesman as saying the company is interested in hybrid technology.

“It (hybrid technology) is something we want as a forward-thinking, technology-driven company. We have been considering it for future projects.

“All the advert means is that we are looking for a senior engineer in powertrain hybrid technology. Read into it what you will,” the spokesman told Autocar.

McLaren has released few details about its first supercar, codenamed the P11, but is expected to launch the car at the LA motor show.

Auto Industry: Brazil tops five million hybrid cars

Auto Industry: Brazil tops five million hybrid cars

SAO PAULO (AFP) - More than five million vehicles and almost nine in ten new vehicles in Brazil now run on both gasoline and ethanol derived from sugar cane, the car manufacturing association Anfavea said Monday.
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Anfavea president Jackson Schneider told reporters in Sao Paulo that Brazil -- a pioneer in biofuels -- has made more than five million so-called "flexi-fuel" vehicles since the first came off the production line in 2003.

Some 4.97 million vehicles were sold nationally by the end of February and "the five million vehicle mark has already been passed", he said.

Last month, 168,744 new hybrid vehicles were registered -- 88.3 percent of the total -- compared to a total of 2,003,090 last year.

Schneider predicted that such vehicles would make up 52 percent of the market by 2013, up from 12 percent in 2007.

The biofuel industry is rapidly expanding as governments and companies try to wean themselves off oil, and Brazil is a world leader, last year producing 22 billion liters of ethanol biofuel derived from sugar cane.
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Honda Hybrid: Honda Civic Hybrid

Honda Civic Hybrid

As soon as the second-generation Prius arrived on the scene in 2003, the Civic Hybrid was cast in its role as runner-up in the hybrid world. It’s true that the Civic Hybrid is not quite as fuel-efficient, not quite as comfortable and roomy, and not quite as powerful as the Prius. But the gas-electric Civic, like Rodney Dangerfield, deserves more respect than it receives.

In fact, it’s the Civic Hybrid’s un-hybrid-like looks and sticker price that makes it such a compelling proposition. Prius buyers usually spend at least a couple thousand more dollars to buy Toyota’s celebrity hybrid than those who drive off with a Civic. And yet the Civic’s 40-mpg in the city and 45-mpg on the highway, places it right next to the Prius as the only two vehicles with average fuel economy in the 40s.

Perhaps more importantly, the Civic Hybrid looks like a cool car, not a cutesy electronic device. Auto critics have heaped praise on the Civic's design, calling it "gorgeous" and "head-turning."

The Civic matches a sporty design with all of Honda’s engineering prowess put to action. Honda is on the fourth generation of its integrated engine/motor hybrid design. The system combines a 1.3 liter iVTEC 4-cylinder engine with a 20-hp electric motor to deliver a total of 110 hp. The Civic can save gas by de-activating all of its cylinders when they are not needed, and uses eight spark plugs to allow greater flexibility with the firing order for more complete combustion of fuel in the cylinder. Add improved battery packs and regenerative braking from the previous generation to produce a hybrid with Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions status. The feather in its cap is top safety rankings from NHTSA and IIHS.

So if the Prius design is not your cup of tea, and you can live with a compact rather than a mid-size sedan, then the Honda Civic Hybrid is worth a little respect and consideration. Read More......

Hyundai and Kia Produce Of Hybrid Car

Hyundai and Kia Produce Of Hybrid Car

The Government of South Korea, Wednesday, announces the five year development plan to produce car hybrid ( applies oil fuel and electrics) through two the car producers, Hyundai Motor and Kia Motors, with production until 300000 units per year at 2010.

So far, Hyundai Motor supply 250 mobile units hybrid to governmental offices since the year 2004. The car is level same with medium size passenger car, but rather efficient the fuel around 18 kms per ithe litre, compared to oil burning barium car around 12,5 kms per litre.

The government functionaries using car hybrid produced by Hyundai to express, they like with performance and vehicle supply, and efficient in expense of bensinPemerintah finishs fund 36700 dollars AS/unit car hybrid.
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Auto Hybrids Electric Car: Launchs New Model Swimming Car

Swimming Car" New MOdel'

This image, made available by Swiss specialist car maker Rinspeed, in London, Thursday Feb, 14, 2008, shows their new model, the sQuba, which the company claims is the world's first real submersible car, and which will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March. Rinspeed boss Frank M. Rinderknecht, known for his extraordinary automotive creations, is also a James Bond fan and kept revisiting in his mind, the scene from the 1977 Bond movie 'The Spy Who Loved Me'. 'For three decades I have tried to imagine how it might be possible to build a car that can fly under water. Now we have made this dream come true.', Rinderknecht said. The car, which is stable at a depth of 10 meters, has zero emissions, is driven by three electric motors, and powered by rechargeable Lithium-Ion batteries.

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Along Body Style : Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, along with its GMC counterpart, the Yukon Hybrid, are the first vehicles to utilize the advanced two-mode hybrid powertrain developed jointly by BMW, DaimlerChrysler, and General Motors. This full-size SUV launches a new breed of larger vehicles that are significantly greener than their gas-powered versions. Maybe that's why the Tahoe Hybrid received the questionable title of “Green Car of the Year” at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show. The panelists may have jumped the gun a little, as this hybrid doesn’t even meet the corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standard.

The crux of the Tahoe Hybrid’s powertrain is GM’s 6-liter Vortec V8 with cylinder deactivation technology. In other words, this engine can shut down four of its eight cylinders when the additional power is not needed. That saves fuel. Beyond the engine, there’s a 300-volt battery that hides below the second-row seats. The vehicle's two electric motors are housed within the transmission.

In order to keep the vehicle running at peak efficiency, this hybrid system is able to run in one of two separate modes—hence the name "two-mode hybrid." For low-speed, low-impact driving, the powertrain works just like other hybrids; it stops the V8 engine whenever possible so that it may draw power from one or both of the electric motors. The second mode is mostly for highway driving, at which time one or both electric motors can run concurrently along with the V8 engine in order to provide a power boost. The two-mode transmission is the key to the whole system, which attempts to keep the engine running at the optimum rpm for low fuel consumption. Essentially, it manages a balancing act between the V8 engine and the electric motors. It is also responsible for making the transitions between the two modes practically seamless Read More......

Plug in your hybrid, pollute less?

Do cars that run on electricity pollute less than those that run on gas?

Generally, yes, but the answer depends on where you live, say experts. It also depends on the type of electric-powered hybrid you drive.

Rising gasoline prices, combined with fears about global warming, have prompted sales of hybrid cars, which run on a combination of gas and electricity.

The current oil situation has also begun to create interest in so-called plug-in hybrids. These cars are similar to conventional hybrids but rely more on electricity and get charged through a wall socket. Right now, only a handful of plug-in hybrids exist, but some companies plan to offer conversion kits later this year.

Utilities, meanwhile, often generate electricity both in the U.S. and developing nations by burning coal. Thus, plug-in hybrids can contribute greenhouse gases to the atmosphere even though, as with standard hybrids, the emissions from the tailpipe are minimal.

Widespread adoption of plug-ins, or even conventional hybrids, will likely take quite some time. Consumers keep cars for several years, so the turnover in the market is slow. Car companies remain notoriously conservative. New cars must also thread the testing and safety procedures of various governmental agencies.

Still, it's worth paying attention to the implications for the environment of the new technologies hitting the streets.

As in real estate, location is key. In California, coal produces only about 18 percent of the electricity. A plug-in hybrid will thus produce less than half of the carbon dioxide of a regular car, according to Andrew Frank, a professor of mechanical engineering at the University of California at Davis.

A conventional hybrid like the Toyota Prius--which generates electricity from the battery and heat coming off of the brakes--doesn't get power from the grid. Thus, these high-mileage cars pollute less than regular cars but pollute more than those rare plug-ins.

Joe Romm, a former official with the Department of Energy turned author and clean-energy advocate, certainly sees it that way. In 12,000 miles of driving, Romm says, a gas-powered car will roughly produce 12,000 pounds of carbon dioxide while a Prius might generate 6,000 pounds. A plug-in on average might emit 3,900 pounds. (Other pollutants include sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide, products of the internal combustion engine.)

But in places where coal accounts for 80 percent or more of the electricity, the situation changes. There, a gas-powered car and a plug-in create about an equal amount of pollution, making the conventional hybrid the least polluting.

"A worst case does exist. Pennsylvania and Ohio are (mostly) coal. There, the greenhouse gases of a PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) to a car are even," said Felix Kramer, founder of the California Cars Initiative, or CalCars. "But you're still getting the benefit of reducing reliance on imported fuel."

Modernization can also tip the balance toward electricity. New coal-burning plants emit lower levels of pollution, for reasons including more efficient equipment in general and technology for capturing of the emissions.

"Power plants are getting significantly cleaner. The reduction on CO2 is pretty significant," said Bob Graham, a project manager for electronic transportation at the Electric Power Research Institute.

To get a better handle on the issue, EPRI is conducting a study of how much pollution a hypothetical plug-in hybrid car would produce in Cleveland in 2015 and 2030. At the moment, 55 percent of the electricity in the city comes from coal while the rest comes from nuclear power and other sources. ERPI hopes to have data later this year. The study will look at carbon dioxide emissions, but also mercury and nitrogen compounds.

Similarly, an increase in solar power capacity could reduce the overall emission of pollutants because more electricity would come from a clean source. Some companies are also looking, further out, at ways to capture carbon dioxide generated at plants in sealed underground caves. Erecting new power plants and solar facilities, however, takes time and money.

Hydrogen, which may become an energy source even further out in the future, has its own greenhouse gas issues too. Most hydrogen today gets produced by mixing methane and water at high temperatures. The process produces 9.3 kilograms of carbon dioxide for every kilogram of hydrogen, according to Gerald Rothwell, a professor of economics at Stanford University. (The carbon dioxide can be captured at the plant, but most commercial producers of hydrogen at the moment let it loose.)

But even if plug-in hybrids or hydrogen take years, drivers can still reduce fumes today.

"A lot of the current hybrids are extremely clean, especially when it comes to CO2," Graham said.

More Details Available on the CNG Toyota Camry at the LA Auto Show

More Details Available on the CNG Toyota Camry at the LA Auto Show

More Details Available on the CNG Toyota Camry at the LA Auto Show

Toyota is bringing the compressed natural gas (CNG) Camry Hybrid Concept vehicle to the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show. The Toyota hybrid engine is powered by electricity (battery) and natural gas, rather than the normal gasoline electric hybrid Camry. According to Toyota, natural gas is a clean and safe alternative transport fuel. It can potentially reduce U.S. dependency on foreign oil and reduce vehicle operating costs. Currently more than 99 percent of natural gas used in the U.S. comes from domestic & other North American sources. Proven worldwide natural gas reserves are estimated to last until 2100 and have the potential to last until 2200 through improved advanced production methods.

Natural gas also produces lower particulate emissions, nitrous oxide (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2) and non-methane organic gases (NMOG), and less CO2 per unit of energy when compared with gasoline. In addition, it has a higher flash point (ignition temperature) than gasoline, can run at a higher compression ratio and is quickly dispersed into the atmosphere, should a leak occur.

The 'fuel tanks' for the CNG Hybrid Camry are two tanks installed in the spare tire well area. The tires have been replaced with run-flat tires from Bridgeston (19 x 7.5 alloy wheels and Bridgestone Potenza 225/35ZR19) since there's no spare tire.The custom front fascia and front bumper cover eliminate the grill opening, while the custom rear bumper covers the tail pipe and visible exhaust system. The ride height has been lowered and new side body skirts and very visible "Compressed Natural Gas Hybrid" graphics adorn the vehicle.

In 1999, Toyota marketed a CNG-powered four-cylinder Camry to fleet customers in Calfornia, but customers were not attracted to the specialized vehicle. Special refueling techniques and limited re-fueling points make for limited interest. There are still less than 1,000 CNHG refueling stations nationwide, with less than half open to the public.

"Toyota believes CNG has huge potential, both in the U.S. and globally," said Hostetter, "but CNG is just one of the many alternative fuels we're exploring in our ongoing advanced technology research and development."

TOYOTA CNG CAMRY HYBRID CONCEPT
PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS
POWERTRAIN
2.4 liter, 4-cylinder engine with Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive(R)
Gasoline fuel system replaced with CNG system

ESTIMATED FUEL ECONOMY (mpg)
City/Highway/Combined = 32/34/33
(Gasoline Camry Hybrid = 33/34/34)

NET HORSEPOWER (Engine + Electric Motor + Generator + Power Storage)
170 hp

CNG SYSTEM
-- Two (2) Lincoln composite Type 4 tanks -- plastic liner with carbon
fiber wrapped exterior
-- Tanks installed in spare tire well area
-- Maximum 3,600 psi


CAPACITY
Proposed 8 gallon gasoline equivalent

RANGE
250+ miles

DIMENSIONS (inches)
Overall Length: 191.2
Overall Width: 71.7
Overall Height: 57.5
Wheelbase: 109.3
Wheel Size: 19 x 7.5 alloy wheels

Auto Hybrid Ferrari

Auto Hybrid Ferrari

The hybrid Ferrari may not be due out for another 4 years, but Ferrari promises it will be what you would expect. In other words, the Ferrari Hybrid will most likely mate an electric motor to a V12. (Source: First Ferrari hybrid will be a V12 - Autocar.co.uk)

Why the wait? Ferrari says they are waiting for the battery technology to improve.

In the meantime, expect start-stop in the California next March.

Auto Hybrid Products 2010' Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Auto Hybrid Products 2010' Toyota Highlander Hybrid

For 2008, Toyota completely redesigned the Highlander Hybrid. It offers more refinement and a larger body, while still maintaining the same level of fuel economy as its predecessor. That’s an achievement because a change in size (an therefore, weight) usually has an immediate and noticeable effect on the fuel efficiency of a vehicle. Not so with the Highlander Hybrid. This versatile SUV grants more room and better packaging, while keeping its green stripes.

Power for the Highlander Hybrid comes from a 3.3-liter gasoline V6 engine, which is rated at 208 horsepower. In addition, two electric motors join this powertrain, one in the front and one in the rear, boosting the overall horsepower to a very respectable 270. There is a third electric motor that operates soley as an engine starter. The whole system mates to a continuously variable transmission, which is engineered to manage the various sources of power in a way that maximizes the Highlander Hybrid’s efficiency. In the way of performance, expect brisk acceleration and capable handling. You will have little to complain about in that department.

For even greater emphasis on efficiency, Toyota has outfitted the Highlander Hybrid with both "EV" and "Econ" driving modes. In EV, this hybrid functions solely on electric power, but only at low speeds and distances up to one mile. The more practical “Econ” mode works to limit throttle response in order to promote greater fuel economy. In other words, it restrains the engine’s ability to operate at its full potential. The ideal time to use this function is during stop-and-go traffic. The EPA rating for the Highlander Hybrid is 27 city/25 highway. Its city rating is actually better than its highway rating because the Highlander Hybrid makes more frequent use of its electric propulsion when traveling at lower speeds.

Though the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a four-wheel-drive vehicle, it is not very well suited for harsh road or weather conditions. It usually operates in front-drive mode, and is configured much differently than the all-wheel-drive version of the non-hybrid Highlander, which favors more power to the rear wheels. In the end, the Highlander Hybrid may be a very capable family/commuter/touring vehicle, but it is not ideal for those needing a heavy-duty utility truck for more demanding climates or terrain Read More......

Auto Hiybrid Electric Car Pininfarina Designs Electric Car Future

Miles XS500 electric

Pininfarina: Italian car design house is getting into electric car business, the target until the year 2010 later can sell 15000 cars per year with target market Europe, Japan, and United States.

Pininfarina will focus marketing efforts on leasing the cars, at a monthly cost of about $730. Drawings of the Pininfarina EV have not yet been released, but Pininfarina's design heritage and the relatively high price tag conjure up images of luxury and style.

On a more practical note for EV shoppers, Pininfarina also recently provided the design for the Miles XS500 electric four-door sedan— which promises to be a more affordable mass-produced vehicle. The style of the XS500 is decidedly dressed down, showing little of the design cues from Pininfarina’s signature work. According to Miles Electric Vehicles, the Miles XS500 can travel at a maximum speed of 80 miles per hour, and achieve a range of more than 120 miles. The company plans to offer the vehicle for approximately $30,000, with production targets of 38,000 units in 2010 and approximately 100,000 units in 2011.

Read More......

Auto Hybrid 2010 ZAP Launches Sale of Plug-In Hybrid Electric Car

Electric Car, Hybrid Car. Hybrid Technology

Electric car pioneer ZAP (OTC BB:ZAAP.OB - News) is now offering plug-in hybrid conversion systems for the Toyota Prius and Ford Escape Hybrid through a collaboration agreement with Hybrids Plus.

Hybrid vehicles retrofitted with systems from Hybrids Plus of Boulder, Colorado can achieve a significantly greater fuel economy. In tests these systems increased hybrid fuel economy up to 120 miles per gallon in the city and up to 90 mpg on the highway. The cost for the conversion ranges from $24,000 to $36,000 depending on the vehicle and size of battery pack.

All gasoline electric hybrids currently produced by major automakers today are essentially gasoline-powered vehicles. They reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency compared to conventional cars, however they are fueled exclusively by gasoline. The plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) will allow the owner to charge their vehicle from a normal household wall outlet. By integrating a larger battery pack and a plug-in charging system, it becomes a new vehicle drawing energy from two fuel sources.

Hybrids Plus has sold PHEV systems to private individuals, fleets, power companies, and governmental entities. Deliveries can be provided in approximately four weeks from the initial order.

"This is a natural extension of our growth plans," said Hybrids Plus CEO Carl Lawrence. "ZAP has sold more city speed electric vehicles than any other company and has an established, growing dealer network that can provide sales and service for our vehicles."

"This collaboration allows more hybrid owners to have the most efficient vehicles on the road today," said ZAP CEO Steve Schneider. "ZAP dealers are preparing to offer a new level of service in the coming years involving mass-market hybrid and electric cars from Detroit Electric, so experience with plug-in hybrids can accelerate this process."

About ZAP

ZAP has been a leader in advanced transportation technologies since 1994, delivering over 100,000 vehicles to consumers in more than 75 countries. At the forefront of fuel-efficient transportation with new technologies including energy efficient gas systems, hydrogen, electric, fuel cell, ethanol, hybrid and other innovative power systems, ZAP has a joint venture called Detroit Electric to manufacture electric and hybrid vehicles with Youngman Automotive Group, one of China's leading manufacturers of buses and trucks. Detroit Electric is developing a freeway capable electric vehicle called the ZAP Alias in collaboration with Lotus Engineering. ZAP is also developing a new generation of vehicles using advanced nanotech batteries with Advanced Battery Technologies. The Company recently announced a strategic partnership with Dubai-based Al Yousuf Group to expand its international vehicle distribution. ZAP also makes an innovative, new portable energy technology that manages power for mobile electronics from cell phones to laptops. For product, dealer and investor information, visit http://www.zapworld.com.

About Hybrids Plus

Hybrids Plus, Inc., a privately held corporation in Boulder, CO, converts hybrid-electric vehicles into plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles (PHEV). The company is also a leader in vehicle to grid (V2G) technology, which allows battery energy stored in a PHEV to be fed into the electrical grid or a stand-alone house. It is deploying the first V2G fleet in the world in collaboration with a major electric power utility. Hybrids Plus is presently the second largest PHEV conversion company in North America, and it has the PHEV conversion technology that is the most seamlessly integrated into the original vehicle. It currently converts the Toyota Prius and the Ford Escape Hybrid, and may soon be offering a Toyota Highlander Hybrid conversion. For more information, visit http://hybrids-plus.com/.

This press release contains forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, continued acceptance of the Company's products, increased levels of competition for the Company, new products and technological changes, the Company's dependence upon third-party suppliers, intellectual property rights, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Ford Auto Hybrid:Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner SUVs

Ford Auto Hybrid:Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner SUVs

Ford brought the all new 2010 Fusion hybrid and 2010 Mercury Milan hybrid to L.A. The cars are nearly identical but for a few styling cues and trim levels, and they share the new lighter hybrid system found in the current Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner SUVs. The cars can go 47 mph on electric power only, according to Ford.

Read More......

Hyundai Hybrid, Hyundai Blue Drive "2010 Sonata hybrid"

Hyundai Hybrid, Hyundai Blue Drive "2010 Sonata hybrid"

This isn’t a new engine technology; rather, it’s Hyundai’s strategy to reach a fleet average of 35 mpg by 2015. It includes the 2010 Sonata hybrid, high-mileage “Blue” versions of the 2009 Accent and Elantra, and a future crossover with a gasoline direct-injection engine. Read More......

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