Honda Begins Lease Sales of Fit EV in Japan

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today began lease sales of the Fit EV to local governments and businesses in Japan.

The Fit EV, comprehensively pursuing the potential of electric vehicles, origins back to the EV Plus that was introduced in 1997 for lease sales. In this new electric vehicle, Honda applies its latest technologies and ideas cultivated through research and development of electric mobility products including electromotive powertrain technologies used for the latest hybrid and fuel cell electric vehicles.

The Fit EV was developed as an electric vehicle that is fun to drive, yet can be used smartly. The development team adopted two key words - “Fun” and “Mottainai” (no waste) - and strived to 1) create a vehicle with greater range requiring less battery capacity, 2) further pursue motor drive performance, and 3) eliminate any waste of time during battery charging and other areas.

To achieve these points, Honda adopted a basic package of the Fit with its compact body size and occupant comfort and planned the maximization of the energy efficiency of EV. As a result, the Fit EV has achieved world's best*1 AC energy consumption rate*2 of 106 Wh/km and one-charge mileage of 225 km in JC08 mode. Furthermore, the Fit EV features functions to charge the battery or obtain information through the information and communication system.

Honda plans to lease approximately 200 units of the Fit EV in the next two years, mostly to local governments and businesses.

Number of occupants	5
Motor	Gearbox coaxial motor
Maximum motor output Maximum motor torque	92 kW 256 N・m (26.1 kgf・m)
EV range per charge*2	225 km (JC08 mode)
Maximum speed	144 km/h
Battery	20 kWh Lithium-ion battery (made by Toshiba, to be installed underneath the floor)
Maximum output of the battery	100 kW
AC energy consumption rate*2	106 Wh/km (JC08 mode)
Charge time	Rapid charger: Approximately 20 min*3 200 V: Approximately 6 hours*4
Price	¥4,000,000 (including taxes)

*1 Honda internal research (as of the end of August 2012)
*2 Calculated based on the traveling distance and the amount of AC energy (alternating-current power) required to charge the battery. The AC energy consumption rate used for the calculation was measured under the conditions required in Japan, and the actual rate will vary depending on the environment where the vehicle is used and how the vehicle is driven.
*3 Time required to charge the battery to 80% of capacity after the low battery power warning light comes on.
*4 Time required to fully charge the battery after the low battery power warning light comes on.

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Two-Thirds Of UK Consumers Would Consider EVs

UK car dealers believe the majority of their customers are open to the idea of purchasing an EV, according to a survey conducted by Motor Trader and British Gas.

The research found 32.9% of dealers believe their customers would currently consider purchasing an EV and a further 30.8% saying they would with more information.

Less than a third of dealers (30.8%) think their customers are not at all receptive to EVs.

“It’s encouraging to see two-thirds of dealers believe customers are receptive to buying an EV,” said Dan Taylor, British Gas’ director of new ventures.

“People do have a massive issue with the rise in petrol and diesel prices over the last couple of years,” he said.

The survey also found that EVs could account for 5% of the new car market by 2015 and growing to between 6-20% by 2020.

British Gas is helping dealers prepare for the arrival of EVs by offering a range of commercial and domestic charging solutions and a discounted off-peak electricity tariff for EV owners.

Source: Motortrader.com

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Tesla Roadster: "Will it drift?" [VIDEO]

Can British Magazine Autocar get a Tesla Roadster sideways?

The powerslide school of UK car testing is becoming fairly lame these days and none of the leading proponents quality to have been a twinkle in Timo Salonen's eye, but this is a video review of the fastest production EV on the planet so we'll post it anyway.

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TRANSLOGIC 111: Monster Sport E-Runner Pikes Peak Special [VIDEO]

Translogic head to the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in Colorado to meet 6-time champion Nobuhiro 'Monster' Tajima and his Monster Sport E-Runner EV.

On race day, Tajima’s run was on target until the “Horseshoe,” a fast section about one mile into the 12.42-mile course, where the front motor began to overheat and caught on fire.

He said, “I saw smoke coming out from the motor, and I had no choice but to stop the car so it wouldn’t get any worse.” The technical failures were a major disappointment for Tajima, his team, and spectators curious to see if an EV could beat all combustion-engined competitors. Tajima said, “I will be back next year. Watch out for me!”

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Wheel Motor Start-up enters $10M GE Ecomagination Challenge

Wheel Motor developer Evans Electric has entered GE's Ecomagination Challenge. The Australian based R&D firm is working on direct drive, disc type, in-wheel motors for electric vehicles.

Designed to be a bolt-on retrofit replacement for automotive disc brake systems, the in-wheel AC induction motors provide All-Wheel-Drive propulsion and braking for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles.

In the race to develop the most energy efficient electric vehicle, direct drive wheel motors, as used in all leading Solar racecars, are seen as the End-Game for EV powertrain architecture.

Direct drive wheel motors eliminate mechanical transmission losses of up to 20-30% in both acceleration and braking and allow up to 70% of a vehicle's kinetic energy to be recoverable.

Maximum brake regeneration equals lower over-all vehicle energy consumption. A next generation wheel motor powered EV with up to 50% lower energy consumption than a current generation EV can achieve double the range with the same size battery pack or similar range with a battery pack less than half the size/weight/cost.

Direct drive wheel motors enable non-contact electromagnetic braking, replacing hydraulic friction brake systems which are 90-95% redundant in current generation Hybrid vehicles. With a single system used for vehicle propulsion and braking, functions such as ABS, stability control, emergency brake assist, autonomous braking and adaptive cruise control can be incorporated as software applications that are more powerful, more accurate and cheaper to manufacture.

GE's Australia & New Zealand Low Carbon ecomagination Challenge is an innovation experiment where businesses, entrepreneurs, innovators and students share their best ideas on how to reduce carbon emissions. There is $500,000 to be won and potential investment opportunities of up to up to $10 million from GE and its partners.

General Electric have teamed up with some of the best-known venture capital firms in Australia and New Zealand, including Cleantech Ventures, CVC Limited, Greenhouse Cleantech, MH Carnegie & Co and Southern Cross Venture Partners to help back the most promising ideas. Entries are open until 30th November 2012.

Source: GE Ecomagination

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Electric powered 3D printed UAV successful test flight [VIDEO]

Engineers at the University of Southampton have designed and flown the world’s first ‘printed’ aircraft, which could revolutionise the economics of aircraft design.

The SULSA (Southampton University Laser Sintered Aircraft) plane is an unmanned air vehicle (UAV) whose entire structure has been printed, including wings, integral control surfaces and access hatches. It was printed on an EOS EOSINT P730 nylon laser sintering machine, which fabricates plastic or metal objects, building up the item layer by layer.

No fasteners were used and all equipment was attached using ‘snap fit’ techniques so that the entire aircraft can be put together without tools in minutes.

The project team worked in partnership with 3T RPD who undertook the manufacture and detailing of the design, as well as supplying laser sintering knowledge and expertise.

The 400 watt electric-powered aircraft, with a 2-metres wingspan, has a top speed of nearly 100 miles per hour, but when in cruise mode is almost silent. The aircraft is also equipped with a miniature autopilot developed by Dr Matt Bennett, one of the members of the team.

Laser sintering allows the designer to create shapes and structures that would normally involve costly traditional manufacturing techniques. This technology allows a highly-tailored aircraft to be developed from concept to first flight in days. Using conventional materials and manufacturing techniques, such as composites, this would normally take months. Furthermore, because no tooling is required for manufacture, radical changes to the shape and scale of the aircraft can be made with no extra cost.

This project has been led by Professors Andy Keane and Jim Scanlan from the University’s Computational Engineering and Design Research group.

Professor Scanlan says: “The flexibility of the laser sintering process allows the design team to re-visit historical techniques and ideas that would have been prohibitively expensive using conventional manufacturing. One of these ideas involves the use of a Geodetic structure. This type of structure was initially developed by Barnes Wallis and famously used on the Vickers Wellington bomber which first flew in 1936. This form of structure is very stiff and lightweight, but very complex. If it was manufactured conventionally it would require a large number of individually tailored parts that would have to be bonded or fastened at great expense.”

Professor Keane adds: “Another design benefit that laser sintering provides is the use of an elliptical wing planform. Aerodynamicists have, for decades, known that elliptical wings offer drag benefits. The Spitfire wing was recognised as an extremely efficient design but it was notoriously difficult and expensive to manufacture. Again laser sintering removes the manufacturing constraint associated with shape complexity and in the SULSA aircraft there is no cost penalty in using an elliptical shape.”

SULSA is part of the EPSRC-funded DECODE project, which is employing the use of leading edge manufacturing techniques, such as laser sintering, to demonstrate their use in the design of UAVs.

The University of Southampton has been at the forefront of UAV development since the early 1990s, when work began on the Autosub programme at its waterfront campus at the National Oceanography Centre, Southampton. A battery powered submarine travelled under sea ice in more than 300 voyages to map the North Sea, and assess herring stocks.

Now, the University is launching a groundbreaking course which enables students to take a Master's Degree in unmanned autonomous vehicle (UAV) design.

This is the first scheme of its kind and from September 2011, postgraduates can take part in a one-year programme covering the design, manufacture and operation of robotic vehicles. The degree will cover marine, land based and pilotless aircraft, typically used in environments that are deemed unsafe or uneconomic, such as exploration under sea ice, or monitoring gas emissions from volcanic eruptions. NASA expects UAVs to become 'standard tools' in fields such as agriculture, earth observation and climate monitoring.

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FIA OK Formula E Championship Powered by electric energy

The Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has reached an agreement to licence the commercial rights of the FIA Formula E Championship to a Consortium of international investors.

Drayson Racing Technologies has also signed an agreement with Formula E Holdings Limited to act as Scientific Advisor to FEH, advising on all matters relating to the scientific positioning of the new FIA Formula E Championship.

Formula E is a new FIA championship featuring Formula cars powered exclusively by electric energy. It represents a vision for the future of the motor industry over the coming decades.

The new promoter, the consortium Formula E Holdings Ltd (FEH) has as anchor investor London based entrepreneur Enrique Bañuelos. Former MEP and racing team owner Alejandro Agag, with long experience in the motor sport business, will be the CEO of FEH, as well as shareholder of the company. Also associated with the project are Lord Drayson, Managing Partner of Drayson Racing Technologies, and Eric Barbaroux, Chairman of the French electric automotive company “Electric Formula”.

Demonstrations of the Formula E cars will start in 2013, followed by the first race in 2014. 10 teams and 20 drivers will participate in the competition. The races will be ideally staged in the heart of the world’s leading cities, around their main landmarks.

Jean Todt, President of the FIA said: “I would like to thank all the parties involved. This new competition at the heart of major cities is certain to attract a new audience. We are pleased with this agreement with Formula E Holdings as they bring a very strong experience in MotorSport. The new events will provide a great way to engage the younger generation. This spectacular series will offer both entertainment and a new opportunity to share FIA values with a wide audience as clean energy, mobility and sustainability. This is a great day and a strong message to the motor sport community. The FIA is definitely looking to the future!

Source: Formula E Holdings

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EVs offer the lowest total cost of ownership for Fleet Operators

Faced with pressure to reduce both the costs and the environmental impacts of their vehicles, fleet managers are seeking the most cost-effective ways to “green” their vehicle fleets while ensuring that operations continue to run smoothly. While a wide array of alternative vehicle options are now available on the market, many of them come with high upfront price premiums compared to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

According to a recent report from Pike Research, a part of Navigant’s Energy Practice, the low “fuel cost” (i.e. cost of charging) of electric vehicles, including both plug-in hybrid and battery electric models, brings their total cost of ownership (TCO) to below those of conventional vehicles or other types of alternative fuel vehicles, offsetting the higher average vehicle prices.

Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) offer the lowest TCO of any of the 17 vehicles compared in the report, when taking into account the federal tax credit available for electric vehicle (EV) purchases.

“One of the primary benefits of BEVs is their very high efficiency compared to conventional ICE vehicles,” says senior research analyst Lisa Jerram. “BEVs also offer higher overall fuel efficiency than conventional hybrids and low electric range plug-in hybrids. That’s a major reason why battery electric vehicles have been experiencing a resurgence of automaker and consumer interest over the past few years, particularly for fleet operations.”

Fleet operators are more likely than consumers to focus on the total cost of ownership rather than just the upfront cost, making fleets an attractive early market for electric vehicles. Many government and utility fleets, which are often involved in testing vehicles, have already begun implementing Level 2 (up to 19.2 kilowatt) charging systems. Nevertheless, many fleet managers continue to see the cost of EV charging equipment as more of a concern than do the auto manufacturers.

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Audi e-tron Hybrid wins Six Hours of Silverstone [VIDEO]

Audi clinched the 6 Hours of Silverstone after an intriguing and tight tactical battle with Toyota to take the manufacturers title in the inaugural FIA World Endurance Championship after just four rounds.

Andre Lotterer guided the #1 Audi R18 e-tron quattro over the finish line, 55 seconds in front of the sole Toyota TS030-Hybrid entry with the #2 Audi R18 ultra completing the podium places. Lotterer now leads the WEC drivers championship with team-mates Marcel Fassler and Benoit Treluyer.

Alexander Wurz, Nicolas Lapierre and Kazuki Nakajima meanwhile secured a podium in only the TS030's second race. It was a constant threat, taking the fight to Audi from the start and leading for long spells.

The e-tron's ability to run far longer stints - coupled with a providential late safety car - ultimately decided the contest however, with both R18s able to make one less stop across the six hours.

The differing pit schedules only added to what was a fascinating contest, with the TS030 building upon its Le Mans promise and proving an equal for the Audis on single-lap and long-run pace.

That was apparent from the opening half hour when Wurz first jumped Tom Kristensen's Ultra and moved into second at the start, before closing down and then passing Lotterer's e-tron for the lead of the race as the pair fought their way through traffic.

Wurz began to stretch away but pitted after just 22 laps, compared to Audi's stops on laps 25 and 26.

That marked the start of a continued swapping of the lead by the #1 Audi and #7 Toyota whenever the pitstops cycled through, which would carry on until the final hour when a safety car helped Audi's bid to complete the race with seven stops, compared to Toyota's eight.

Source: Autosport

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Second row for TOYOTA Racing at Silverstone

TOYOTA Racing will start from third place on the grid for the WEC Six Hours of Silverstone after today’s qualifying session at the British track. Nicolas Lapierre took the wheel of the #7 TS030 HYBRID for the 20-minute qualifying and had difficult track conditions to contend with following heavy rain earlier in the afternoon.

With team-mates Alex Wurz and Kazuki Nakajima watching closely, Nicolas left the pits with intermediate Michelin tyres on a drying track.

But with a dry line emerging he recorded only one flying lap before switching to slick tyres, a decision which proved to be correct as he soon moved to the top of the time sheets.

Despite Nicolas consistently improving his lap times, the #7 slipped to third in the final few minutes, giving TOYOTA Racing a second-row start for its second race in the FIA World Endurance Championship.

Nicolas was also at the wheel in this morning’s one-hour final practice, which he shared with Kazuki. The session was disrupted late on when Nicolas was hit by a slower car, causing a puncture and damage to the rear end, which was replaced before qualifying.

Following the Sunday morning warm-up (08.55-09.15) the six-hour race begins at midday with a rolling start.

TS030 HYBRID #7 (Alex Wurz, Nicolas Lapierre, Kazuki Nakajima)
Free practice 3: 3rd (1min 45.492secs), 21 laps
Qualifying: 3rd (1min 44.411secs), 11 laps

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Bosch to produce wheel hub motors for electric scooters

Robert Bosch GmbH says it plans to form a joint venture with Chinese company Ningbo Polaris Technology to produce wheel hub motors for electric scooters.

Bosch will hold a majority share of the venture, but did not disclose more details.

Ningbo, which employs 450 workers, makes motors for electric scooters under the Poltm brand. Last year, the company sold 1 million motors.

The global market for electric scooters is expanding steadily. Last year, 27 million electric scooters were sold worldwide, and 98 percent of those were made in China.

Udo Wolz, president of Bosch's electrical drives division, said global sales are expected to rise to 46 million units in 2020.

Bosch is the world's largest supplier of automotive components with Auto revenue of $39.75 billion in 2011.

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Toyota RAV4 EV - Toyota and Tesla Partnership [VIDEO]

Toyota and Tesla: The Power of Partnership

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Test drive: Tesla's Model S all-electric sedan [VIDEO]

A closer look at the Tesla Model S by IDG News.

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How Toyota Reduced The Coefficient Of Drag on the RAV4 EV [VIDEO]

Decreasing range anxiety by reducing the Coefficient of Drag.

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Tesla Model S Track Test 0-60 in 4.3 seconds [VIDEO]

Edmunds Inside Line testing team took a Tesla Model S Performance Signature to California Speedway recently to record some performance numbers.

The results were:

0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds (Tesla claim 4.4)

0-60 mph (1 foot roll out) in 4 sec

1/4 mile in 12.5 sec @ 108.3 Mph

60-0 mph in 108 feet.

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Toyota Hybrid 6 Hours of Silverstone Preview: Simulator Onboard Lap

Following a two-day test at MotorLand Aragon, Toyota Hybrid Racing prepares to head to Silverstone, where the team will take part in the fourth round of the FIA World Endurance Championship.

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BMW launch EV car sharing program in San Francisco [VIDEO]

At a press conference with San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee, BMW Group Member of the Board Dr. Ian Robertson today announced the upcoming launch of ParkNow, an innovative mobile parking solution that is a joint venture with Urban Mobility, and provided new details about DriveNow, a unique premium car-sharing service which features a fleet of BMW ActiveE all-electric vehicles. San Francisco serves as the initial U.S. market for each service.

San Francisco is at the forefront of cities working to develop and implement innovative approaches to urban challenges, including traffic congestion and the need for smarter, greener parking systems. There are an estimated 505,000 vehicles in San Francisco, yet only 448,000 parking spaces available at any given time. On weekdays, the total vehicle population increases by approximately 35,000. An estimated one-third of all downtown traffic on weekdays is due to vehicles searching for a parking spot.

“The BMW Group is more than a premium car company, it is also focused on developing and delivering new services to help meet the increasing need for flexible mobility solutions in our cities,” said Dr. Robertson. “The premium car-sharing service DriveNow and parking solution ParkNow will help meet that demand in San Francisco and, ultimately, in other cities. Our introduction of these services in San Francisco represents BMW’s commitment to encouraging the development of new mobility options that will reduce emissions and congestion and improve the quality of life for San Franciscans.”

“San Francisco is the ‘Innovation Capital of the World' and the car sharing and EV Capital of America," said Mayor Lee. "I am pleased that BMW has chosen San Francisco as the first U.S. site for its innovative services and has launched their program entirely with electric vehicles."

ParkNow, which will be available to drivers beginning in September, is an online mobile parking service that enables users to pay for parking in advance, with guaranteed access and clearly defined rates, based on their personal preferences. Customers can search for parking using ParkNow’s mobile app or website, reserve, pay and then be navigated directly to the parking facility, reducing time spent looking for parking, as well as emissions. There are currently 14 ParkNow locations in and around San Francisco piloting the system. Stations are located around the city, close to BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit), Muni (San Francisco Municipal Railway) and bike-sharing stations, as well as at San Francisco International Airport, Oakland International Airport and in Palo Alto. Four ParkNow partner operators, ProPark America, Towne Park, ABM Parking and California Parking, will launch over 100 additional ParkNow locations in the coming weeks.

DriveNow which launched in June in San Francisco is a flexible, premium car-sharing program offering the opportunity to drive BMW’s first all-electric vehicle, the BMW ActiveE with zero emission driving. The fleet of 70 ActiveE vehicles is located at eight DriveNow Stations around San Francisco, with two additional stations in Palo Alto and at the San Francisco International Airport coming soon. After registering online or in-person, customers can locate and book an available car using the DriveNow web site or mobile app. They can then return the car to the same – or any other – DriveNow Station, allowing for convenient one-way trips, if desired. Stations are located around the city, close to BART, MUNI and bike-sharing stations. Through a partnership with California-based Coulomb Technologies’ ChargePoint network, the largest network of independently-owned electric vehicle charging stations, drivers can easily locate a nearby charging station if they need to top-off during the course of their rental, which has no time limit. Parking and charging is free at DriveNow Stations.

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Graphene Paper Battery Charges 10x Faster than Li-Ion

Rechargeable Li-ion batteries are the industry standard for mobile phones, laptop and tablet computers, electric cars, and a range of other devices. While Li-ion batteries have a high energy density and can store large amounts of energy, they suffer from a low power density and are unable to quickly accept or discharge energy. This low power density is why it can takes hours to charge a battery and.

Engineering researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute made a sheet of paper from the world’s thinnest material, graphene, and then zapped the paper with a laser or camera flash to blemish it with countless cracks, pores, and other imperfections. The result is a graphene anode material that can be charged or discharged 10 times faster than conventional graphite anodes used in today’s lithium (Li)-ion batteries.

Source: Phys.org

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New Toyota Corolla Hybrid for Paris Motor Show debut [VIDEO]

2013 Toyota Corolla / Auris Hybrid will be officially unveiled at Paris Motor Show in the end of September. The new Toyota will offer enhanced dynamics, more distinctive styling and higher equipment levels.

With its new exterior design combined with a higher quality interior, the new Corolla / Auris benefits from improvements on the driving dynamics and efficiency enhancements to its powertrain line-up.

The overall height of the vehicle is with 55mm less than the current model. This and the lower front end design contribute to the aerodynamic performance with a Cd0.28 drag coefficient. Furthermore, this also effects in better handling stability and lower fuel consumption according to Toyota.

Greater use of high tensile steel, contributes to a 10 per cent increase in body stiffness and an overall vehicle weight saving of up to 40kg, helping to lower the car’s centre of gravity.

Toyota was the first manufacturer to offer a choice of three powertrains in the C-segment, with the new model also offering a choice of 1.4-litre diesel and 1.33 and 1.6-litre petrol engines as well as a hybrid model.

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EPA certifies driving range for Ford's C-MAX Hybrid at 570 miles

Ford Motor Company raises the hybrid fuel-economy bar with the all-new Ford C-MAX Hybrid, which is now officially EPA-certified at 47 mpg city, 47 mpg highway and 47 mpg combined – beating Toyota Prius v by up to 7 mpg.

Hybrids traditionally have been more economical in city driving than on the highway, unlike conventional vehicles. C-MAX Hybrid is Ford’s first hybrid vehicle to offer 47 mpg across the board.

C-MAX Hybrid returns the same fuel economy whether driving cross-country or across the city – stemming mostly from a growing list of Ford innovations that have helped the vehicle to deliver an impressive list of metrics, such as its 570-mile overall range, taking customers from Los Angeles to Las Vegas and back on one tank of gas.

“The all-new C-MAX Hybrid is a great symbol of how Ford has transformed into a fuel-economy and technology leader with 47 mpg across the board and a highway rating 7 mpg better than Toyota Prius v,” said Ford Vice President of Powertrain Engineering Joe Bakaj. “We’ve done this with innovation – represented by nearly 500 hybrid patents – while driving costs down 30 percent so we can bring these fuel-saving vehicles to more customers.”

C-MAX Hybrid is expected to be America’s most affordable hybrid utility vehicle with a base price of $25,995, including destination and delivery, which is $1,300 lower than Toyota Prius v. C-MAX Hybrid is currently available for order at Ford dealers nationwide.

As hybrid vehicle drivers traditionally saw superior fuel-economy figures in city driving, loyalists maximized their fuel economy through regenerative braking in stop-and-go traffic. But now higher-speed innovations have caught up on efficiency.

“City, highway, and everywhere in between, C-MAX Hybrid is EPA-certified at 47 mpg,” Bakaj said. “It’s a win-win-win.”

The power of C-MAX Hybrid stems from the combination of a gasoline engine and a battery-driven electric motor, providing customers with “real car” performance and capability. C-MAX Hybrid will offer a top speed of 62 mph in EV mode and 188 net horsepower, beating the Toyota Prius v by more than 50 horsepower. When powered by gasoline, C-MAX Hybrid uses the all-new 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine – powerful and fuel efficient and among the most advanced non-turbocharged four-cylinder powertrains Ford has ever offered.

C-MAX Hybrid also offers class-exclusive technologies such as SmartGauge with EcoGuide along with the available hands-free liftgate and active park assist.

The latest-generation SmartGauge® with EcoGuide is designed to help drivers get the most from the C-MAX Hybrid, providing information such as instantaneous fuel economy to help them more closely monitor how their driving behavior affects the vehicle’s efficiency.

The Brake Coach feature – part of SmartGauge – helps drivers optimize their use of the braking system so that driving range can be enhanced through proper braking techniques. Redesigned imagery of green leaves shows overall driving efficiency – as drivers improve their efficient driving, they are rewarded with more leaves.

C-MAX Hybrid offers room for five people and plenty of cargo – making it perfect for the owner with an active lifestyle.

The vehicle has a high roofline – 63.9 inches – offering ample interior space and flexibility. C-MAX Hybrid offers 99.7 cubic feet of passenger space compared with 97 cubic feet in the Toyota. The spacious C-MAX Hybrid also provides greater headroom in both front and rear seats than the Prius v (41 and 39.4 inches, versus 39.6 and 38.6 inches).

For cargo, C-MAX Hybrid has 60/40 split-fold rear seats. The seats easily fold flat with 52.6 cubic feet of space behind the first row and 24.5 cubic feet behind the second row.

Maximum power of choice The all-new C-MAX Hybrid is part of Ford’s first dedicated line of hybrid vehicles that also includes the 2013 C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid.

Ford C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid – coming later this fall – is projected to deliver 550 miles of total range, including more than 20 miles in electric-only mode, nearly double the electric-only range of the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid vehicle.

Further, C-MAX Energi delivers the top electric-only speed of any plug-in hybrid – 85 mph – more than 20 mph higher than the Toyota Prius plug-in.

C-MAX hybrid vehicles headline Ford’s transformed lineup, one third of which will feature a model with 40 mpg or more in 2012, building on the company’s commitment to give fuel-efficiency-minded customers the power of choice. Ford is tripling electrified vehicle production capacity by 2013 as part of this fuel-economy push.

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Toyota TMG EV P002 @ Pikes Peak 2012 - Day 2 Practice Run [VIDEO]

Finally found some video of the victorious Toyota Motorsport Gmbh TMG P002 being driven by Japanese Rally driver Fumio Nutahara at Piked Peak this year. This video is from practice of the top third of the course.

TMG EV P002 technical specifications

Performance

Top speed 240km/h (Pikes Peak configuration)

Maximum torque 900Nm

Maximum power 350kW

Maximum revs 5000rpm

Powertrain

Electric motor 2 axial flux

Inverter 2 x TMG inverters

Gear ratio 2.5

Transmission Single-reduction gearing

Battery Lithium ceramic

Battery capacity 42kWh

Charging technology Off-board DC charging

Dimensions

Length 4.10m

Height 1.04m

Width 1.79m

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Tesla Model S Canadian Price starts @ $64,500

Tesla Motors today announced pricing for Model S in Canada. Canadian customers can choose from one of three battery pack sizes, with the base 40 kWh battery pack Model S starting at $64,500 Canadian dollars (CAD) before provincial tax rebates, as may be available. Model S with the 60 kWh battery pack and 85 kWh battery pack will start at $75,200 and $85,900 CAD respectively.

"Pricing in foreign markets can be very complex, so we have taken a very straightforward, transparent approach to pricing Model S," said George Blankenship, vice president worldwide sales and ownership experience. "Canadian base prices start with U.S. pricing, plus 6.1 percent for import duties and an additional 1.5 to 2 percent, depending upon the model, for incremental transportation costs and country specific business expenses. The total is then adjusted using the current mid-term currency exchange rate."

Option pricing has also been kept very straightforward. In Canada, all models will include heated seats and choice of décor as standard equipment. Model S in Canada will also include the game-changing 17" touchscreen, 19" wheels and a Mobile Connector with three adapters as standard equipment. Tesla's Canadian pricing configurator, showing all pricing and options, will be available on its website in the near future.

With the most energy-dense battery pack in the industry and best-in-class aerodynamics, Model S has the longest range of any production electric car in the world. Model S comes with three battery pack options to fit the unique needs of different drivers. The 85 kWh Model S has received a U.S. fuel economy rating of 89MPGe and a range of 265 miles from the U.S. EPA. Fuel economy ratings from Environment Canada are still pending.

Model S is the first premium sedan designed from the ground up to take full advantage of electric vehicle architecture. A revolutionary powertrain sits under the floorboard of Model S, creating an ultra-low center of gravity. Paired with an aluminum body engineered for superior handling, Tesla has created a vehicle that will raise the bar for vehicle handling and efficiency while meeting the highest standards for safety.

Without an internal combustion engine or transmission tunnel, the interior of Model S has more cargo space than any other sedan in its class and includes a second trunk under the hood. Model S seats five adults and two children in optional rear-facing child seats. The Performance Model S accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 4.4 seconds. The interior features a 17" in-dash touchscreen with internet capabilities, allowing for streaming radio, web browsing and navigation.

More than 12,200 reservations have been made worldwide for Model S. Deliveries to Canadian customers will begin later this year. Meanwhile, Tesla will be opening its first new-design Canadian store in Toronto this November. Customers can reserve a Model S at one of Tesla's retail stores or online.

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A123 and Wanxiang Execute $465M sale of up to 80% ownership stake

A123 Systems today announced the execution of definitive agreements with Wanxiang Group Corporation, which follows the non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) that A123 signed with Wanxiang on August 8, 2012. Wanxiang is China's largest automotive components manufacturer and one of China's largest non-government-owned companies. Under the terms of the agreements, Wanxiang plans to invest up to $465 million in A123, which includes an initial credit extension of $25 million that A123 expects to receive this week. The full investment from Wanxiang is expected to provide A123 with the capital necessary to strengthen the company's competitive position in the global vehicle electrification and grid energy storage markets.

"We consider today's announcement to be a strong validation of A123's technology and the company's ability to compete in high-growth markets," said David Vieau, CEO of A123. "We believe that the significant commitment of capital from Wanxiang would help strengthen A123's financial position, and by leveraging Wanxiang's global capabilities, we expect to see increased demand for our products. Further, Wanxiang has demonstrated its commitment to partnering with and investing in U.S. companies, so we also believe that we will continue to expand on our strong manufacturing and systems engineering capabilities in Michigan and Massachusetts."

Pursuant to the terms of the definitive agreements, Wanxiang would provide A123 with up to $75 million in initial debt financing under a Senior Secured Bridge Facility. In addition to the initial credit extension of $25 million, $50 million would be funded after the satisfaction of certain closing conditions. Subsequently, upon satisfaction of certain closing conditions, Wanxiang would purchase $200 million aggregate principal amount of A123's 8.00% Senior Secured Convertible Notes. The agreements also include the potential for Wanxiang to invest up to an additional $190 million by exercising the warrants that will be issued in connection with the Bridge Facility and the 8.00% Convertible Notes for cash.

Incurrence of the remaining $50 million of loans under the Senior Secured Bridge Facility is subject to the satisfaction of certain approvals and conditions, including receipt of favorable determination from the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States and receipt of Chinese government approvals. Issuance of the 8.00% Convertible Notes and the related warrants are also subject to additional conditions, including approval from A123's shareholders, termination of the Hart-Scott-Rodino waiting period, the conversion or redemption of all the outstanding 6.00% Senior Convertible Notes due 2013 and related warrants and the repurchase or retirement of at least 90 percent of A123's outstanding 3.75% Convertible Subordinated Notes due 2016.

If the entire amount of the initial debt financing is provided to A123, the 8.00% Convertible Notes are issued and the full amount of the warrants are exercised for cash, Wanxiang's total capital investment in A123 from these agreements would total approximately $465 million. The total amount of shares of A123's common stock issuable upon exercise and conversion of the warrants and 8.00% Convertible Notes would represent approximately 80 percent of the fully diluted common stock of A123 outstanding at that time.

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GM China Begins Prototype Battery Cell Fabrication

General Motors China is fabricating and testing prototype battery cells and complete systems at its Advanced Technical Center in Shanghai, enabling GM researchers and engineers to gain critical knowledge in the development of next-generation vehicle battery systems.

These systems are expected to be more affordable for GM customers around the world and help GM expand vehicle electrification. The expanded capability will also pave the way for GM to build strategic partnerships with battery cell and cell material suppliers, and make purchasing decisions as a "smart cell buyer."

GM’s goal is to accelerate the development of batteries with improved energy density, allowing smaller overall system sizes and reducing costs. This, in turn, will help improve the affordability of plug-in vehicles for consumers.

Using state-of-the-art technology, researchers will be able to complete a series of processes, including battery material preparation, battery material coating, battery cell fabrication and battery cell performance testing.

The GM China Advanced Technical Center recently produced its first batch of battery cells using state-of-the-art fabrication methods, an important milestone in the establishment of its battery material assessment capability.

The battery cell is a fundamental technology in determining the performance of plug-in vehicles.

The battery system includes the components needed to control cell temperature, manage battery charge and discharge, and package cells in vehicles. The materials of which battery cells are made are decisive in determining the cost, durability and reliability of the entire battery system.

With its battery material assessment capability, GM will be able to independently test and validate advanced materials provided by suppliers, apply innovative technologies to battery cell design and fabrication through collaboration with cell suppliers, and ultimately integrate battery cells into a system for integration in GM’s production lines.

“Producing the first prototype battery cells is a big step forward for the GM China Advanced Technical Center. It is critical for enabling GM to develop smaller, lighter and lower-cost new-generation batteries,” said John Du, Director of GM China’s China Science Lab. “Leveraging this success, the independent assessment system for battery materials will help speed up technical progress.”

Plug-in electric vehicles will play a critical role for the global auto industry to cope with issues related to fuel supply and environmental sustainability. China, the largest auto production and consumption market, has explicitly made alternative energy vehicle development a state strategy. China plans to significantly increase production of plug-in vehicles – including pure battery electric vehicles, extended-range electric vehicles, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles – by 2020.

GM’s independent assessment system for electric vehicle battery material will accelerate this trend and advance development at GM and the Chinese auto industry.

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Audi Electric Life: The Future in Motion [VIDEO]

Future mobility means re-thinking everything from torque to aerodynamics, which makes automotive designer Jae Min an ideal "e-Pilot" for testing the A3 e-tron.

Jae shares how his experience living the electric life in Los Angeles exceeded his expectations, along with a few ideas about how the coming era of transportation might look, feel and drive. (Hint: there are no flying cars.

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Ford Ramps Up In-House Electric Car Development [VIDEO]

Ford is adding new green jobs, doubling its battery-testing capabilities and speeding electrified vehicles to market by at least 25 percent.

Ford is investing $135 million in the design, engineering and production of key components – including advanced battery systems – for its next-generation hybrid-electric vehicles going into production this year.

For example, Ford’s battery-testing capabilities will double by 2013 – to a total of 160 individual battery-test channels. This includes investing in more of the highly specialized machines that can test and simulate everything from power and performance to life and thermal behavior over a complete range of temperatures and possible operating conditions.

Also, Ford is dedicating a 285,000-square-foot research and development lab in Dearborn, Mich., to focus almost entirely on hybrids and electrification. The building formerly known as the Advanced Engineering Center is renamed the Ford Advanced Electrification Center and houses most of the 1,000 engineers working on hybrid and electrification programs.

Ford continues to build its electrified team with 60 engineers hired in the past year and dozens more positions to be filled this year.

Ford is reducing the cost of its current hybrid system by 30 percent versus the company’s previous-generation system. Plus, Ford is launching five electrified vehicles this year as part of its power of choice strategy to deliver leading fuel economy across its lineup and triple electrified vehicle production capacity by 2013.

Source: Ford

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Wireless Inductive Charging | Fully Charged [VIDEO]

The first of its kind, Qualcomm's WEVC trial provides an unrivalled opportunity to put wireless charging for EVs through its paces in a real-world environment. The data gained from the trial will not only help Qualcomm in its development of WEVC technologies, but also give Qualcomm's partners the chance to perfect the WEVC experience within each of their disciplines, albeit infrastructure or the vehicle itself.

Rob had the opportunity to talk about the trial and it's progress directly with an executive from Qualcomm.

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Road Trip through Snowdonia in a Renault Fluence EV [VIDEO]

Bryn Bella is an award winning sustainable guest house in Betws-y-Coed, Snowdonia.

Long time supporters of car free tourism the latest initiative is the support of Electronic Vehicles, EV's, by the provision of charge points in Betws-y-Coed, free to guests.

In conjunction with Renault UK they undertook a road trip around Snowdonia taking in many landmarks and attractions to demonstrate that you can have a great holiday with an EV. Along the way they visited Snowdon, Caernarvon Castle, Electric Mountain, Greenwood Forest Park and returned home along the Ogwen Valley.

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Lithium ion battery prices to tumble 60% by 2020

The price of automotive lithium ion batteries is expected to fall dramatically by the end of the decade and even further by 2025, according to a McKinsey study released today.

The consulting firm says the price for a "complete automotive lithium ion battery pack" could drop from $500 to $600 per kilowatt hour today to about $200 by 2020 and $160 by 2025.

This report looks identical to one released last month and echos what the U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu said in January of this year and what Obama said two years ago.

The report says nearly 30 percent of the cost reductions -- much of them achievable by 2015 -- will come from manufacturing, with improvements in manufacturing processes, standardizing equipment and spreading fixed costs over higher unit volumes.

The report says that innovations that lead to price reductions in automotive lithium ion batteries will be seen first in other areas such as the consumer electronics market.

The increasingly sophisticated energy storage technologies in tablets, smart phones and laptop computers have "cost positions" that continue to improve.

Coauthored of the report John Newman, an associate McKinsey partner in San Francisco said "As a strategist, you need to really understand that. You can't look at only what's going on within the industry," Hensley said. "You have to look outside the industry to understand what's going on with this one."

Source: Automotive News

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Head of Chevy Volt Program Named CEO of Fisker

Fisker Automotive today named Tony Posawatz, the former head of the Volt program at General Motors as its new Chief Executive Officer.

A well-known automotive industry professional with more than 30 years of experience in product development, strategy, program management, manufacturing and quality at General Motors, Posawatz's last role was as GM's Vehicle Line Director and key leader of Global Electric Vehicle development, where he was responsible for the award-winning Chevrolet Volt – bringing the car from concept to production.

"We are delighted to be adding an executive of Tony's caliber to the Fisker Automotive leadership team," said Executive Chairman and Co-Founder, Henrik Fisker. "His depth of knowledge and experience in this innovative field of new technology means that he is one of the world's most experienced leaders in vehicle electrification technology and the plug-in ecosystem. In the long-term he will ensure that Fisker is well positioned to maximize the potential of not only the Karma sedan, but also bring the Fisker Atlantic smoothly to market."

Posawatz has consistently been recognized as an industry leader in product innovation and electrified vehicles and served as Chairman of the Board for the Electric Drive Transportation Association (EDTA). In addition he led GM's initial efforts on hybrid programs and related technology development and was "employee number one" and founding member of the Chevrolet Volt program back in 2006. "Tony is the perfect CEO for Fisker," said Tom LaSorda. "He has been at the forefront of the industry's technological revolution and one of the few people in the world to bring an EV to mass production.

"Part of my assignment at Fisker was to recruit a long-term CEO and I cannot think of a better person than Tony to take us forward. He is a real product guy for a product driven company," added LaSorda

Said Henrik Fisker, "Ultimately, Fisker Automotive is all about products that challenge the way that we think about cars for the next generation. Tony's expertise will guarantee that Fisker leads the way with its second-generation powertrain technology for the Atlantic and other future Fisker products."

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BMW i3 Concept Driving Experience [VIDEO]

The electric motor of the BMW i3 Concept is designed primarily for operation in an urban environment, developing 125 kW/170 hp, with peak torque of 250 Nm (184 lb-ft). Typically of an electric motor, maximum torque is developed from standstill, in contrast to an internal combustion engine where torque increases with engine rpm.

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Monster Tajima retirement caused by Motor failure

Tajima qualified first in the electric class for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb by a large margin, and it seemed possible that he could take the overall win once again.

On race day, Tajima’s run was going swimmingly until he hit the “Horseshoe,” a fast section about one mile into the 12.42-mile course, where the engine began to overheat and caught on fire. He said, “I saw smoke coming out from the motor, and I had no choice but to stop the car so it wouldn’t get any worse.” The technical failures were a major disappointment for Tajima, his team, and spectators curious to see if an EV could beat all combustion-engined competitors. Tajima said, “I will be back next year. Watch out for me!”

Source: Wired

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Holden Volt To Make NSW Debut @ Hunter Valley EV Festival

Holden’s forthcoming long-range electric car, the Holden Volt, will go on public display for the first time in New South Wales at the Hunter Valley EV Festival on Saturday 18 August.

The Festival will be held at Newcastle Foreshore Park from 10am – 4pm and will see the Holden Volt take to the demonstration track alongside other alternative technology vehicles.

Dubbed the long range electric car, the Holden Volt features unique range extension technology that offers an electric range of up to 87 kilometres that can be extended to a total range of over 600 kilometres through an on board petrol generator that maintains the charge in the battery, to keep you going.

Holden Performance Engineer, Dion Schulz has been undertaking validation work on Volt for the past nine months and will be on hand at the EV Festival to answer questions about the all new electric car.

“Although Volt doesn’t go on sale until later in the year, we’ve had a great reaction from members of the public when they’ve seen our evaluation cars on the road.

“They want to know what it’s like to live with an electric car, how far you can travel between charges and how easy it is to charge at home or at work. Then there are questions about how the technology works and how long it will be until everyone has an electric car on their driveway.

“Events such as the Hunter Valley Electric Vehicle Festival are great for spreading the word about alternative vehicles and give us the opportunity to answer all those questions and more.”

Prospective Volt buyers can now place an order with their nearest specialist Volt dealer.

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Toyota win Pikes Peak EV class finishing 6th overall

Japanese Rally driver Fumio Nutahara has won the Pikes Peak Electric Division behind the wheel of a Toyota Motorsport Gmbh TMG P002, taking the 12.42 mile course to the summit of the mountain in a time of 10:15.380. Another Japanese rally driver, Hiroshi Masuoka, was second in his Mitsubishi i-MiEV Evolution, with a time of 10:30.850. Defending champion Ikuo Hanawa of Japan finished fifth. These times beat the previous EV record of 12:20:084 set in 2011 by AC Propulsion.

Japan’s Nobuhiro Tajima, running in the Electric Auto Division after six straight Unlimited titles, was forced out of the running by a fire in the cockpit of his electric entry as he began the first leg. Tajima was unhurt, and the vehicle was towed off the course.

1st.: #230 Fumio Nutahara Japan Toyota Motorsport (race car). 10:15.380 OVERALL: 6th!

2nd: #32 Hiroshi Masuoka Iruma Japan Mitsubishi Motors (race car).10:30.850 OVERALL: 8th!

3rd: #311 Elias Anderson Austin TX HCE (race car).11:00.8 57 OVERALL: 13th!

4th.: #13 Michael Bream Carlsbad CA BMW (sedan car).11:58.929

5th: #16 Ikuo Hanawa Ibaraki Japan Summit (race car).11:58.974

6th: #34 Beccy Gordon Dana Point CA Mitsubishi Motors (sedan car).15:10.557

na: #1 Nobuhiro Tajima Tokyo Japan. Did not finish [UPDATE]

Results: PPIHC

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Fisker Karma Catches Fire In California [VIDEO]

Fisker Automotive can confirm that one of its Karma models was involved in a vehicle fire during a roadside incident in Woodside, California. No injuries were reported; the vehicle was parked; and the fire was extinguished safely by the emergency services. Fisker understands damage was limited to the driver's side front corner of the car, away from the lithium ion battery and electric motors. The car was not being charged at the time.

Fisker have more than 1,000 Karmas on the road with a cumulative 2 million miles on them. There are more than 185,000 highway vehicle fires in the US every year. In an electric vehicle, immediate suspicion is focused on the battery and high voltage components. The location of the damage to the vehicle in this incident appears to rule out that suspicion. Fisker has not had any battery or high voltage fire incidents with any of its vehicles.

Safety remains our primary concern at Fisker, and is integral to the design, engineering and technology of the Karma, a model in which we have absolute confidence. Fisker staff have been in contact with the customer and are investigating the cause of this incident. We are also employing an independent fire expert to assist the investigation. A further statement will be issued once the investigation has been completed and the cause determined.

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Best Dad Ever: Upgrades son's Lightning McQueen Powerwheels [Video]

At the age of 2 Evan received his Lightning McQueen Powerwheel for christmas of 2009. After three years of use he had worn through the plastic wheels. We decided to upgrade the oem plastic wheels to metal rims with rubber tires. From that point more modifications were added every few weeks.

Now, Evan's Lightning McQueen Powerwheel is equipped with an aluminum back half chassis, dual sealed gel batteries with an output of 24 volts, a 500 watt .66 horsepower electric motor, disk brake, throttle modulated variable speed control with reverse and sparco battery cut off switch.

more info www.FFTEC.com

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Monster Tajima - Pikes Peak - Day 2 Practice Run [VIDEO]

Nobuhiro "Monster" Tajima qualifying run from Thursday! The run is the middle third of the full 12 mile course.

The EVs powertrain will be AWD with front and rear in-board axial flux electric motors driving each pair of wheels via a differential.

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Monster Tajima - Pikes Peak - Day 1 Qualifying Run [VIDEO]

Nobuhiro "Monster" Tajima qualifying run from Wednesday! The run is the bottom third of the full 12 mile course.

The EVs powertrain will be AWD with front and rear in-board axial flux electric motors driving each pair of wheels via a differential.

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Electric BMW M3 Pikes Peak Qualifying Run - Top section [VIDEO]

The 700 hp 1995 EV West BMW M3 practice run from Devil's Playground up to the summit of Pikes Peak at 14,140 feet.

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Electric M3 Pikes Peak Qualifying Run [VIDEO]

In-Car video from the EV West BMW M3 during qualifying for the 2012 Pikes Peak Hill Climb

They had controller issues almost immediately and had to coast across the actual start line at a walking speed.

Once back online after a :30 mistake, the car qualified with a time of 5:05 on the lower section. You can see that the torque caused grip issues on corner exits.

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GM may have electric car battery breakthrough

A small battery company backed by General Motors is working on breakthrough technology that could power an electric car 100 or even 200 miles on a single charge in the next two-to-four years, GM's CEO said Thursday.

Speaking at an employee meeting, CEO Dan Akerson said the company, Newark, Calif.-based Envia Systems, has made a huge breakthrough in the amount of energy a lithium-ion battery can hold. GM is sure that the battery will be able to take a car 100 miles within a couple of years, he said. It could be double that with some luck, he said.

"I think we've got better than a 50-50 chance," Akerson said, "to develop a car that will go to 200 miles on a charge," he said. "That would be a game changer."

GM's current electric car, the Chevrolet Volt, goes about 35 miles on a charge and has a small gas motor that generates power to keep the car going after that. Few competitors have electric cars with more than 100 miles of range. Tesla Motors' Model S can go up to 300 miles, but it has a much larger battery and can cost more than twice as much as a Volt. Nissan's Leaf and Ford's Focus electric cars both claim ranges of around 100 miles, but that can vary with temperature, terrain and speed.

Envia said earlier this year they have developed a high energy density Li-ion batteries using nano silicon-carbon composite anodes and high capacity layered-layered manganese composite cathodes offering an energy density of 400 Wh/kg which could lower Li-ion cell costs to $180/kWh.

GM Ventures LLC, the automaker's investment arm, put $7 million into Envia in January of 2011.

The GM meeting, which was broadcast on a conference call to employees, lasted about an hour. A participant allowed a reporter from The Associated Press to listen.

"These little companies come out of nowhere, and they surprise you," Akerson said in response to a question about GM's strategy on gas-electric hybrid vehicles.

Akerson said the company is looking at hybrids, all-electric cars, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and natural gas vehicles, as well as developing more efficient petroleum-powered engines.

"We can't put all of our chips on one bet," he said. "We've got to look at them all."

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Catavolt and Ripperton electric superbikes on SBS QLD Race 2 TTXGP [VIDEO]

Catavolt and Ripperton on SBS QLD Race 2 TTXGP

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'Out-of-this-world' Nuclear Powered EV - Curiosity [VIDEO]

Curiosity is a robotic, car-sized, nuclear-powered, mobile scientific laboratory, Mars rover.

Built by Boeing, Lockheed Martin and MacDonald Dettwiler, Curiosity weighs in at approx 900 kg (2,000 lb) including 80 kg (180 lb) of scientific instruments.

Each of the rover's six wheels has an independent wheel motor. The two front and two rear wheels have individual steering motors which allow the vehicle to turn in place.

Instead of PV solar panels as used on the previous two Mars Rovers Spirit and Opportunity, Curiosity is powered by a radioisotope thermoelectric generator (RTG) which generates 2.5 kWh per day, much more than the Mars Exploration Rovers' solar panels, which can generate about 0.6 kWh per day.

The plutonium-238 based RTG will power Curiosity for 14 years without refuelling.

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Mitsubishi halts electric cars to France's Peugeot

Japanese automaker Mitsubishi Motors said Wednesday that it has "temporarily" halted shipments of its i-MiEV electric car to PSA Peugeot Citroen.

The firm said it would stop deliveries of the vehicles, branded iOn Peugeot and Citroën C-Zero in Europe, that began after the two firms signed a supply deal two years ago.

"This is a temporary stoppage for adjusting stocks (of inventory)," a Mitsubishi spokesman in Tokyo told AFP, declining to elaborate.

"We are the supplier, and we fill the orders of the client."

Mitsubishi has been shipping the electric cars to Peugeot since 2010 with an agreement to supply a total of 100,000 of the vehicles, which was one of the world's first commercially produced electric cars.

The Japanese automaker would not disclose how many vehicles had so far been shipped to Peugeot, citing a confidentiality clause in their agreement.

Mitsubishi said it has made 28,000 i-MiEVs in Japan since 2009. The vehicles can travel about 160 kilometres (100 miles) on a single charge of its lithium-ion battery.

Electric cars represent a tiny fraction of the global automobile market with relatively high prices and limited range often cited as a barrier to sales.

The Japanese firm has other agreements with Peugeot, including supplying it with 4X4s sold under Peugeot's brand while they jointly operate a Russian factory.

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Energy Harvesting Factory | Fully Charged

Rob travels to Cardiff to check out the 'G24i' factory, which produces 'energy harvesters'. They work by taking low levels of indoor light and producing enough power to replace AA batteries, and also eliminate standby time.

On his trip, he speaks with G24i's Barry Jenkins (Business Development Manager), Mark Spratt PhD (Technology Officer) and Stephen Burt (Chief Financial Officer).

Check out the G24 Innovations website @ http://www.g24i.com

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Chinese auto parts firm to invest up to $450M in A123

A123 Systems, a developer and manufacturer of advanced Nanophosphate® lithium iron phosphate batteries and systems, today announced that it has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Wanxiang Group Corporation establishing the framework for a strategic investment through which Wanxiang would invest up to $450 million in A123. Wanxiang is China's largest automotive components manufacturer and one of China's largest non-government-owned companies. Wanxiang's proposed investment in A123 is intended to create the capital structure necessary for the company to continue growing its core businesses, and alignment with Wanxiang is also expected to substantially strengthen A123's access to the growing vehicle electrification and grid-scale energy storage markets in China. A123 will hold a conference call today at 8:00 a.m. ET to discuss this announcement as well as the company's financial results for the second quarter 2012.

"Today's announcement is the first step toward solidifying a strategic agreement that we believe would remove the uncertainty regarding A123's financial situation," said David Vieau, CEO of A123. "A substantial capital investment from Wanxiang would not only provide financial stability to A123 as we continue to grow, but it would also align us with a large, successful global brand in the automotive and cleantech industries. Wanxiang has a successful track record of operating in the U.S. with significant employment and commitment to good corporate citizenship, and we expect that a strategic agreement with Wanxiang would help enhance our competitive position in the global marketplace, especially in China."

Wanxiang Group Corporation and its related companies have more than $13 billion in revenue and more than 45,000 employees across its global businesses in equipment and automotive parts manufacturing, clean energy, financial services, agricultural products, natural resources and real estate, among others. Through its subsidiaries, including Wanxiang America Corporation, it has more than 3,000 U.S.-based employees.

"A123 offers industry-leading technology for vehicle electrification and grid-scale energy storage, as well as strong manufacturing and systems engineering capabilities in Michigan and Massachusetts. We think this creates important synergies with Wanxiang, which has been involved in this field for 12 years and has strong R&D and manufacturing capabilities in China, especially as we continue to expand on our strategy of investing in the automotive and cleantech industries in the U.S.," said Weiding Lu, CEO of Wanxiang Group. "This MOU is the first step toward a longer-term agreement through which we plan to build on the foundation A123 has established in the U.S. and help expand the company's capabilities both domestically and internationally, which we believe would create long-term value to the customers, investors and other stakeholders of both companies."

Under the proposed terms of the strategic agreement outlined in the MOU, Wanxiang would provide A123 with up to $75 million in initial debt financing under a Senior Secured Bridge Facility, with an initial credit extension of $25 million and $50 million to be funded after the satisfaction of certain closing conditions, and, subsequently, upon satisfaction of certain closing conditions, purchase $200 million aggregate principal amount of A123's Senior Secured Convertible Notes. The agreement would also include the potential for Wanxiang to invest up to an additional $175 million if it exercises the warrants that would be issued in connection with the Bridge Facility and the Convertible Notes for cash. Incurrence of the remaining $50 million of loans under the Senior Secured Bridge Facility would be subject to the satisfaction of certain approvals and conditions, including receipt of favorable determination from CFIUS and receipt of Chinese government approvals. Issuance of the Convertible Notes and the related warrants would also be subject to additional conditions, including approval from A123's shareholders, termination of the Hart-Scott-Rodino waiting period, the conversion or redemption of all the outstanding six percent Convertible Notes and relevant warrants and the repurchase or retirement of at least 90 percent of A123's outstanding 3.75 percent convertible subordinated notes due 2016.

According to the proposed terms of the strategic agreement, if the entire amount of the initial debt financing is provided to A123 and the full amount of the warrants and Convertible Notes are issued and exercised for cash, Wanxiang's total capital investment in A123 from these agreements would total approximately $450 million. The total amount of shares of A123's common stock issuable upon exercise and conversion of the warrants and Convertible Notes would represent approximately 80 percent of the then outstanding common stock of A123. While the MOU is non-binding and the execution of definitive documentation is subject to negotiation and, among other items, the amendment of agreements with certain of A123's existing lenders, A123 and Wanxiang are currently negotiating definitive documentation and intend to close the full transaction by the end of 2012. A123 cannot provide any assurance, however, that definitive documentation will be executed, or, if it is executed, that the conditions to funding the full investment will be fulfilled.

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"Monster" Tajima unveils new Pikes Peak electric racecar [VIDEO]

It is Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Week, with the "Race to the Clouds" on tap for this Sunday, and the biggest name to know is yet again Nabuhiro Tajima.

They call him "Monster" and Tajima showcased his brand new car Monday at McCloskey Motors in the Colorado Springs. The Japanese import is switching to an electric car, but that doesn't mean he'll go any slower. His prototype is said to have a multi-million dollar price tag. Tajima designed it himself.

With the new car and with the road paved all the way for the first time ever, he promised that he'll break his own record.

"I guarantee--300 percent," said Tajima. "This is a new car and also a new Hill Climb because of pavement, so it's totally different."

"Monster" set the record last year at 9:5. He says the main reason he switched to an electric car is to reduce emissions and help the environment.

The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is Sunday at 9 a.m at Pikes Peak.

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Ford plug-in hybrid launches in 19 markets this fall

Ford Motor Co. plans to introduce the C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid this fall in 19 U.S. markets, followed by nationwide rollout in all 50 states in early 2013.

The vehicle is powered by a gasoline engine and electric motor that generate up to 195 hp. Ford says the vehicle can travel up to 20 miles on battery power alone. Its total range is 550 miles.

The C-Max Energi has a parallel hybrid powertrain: Either the gasoline engine or the electric motor can power the wheels -- or both at the same time, if the motorist is accelerating hard.

At the touch of a button, Ford C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid drivers can enjoy the industry’s top electric-only speed among all plug-in hybrid vehicles – 85 mph.

With a fully charged battery, C-MAX Energi is rated at 195 horsepower, versus 188 horsepower for Toyota Prius.

C-MAX Energi’s EV mode range is 20-plus miles – more than triple Toyota’s plug-in and well within the one-way commute range of many American motorists. C-MAX Energi – Ford’s first plug-in hybrid – also tops Prius plug-in in overall range (550 miles versus 540 miles).

Three EV modes

The EV mode button – conveniently mounted in the center stack – allows a driver to switch vehicle operation between three modes.

Drivers can opt for electric-only driving without gasoline engine power, normal hybrid mode where the powertrain melds electric and gasoline engine power as appropriate, or a battery-saving mode that reserves the pack power for later use. For an image of the EV mode button, click here.

When plug-in power is available, drivers can change modes with each press of the EV mode button. The mode currently selected is displayed in the driver’s left instrument cluster screen.

EV: Auto

“In EV: Auto mode, the vehicle automatically takes advantage of plug-in charge,” said Kevin Layden, Ford director of Electrification Programs and Engineering. “When the charge is depleted, C-MAX Energi operates as a full hybrid.”

The powertrain computer automatically selects the appropriate blend of battery usage and engine usage based on demand and the state of battery charge.

EV: Now

In EV: Now mode, the vehicle operates in EV mode using plug-in power. The gasoline engine will not operate unless an override setting is selected or certain conditions are present such as the accelerator pedal being fully depressed and the driver enabling the gas engine. EV: Now also activates a special Manage EV screen to monitor functionality.

To achieve the EV range estimate shown on the corresponding gauge, drivers are given coaching cues to maximize EV mode. Additionally, use of climate power and energy gauges will further help drivers manage vehicle energy use.

EV: Later

The EV: Later setting saves plug-in power for later use, like transitioning from highway to lower-speed residential neighborhood use. C-MAX Energi operates in normal hybrid mode, using both gas engine and electric motor. Plug-in power is reserved until the driver switches to the EV: Now or EV: Auto setting.

“C-MAX Energi uses technology in new ways to provide customers smart choices in maximizing their energy usage based on where and how they drive their vehicles,” Bakaj said.

Built at Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Mich., the all-new C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid begins arriving this fall at EV Certified Ford dealers in 19 markets, followed by nationwide rollout in all 50 states in early 2013.

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Austin Texas: proving ground for electric cars [VIDEO]

As gas prices go, so too go the frustrations of drivers who have learned to live with the burden of filling their cars with $3 gasoline. But that does not mean they would not welcome some kind of alternative.

In Austin, electric cars are being given the opportunity to become that alternative in the future.

“On a couple of occasions, I have gone months without purchasing a drop of gasoline,” said Chevy Volt owner Tom Smith.

It is an emerging technology Austin Energy is buying. The electric utility received approximately $650,000 in grant money last year to purchase the Charge Point stations that power electric cars.

The area was one of nine in the country to receive the grant. There are now 113 stations in the network that can be found at parks, parking garages, supermarkets and restaurants.

“You can go to a meeting and recharge your car or go to lunch or go shopping,” said Smith.

Austin Energy has also paid nearly $100,000 in rebates for the almost 85 car owners who have installed the stations at home in an effort to encourage usage of the technology.

Indications are it is becoming more and more popular. Usage of the charge stations has nearly doubled just since December 2011.

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