Nissan is determined to show that it’s not all talk when it comes to electric and hybrid electric vehicles, following up a couple months of announcements about programs in Japan, Portugal, Denmark, Israel and Tennessee by showing off some new hardware to journalists in Japan. Nissan’s ace in this segment it that it has more experience with lithium-ion batteries than any other automaker, having put vehicles on the road using those batteries as far back as 1996 in its wildly named Prairie Joy EV.
Raleigh Non-profit Conducts Plug-in Hybrid Evaluation
Advanced Energy, a Raleigh-based non-profit research firm is experimenting with plug-in hybrid technology with the hopes of finding solutions for achieving even higher fuel economy than the current hybrid standards. Advanced Energy joins a growing number of non-profits, universities, and private companies who are doing similar testing in an effort to push automakers to continue raising the bar on efficiency for consumer markets.
In the Hot Seat for Chevrolet's Volt: Denise Gray
With this morning’s hint that General Motors may share Chevrolet Volt technology with Ford, you might be justified in asking, Yeah, but will it really work? The person in charge of making sure that the Volt’s battery packs are delivered—on time, in adequate quantities, at a cost GM can live with—is Denise Gray. In an article for Spectrum Online, Hybridcars.com contributor John Voelcker profiled Gray in an effort to get closer to the rarely interviewed Volt team.
Nissan still working out kinks on new hybrids
Hoping to get rid of Toyota hybrid license?
Nissan showed off new technology for hybrid cars and electric vehicles in Japan on Wednesday. While the electric cars seemed to perform well, reporters did notice problems with Nissan's new hybrid. "Nissan's hybrid system still has some bugs to work out. Shown on an Infiniti luxury model, it seemed to lurch a little when the gas engine kicked in as speed picked up."
Nissan didn't offer any details on price, range, production capabilities, etc. of the new vehicles.
Nissan showed off new technology for hybrid cars and electric vehicles in Japan on Wednesday. While the electric cars seemed to perform well, reporters did notice problems with Nissan's new hybrid. "Nissan's hybrid system still has some bugs to work out. Shown on an Infiniti luxury model, it seemed to lurch a little when the gas engine kicked in as speed picked up."
Nissan didn't offer any details on price, range, production capabilities, etc. of the new vehicles.
Nissan Altima Hybrid
The 2009 Altima Hybrid is just like the 2008 Nissan Altima Hybrid, only you can order it in a few new colors.
Mostly, what you need to know is the Altima Hybrid is still using the Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive and is still only available in eight states: California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont. While Nissan points out these states have the 'strongest markets' for hybrids, what it really means is these eight states have stronger regulations for emissions.
Press Release Follows
08.01.2008--Nashville, TN--Combining true driving pleasure, distinctive and sporty design and a driver-oriented interior with excellent fuel mileage, the 2009 Nissan Altima Hybrid is a hybrid like no other. The Altima Hybrid, which joined the Nissan lineup in the 2007 model year, continues to offer the efficiency and fuel economy of a hybrid drivetrain with the performance and excitement typical of any Altima.
“Hybrids are top-of-mind for buyers seeking low emissions/high fuel-efficiency vehicles, but not all hybrids are created equal,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “When developing the Altima Hybrid, Nissan engineers had a requirement to make it a Nissan-style hybrid, not just a fuel efficient car. This is a key reason that the Altima Hybrid has done so well when stacked up against the competition, such as in the recent comparison by a leading automotive enthusiast magazine, which called the Altima Hybrid ‘the best’ among the hybrids tested.”
For the 2009 model year, the Altima Hybrid adds a standard auto door-lock function and four new exterior color choices (nine total): Red Brick, Navy Blue, Sonoran Sand and Mystic Jade.
Altima Hybrid has been certified to meet California emissions requirements and is sold in states that have adopted California emissions regulations: California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont. These eight states are among the strongest markets for hybrid vehicles.
The Altima Hybrid is part of Nissan’s ongoing efforts in the area of environmental protection and vehicle efficiency. The company’s aim is to provide the right technology to the right market at the right time and right value to the customer.
In addition to Altima Hybrid, Nissan offers a wide application of its advanced Xtronic CVTä (Continuously Variable Transmission) in its 2009 passenger cars and crossovers and Flexible Fuel Technology (FFV) in the 2009 Titan pickup and Armada SUV. Nissan has also announced plans to develop electric vehicles as a strategic direction embedded in Nissan GT 2012, Nissan’s new mid-term business plan, with the development of safe and low-cost lithium-ion batteries. A Nissan electric vehicle is scheduled for introduction in the U.S. and Japan in 2010. By 2012, Nissan has announced its plans to mass-market electric vehicles to consumers globally.
Cutting-Edge Hybrid Technology
The Altima Hybrid powertrain mates a refined version of Nissan’s QR25 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and standard electronically controlled CVT with an advanced electric drive motor/generator that increases fuel economy while maintaining low tailpipe emissions. Altima Hybrid is rated as an Advanced Technology-Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) and emits almost no evaporative emissions.
“Altima Hybrid’s drive system creates a synergy between its electric motor and its gasoline engine, offering efficiency and excitement in the same attractive package,” said Castignetti.
The advanced energy drive system shares duties between the gasoline-powered 4-cylinder and the emissions-free electric motor – allowing Altima Hybrid to run solely on electric power if appropriate, especially during stop-and-go driving. If extra performance is needed, the gasoline engine starts instantly and smoothly adds power as required.
Altima Hybrid is estimated to have a hybrid system net power rating of 198 horsepower (148 kW). EPA fuel economy is estimated at 35 mpg City and 33 mpg Highway. Combined with Altima’s standard 20-gallon fuel tank, the Altima Hybrid has a projected driving range of up to 700 miles between fill-ups.
The Altima Hybrid utilizes regenerative braking technology to recharge the hybrid system’s batteries, meaning Altima Hybrid doesn’t have to “plug in” to maintain a sufficient store of electric energy.
In order to recharge the battery, a generator places resistance on the driveshaft during braking. Altima Hybrid’s Regenerative Brake System calculates braking force generated by brake pedal operation and controls the regenerative brake force to convert kinetic energy into electric energy, optimizing energy regeneration. The system converts the vehicle’s kinetic energy to usable electric energy that is stored in the system’s 244.8V Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery for eventual use by the electric motor.
The Altima Hybrid utilizes proven technology and components from Toyota Motor Corporation that are mated to Nissan’s refined 2.5-liter engine.
Nissan’s proven QR25 4-cylinder engine has been refined for use in the fourth generation Altima, with a larger intake manifold, increased compression ratio and reduced friction characteristics compared to the previous generation. The engine also features continuously variable valve timing, modular engine design, microfinished crank journals and cam lobes, molybdenum-coated lightweight pistons and electronically controlled throttle.
Helping provide smooth acceleration and maximize powertrain efficiency is Altima Hybrid’s hybrid system-specific eCVT, which works in conjunction with the Hybrid Vehicle-Electric Control Unit (HV-ECU) to determine which power source or combination of power sources will turn the wheels.
Altima Hybrid’s electric motor produces high torque at low rpm, allowing it to utilize its Electric Vehicle (EV) mode to power the car from a standing idle and through initial acceleration without the assistance of the gasoline engine. While this stage of acceleration is a typical gasoline-only powered vehicle’s least fuel-efficient stage, Altima Hybrid offers much of its fuel-efficiency benefits here.
Altima Hybrid’s all-electric mode, called Electric Vehicle (EV) mode, powers the vehicle in this initial acceleration phase. After the electric motor provides initial acceleration, the gasoline engine quietly starts and assumes the load of powering the vehicle. The gasoline engine works independently through cruising speeds until the vehicle reaches speeds at which fuel efficiency declines.
When loads require, the electric motor restarts again and aids the gasoline engine in powering the Altima Hybrid. This allows the gasoline engine to remain in its ideal rpm range while the axle torque simultaneously increases due to extra power contributed by the electric motor.
A digital display on the speedometer indicates when the Altima Hybrid is running solely on electric power. The Altima Hybrid’s available DVD navigation system also features a real-time display showing how the hybrid system directs the flow of energy.
“Altima Hybrid feels remarkably smooth – most drivers will never be aware of the transitions between the electric and gasoline power sources,” said Castignetti. “Mostly what they will feel is highly responsive acceleration and the seamless delivery of power under almost all driving conditions.”
A Pure Altima Experience
The Altima Hybrid is one of three distinct choices for Altima buyers in 2009, along with the Altima Sedan and the Altima Coupe – each delivering a rewarding, engaging driving and ownership experience.
Serving as the foundation for all 2009 Altimas, including Altima Hybrid, is Nissan’s advanced “D” platform. The platform includes a subframe-mounted front suspension, shock absorbers with rebound springs and equal-length half-shafts that are nearly parallel to the ground – virtually eliminating traditional front-wheel drive torque steer.
Altima’s exterior features an aggressive stance, a strong wedge character line and signature Altima-style taillights. Inside, Altima utilizes refined workmanship, high-quality materials and a long list of available amenities. The Altima Hybrid shares exterior and interior designs with the 2009 Altima Sedan – with the exception of unique Hybrid badging and hybrid power/charge display in the driver information display.
The 2009 Altima Hybrid also comes equipped with a number of standard safety features, including Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors, front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags and roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.
Other standard equipment includes front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, front seat Active Head Restraints, the LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren), Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
One Well-Equipped Model
The 2009 Altima Hybrid is offered in one model, the Altima Hybrid, and with several optional equipment packages. Standard equipment includes the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and hybrid electric components, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), eCVT transmission, 4-wheel power-assisted disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), electric power rack-and-pinion steering, 4-wheel independent suspension and 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. Comfort and convenience features include standard Nissan Intelligent KeyÔ with Push Button Ignition and a dual-zone automatic temperature control that includes an Altima Hybrid-specific electrically powered A/C that continues to provide cooling when the gasoline engine is stopped.
The Altima Hybrid also offers an impressive list of available convenience features, including leather-appointed seating, Bluetoothâ Hands-free Phone System, RearView Monitor, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and Nissan’s Advanced Navigation System with real-time Energy Flow Display.
The 2009 Altima is assembled at Nissan North America – Smyrna Manufacturing.
Mostly, what you need to know is the Altima Hybrid is still using the Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive and is still only available in eight states: California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont. While Nissan points out these states have the 'strongest markets' for hybrids, what it really means is these eight states have stronger regulations for emissions.
Press Release Follows
08.01.2008--Nashville, TN--Combining true driving pleasure, distinctive and sporty design and a driver-oriented interior with excellent fuel mileage, the 2009 Nissan Altima Hybrid is a hybrid like no other. The Altima Hybrid, which joined the Nissan lineup in the 2007 model year, continues to offer the efficiency and fuel economy of a hybrid drivetrain with the performance and excitement typical of any Altima.
“Hybrids are top-of-mind for buyers seeking low emissions/high fuel-efficiency vehicles, but not all hybrids are created equal,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “When developing the Altima Hybrid, Nissan engineers had a requirement to make it a Nissan-style hybrid, not just a fuel efficient car. This is a key reason that the Altima Hybrid has done so well when stacked up against the competition, such as in the recent comparison by a leading automotive enthusiast magazine, which called the Altima Hybrid ‘the best’ among the hybrids tested.”
For the 2009 model year, the Altima Hybrid adds a standard auto door-lock function and four new exterior color choices (nine total): Red Brick, Navy Blue, Sonoran Sand and Mystic Jade.
Altima Hybrid has been certified to meet California emissions requirements and is sold in states that have adopted California emissions regulations: California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont. These eight states are among the strongest markets for hybrid vehicles.
The Altima Hybrid is part of Nissan’s ongoing efforts in the area of environmental protection and vehicle efficiency. The company’s aim is to provide the right technology to the right market at the right time and right value to the customer.
In addition to Altima Hybrid, Nissan offers a wide application of its advanced Xtronic CVTä (Continuously Variable Transmission) in its 2009 passenger cars and crossovers and Flexible Fuel Technology (FFV) in the 2009 Titan pickup and Armada SUV. Nissan has also announced plans to develop electric vehicles as a strategic direction embedded in Nissan GT 2012, Nissan’s new mid-term business plan, with the development of safe and low-cost lithium-ion batteries. A Nissan electric vehicle is scheduled for introduction in the U.S. and Japan in 2010. By 2012, Nissan has announced its plans to mass-market electric vehicles to consumers globally.
Cutting-Edge Hybrid Technology
The Altima Hybrid powertrain mates a refined version of Nissan’s QR25 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and standard electronically controlled CVT with an advanced electric drive motor/generator that increases fuel economy while maintaining low tailpipe emissions. Altima Hybrid is rated as an Advanced Technology-Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) and emits almost no evaporative emissions.
“Altima Hybrid’s drive system creates a synergy between its electric motor and its gasoline engine, offering efficiency and excitement in the same attractive package,” said Castignetti.
The advanced energy drive system shares duties between the gasoline-powered 4-cylinder and the emissions-free electric motor – allowing Altima Hybrid to run solely on electric power if appropriate, especially during stop-and-go driving. If extra performance is needed, the gasoline engine starts instantly and smoothly adds power as required.
Altima Hybrid is estimated to have a hybrid system net power rating of 198 horsepower (148 kW). EPA fuel economy is estimated at 35 mpg City and 33 mpg Highway. Combined with Altima’s standard 20-gallon fuel tank, the Altima Hybrid has a projected driving range of up to 700 miles between fill-ups.
The Altima Hybrid utilizes regenerative braking technology to recharge the hybrid system’s batteries, meaning Altima Hybrid doesn’t have to “plug in” to maintain a sufficient store of electric energy.
In order to recharge the battery, a generator places resistance on the driveshaft during braking. Altima Hybrid’s Regenerative Brake System calculates braking force generated by brake pedal operation and controls the regenerative brake force to convert kinetic energy into electric energy, optimizing energy regeneration. The system converts the vehicle’s kinetic energy to usable electric energy that is stored in the system’s 244.8V Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery for eventual use by the electric motor.
The Altima Hybrid utilizes proven technology and components from Toyota Motor Corporation that are mated to Nissan’s refined 2.5-liter engine.
Nissan’s proven QR25 4-cylinder engine has been refined for use in the fourth generation Altima, with a larger intake manifold, increased compression ratio and reduced friction characteristics compared to the previous generation. The engine also features continuously variable valve timing, modular engine design, microfinished crank journals and cam lobes, molybdenum-coated lightweight pistons and electronically controlled throttle.
Helping provide smooth acceleration and maximize powertrain efficiency is Altima Hybrid’s hybrid system-specific eCVT, which works in conjunction with the Hybrid Vehicle-Electric Control Unit (HV-ECU) to determine which power source or combination of power sources will turn the wheels.
Altima Hybrid’s electric motor produces high torque at low rpm, allowing it to utilize its Electric Vehicle (EV) mode to power the car from a standing idle and through initial acceleration without the assistance of the gasoline engine. While this stage of acceleration is a typical gasoline-only powered vehicle’s least fuel-efficient stage, Altima Hybrid offers much of its fuel-efficiency benefits here.
Altima Hybrid’s all-electric mode, called Electric Vehicle (EV) mode, powers the vehicle in this initial acceleration phase. After the electric motor provides initial acceleration, the gasoline engine quietly starts and assumes the load of powering the vehicle. The gasoline engine works independently through cruising speeds until the vehicle reaches speeds at which fuel efficiency declines.
When loads require, the electric motor restarts again and aids the gasoline engine in powering the Altima Hybrid. This allows the gasoline engine to remain in its ideal rpm range while the axle torque simultaneously increases due to extra power contributed by the electric motor.
A digital display on the speedometer indicates when the Altima Hybrid is running solely on electric power. The Altima Hybrid’s available DVD navigation system also features a real-time display showing how the hybrid system directs the flow of energy.
“Altima Hybrid feels remarkably smooth – most drivers will never be aware of the transitions between the electric and gasoline power sources,” said Castignetti. “Mostly what they will feel is highly responsive acceleration and the seamless delivery of power under almost all driving conditions.”
A Pure Altima Experience
The Altima Hybrid is one of three distinct choices for Altima buyers in 2009, along with the Altima Sedan and the Altima Coupe – each delivering a rewarding, engaging driving and ownership experience.
Serving as the foundation for all 2009 Altimas, including Altima Hybrid, is Nissan’s advanced “D” platform. The platform includes a subframe-mounted front suspension, shock absorbers with rebound springs and equal-length half-shafts that are nearly parallel to the ground – virtually eliminating traditional front-wheel drive torque steer.
Altima’s exterior features an aggressive stance, a strong wedge character line and signature Altima-style taillights. Inside, Altima utilizes refined workmanship, high-quality materials and a long list of available amenities. The Altima Hybrid shares exterior and interior designs with the 2009 Altima Sedan – with the exception of unique Hybrid badging and hybrid power/charge display in the driver information display.
The 2009 Altima Hybrid also comes equipped with a number of standard safety features, including Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors, front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags and roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.
Other standard equipment includes front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, front seat Active Head Restraints, the LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren), Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
One Well-Equipped Model
The 2009 Altima Hybrid is offered in one model, the Altima Hybrid, and with several optional equipment packages. Standard equipment includes the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and hybrid electric components, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), eCVT transmission, 4-wheel power-assisted disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), electric power rack-and-pinion steering, 4-wheel independent suspension and 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. Comfort and convenience features include standard Nissan Intelligent KeyÔ with Push Button Ignition and a dual-zone automatic temperature control that includes an Altima Hybrid-specific electrically powered A/C that continues to provide cooling when the gasoline engine is stopped.
The Altima Hybrid also offers an impressive list of available convenience features, including leather-appointed seating, Bluetoothâ Hands-free Phone System, RearView Monitor, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and Nissan’s Advanced Navigation System with real-time Energy Flow Display.
The 2009 Altima is assembled at Nissan North America – Smyrna Manufacturing.
BMW Balances Horsepower and MPG
Until recently, BMW's Efficent Dynamics concept seemed to be more of a marketing campaign or mission statement rather than a tangible product. The idea behind it is obviously to combine world-class driveability (which BMW is known for) with exemplary emissions management and fuel-saving technology. But which, if any, of the automaker's offerings actually live up to this standard? A sneak peek of BMW's upcoming 2009 7 Series sedan in Mirimas, France,
Hybrid Battery Maker Cobasys Continues to Falter, Daimler Sues
Daimler AG, maker of Mercedes-Benz luxury cars, is suing Cobasys for failing to provide hybrid battery packs as agreed for a planned Mercedes-Benz gasoline-electric SUV. The German automaker paid Cobasys $6 million in connection with development of the batteries. Cobasys is jointly owned by Energy Conversion Devices Inc. and a division of Chevron Corp.
Hybrid Sports Cars
If you are a type of person who likes exotic high speed sports car, then you should prepare to spend a lot of money on gasoline. Sports cars are known to have large engines to achieve high amounts of speed. Having large engines mean that it will also consume large amounts of fuel.
or the typical person, this kind of car is definitely not something that they should drive everyday, especially because of the rising prices of gasoline. However, why do people still drool and save money to buy these expensive sports car? Maybe it’s because of the high speed capability that they can take advantage of whenever they feel the need for speed, or maybe because it’s because of the sleek and stylish look of these vehicles.
Hybrid technology is now being used to produce fuel efficient cars. These cars are designed to be lightweight, and aerodynamic with small engines to maximize fuel efficiency. However, hybrid cars are relatively slow because of the small engine. Hybrid cars existing today are designed for city or local driving where you don’t need to go on high speeds. You have to consider that these cars are designed to be fuel efficient.
However, car manufacturers today are now opening up a new line of hybrid cars. Some already built a prototype or a concept car to be shown to the public. These hybrid cars are designed to achieve high amounts of speed but at the same time, take advantage of the hybrid technology to save fuel.
High speed hybrid sports cars are being designed by car manufacturers today to satisfy consumers who like to go at high speeds and at the same time, save fuel. The gasoline-electric engine concept is so popular today that manufacturers, such as Toyota and Honda are now opening a new line in their factory that produces hybrid sports cars.
Major auto shows have shown different hybrid sports car concepts from different large car manufacturers. One is the high performance hybrid sports car from Mitsubishi called the Mitsubishi Eclipse Concept-E. This hybrid concept sports car is a very good example of what sports cars will look like in the near future.
Mitsubishi’s Eclipse Concept-E takes advantage of the hybrid technology. The front wheels are driven by the parallel hybrid system. This means that the electric motor is integrated with the gasoline engine, which is a 3.8 liter V6. With the gasoline engine and the electric motor, it is able to have a power output of 270 horsepower.
The new generation of sports car like the Mitsubishi Eclipse Concept-E is only one of the concept hybrid sports cars that are now being talked about by sports car fanatics. With the hybrid technology integrated into sports cars, you will definitely save a lot of money on fuel while letting you combine fuel efficiency and power all in one package.
Hybrid sports car is definitely the sports car of the future. It is now possible to have a sports car that is able to save fuel and still give you maximum performance. With hybrid sports car, you can now own a luxury sports car that is able to cut fuel consumption. You can satisfy your speed urges without sacrificing big money for fuel.
or the typical person, this kind of car is definitely not something that they should drive everyday, especially because of the rising prices of gasoline. However, why do people still drool and save money to buy these expensive sports car? Maybe it’s because of the high speed capability that they can take advantage of whenever they feel the need for speed, or maybe because it’s because of the sleek and stylish look of these vehicles.
Hybrid technology is now being used to produce fuel efficient cars. These cars are designed to be lightweight, and aerodynamic with small engines to maximize fuel efficiency. However, hybrid cars are relatively slow because of the small engine. Hybrid cars existing today are designed for city or local driving where you don’t need to go on high speeds. You have to consider that these cars are designed to be fuel efficient.
However, car manufacturers today are now opening up a new line of hybrid cars. Some already built a prototype or a concept car to be shown to the public. These hybrid cars are designed to achieve high amounts of speed but at the same time, take advantage of the hybrid technology to save fuel.
High speed hybrid sports cars are being designed by car manufacturers today to satisfy consumers who like to go at high speeds and at the same time, save fuel. The gasoline-electric engine concept is so popular today that manufacturers, such as Toyota and Honda are now opening a new line in their factory that produces hybrid sports cars.
Major auto shows have shown different hybrid sports car concepts from different large car manufacturers. One is the high performance hybrid sports car from Mitsubishi called the Mitsubishi Eclipse Concept-E. This hybrid concept sports car is a very good example of what sports cars will look like in the near future.
Mitsubishi’s Eclipse Concept-E takes advantage of the hybrid technology. The front wheels are driven by the parallel hybrid system. This means that the electric motor is integrated with the gasoline engine, which is a 3.8 liter V6. With the gasoline engine and the electric motor, it is able to have a power output of 270 horsepower.
The new generation of sports car like the Mitsubishi Eclipse Concept-E is only one of the concept hybrid sports cars that are now being talked about by sports car fanatics. With the hybrid technology integrated into sports cars, you will definitely save a lot of money on fuel while letting you combine fuel efficiency and power all in one package.
Hybrid sports car is definitely the sports car of the future. It is now possible to have a sports car that is able to save fuel and still give you maximum performance. With hybrid sports car, you can now own a luxury sports car that is able to cut fuel consumption. You can satisfy your speed urges without sacrificing big money for fuel.
Lotus announces Safe and Sound hybrid demonstrator
For the past two decades, Lotus has been working on active noise cancellation technology to make cars quieter. While that may have been a good thing on internal combustion cars, the spread of hybrid and electric cars has made advocates for the blind concerned. Electrically driven cars tend to be almost silent at lower speeds meaning that visually impaired pedestrians who rely more on audio inputs to know what is going around them have a problem. Lotus is now taking its technology and turning it around on a Toyota Prius demonstrator. Instead of using internal speakers to generate opposite sound waves to cancel noise, Lotus is mounting speakers externally with a controller tied to the accelerator pedal. The system generates simulated engine sounds that will allow people in the vicinity hear the car approach. Lotus is working with the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents and the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association to develop the system. The press release is after the jump. You can also view videos of the demonstrator at the Lotus web-site.
The Mazda 6 Hybrid
Mazda vice president Jay Amestoy let it be known they would not be making a Mazda 6 Hybrid. Which I find very interesting.
Why not make a hybrid Mazda 6? They have the technology through Ford. Ford is making a Fusion hybrid. Ford said they would finally be making money on their hybrids this year because they have had the technology for long enough.
So why not spread out the technology even more? The Mazda 6 could use the extra fuel economy and, although I don’t think the hybrid version would compete in sales with the Prius, today’s high gas prices aren’t going away anytime soon. When every add you make you need to talk about fuel economy, no matter the car type, doesn’t it make sense to make your cars into more fuel efficient machines?
Of course, Ford is turning into a conservative corporation. Even though they were the first car company to bring an SUV hybrid, they seem very risk averse right now. Ever since they backed off ramping the number of hybrids up, they have refused to take any risks in the hybrid field.
It’s hard to blame them when you look at their sales and profit figures, but still. They won’t even enter into the plug-in field the way Toyota and GM are going to. By stating it will be five years before the plug-in market will ‘ramp up,’ they are letting it be known that, despite having some test vehicles out there, they aren’t going to play for real. At least, not yet.
But back to the Mazda 6. I find it interesting that they need to justify not making a hybrid out of it. Doesn’t that seem to indicate to Mazda (Ford) that maybe they should really be considering it?
Why not make a hybrid Mazda 6? They have the technology through Ford. Ford is making a Fusion hybrid. Ford said they would finally be making money on their hybrids this year because they have had the technology for long enough.
So why not spread out the technology even more? The Mazda 6 could use the extra fuel economy and, although I don’t think the hybrid version would compete in sales with the Prius, today’s high gas prices aren’t going away anytime soon. When every add you make you need to talk about fuel economy, no matter the car type, doesn’t it make sense to make your cars into more fuel efficient machines?
Of course, Ford is turning into a conservative corporation. Even though they were the first car company to bring an SUV hybrid, they seem very risk averse right now. Ever since they backed off ramping the number of hybrids up, they have refused to take any risks in the hybrid field.
It’s hard to blame them when you look at their sales and profit figures, but still. They won’t even enter into the plug-in field the way Toyota and GM are going to. By stating it will be five years before the plug-in market will ‘ramp up,’ they are letting it be known that, despite having some test vehicles out there, they aren’t going to play for real. At least, not yet.
But back to the Mazda 6. I find it interesting that they need to justify not making a hybrid out of it. Doesn’t that seem to indicate to Mazda (Ford) that maybe they should really be considering it?
Design Puzzle for New Honda Hybrid
It’s been five years since a hybrid-specific car was introduced to the market. That was the second-generation Toyota Prius. The Prius’s design—raking windshield, rounded roof line and swooping hatchback—has been emblazoned in the public consciousness as the very definition of what a hybrid is supposed to look like. That will present a difficult challenge for Honda, as it prepares to launch its new hybrid-only subcompact, a 2009 model with a purchase price below $20,000.
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