Greenformance

Spy Shots: BMW 1-Series Hybrid In Adorable Hatchback Form

John Beltz Snyder — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 08:58:19 -0600

Lately, we’ve seen many examples of updated BMWs coming through the espionage pipeline. These latest spy shots, though, aren’t just another appearance update.

Take a close look at the sticker on the window and under the license plate. It reads, in plain English, “Hybrid Test Vehicle.” Caught in Munich, the 1-series appears to be following in the tire tracks of the 7-Series and X6 ActiveHybrid models we have already seen.

We’ll be sure to keep you posted with any more news on the 1-Series hybrid.

Click through the gallery above to see the BMW 1-Series hybrid prototype, or scroll down for the shooter’s comments.

The first hybrid prototypes for the BMW 1-series are up and running now. It’s been 3 weeks since we first spotted this 1-series hybrid prototype and ever since then it’s been playing hide and seek with us, but now we finally got it in front of the camera lens. The problem as a carspy with a prototype like this is that it doesn’t look different to the other 2000 silver painted BMW 1 series driving around in Munich. Except for the “Hybrid Test Vehicle” stickers on the rear side windows and on the rear bumper.

With Lexus announcing that their 1-series rival will only be available in Hybrid form, it’s about time for BMW to develop their own version of a smaller Hybrid car. It’s not clear if the Hybrid version will be available in the current version already or if it first will come in the next generation 1-series. But then again, it would have made more sense to test it in that new generation since that one is already driving as prototype.

After the Hybrid versions of the 7 series and the X6, this is now the third Hybrid car from BMW. But remember, BMW has announced Hybrid versions of both the new 5 series and the upcoming 3 series as well.

Hyundai Develops Direct Injection Engine

John Beltz Snyder — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:00:05 -0600

Today, Hyundai unveiled its first gasoline direct injection engine, the 2.4 Theta II GDI. The 2.4-liter engine, in its current, Korean spec, offers 198 horsepower at 6300 rpm, and 184 pound-feet of torque at 4250 rpm.

Besides its improved output, direct injection lowers emissions and improves fuel economy.

The 2.4 Theta II GDI will see its first application in the first half of 2010 in the Hyundai Sonata. The GDI technology will then spread to other gasoline engines in the Hyundai lineup.

We’re glad to see Hyundai, as well as other manufacturers, bring back the mainstream use of direct injection technology. Learn more about direct injection here, or check out our Direct Injection Buyer’s Guide , listing current models on sale that use the technology.

See Hyundai’s new direct injection engine in the gallery above, or scroll down for the press release.

Hyundai Develops Its First Gasoline
Direct Injection Engine

- GDI lowers emissions while improving fuel economy & torque
- 2.4 Theta II GDI generates 201ps@6300rpm and 25.5kg.m@4250rpm
- First application in 2010 1H on new Sonata
- GDI to be first in mid-size sedan segment, beating competitors to market
- Unveiling coincides with 9thHyundai-Kia Int’l Powertrain Conference

(Namyang, Korea) To help meet its goals of environmental leadership, Hyundai Motor Company today unveiled the 2.4 Theta II GDI, its first Gasoline Direct Injection engine before an audience of engineers attending the Ninth Annual Hyundai-Kia International Powertrain Conference.

Representing the biggest advancement in fuel injection, an ‘80s technology that replaced the carburetor, GDI puts Hyundai at the cutting edge of engine design and management by achieving three seemly incompatible goals: GDI lowers emissions while raising power output and improving fuel economy. Prior to GDI, a gain in one area came at the expense of the other two.

With a compression ratio of 11.3:1, the 2.4 Theta II GDI delivers 201ps@6300rpm and 25.5kg.m@4250rpm in its Korean domestic market specification.

“The Theta II GDI convincingly demonstrates Hyundai’s advanced powertrain engineering capabilities,” said Dr. Lee Hyun-Soon, Vice Chairman and Chief Technology Officer.

Developed with a budget of 170 billion won over a 46 month-long research period, the new 2.4 Theta II GDI engine will make its debut in the first half of 2010 starting with the recently launched Sonata, beating the mid-size sedan competition to market with this exciting new technology. GDI application will subsequently be expanded across the gasoline engine family and applied to other Hyundai models.

One serious limitation of conventional fuel injection is that as engine revolutions increase, the valve opening and closing times get progressively shorter, thus reducing the time available to inject fuel. GDI avoids this problem altogether by positioning the fuel injector in the most optimal location, directly inside the combustion chamber to offer unparalleled precision. With this shorter and more direct path, far greater control is attained over the combustion process: A high pressure fuel pump injects the fuel at pressures of up to 150 bar, in precise amounts and intervals.

The injection is split into two phases to achieve optimum combustion: in the first phase, the pilot injection and ignition trigger the piston's downward power stroke. Then, in the main injection phase, during the piston's descent, more fuel is injected and is ignited. This split-injection technique reduces loading on the catalytic converter and helps lower emissions. This is particularly beneficial during cold starts when emissions are highest because the catalyst has not reached its optimal operating temperature. Split-injection enables the catalytic converter to reach the optimal operating temperature faster thus reducing emissions by 25 percent during cold starts and meet’s California Air Resources Board’s ULEV-2 and PZEV standards

GDI’s other benefits include improved dynamic performance and better gas mileage. Compared to a conventional engine of the same displacement, GDI delivers 7 percent more torque at low revolutions and 12 percent more torque at the high-end for better take-off and overtaking performance. And perhaps best of all, a vehicle equipped with a GDI engine will get about 10 percent better mileage than a vehicle equipped with a conventional multi-point fuel injected engine. Precise mileage figures will be announced when retail sales begin.

GDI has been applied to the second generation of Theta: Theta II features numerous design enhancements over its predecessor starting with the application of a three-stage variable induction system (VIS) which improves engine "breathing," automatically adjusting the volume of the air sucked into the combustion chamber to create the "optimal" air-to-fuel mix under different engine load conditions.

Further performance gains were made possible by incorporating Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (DCVVT) which improves engine breathing on the intake and exhaust sides for better fuel economy and lower emissions. Depending on engine load and speed, DCVVT can extend or shorten the duration of the valve opening and closing for more power and lower emissions. And the DCVVT system is governed by a new steel chain with an innovative roller and tooth designed for silent operation and durability.

While DCVVT and VIS improve power output, engineers have also come up with several important weight saving innovations. Special attention was focused on the bulkhead, the area of the aluminium cylinder block accumulating the highest stresses: Reinforcement yielded a stiffer block without incurring a weight penalty. A redesign of the crankshaft (semi-eight-balance type) led to an equally important weight reduction. The catalytic converter is also lighter thanks to a new canning process which allows for the use of thinner gauge stainless steel and requiring far less welding.

Another major engineering challenge was to reduce internal friction to attain better fuel economy. Friction reduction measures include a revision of the piston pin from a fixed-type to a full-floating design which cuts down on friction between the piston and cylinder wall. And under the piston crown, engineers have added a cooling jet which sprays oil over the piston walls reducing friction and contributing to an improvement in fuel economy.

The Conference’s plenary session open today under the banner “Creative Sustainable Powertrain Evolution for Green Growth.” Wednesday will see a large number of technical presentations delivered in various sessions covering the future of gasoline engines, new developments in exhaust emission after-treatment, fuel efficiency improvement and transmissions. Some 600 specialists from Europe, Japan, the United States and Korea are attending this year's event.

Buyer's Guide: 2010 Toyota Prius

NextAutos Staff — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:20:13 -0600

Pros:

Spacious and practical interior belies modest exterior size

Fuel economy can be fabulous

No shortage of amenities and electronic toys

Cons:

Feels about as slow as any car we’ve driven (as in “Throttle response? What throttle response.”)

Ride is firm, but also on the harsh side of normal

Handling is quirky (firm springing + limited roll-stiffness + harsh damping + zero throttle response = not much fun)

Car Summary:

Like the Lexus HS250h, the Toyota Prius offers three operating modes: Power, Eco, and EV (electronic vehicle), which might just as well be labeled Slow, Slower, and Slowest. Although the Prius is lighter and somewhat more nimble than its Lexus counterpart, it exhibits a glacial pace off the line. As it turns out, the car accelerates better than at first seems to be the case, but the throttle response is the opposite of hair-trigger. You really have to get into the pedal to make the Prius move.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of this Buyer’s Guide, or browse the rest of our Buyer’s Guides here.

List: The Top 10 Lightest 300 Horsepower Cars

Seyth Miersma — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:33:58 -0600

300 horsepower is still a significant benchmark within the auto world. (As we found out last year when we created our list of 300 horsepower cars under $10K, check it out here.) That’s enough power that some serious performance is usually on tap, especially when the curb weight is kept low in concert with the output. So which cars with at least 300 ponies are the very lightest? Our list seeks to answer just that, with cars that are on sale in the U.S. today, and being limited to just the lightest example of any one particular model (sorry 911 and Corvette). Check out the top ten hardest punching lightweights, in our gallery above.

Two Front Teeth Be Damned, We Want A Tesla!

John Beltz Snyder — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:50:44 -0500

We’re making our lists a little early this year, as Tesla can only promise delivery of our custom Roadster by the end of the year if you order today (October 28) by eight o’clock Eastern.

Oh, and if you live in Colorado, you may be eligible for a $42,000 tax credit.

Still can’t justify it? A subscription to Winding Road also makes a great gift for discriminating drivers.

+ Tesla: Last Call For Holiday Deliveries

Ask It: 2010 Toyota Prius

NextAutos Staff — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:22:32 -0500

We currently have the 2010 Toyota Prius in our Austin fleet, and we know you have questions about it. Is it nearly as good as it is popular? Ask us, and find out.

See it in the gallery above, then head over to the Ask It page in our forums, and we’ll answer all your questions to the best of our abilities.

Better Power, Torque, Fuel Economy for the BMW M3, Courtesy of Advanced Flow Engineering

John Beltz Snyder — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 12:00:39 -0500

Advanced Flow Engineering offers up a new Stage 2 cold air intake system for your 2007-10 BMW M3. The intake, which has an MSRP between about $1180 and $1370 replaces the stock air intake with six-inch performance air filter, aluminum housing, and flow-improving plastic tubes.

The AFE air intake improves airflow by 85 percent, boosting horsepower, torque, and fuel economy.

We think a 15-horsepower and 13 pound-feet increase, as well as improved gas mileage, for around a thousand dollars (the prices are currently reduced on AFE’s website) is not too shabby.

Check it out in the gallery above, or scroll down for the press release.

October 23, 2009
aFe Releases New Stage 2 Intake for the
2008-2010 BMW M3 V8-4.0L

Corona, Ca...advanced FLOW engineering (aFe), an industry leader in performance intakes, filters, manifolds and exhaust systems is pleased to announce the release of their Stage 2 air intake system with for the 2007-10 BMW M3 with V8-4.0L part numbers 50-11662-C (Clear Coat Anodized), 50-11662-CV (Clear Coat Value Pack), 50-11662-B (Black Anodized) and 55-11662-BV (Black Anodized Value Pack).

This system is a true race-inspired intake and uses a fully fabricated 6061 aluminum housing and cover which houses a huge 6” performance air filter. This system also includes performance engineered rotomolded plastic tubes to maximize air velocity and improve horsepower, torque, and throttle response. As an added value aFe has thrown in a Pro Dry S filter, which utilizes 2-layers of progressive synthetic media that requires no recharging oils for maximum convenience. Value pack applications come with Dynamic Air Scoops to help drive increased air to the intake. All aFe intakes come with all components and hardware for an easy and complete installation

In recent testing, part number 50-11662CV reduced 15hp and 13lbs. x ft. of torque and 85% more air flow than the factory intake as well as improved MPG. During heat testing, the aFe Stage 2 intake had a lower intake air temperature than the stock intake helping to produce these huge performance gains.

Part Number 50-11662-C has an MSRP of $1,243.75 and is available in stores now.
Part Number 50-11662-CV has an MSRP of $1,368.75 and is available in stores now.
Part Number 50-11662-B has an MSRP of $1,181.25 and is available in stores now.
Part Number 50-11662-BV has an MSRP of $1,306.25 and is available in stores now.

For more information on this or any other aFe product, please visit our website at www.aFepower.com or contact our Power Professionals department at 1-951-493-7155.

New York May Be Build Site For Reva NXR EV

John Beltz Snyder — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:47:25 -0500

According to reports, Reva, an Indian electric car manufacturer, may build vehicles in the US. If the deal passes, Reva would manufacture its NXR near Syracuse, New York. This would create 250 jobs over the course of three years.

The Reva NXR EV has a top speed of 65 miles per hour, and a range of 100 miles.

See the Reva NXG and NXR in the gallery above, or follow the link below for more information.

+ Autoblog: REPORT: Indian firm Reva to build electric cars in upstate NY

Tokyo 2009: Subaru Hybrid Tourer Concept

Seyth Miersma — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 12:53:02 -0500

Subaru has pulled the sheet off of its Hybrid Tourer Concept at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, revealing a crisp, forward-looking, hybrid wagon from a company well known for forward-thinking wagons. We gave you the full details about the Tourer Concept a bit ago (here), but didn’t want to miss out on passing along more and better photography of the fetching fantasy wagon. Click through our gallery above to have a look.

Video: Suzuki Showcases Fuel Cell Technology at the Tokyo Motor Show

John Beltz Snyder — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 12:18:06 -0500

Suzuki is showing fuel cell versions of three of their vehicles at the Tokyo Motor Show, and Gizmag has the corresponding video. It features the SX4 hatchback, a scooter, and the Mio electric wheelchair.

Watch the video above to see how Suzuki is planning to use hydrogen technology in future vehicles. Or, find the source article here.

Forum: Electric Vehicles, Noise, and Pedestrian Safety - What's Your Take?

John Beltz Snyder — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:14:19 -0500

With more and more automakers developing electric vehicles, some folks worry about pedestrian safety. They argue that more people are likely to be hit by sneakily quiet EVs. Some even suggest putting speakers in electric cars to produce a noise that will give pedestrians a heads-up to oncoming traffic.

On the other hand, those concerned about the already pervasive noise pollution look forward to having quieter cars on the road.

What do you think? Should electric vehicles be required to produce some sort of noise in the name of public safety? If so, what sound should be employed? Should electric vehicles replicate the sound of current cars, or should we get more creative?

Will the Chevrolet Volt sound like Cyndi Lauper ?

The Truth About Cars offers some suggestions here.

Head over to our forum page to make yourself heard.

+ NextAutos Forums: Electric Vehicles, Noise, and Pedestrian Safety - What's Your Take?

Green Car Journal Announces "Top 5 for 2010"

John Beltz Snyder — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 14:12:11 -0500

Green Car Journal has announced its Top 5 for 2010 winners. Eventually, GCJ will choose the Green Car of the Year form this list. And they are (in alphabetical order):

Audi A3 TDI
Honda Insight
Mercury Milan Hybrid
Toyota Prius
Volkswagen Golf TDI

Our reactions, repectively:

Hmm. Yes.
You’ve got to be kidding me.
The little thing on the instrument panel that grows leaves while you drive is kinda neat.
Never heard of it.
Hooray!

What do you think of their choices? Which should earn the title of “best-of-the-best in ‘green’ cars?” Comments are good for the environment.

+ Green Car Journal: Hybrids & Clean Diesels Named Green Car of the Year Finalists

Infiniti Confirms Its First Production Hybrid, the M35

John Beltz Snyder — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 12:34:31 -0500

Infiniti announced its first production hybrid. Based on the 2011 M line, the M35 hybrid will likely be sold as a 2012 model.

While Infiniti has not released performance numbers, driving range, or what transmission it will use, the automaker has promised that it will focus on driving performance. With rear-wheel drive, a 3.5-liter V-6 engine, and design cues taken from the Essence concept we saw at the Geneva show, the M35 hybrid, Infiniti should easily make good on this promise.

The electric motor, which can propel the vehicle on its own under certain driving conditions (we imagine a similarity to the EV mode of the Toyota Prius or Lexus HS250h), it also delivers extra power to the V-6 when necessary. When not in use, the electric motor acts as a generator to charge the lithium-ion battery pack.

See the Infiniti M35 hybrid in the gallery above, or scroll down for the press release.

10.07.2009 , Franklin, Tenn.
Infiniti Confirms M35 Hybrid Production
 Infiniti today confirmed that its first production hybrid vehicle will be part of the recently announced line of 2011 Infiniti M luxury performance sedans, which are scheduled to go on sale in spring 2010 at Infiniti dealers nationwide. The Infiniti M35 hybrid is expected to arrive about 12 months later as a 2012 model. It is Infiniti’s first hybrid in its 20-year existence, as well as the cleanest and most economical car in Infiniti’s history.  Realizing the high performance/low emissions promise of the recent Infiniti Essence concept car, the M35 Hybrid has been designed and engineered to add to, not take away from, the driving experience, a key part of any Infiniti’s appeal. The M35 Hybrid is based on the all-new M, which itself picks up styling cues from Essence, the show-stopper that made its debut at the Geneva Auto Show early in 2009.   The M35 Hybrid maintains a high performance luxury sedan profile, overlaying it with the fuel economy and CO2 emissions of a smaller car, while delivering driving flair to please any enthusiast – complete with charismatic V6 and rear-wheel drive handling.   Infiniti’s hybrid system, developed solely within Infiniti’s parent group, is a single electric motor/twin clutch arrangement. Innovatively, the first clutch is installed between the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 and the electric motor. The result of this configuration, where all components act on a single prop shaft to the rear differential, is a consistent driving feel under all conditions with linear performance and the “direct responses” that the engineers sought.   The electric motor acts as both propulsion unit, boosting the V6 in “power assist” mode when maximum acceleration is required, and also as a generator. Along with charging the battery in the normal way, the motor recovers energy otherwise lost during deceleration and braking.   The M Hybrid can also run solely on its electric motor in certain driving conditions, furthering fuel efficiency and optimizing energy usage across the widest possible range of driving conditions. Details of driving range, performance and transmission will be released later.   As expected of Infiniti, several new technologies are introduced in the new M35 Hybrid, including a “laminated” lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery pack that is the same size as conventional batteries but offers twice the power. Lamination enhances the pack’s cooling performance, while temperature stability is further improved by the use of manganese positive electrodes. An end result of this is exceptional battery reliability.   The M35 Hybrid joins conventional engine-equipped 2011 M versions – including a new high-performance diesel V6 for Western Europe – as the first Ms to be sold across all of Infiniti’s world markets, currently 33 countries. All of the new-generation Infiniti M models are on target to beat their predecessors on fuel consumption and emissions – despite across-the-board performance improvements – thanks to a range of efficiency-enhancing measures.  About Infiniti Infiniti offers a full-line of luxury performance automobiles, including the G Coupe, Sedan and Convertible, M sedan, EX and FX crossovers, and the QX full-size SUV. More information about Infiniti and its Total Ownership Experience® can be found at www.InfinitiUSA.com.
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Ask It: 2009 Banks Power "Sidewinder" Volkswagen Jetta TDI

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 09:36:38 -0500

We at Winding Road are big fans of the idea of performance-oriented green cars, and the folks at Banks Power have teamed up with the Robert Bosch Corporation to create something really cool. This "Sidewinder Jetta" takes a standard Jetta TDI sedan and boosts the level of driver involvement by adding better front and rear stabilizer bars, sport springs, a ram-air intake, and an in-car computer where the driver can control different levels of performance. Oh, and there's an oh-so-subtle graphics package, too.

We named it "Bruce." And like Mr. Springsteen, one could say that this is The Boss of Jetta TDIs.

We'll have the hotted-up Jetta TDI in our Ypsilanti office for the next week, so head over to our Ask It forum and post whatever questions you have about the Sidewinder. We'll do our best to respond, and be sure to stay tuned for the full review coming in the not-so-distant future.

+ NextAutos Forums: Ask It: 2009 Banks Power Sidewinder VW Jetta TDI

Tokyo Preview: Subaru to Showcase Hybrid Tourer Concept

John Beltz Snyder — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 10:18:37 -0500

Subaru will present its Hybrid Tourer Concept at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show in October.

The Subaru Hybrid Tourer Concept features the automaker’s all-wheel-drive system, and a 2.0-liter, turbocharged, direct-injection engine. All mated to a hybrid drive system with a front and rear motor. The rear motor helps move the car at slow speeds without engaging the engine.

The Hybrid Tourer Concept also features an aerodynamic form, with large glass areas, and gullwing doors.

Subaru also made other announcements about the Tokyo Motor Show, including the fully electric plug-in Stella, the WRX STI Carbon, and the Eyesight pre-collision system showcased in the Exiga 2.0GT.

See it in the gallery above. Scroll down for the official press release.

Exhibition Outline of the 41st Tokyo Motor Show 2009

Tokyo, September 30, 2009 - Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, today announced the major highlights that will be displayed at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show 2009. On the theme of ‘Take a Moment to Free Your Mind”, FHI will showcase Subaru’s efforts to integrate enjoyable and dependable driving with the global environment.

FHI will present the “SUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPT”, a new proposal for the future of grand touring car that integrates environmental friendliness, driving performance, and safety at a high level. In addition, FHI will unveil the “Plug-in STELLA feat. BEAMS”. Designed in collaboration with the renowned specialty store BEAMS, the fully electric car is based on the Plug-in STELLA launched this summer in Japan. The company will also showcase a special version of Impreza WRX STI exclusively tuned for further enhancement of its sporty performance, as well as other production models such as the new Legacy. Besides showcasing these models, FHI will exhibit Subaru’s latest safety technologies, such as the “EyeSight”, an advanced driving assist system with pre-collision control using stereo camera technology.

A press conference by President Ikuo Mori is scheduled on Wednesday, October 21, at 12:10, at the Subaru booth (Center Hall).

Major exhibits

◆ SUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPT (Concept car)
1. Concept
Subaru has condensed its DNA, developed over many years around the Subaru’s core technology of “Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)” and “Horizontally-Opposed Boxer Engine”, into the integration of a luxurious and high-quality cabin atmosphere and an eye-catching sculpted body. The concept car features Subaru’s latest evolutions in handling agility, riding comfort and superior safety performance. It proposes Subaru’s vision of a future grand touring car that excels in environmental friendliness thanks to Subaru’s unique hybrid system.

2. Design and packaging
(1) Exterior
Subaru imagined wings with a feeling of freedom and confidence for driving far and wide in any environment. A luxurious and comfortable cabin, and advanced driving performance are contained within a sculpted aerodynamic form. The design features a combination of bright, open glass areas with a solid, reliable body.

(2) Interior
The original point of the ideal grand touring car is its interior design, featuring four independent and comfortably positioned seats. Passengers are enclosed within an atmosphere that provides a surpassing feeling of openness and stress-free reassurance, through the further pursuit of a human-centered philosophy, the essence of Subaru car design, and the incorporation of functions that are friendly to passengers.
・ The top of the dashboard is movable up and down to provide an optimal driving environment for the driver according to driving conditions.
・ A flat floor in the rear seat was achieved even with the implementation of AWD, for improved use and movement inside the cabin.
・ Specialized shielding is incorporated in the windshield to reduce eyestrain on the driver.
・ New leather covering developed with superior breathability and a ventilation function is used in the seats for improved comfort and texture.

3. Mechanisms
In addition to refinements to Subaru’s core technology such as Symmetrical AWD and Horizontally-Opposed Boxer Engine, further enhancements were made for improved environmental friendliness, driving performance and high safety performance by offering a next-generation power unit system and advanced safety technologies.
(1) Next-generation power unit system
2.0-liter Horizontally-Opposed direct fuel-injection turbo gasoline engine
・ The Horizontally-Opposed turbo gasoline engine, with a reputation for powerful acceleration, is combined with a direct fuel-injection system for improvements in fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, and improved torque and response in practical range. This evolution in Subaru turbo technology excels in both environmental friendliness and engine performance.
Lineartronic (CVT)
・ Lineartronic, Subaru’s new generation automatic transmission, achieves further improvements in both fuel efficiency and driving performance by reinforcing parts for use with the high-power output of a turbo engine.
Hybrid system
・ To further enhance the appeal of the Symmetrical AWD system, this unique hybrid two-motor system features a power/drive motor in the front and a drive motor in the rear.
・ At start-up and extremely low speeds when fuel efficiency is low, such as when driving the car into a garage, the rear motor is used primarily to allow driving without utilizing the power of the engine.
・ During normal driving, the front engine is primarily used. The direct fuel-injection turbo gasoline mated with the Symmetrical AWD offers a whole new, Subaru driving experience.
・ During acceleration, the rear motor assists the driving power of the engine to achieve advanced driving performance.
・ Further, when accelerating uphill, the front motor, which is normally used as a power generator, assists to drive the front axle for improved performance.
・ The implementation of a non-idling function that stops the engine when the car comes to a halt reduces unnecessary fuel consumption.
・ The use of a high-performance lithium battery is based on experience and know-how achieved with the Subaru Plug-in STELLA electric vehicle, launched this summer. This includes the use of a precise energy management system and regenerative brake controls, for improvements in excellent fuel efficiency.

<Major specifications>
Length x Width x Height: 4,630 x 1,890 x 1,420mm
Engine type:   2.0-liter Horizontally-Opposed direct fuel-injection turbo gasoline engine
Max output of Motor: 10kW (Front) / 20kW (Rear)
Transmission type: Lineartronic
Drive train:   Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with 2 motors assist
Battery type:   Lithium-ion battery

(2) EyeSight + (plus)
Subaru has integrated its unique driving assist system, EyeSight, with vehicle-to-vehicle and road-to-vehicle communication technology. EyeSight includes an assist collision prevention support system that uses its unique stereo camera technology to recognize a wide range of driving environments. This next-generation driver assistance system provides improved safety and peace-of-mind for passengers, and represents a major evolution in collision detection performance.
・ The advanced environment recognition performance of EyeSight, using a stereo camera and a specialized 3D image processing engine, excels at pre-collision safety through the recognition of both pedestrians and cyclists as well.
・ Wide-ranging driving conditions that cannot be covered by a stereo camera alone are acquired through vehicle-to-vehicle and road-to-vehicle communication technology, which is then synchronized with EyeSight for a further evolution in preventative safety. Specifically, this system continuously detects vehicles that move into and out of blind spots, and advises the driver on appropriate driving maneuvers.

◆ Plug-in STELLA feat. BEAMS (Display model)
The Subaru Plug-in STELLA featuring BEAMS, developed based on the Subaru Plug-in STELLA launched this summer, offers a playful design by BEAMS, renowned specialty store, that enhances the joy of using an electric vehicle.
The Subaru Plug-in STELLA electric vehicle (EV) combines the EV system with a compact and light body, for convenience in business use and advanced energy efficiency for daily commuting.

◆ IMPREZA WRX STI CARBON (Display model)
Based on the Subaru Impreza WRX STI A-Line model with 5 speed automatic transmission that offers distinctive driving performance to a wider range of customers, the Subaru Impreza WRX CARBON features the use of carbon material in the roof to achieve both a significant weight reduction and a lower center of gravity. In addition, the suede fabric used in the interior enhances driving excitement and pride of ownership.

◆ EXIGA 2.0GT tuned by STI (Scheduled for market launch in Japan)
SUBARU TECNICA INTERNATIONAL inc. (STI), which manages Subaru motor sports activities, offers its latest proposal for a new seven-seater sports concept based on the multi-passenger Subaru EXIGA 2.0GT turbo model. The finely-tuned body and chassis elements ensure responsive and sporty handling for all drivers. In addition, the basic black sporty interior has a luxurious texture. This model integrates distinctive driving performance proposed by STI with the EXIGA’s touring seven-seater concept, and is a proposal for new value in the minivan market.

◆ Lineartronic (CVT) cutaway model (Technology exhibit)
Lineartronic is a new generation transmission of Subaru first made available in the all-new Legacy and Outback. Lineartronic is the first longitudinally mounted chain-type CVT system for AWD production vehicles, combining the advanced transmission efficiency and infinite variability between the highest and lowest available ratios, helping to keep the engine operating in its most efficient range, with smooth acceleration, quick shift response, and superior fuel efficiency.

◆ EyeSight featured in EXIGA 2.0GT EyeSight model (Technology exhibit)
Subaru’s advanced technology places the highest priority on safety in any environment. The EyeSight advanced safety device is a driver assistance system that excels at pre-collision safety through the use of a stereo camera and a 3D image processing engine that detect both pedestrians and cyclists as well. This system includes functions that rely solely upon the stereo camera, such as pre-collision braking and AT mis-starting prevention control, as well as functions that reduce driving load, such as cruise control with all vehicle speed range tracking function.

<EyeSight Functions>
*Cruise control with all vehicle speed range tracking function
*Pre-collision braking control
*AT mis-starting prevention control
*Lane departure warning system
*Wander warning
*Leading vehicle motion notification function

【A list of exhibits】
1. SUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPT (Concept car)
2. Plug-in STELLA feat. BEAMS (Display model)
3. IMPREZA WRX STI CARBON (Display model)
4. LEGACY B4 GT300 (Display model)
5. EXIGA 2.0GT tuned by STI (Display model / Scheduled for market launch in Japan)
6. LEGACY TOURING WAGON 2.5i S Package (Production model)
7. LEGACY B4 2.5GT SI-Cruise (Production model)
8. LEGACY OUTBACK 2.5i L Package (Production model)
9. FORESTER 2.0XS BLACK LEATHER SELECTION (Production model)
10. Lineartronic (CVT) cutaway model (Technology exhibit)
11. EyeSight featured in EXIGA 2.0GT EyeSight model (Technology exhibit)

About Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.
Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, is a leading manufacturer in Japan with a long history of technological innovations that dates back to its origin as an aircraft company. While the automotive business is a main business pillar, FHI’s Aerospace, Industrial Products and Eco Technologies divisions offer a diverse range of products from general-purpose engines, power generators, and sanitation trucks to small airplanes, crucial components for passenger aircrafts, and wind-powered electricity generating systems. Recognized internationally for its AWD (all-wheel drive) technology and Horizontally-Opposed engines in Subaru, FHI is also spearheading the development of environmentally friendly products and is committed to contributing to global environmental preservation
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Tokyo Preview: Honda CR-Z Concept Looks Production-Ready To Us

Steven J. Ewing — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 09:08:35 -0500

The evolution of the Honda CR-Z hybrid sports car concept is taking a nice shape. We first saw the concept at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, and for 2009, Honda is bringing an almost-production-ready version to the Tokyo stage. (Honda still insists on calling it a concept when, obviously, this thing looks ready to roll out onto the streets.)

Details are slim right now, but expect to see Honda's Integrated Motor Assist technology under the hood, mated to a 1.5-liter four. And since Honda is trumpeting this as a sportier car than the Insight hatch, a six-speed manual transmission will be available. Sounds good, since the current Insight's driving dynamics are incredibly uninspiring. We're hoping the CR-Z will be more like a modern-day version of the original Insight that debuted in 1999.

Stay tuned for the full onslaught of details, but for now, scroll through our gallery above to see the Tokyo-bound CR-Z.

Ford Focus RS to Participate in UK's MPG Marathon

John Beltz Snyder — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 10:26:06 -0500

We’ve said before that we wish we could get the Ford Focus RS here in the States. With its 2.5-liter, 300-horsepower engine, hot hatchback body style, and great fuel economy (about 25 miles per gallon), we're green with envy.

Beginning on September 30, a team of two drivers will enter a Focus RS in the UK’s seventh annual MPG Marathon, where they hope to achieve a 15 percent increase in fuel economy over the 360-mile drive. Hopefully this will send a message to the U.S., as we strive for better gas mileage from American autos, particularly the performers we’re so fond of.

Read the press release below, or have a look at the Ford Focus RS in the gallery above.

FOCUS RS TAKES ON NEW PERFORMANCE CHALLENGE
BRENTWOOD, Essex, 23 September 2009 – Ford’s fastest-ever European production car will chase a fuel efficiency record when it enters the UK's seventh annual MPG Marathon this month.
The 2.5-litre 305PS Ford Focus RS will target over 35mpg during the 360-mile route.
Capable of 163mph and 0-60mph in under six seconds, the Ford Focus RS aims to demonstrate its remarkable efficiency with class honours in the leading frugal motoring marathon.
Motoring writer Jeremy Walton and co-driver Alyson Marlow are preparing to beat the official 30.1mpg combined fuel economy of the Ford Focus RS by a margin of over 15 per cent.
"I'm setting out to prove you can use an efficient high-performance car in daily driving without enormous fuel bills," said Jeremy, who has entered the Ford-supplied RS in the Warwickshire-based marathon's class for cars with CO2 emissions of 160+g/km.
Before customer deliveries even started earlier this year, more than half of the UK's Ford Focus RS allocation had been sold. The £26,395 car continued the RS badge's acclaimed 40-year association with exciting and affordable performance cars.
David Calder, Ford's medium car product manager, said: "We launched the latest Ford Focus RS not only as the ultimate front-wheel drive performance car but also as a car you can live with every day, and wish Jeremy and Alyson a smooth and safe journey as they prove this out."
The MPG Marathon, organised by FleetWorld magazine, demonstrates real world fuel economy figures delivered by a wide range of vehicles, not just those designed for low fuel consumption. More about the event on September 30/October 1 at mpgmarathon.com
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Note: Fuel economy figures quoted are in UK mpg, based on the European Fuel Economy Directive EU 80/1268/EEC and will differ from fuel economy drive cycle results in other regions of the world.

Frankfurt 2009: Volkswagen E-Up! Concept Is The "Beetle Of The 21st Century"

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 10:01:28 -0500

The Volkswagen E-Up! Concept is only a few days old now, but VW is already making a big statement and calling it the "Beetle of the 21st Century." No, it's not a homage back to any sort of retro vehicle, and instead uses Volkswagen's latest design language that we've seen in production form on the Golf and Scirocco. The automaker hopes that the E-Up! will be its small car of the future, better serving the needs of buyers who would originally shop the New Beetle.

As the big capital E in its name would suggest, the E-Up! is powered by a completely electric motor, producing 54 horsepower and 155 pound-feet of torque, all running to the front wheels. Not that any eco-drivers will be worried about this, but 0-60 sprints should happen in 11.3 seconds and the E-Up! will top out at a maximum speed of 84 miles per hour.

Inside, the E-Up! benefits from a unique three-plus-one seating concept derived from the original Up! concept shown a few years back. This layout means that the driver and two side passengers will have optimum seating positions with the extra space behind the driver used for cargo capacity. Interesting stuff, no?

Will the E-Up! make it to production? We hope so. And if VW wants this to be the Beetle for our future, they'd better get moving. Click through the post for all of the nitty gritty details.

New Small Family with E-Motor: E-Up! Concept – Outlook for the Beetle of the 21st Century

World premiere: Volkswagen is presenting city specialist with electric motor

Winterkorn: We will launch a zero emissions Up! on the market in 2013
Wolfsburg / Frankfurt, 14 September 2009 - Volkswagen is presenting a pioneering fleet of new sustainable automobiles at the 63rd International Motor Show (IAA) – an update on the future. The range of IAA premieres extends from the world's most fuel-efficient production passenger car (BlueMotion) to hybrid technology and an electric car developed from the ground up – the E-Up! that is being presented in a world premiere in Frankfurt.

Plain text – E-Motor plus TDI and TSI shape the future

Altogether, these Volkswagens are revising milestones on the timeline between present and future. "One of the basic milestones on this timeline," says Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen Group, "is the mass produced electric car. Yet, to be a genuine success such an electric car must be affordable to a broad customer base and must be uncompromisingly practical in everyday driving. Only then, in high volumes, and ideally on all continents, can one truly speak of the beginning of the electric age in automobiles and a perceptible reduction of their environmental impact." The Group chief continues: "Nonetheless, until the production numbers of a purely electric car approach the success curve of a Polo, its schedule will indicate the year 2020 at the earliest. That is why our highly efficient TDI and TSI engines are the most important waypoints of the present. They will continue to be a dominant force for decades. And they are what allow us to make the step-by-step transition to the future. Cars with pure petrol and diesel engines – which in the foreseeable future will continue be unbeatable for mid- to long-range distances – will be supplemented by cars like the E-Up! in upcoming years, especially in the city. And that will happen starting in 2013. The concept car now being presented in Frankfurt very realistically shows how we envision such a Volkswagen with pure electric drive – technically, visually and with regard to a practical size."

The zero-emissions concept car designed under the leadership of Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Board of Management, Volkswagen Brand, and Head of the Development business area, is based on modules of the New Small Family anticipated in the year 2011, but at a length of 3.19 meters it is even more compact. It also offers an innovative 3+1 seating concept. In its styling, the powerful and clearly drawn lines of the E-Up! body follow the new Volkswagen "design DNA" par excellence and show cult potential. That is because never before has an ultra-compact vehicle – which does not aim to be retro but forges new paths instead – brought such appealing, timeless, class-independent and dynamic qualities to light. Inside, the smallest Volkswagen ever also astonishes with its impressive space utilisation.

Drive unit – battery and integral drive

The 135 km/h fast 3+1 seater is driven by an electric motor with a peak power output of 60 kW (continuous power: 40 kW). The motor of the front-wheel drive car, which is mounted in front, develops a maximum torque of 210 Newton-meters right from rest. The driver activates forward or reverse gear via a rotary knob in the centre console. The fact that the E-Up! will also quite clearly offer driving enjoyment is demonstrated by a look at the car's classic 0 to 100-km/h sprint time: 11.3 seconds. The E-Up! develops even greater responsiveness in the intermediate sprint from 0 to 50 km/h in city driving: 3.5 seconds. This dynamic performance is based first on the electric motor's excellent torque characteristic and second on the low kerb weight of the E-Up!, which is just 1,085 kilograms.

Lithium-ion battery: The car's low weight is quite astounding, given the fact that 240 kilograms are taken up by the lithium-ion battery. The implemented battery's energy capacity of 18 kilowatt-hours (kWh) enables driving distances of up to 130 kilometres, depending on driving style – enough for the city and the drives of most commuters. The E-Up! will be "refueled" in the garage at home, in a parking structure or on the road at one of the future municipal recharging stations that will be enabled by chip card. Depending on the available charging infrastructure and the battery's momentary charge state, the storage battery could be charged to up to 80 percent of its total capacity within an hour.

If the batteries are recharged in a home garage, for example, by plugging it into a 230-Volt household outlet, this would take a maximum of five hours. Generally, off-peak night-time electric rates are very inexpensive. So refueled at night the E-Up! could be driven 100 kilometres for just two Euros in electricity costs (about 14 Euro cents / kWh).

The batteries themselves are housed in the underbody of the E-Up! To optimally distribute the weight of the battery system, it is housed in a special, crash-protected tray in the underbody frame. Air cooling ensures a constant heat balance within the batteries. The fans and heat exchangers needed for this are housed in the front section of the underbody.

Integral drive: The teams of Concept Development (headed by Ralf-Gerhard Willner) and Engine Development (headed by Dr. Jens Hadler) integrated all important drive assemblies and auxiliary assemblies in the engine compartment at the front end. The design of an integrated form of the electric drive made a key contribution toward reducing weight and space requirements for the drive unit. Background: All components important to the powertrain are unified in compact form in the so-called integral drive. In this unit, the electric motor, together with the transmission and differential, form the centrepiece of this drive. Energy is supplied via a high-power pulse-control inverter, which is combined with the 12-Volt electrical system DC/DC converter and the charger to form the compact integral drive. At 140 kilograms, the integral drive is also very lightweight. To summarise its advantages: low space requirement, ideal acoustic comfort, high torque and power development and strong driving performance in the city. So the system fulfils the requirements of an innovative electric drive in a nearly ideal way.

Styling – the Beetle of the 21st Century

The E-Up! emphatically demonstrates that emission-free Volkswagens will be anything but lacking in emotion. Responsible for this, once again, is the team led by Group Chief Designer Walter de Silva. Together with Klaus Bischoff (Chief Designer, Volkswagen Brand) and Flavio Manzoni (Head of Creative Design, Volkswagen Group), he developed a layout for the E-Up! that reflects the visual bandwidth of the future New Small Family. The E-Up! bears a resemblance to previously presented concept vehicles of this new model series – the Up! (city specialist), Space-Up! (microvan) and Space-Up Blue! (fuel cell powered van) – it represents a design stage that reflects the future production car even more closely.

"The E-Up!", says Klaus Bischoff, "is characterised by a reduced, very clear and yet highly emotional design." And that is certainly no coincidence. The car's lines consistently follow Volkswagen's new era "design DNA" that was developed by de Silva, Bischoff and Manzoni. Its key stylistic traits: Simplicity, purity, durability and perfection of its technologies and quality. Bischoff: "The new concept is therefore very much in harmony with its stylistic 'siblings' of the New Small Family, the Roadster BlueSport and the new Polo." Dimensions of the E-Up! are 3.19 meters (length) x 1.64 meters (width) x 1.47 meters (height). Its wheelbase is 2.19 meters.

Front end: Although E-Up! styling was developed from the Up!, the electric car differs from conventionally powered models in the new model series. Consider the front end: It fits in perfectly with the brand's new family face, yet at the same time it refers back to one of the greatest icons in automotive history in the area of the engine bonnet: the Beetle. Nonetheless, the E-Up! does not reveal the slightest hint of retro styling; instead, designers created new and unmistakable styling tools that would carry the small Volkswagen far into the future.

Fitting in with this image are the headlights with their facet-like lenses – cut like diamonds – that extend over the entire width of the lens cover. Another interesting detail: the fog lights. At first glance they can hardly be recognised as such. The designers have configured them as C-shaped, chrome-trimmed elements in the headlight housings. Also style-defining is the black line running in a circular pattern in the bumper – a typical characteristic of the New Small Family. "In the interplay of all elements, the bumper, headlights and engine bonnet," explains Klaus Bischoff, "the E-Up! really appears to smile. And that is how it should be." Conspicuous: There are hardly any openings at the front end, since there is no need for separate cooling of the drive unit.

The VW logo on the V-shaped engine bonnet of the E-Up! is more than just an homage to the Beetle. Hidden behind the folding logo is the integrated port for charging the batteries. The advantage of positioning the plug port here is that it makes it easier to recharge the E-Up! from stations on either the left or right sides of the street or directly in front of the car.

Side profile: "In keeping with Volkswagen's "design DNA" the side sections also exhibit a high level of stylistic purity, following the Bauhaus principle created in the 1920s in Germany that 'less is more'," says Flavio Manzoni. This car's visual identity is very intentionally created by just a few graphic elements that blend together to form a new unit in the classic Bauhaus approach to creative art and innovative technology. These defining elements of the E-Up! side profile include its side glass and shoulder styling line above the door handles known as the tornado line. The side profile styling is further defined by the car's short body overhangs, the confident outward shaping of the wheel housings and unique C-pillar. Flavio Manzoni explains the special presence of the C-pillar: "Visually, the vertically aligned C-pillar is positioned above the rear wheel, which conveys a feeling of balance and solidity. These properties are indispensable for a Volkswagen. Last but not least, the prominent and powerful wheel styling gives the car a perfect 'demeanour'".

Rear end: The basic graphic forms of the tailgate and rear bumper follow those of the very first Up! However, the once again completely glazed tailgate now exhibits significantly larger taillights in dark smoked glass look. Running through the taillights is a line trimmed in chrome that extends across the tailgate. The circular chrome line unites the two taillights in a vertical direction. These accents are also reflected in the matching graphic element of the front and rear bumpers.

Solar roof: The roof of the E-Up! is equipped with solar cells over an area measuring 1.4 square meters. This area – between the rear part of the roof edge spoiler and the front windscreen – can be enlarged to 1.7 square meters in total by folding down the sun visors that are also equipped with solar cells. The solar cells continuously supply energy to the car's electrical system, and while the vehicle is parked they help to cool the interior by supplying energy to the car's ventilation system.

Interior I – Instruments and controls

Flavio Manzoni: "The interior was designed in complete harmony with the car's exterior styling, and it exhibits a similar aesthetic with a technical-purist influence." To improve the electric car's energy economy by avoiding unnecessary loads, actuators such as mirror adjustment and window lifts were designed to be manually operated. Nonetheless, the highly innovative E-Up! makes its appearance with an impressive array of future generation high-tech displays and controls. They are all quite self-explanatory, and the car's controls are intuitive, making driving and life with this Volkswagen as simple and stress-free as possible.

HMI: The concept car has a touch-screen based HMI (Human Machine Interface) with intelligent E-Up! specific indicators and assistance functions. During navigation, the system continually monitors the momentary load state of the batteries, for example, as well as activated energy consumers such as lights and air conditioner, momentary traffic data, elevation profiles of potential routes and the locations of available charging stations. The driver can display these "filling stations" at any time; available charging stations may be reserved within a defined reservation time period.

The charging process can also be precisely planned to the minute via the HMI. This lets users charge the E-Up! during a specific time period in which electricity is available at special low rates. The charging process can be activated at any time via an intuitively operated application installed on an iPhone or similar mobile device, even from outside of the vehicle. Even more: From the application users can query the momentary charge status and vehicle location (the latter via map display) or simply check whether the car is locked. Moreover, to preserve vehicle battery power the program lets users pre-condition the E-Up! interior. This involves cooling or heating the car's interior as long as the car is still connected to the charging station and is drawing its electrical power from the electrical grid.

Interior II – 3+1 seating concept

The generous space implemented over a total vehicle area of just 5.1 square meters is absolutely astounding. Several factors are responsible for this clever packaging. First, there is the reduced size of the instrument panel, which was shifted further forward than usual toward the engine compartment. This was enabled, among other things, by optimising the components within the instrument panel. Second, the small Volkswagen is a 3+1 seater. This means that the front passenger seat is located 50 millimetres forward, thanks to the instruments being shifted further forward. This layout increases leg room in the rear behind the front passenger tremendously. As a result, two adults can sit comfortably on the passenger's side. Stepping into the vehicle is also simplified by an Easy-Entry feature, which allows the front passenger's seat to be pushed up to 270 millimetres away from the rear bench. There is less leg room behind the "normally" positioned driver's seat; the space here was designed as a spare seat.

Additional freedom of movement is provided to rear passengers by lowering the centre tunnel in front of the rear bench seat; it serves as an additional footrest. This enables use of an electric handbrake in the style of the Passat, so that no lever mechanism obstructs the footwell.

Cargo area: The clever packaging solutions do not end there: To optimise comfort in the rear, the rear seat backrest is split 40/60. When the backrest on the driver's seat is folded down (40 percent section), stowage capacity is increased from 85 to 180 litres (with loading to the upper edge of the front seat backrest). This stowage space can be enclosed by a load barrier that folds down out from the folded backrest. When the entire rear seating backrest is folded down, a stowage capacity of 320 litres is created. It is even 520 litres when loaded to the roofliner. To transport long objects, the front passenger's backrest can also be folded to a pass-through position. In this configuration, the E-Up! can handle objects up to two metres in length.

This high degree of variability will also certainly characterise the affordable production version of an Up! powered by an electric motor. That is because electric cars, as Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn insists and therefore wrote into the specification for this future Volkswagen, must be truly affordable and offer uncompromising everyday practicality.

Micro-mobility in the city – made by Volkswagen

Volkswagen is comprehensively addressing implementation of this everyday practicality. These efforts not only encompass the vehicle itself, but the entire environment around the car driver. In the city, for example, this includes the realisation that after parking the E-Up! people will want to cover shorter distances without a car – from the job to lunch, to the fitness studio, another meeting, whatever is on the day's schedule. For these shorter trips, the Volkswagen "Micro-mobility in the city" concept team has invented clever zero-emission micro-vehicles. The Kickstep, for example, which is an ultra-compact folding scooter. And the electrically powered Microbully, a scooter that also fits easily in the E-Up! load space. There is also the ped-tric, a folding bike with electric motors built into the wheel hubs that could also make the trip to the city aboard the E-Up! And even the VW_1M, a large electric moped – the size of a carry-on case when not in use – that could be stowed in the E-Up! without even needing to fold down the rear bench seat. Such micro-mobility solutions were created at the Volkswagen Design Center in Potsdam. So the E-Up! will be putting many things into motion. In 2013 this will become a reality for the first time.

Electric Feel: Audi e-Tron Concept Gets Early Online Reveal

Steven J. Ewing — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 15:10:40 -0500

Audi, like other German automakers, has long trumpeted that diesel power is the way of the future, and we've seen examples like the R8 V-12 TDI concept to prove this point.

Not anymore. The first images of Audi's all-electric e-Tron concept have leaked onto the web, and the car will make its official debut at the Frankfurt show this week. It's no secret that this car shares most of its construction with the R8 supercar, though overall aerodynamics have been improved -- fitting of a MPG-happy electricity sipper.

We'll have the full details later this week, but in the meantime, scroll through our gallery of images above to see the e-Tron from all angles.

+ Autoblog: Frankfurt Preview: Audi e-Tron electric supercar gets early web unveil

Lexus LF-Ch Concept Revealed Before Official Debut In Frankfurt

Steven J. Ewing — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 08:48:53 -0500

It seemed a bit strange when luxury marque Lincoln entered into the subcompact segment with the C Concept at this year's Detroit Auto Show, but now Lexus is throwing their hand into the ring in the form of the LF-Ch Concept. This hybrid five-door will officially debut to the world next week in Frankfurt and will make its North American debut later this year in Los Angeles.

The design of the LF-Ch may lead you to believe that it's an athletic little performer, but there's an honest-to-goodness hybrid powertrain under that hood. While Lexus hasn't released the exact details, only saying that this concept is "powered by the latest generation of Lexus Hybrid Drive technology. A drive mode-switch allows the driver to select between four modes: Normal, Eco, and EV plus a Sport mode that amplifies throttle response for the most enthusiastic drivers." Sounds like the new HS250h to us.

And even if it is just a funky new body on the HS drivetrain, that's okay with us. It's sharp, has a sleek interior, and we really hope it comes to production. The world could stand to have more small hybrids in the automotive fleet. Click through the post to read Lexus' full press release.

Lexus LF-Ch Premium Compact Hybrid Concept to Make North American Debut at 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show

· Visually Striking Compact Hybrid with Dynamic Design Philosophy
· Dramatic and Modern Interior Complements Innovative Hybrid Drivetrain
· Driving Enjoyment Paired with a Sustainable Focus

TORRANCE, Calif. (Sept. 9, 2009) – Lexus today announced the LF-Ch compact hybrid concept, which will have its world premiere on September 15, 2009 at the Frankfurt Auto Show, will be on display for the first time in North America at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show in December.

As the latest concept hybrid vehicle from Lexus, LF-Ch offers dramatic style, premium features, an innovative drivetrain with low emissions, and impressive fuel economy in a sporty yet versatile five-door package.

"Lexus has been leading the luxury hybrid market ever since we came out with the RX 400h in 2005," said Mark Templin, Lexus division group vice president and general manager. "To continue raising the hybrid benchmark, we need to continue exploring hybrid technology in different segments. The LF-Ch concept gives us the opportunity to gauge consumer reaction and help us determine whether or not this would be viable for production."

The LF-Ch concept was designed by Calty Design Research Inc., Toyota's North American-based research and design center located in Newport Beach, Calif., and will allow the brand to study the needs of young urbanites and consumer values in a compact luxury vehicle.

"The LF-Ch concept is the next evolution of the compact luxury vehicle," said Kevin Hunter, president of Calty. "We were able to create a beautifully designed hybrid with a deep sense of mystery and intrigue."

Designers created an intriguing contrast between the powerful, machine-like surfaces, fluid forms and details that appear hand-sculpted.

The exterior of the LF-Ch concept exudes strength and simplicity with a wide stance, broad and high-shoulders, an arching roofline that flows into the rear spoiler, and sheer surfaces wrapped in a contemporary yellow paint. To give the sporty five-door concept the illusion of a sleek coupe, designers cleverly blackened the B-pillar and hid the rear door entry button in the chrome molding.

An aggressive grille with a wide front bumper and air dam gives the hybrid concept a powerful personality in keeping with its dynamic lines. Efficient and bright LED taillights and headlamps also add to the vehicle's personality. The concept is marked with hybrid details including its blue Lexus logo, which is shared across the Lexus family of hybrids, and hybrid side badging.

Inside, designers created an elegant cabin that is contemporary, and functional with metal and leather trim. Metal surfacing stretches the length of the asymmetric dashboard and blends with leather trim to provide a luxuriously handcrafted and soothing environment. The artistic leather, and metal detailing is also visible on the door panels, instrument panel and seats.

A blue headliner light, that borders the roof and contrasts with the yellow exterior, turns on to reveal an ambient pattern reminiscent of a sophisticated lounge. A wide grip steering wheel with integrated paddle shifters makes for a spirited driving experience. The instrument panel features two, large twin dials with a uniquely embellished turbine blade design.

The LF-Ch is powered by the latest generation of Lexus Hybrid Drive technology. A drive mode-switch allows the driver to select between four modes: Normal, Eco, and EV plus a Sport mode that amplifies throttle response for the most enthusiastic drivers.

Lexus' Remote Touch controller with user-adjustable haptic feedback, also currently found on the 2010 HS 250h hybrid and RX luxury utility vehicles, allows the driver or front passenger to operate the navigation, audio and climate systems.

The LF-Ch has four sport seats that feature trim lighting along the cushion's edge for cabin illumination. Rear passengers can enjoy headrest-mounted iPhone® docking capability for audio and video entertainment. In addition, the LF-Ch has storage in the rear seat armrests for small items such as iPods®, PDAs and cell phones.

"We look forward to hearing feedback on the LF-Ch," said Templin. "We hope consumers like what they see so we can change the luxury hybrid marketplace again."