Unguzzle

Report: Lotus Developing Electrically Assisted Sports Car

Steven J. Ewing — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 12:00:25 -0600

Automakers like Tesla and Fisker have opened the door for electric sports cars, and now there are repots that Lotus is working on a battery-powered vehicle, as well. According to Lotus' CEO, Michael Kimberly, we should not be "surprised to see an electric Lotus shortly."

According to Motor Authority, this new Lotus will use a gas-powered generator to charge its batteries on the go and that this vehicle will be able to travel up to 400 miles on one tank of fuel. Lotus says that they're working in collaboration with a major automotive manufacturer to develop certain parts of this sports car. Also, MA points out that Tesla currently contracts Lotus to assemble the bodies for its electric roadster, though this new product from Lotus will compete directly with cars like the Tesla.

As for us, we're eagerly awaiting the fuel-sipping comparison test between these electric sports cars. Lotus wants to develop this car in order to expand its model range after the official launch of the new four-seat Evora later this year.

+ Motor Authority: Lotus working on range-extending electric vehicle

ELV to Display Electric Bicycles and Scooters at the 2009 Consumer Electronics Show

Hardy Shen — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 09:40:35 -0600

Held every January in Las Vegas, NV, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) will feature a Greener Gadgets Techzone section for 2009. The exhibits will be displayed in Central Hall, and highlight pioneering technologies that benefit the environment and sustainability of global economy.

Amongst the crowd will be ELV motors, one of the first electric transportation companies to participate at CES. The company presents a whole range of "Fleet Certified" electric bicycles and electric and hybrid scooters. At its booth will be both the regular and police versions of the company’s 2009 A2B electric bicycle, equipped with a 500 watt, throttle driven motor.

Also to be displayed at the ELV booth include the 2009 Verde Motors VM3000H, a 3000 watt, 149cc hybrid scooter that can travel 45mph with 130mpg, a dual motor E-1600 all electric scooter which has a 1600 watt dual motor electric scooter and can travel 30mph for up to 40 miles per charge, and finally the UM24 electric foldable commuter bicycle— a 250 watt pedal assisted electric bicycle that can travel 16 mph for 20 miles.

"New hi-tech and stylish electric bicycles like the A2B, the fun to ride electric scooters like the E-1600," said President & CEO of ELV Motors, Inc. Douglas Schwartz, "the all new Verde Motors hybrid gas/electric scooters are great ways to save money while helping to save our environment,"

The company believes that these electric bikes and scooters will be perfect for anyone— including companies, fleets, security patrol, police, commuters, students, and vacationers— who want to save money in an environmentally conscious way.

Toyota to Show Electric City Car in Detroit

Steven J. Ewing — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:05:16 -0600

We already know that Toyota is planning to show its 2010 Prius at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show, but the automaker has now hinted that it will be showing an all-electric vehicle at Cobo Hall, as well. In a very short press release, Toyota said that "this display marks the world debut of this concept vehicle," so we're not really sure what to expect.

Naturally, there's been some speculation within the industry, and the folks at the Wall Street Journal seem to think that this new concept is a battery-powered version of Toyota's iQ, the Smart ForTwo rival. We'll be sure to bring you the full details from Toyota's press conference in a couple of weeks.

+ The Car Connection: 2009 Detroit Auto Show: Toyota Bringing Electric City Car

Report: Cadillac to Get Version of Chevy Volt?

Steven J. Ewing — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 11:03:27 -0600

General Motors is making the Chevrolet Volt its top priority at this point, but there are now rumors circulating that Cadillac may be the next GM brand to get its own vehicle using the Volt's technology. Motor Authority reports that a Cadillac Volt would make great economic sense because the luxury appeal of a Cadillac means consumers would be more willing to pay out for the expensive technology found in the Volt.

GM's Bob Lutz has stated that an electric-powered Cadillac was definitely a possibility and that the brand would unveil "some kind of dramatic environmental statement" soon. This aligns with reports from GM insiders who say that a plug-in hybrid Cadillac is currently in development along with other plug-in models for the Opel brand and possibly a plug-in SUV for Chevrolet. Looking at GM's timeline, 2011 or 2012 seems like a reasonable possibility for an electric Cadillac to hit the market.

+ Motor Authority: Bob Lutz hints at Cadillac plug-in hybrid

Mercedes Concept BlueZero Due for Detroit Auto Show

Hardy Shen — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 10:07:25 -0600

For the Detroit Auto Show in January, Mercedes plans to give the world a preview of three fuel-saving systems for its new entry-premium model range, which should replace the B-class by 2010. Known as Concept BlueZero, the technology will be shown in forms ranging from a purely electric car, a plug-in hybrid, and as a fuel cell model.

The electric model “E-Cell” will have a 100-kilowatt motor with a lithium-ion battery pack and a range of around 60 miles. The plug-in hybrid on the other hand will feature a three-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric generator to extend the car's range in electric mode (similar to what General Motors plans for the Chevrolet Volt). The third model called the F-Cell, will use a fuel cell and hydrogen tanks to produce the necessary electricity.

Mercedes' plan is to replace the B-class and A-class with four cars, which include a coupe to compete with the BMW 1-series, and also an SUV to rival BMW's upcoming X1. These replacements are slated to be built in Rastatt, Germany, as well as in Kecskemet, Hungary where M-B will open up shop by 2010. Have a look at the full press release for Concept BlueZero below and take a look at a few images of the car in our attached gallery.

Mercedes-Benz Concept BlueZERO

12/15/08

Stuttgart – Mercedes-Benz is showing the way ahead in environmentally responsible electromobility by presenting its near-series Concept BlueZERO at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Based on a single vehicle architecture, this intelligent, modular concept allows three models with different drive configurations, all of which are able to meet customer requirements in terms of sustainable mobility:

    * the BlueZERO E-CELL with battery-electric drive and a range of up to 200 kilometres using electric drive alone
    * the BlueZERO F-CELL (fuel cell) with a range of well over 400 kilometres using electric drive
    * the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS with electric drive and additional internal combustion engine as power generator (range extender). This version has an overall range of up to 600 kilometres and can cover a distance of up to 100 kilometres using electric drive alone.

The three BlueZERO variants are based on the unique sandwich-floor architecture which Mercedes-Benz introduced some ten years ago, initially for the A-Class and then for the B-Class, one of the aims being to integrate alternative drive systems. Advantages of the modified construction include the positive effect of the major drive components on the centre of gravity, their space-saving design and the fact that they are extremely well protected within the vehicle underbody. The five-seater BlueZERO concept cars also set standards in terms of lightweight design, interior layout and body form.

"The flexible BlueZERO concept allows electromobility for every requirement and highlights the fact that Mercedes-Benz is the world's only car manufacturer to already have in place all the key technologies for electric cars offering full everyday practicality", says Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

The BlueZERO principle: flexible design, compact exterior, generously sized interior

All three BlueZERO variants share the same key technical components, while the design and vehicle dimensions are identical. Measuring just 4.22 metres in length, the BlueZERO models combine compact exterior dimensions with a generously proportioned and variable interior and luggage compartment. Five fully-fledged seats, a payload of around 450 kilograms and a luggage compartment capacity of over 500 litres make for outstanding everyday practicality. Thanks to their sandwich construction with a raised sitting position, the cars also offer an exceptionally high level of crash safety for the passengers and the technology, not to mention excellent all-round visibility
Compared to electric cars based on conventional vehicle platforms and originally only designed for use in combination with internal combustion engines, Concept BlueZERO offers the following conclusive advantages:
* Interior space is retained in full. As the energy accumulators/generators are integrated into the spacious sandwich floor, no compromises are necessary when it comes to passenger space, luggage capacity or variability.
* The powertrain technology built into the sandwich floor ensures a low centre of gravity and, consequently, extremely reliable and agile handling.
* Crash safety is of the extremely high standard associated with Mercedes thanks to the sandwich concept and the housing of major powertrain components between the axles.

As a result, the BlueZERO models are very different to conventionally constructed electric cars, which have the heavy and voluminous storage battery housed in the boot or in the rear-seat area, for example.

Modular design ensures flexibility and efficiency

"Our modular system allows different drive configurations for every customer requirement", says Dr Thomas Weber, the member of the Daimler AG Board of Management responsible for corporate research and development at Mercedes-Benz Cars. "The modified sandwich-floor platform provides the perfect basis for a wide model range with electric drive systems. We are also developing a new, additional platform for future compact models with power units based on optimised internal combustion engines. The intelligent networking of both architectures enables us to develop our product portfolio extremely flexibly and efficiently. From 2009, we will be producing the first Mercedes fuel-cell cars on a small scale. Small-scale production of Mercedes-Benz cars with battery-electric drive alone will then commence in 2010. This means we are extremely well equipped for the future."

All three BlueZERO models feature front-wheel drive, which is typical for this class of car. The Mercedes engineers have put together a modular system comprising several flexibly combinable drive components. These include state-of-the-art liquid-cooled lithium-ion batteries with a storage capacity of up to 35 kWh and the compact electric motor with a maximum output of 100 kW (continuous output 70 kW), which develops a peak torque of 320 Nm. All three variants accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 11 seconds. Their top speed is electronically limited to 150 km/h in the interests of optimal range and energy efficiency.

Electric drive systems with a range of 100, 200 and well over 400 kilometres

With a charging capacity of 15 kW, the powerful lithium-ion batteries in the BlueZERO E-CELL and the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS can store enough energy for a range of 50 kilometres within 30 minutes. In terms of purely electrical drive, one or two hours of charging time is needed for a range of 100 and 200 kilometres respectively. The charging times are doubled if the charging capacity is 7 kW, as would be the case in a normal household. Both of these BlueZERO vehicles incorporate an electronic control unit that supports intelligent charging stations and billing systems.

At the rear, the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS has the same 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine as the smart fortwo as an additional range extender. This compact three-cylinder powerplant has an output of 50 kW at a constant 3500 rpm. If required, it can recharge the 17.5-kWh lithium-ion battery by means of a similarly rated alternator. A range of up to 600 kilometres is possible on a single tank. The purely electrical, locally emission-free range is up to 100 kilometres. The BlueZERO F-CELL with fuel-cell drive achieves a range of well over 400 kilometres with zero emissions (as per NEDC).

BlueZERO design: both elegant and functional

Leading-edge technology is uniformly and attractively packaged in all three BlueZERO variants. The unique and distinctive Mercedes design idiom displayed by the body highlights the progressive nature of Concept BlueZERO straight away.

The powerfully elegant front end is dominated by the radiator grille with its centrally located star. The excellent aerodynamics of the BlueZERO are partly due to the closed front apron, whose design means that cooling air intakes are not required. The 20-inch wheels have also been aerodynamically optimised, while low-friction tyres reduce rolling resistance.

The striking character lines along the flanks lend the BlueZERO an extremely dynamic side line and accentuate its bionic structure inspired by nature. This characteristic feature of the Mercedes-Benz bionic car was adapted and modified for the BlueZERO models. These elements lend the body its dramatic power.

New-quality light production

The compact rear end of the Concept BlueZERO is characterised by tail lights in the shape of a curved "L". In addition, the Mercedes designers have achieved a new-quality light production: transparent lenses produce a red light curtain which tapers smoothly towards the sides, creating a lightly diffused effect. This effect is repeated, albeit in white this time, by the front headlamps. What's more, the front lights feature new lens technology and a plexiglas edge to produce "C" shaped daytime driving lights with the help of state-of-the-art LED technology.

Intelligent technology made visible

Translucent surfaces make the normally concealed technology visible. The light-grey tailgate is made completely from lightweight but highly robust Lexan that allows a view of the aluminium structure that makes up the rigidifying frame, for example. At the same time this transparent tailgate provides a view of the vehicle interior, making the advantages of the sandwich-floor platform obvious at a glance: for maximum customer benefit, the luggage compartment and passenger area remain fully usable, since there are no technical components that need to be accommodated here.

"It was very important for us to ensure that the guiding Mercedes-Benz principle of 'Fascination and Responsibility' was clearly reflected in the design of the Concept BlueZERO", says Mercedes-Benz design chief Gorden Wagener. "This is yet another clear statement that environmental awareness and driving pleasure will continue to go together in our vehicles in the future. We want people to realise at first sight that the Concept BlueZERO is definitively not a lesser option."

The Mercedes-Benz designers have emphasised this aspiration by introducing paint finishes in three new ALU-BEAM colours. Each of the three variants makes its individual mark: the BlueZERO E-CELL is painted in a fresh lime green, while the BlueZERO F-CELL has mint green paintwork. Confidence-oozing orange was chosen for the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS.

Michelin Teaming with Chinese Company on In-Wheel Powertrain

Seyth Miersma — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 08:44:35 -0600

The euphoniously named Chinese company Guon Mengguli Corporation (MGL) has partnered with tire behemoth Michelin in developing a new, in-wheel electric powertrain. Know as Active Wheel, the first commercial applications of the product are being developed for production in China sometime next year, with a launch in Western markets possible by 2010.

The Active Wheel system uses a pair of small electric motors housed inside of the wheel, with one of the motors spinning the tire and providing power, while the second acts to power an active suspension system. Long the stuff of concept cars, the in-wheel motors are designed to work with battery or fuel-cell powered electric vehicles, and alleviate the need for a gearbox, clutch, drive shaft, and more.

Michelin and MGL have already shown the technology in a test vehicle based on the Chinese Lifan 520—the Active Wheel electric car. The batteries in that vehicle are said to have a lifespan of between 62,000 and 81,000 miles, with a range of roughly 70, miles, and a top speed approaching 90 miles per hour.

+ Motor Authority: Michelin partners with China’s MGL to produce Active Wheel powertrains

Fisker to Use GM's Ecotec Four-Cylinder for Karma Plug-In Hybrid

Steven J. Ewing — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 15:15:54 -0600

Fisker Automotive has announced that it will be using General Motors' 2.0-liter turbocharged Ecotec four-cylinder in its upcoming Karma sedan. This engine is good for 260 horsepower and can already be found in vehicles like the Chevrolet HHR SS and Saturn Sky Redline. Fisker has already confirmed that the electric portion of the drivetrain will be sourced from Quantum Technologies and that the Karma will have a fifty-mile electric range before the internal combustion engine kicks in. As it turns out, Fisker is considering using several other GM components for the Karma, as well.

Henrik Fisker, CEO, says that he is "confident that this is the beginning of an important partnership between GM and Fisker in developing the most desirable fuel efficient vehicles of the future."

The Karma's launch is expected to come around the same time as other four-door sports cars like the Porsche Panamera and Aston Martin Rapide. As of this writing, domestic deliveries of the Karma will begin in the fourth quarter of 2009 while Europe will have to wait until 2010. Fisker plans to produce 15,000 cars each year, with more than half going to overseas markets.

+ Motor Authority: Fisker picks GM Ecotec engine for Karma plug-in hybrid

Brabus-Tuned Tesla Roadster Sounds Like a Mustang, a Racecar, or a Ray Gun?

Seyth Miersma — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 10:29:44 -0600

The world’s first all electric supercar, the Tesla Roadster, is set to get an update from German super tuners Brabus; a package that includes appearance tweaks to the interior and exterior, as well as a fascinating sound package for the near-silent EV.

New wheels and tires, a carbon-fiber front lip spoiler, and a “futuristic” lighting package are all very nice for the Tesla, but we’re most interested in the “space sound generator” that will come equipped on each Brabus Roadster. The tuning house is seeking to give the Tesla a more exciting, albeit completely faked, running sound with electronically produced effects. Owners will be able to set their Tesla to make noises approximating a V-8 engine, a racecar engine, or “two futuristic soundscapes.” Those last two effects are named “Beam” and “Warp,” and we’re absolutely chomping at the bit to hear them in action—we’re looking into the matter as of this writing, don’t worry.

This type of piped in sound is a feature that Hybrid and EV makers have been discussing for a hot minute now, and could lead to a class of vehicles that are aurally dissimilar from anything we’re used to today. It’s a topic that causes some deal of fretting from auto enthusiasts and one that we’ve dealt with in some measure before (click through the link below to get our own Chris Paukert’s take on the subject).

Have a look at the gallery of Brabus Tesla Roadster images above and stay tuned for more information, as we have it, about the tantalizing sound generator. You’ll find the full press release below.

+ Winding Road: Pace Notes

World Debut at the Essen Motor Show 2008

The Very First Tuned Electric Car Comes From BRABUS:
BRABUS Customization Program for the Tesla Roadster

The first tuned electric car comes from BRABUS: The first project of the future cooperation between Tesla Motors, Inc. and the new BRABUS business division Zero Emission celebrates its world debut at the 2008 Essen Motor Show. BRABUS presents an exclusive customization program for the Tesla Roadster, the world’s first electrically powered production sports car.

The new BRABUS logo with added lightning bolt is the trademark of BRABUS Zero Emission vehicles.

To give the sports car a more exciting sound the BRABUS electronics specialists have developed a ‘space sound generator.’ The occupants on-board the Tesla Roadsters can choose from several simulated engine sounds including that of a typical V8 combustion engine, a racecar engine and two futuristic soundscapes named ‘Beam’ and ‘Warp.’ The volume of the sound is dependent on the momentary power output of the electric motor.

A custom-tailored BRABUS tire/wheel combination further improves handling characteristics. The two-seater is refined with weight-optimized BRABUS Monoblock S light-alloy wheels in size 7Jx18 in front and in size 8.5Jx19 in back. BRABUS technology partner Pirelli provides the corresponding P Zero Nero high-performance tires in size 215/35 ZR 18 in front and in size 255/30 ZR 19 on the rear axle. These tires were developed to deliver minimum rolling resistance.

The two-seater also receives an even more striking exterior at BRABUS. The customization measures include a special high-quality ‘matte white’ paintjob. To give the mid-engine sports car an even more enticing face the BRABUS designers treat the front apron to a lightweight carbon-fiber front lip and daytime running lights integrated into the front grille. Matte-white surrounds for the headlamps add interesting detail to the overall effect.

The sides of the Tesla are upgraded with BRABUS entrance lights shaped like futuristic space lights. They are activated with the keyless fob or by pulling on a door handle. BRABUS carbon-fiber air inlets add even more sporty flair. Immediately apparent in the rear are the BRABUS rear wing and the BRABUS rear diffuser, both made from light yet extremely strong carbon fiber. The round taillights are accentuated further by matte-white applications.

The BRABUS customization program for the Tesla Roadster also includes exclusive interior options. The range of products starts with scuff plates with illuminated BRABUS logo. They are integrated into the top of the rocker panels.

The company-own BRABUS upholstery shop masterfully handcrafts exquisite custom interiors for the Tesla. The designers chose a combination of especially soft yet durable BRABUS perforated lightweight leather and Alcantara. The cockpit features white seams to reflect the exterior color. The vehicle floor is also upholstered with lightweight leather for added exclusivity.

The goal of the BRABUS customization concept for the Tesla Roadster is to define a potential limited edition as well as an individual tuning program for the Tesla driver.

Fisker Automotive to Open Development Center in Pontiac, Michigan

Steven J. Ewing — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 12:38:00 -0600

Fisker Automitive announced today that they will be opening a new engineering and development center in Pontiac, Michigan. This 34,000-square foot facility will be capable of housing up to 200 designers and engineers whose main focus will be putting out Fisker's first production car, the Karma sedan.

The Karma has the potential for fuel economy of around 100 miles per gallon on extended drives with its Q-Drive powertrain (developed by Quantum Technologies) being capable of more than 350 miles of total range -- 50 miles solely on electricity. The Karma is said to have a top speed of 125 miles per hour and will be able to hit 60 mph in less than six seconds.

Initial deliveries of the Fisker Karma are scheduled to happen in the fourth quarter of 2009 with plans to sell the car in North America in Europe. Fisker's annual production is anticipated to reach 15,000 vehicles by 2011.

+ Global Motors: Fisker Automotive announces new Engineering and Development center in Pontiac, Michigan

All-Electric Mini E Priced at $850/Month

Steven J. Ewing — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 08:59:10 -0600

The all-electric Mini E is almost ready to begin its limited production run of 500 cars for California, though it seems buyers will have to pay a pretty penny for the Mini's one-year lease -- $850 per month. BMW officials say that because of the hand-built production and cutting-edge technology, this price won't fully cover the actual costs of the E's development.

On the upside, though, the Mini E has an expected range of 150 miles on a 2.5-hour charge, and we're told that this car won't be a total slug off the line. This will save in fuel costs, but still, when compared to a standard Mini Cooper's leasing price of about $350/month for two years, it might not seem all that worth it.

An electric Mini seems like a pretty hot ticket and this first-generation run of 500 models will be a good way for the engineers to note any malfunctions and potentially work out how to mass-produce the Mini E.

+ Motor Authority: Mini USA prices electric Mini Cooper lease at $850/month

Report: No Hands on Deck at Tesla Showroom Today

Seyth Miersma — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 15:37:11 -0500

The internet was aflutter with rumors of a big shakeup over at Tesla Motors last week, with some sources claiming that up to 100 employees could be laid off after the young automaker suffered a financial blow alongside pretty much everyone else in the industry. At the time we were led to believe that the company was putting all future projects on hold—more specifically the much-discussed four-door Model S, or WhiteStar—and that the company was closing up shop in its Auburn Hills, Michigan engineering office while keeping the fires burning at the San Jose, California headquarters.

Now it seems as if all may not be well in Cali either, as Los Angelinos have started murmuring that the spanking new Tesla showroom has remained closed for business today. One savvy resident said, “The lights are off, the doors are closed and locked, nobody and no cars around.”

There could be any number of reasons that the Tesla crew took this particular Monday off (company picnic perhaps?) but having no one manning the fort is never a terribly comforting sign for an organization that could very well be neck-high in the financial tall grass. Stay tuned for more information as we have it.

+ The Truth About Cars: Wild Ass Rumor of the Day: Tesla Dead?

Preview: BMW Debuts the Electric Mini E

Seyth Miersma — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 10:20:33 -0500

Mini was proud to release information regarding its first zero emissions vehicle this weekend, the much anticipated, electrically powered Mini E.

Set to be released into private hands following the car’s formal introduction at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show, the first fleet of Mini Es will number just 500 in a limited initial production run. Parent BMW hopes to gain valuable experience through this rather extensive field test of the new EV, expecting that findings from the Mini E will make their way into future, mass-produced vehicles.

The EV Mini boasts rather impressive stats from its 150 kilowatt electric motor, as the unit makes a strong 204 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. The strangely horsepower-heavy motor is able to propel the Mini from 0 to 62 miles per hour in just 8.5 seconds, and will travel something like 150 miles on a full charge of its lithium-ion battery pack.

The battery system is rather impressive in its own right, containing some 5088 cells grouped into 48 modules. Charging time has been a large focus of the Mini E project—Mini is handing out a high current charging station for the owner’s garage with each vehicle—with the batteries able to go from empty to a full charge in about two and a half hours. Additionally the new Mini’s engine acts as a brake whenever a driver takes his foot off the accelerator, meaning that roughly 75 percent of all deceleration can be handled by the engine in most city driving situations. That energy is also recouped by the batteries, providing a boost of up to 20 percent to the car’s range.

Read the full Mini E press release below or take a look at the car in the gallery up top.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ - October 18, 2008... The BMW Group will be the world's first manufacturer of premium automobiles to deploy a fleet of some 500 all-electric vehicles for private use in daily traffic. The MINI E will be powered by a 150 kW (204 hp) electric motor fed by a high-performance rechargeable lithium-ion battery, transferring its power to the front wheels via a single-stage helical gearbox nearly without a sound and entirely free of emissions. Specially engineered for automobile use, the battery technology will have a range of more than 240 kilometers, or 150 miles. The MINI E will initially be made available to select private and corporate customers as part of a pilot project in the US states of California, New York and New Jersey. The possibility of offering the MINI E in Europe as well is currently being considered. The MINI E will give its world premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 19 and 20, 2008.

The MINI E's electric drive train produces a peak torque of 220 Newton meters, delivering seamless acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.5 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 152 km/h (95 mph). Featuring a suspension system tuned to match its weight distribution, the MINI E sports the brand's hallmark agility and outstanding handling.

By introducing the MINI E, the BMW Group is underscoring the resolve with which it works towards reducing energy consumption and emissions in road traffic. The BMW Group is drawing on its unique technological expertise in the field of drive systems to develop a vehicle concept enabling zero emissions without renouncing the joy of driving. Putting some 500 cars on the road under real daily traffic conditions will make it possible to gain widely applicable hands-on experience. Evaluating these findings will generate valuable know-how, which will be factored into the engineering of mass-produced vehicles.

The BMW Group aims to start series production of all-electric vehicles over the medium term as part of its Number ONE strategy. The development of innovative concepts for mobility in big-city conurbations within the scope of "project i" has a similar thrust, as its objective also includes making use of an all-electric power train.

The energy storage unit: cutting-edge lithium-ion technology engineered specifically for use in the MINI.

Based on the current MINI, the car will initially be available as a two-seater. The space taken up by back-seat passengers in the series model has been reserved for the lithium-ion battery. When in use in the zero-emissions MINI, the battery unit combines high output with ample storage capacity and a small footprint with power ratios that are unrivalled in this field of application so far. The lithium-ion storage unit will have a maximum capacity of 35 kilowatt hours (kWh) and transmit energy to the electric motor as direct current at a nominal 380 volts. The rechargeable battery is made up of 5,088 cells grouped into 48 modules. These modules are packaged into three battery elements that are compactly arranged inside the MINI E.

The energy storage unit's basic components are based on the technological principle that has proven itself in practice in power supplies for mobile phones and portable computers. The MINI E's lithium-ion battery can be plugged into all standard power outlets. Its charge time is strongly dependent on the voltage and amperage of the electricity flowing through the grid. In the USA, users can recharge a battery that has been completely drained within a very short period of time using a wallbox that will ship with every MINI E. The wallbox will be installed in the customer's garage, enable higher amperage, and thus provide for extremely short charging times. Wallboxes fully recharge batteries after a mere two-and-a-half hours.

Driven by electricity: reliably, affordably and free of emissions.

A full recharge draws a maximum of 28 kilowatt hours of electricity from the grid. Based on the car's range, a kilowatt hour translates into 5.4 miles. Besides the benefit of zero-emissions driving, the MINI E thus offers significant economic advantages over a vehicle powered by a conventional internal combustion engine as well.

The heavy-duty battery delivers its power to an electric motor, which transforms it into thrilling agility. Mounted transversely under the MINI E's bonnet, the drive train unleashes its full thrust from a dead standstill. This provides for the car's fascinating launch capability. The MINI E's intense driving experience is augmented by its dynamic deceleration potential, which is also directly coupled to the accelerator pedal. As soon as the driver releases the gas pedal, the electric motor acts as a generator. This results in braking force, and the power recovered from the kinetic energy is fed back to the battery. This interaction ensures extremely comfortable drives – especially at medium speed with constant, but marginal, variation. In city traffic, some 75 percent of all deceleration can be done without the brakes. Making substantial use of this energy recuperation feature extends the car's range by up to 20 percent.

Signature MINI agility in a new guise.

Weighing in at 1,465 kilograms (3.230 lbs), the MINI E has an even weight distribution. Minor modifications made to the suspension ensure safe handling at all times. The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system has been adapted to this model's specific wheel loads.

The MINI E's brake system comes with a newly developed electric underpressure pump. Its Electrical Power Assisted Steering (EPS) is the same as the one used in mass-produced MINIs. Both brake and steering assistance react to driving conditions and are thus extremely efficient. Even the air conditioning's electrical compressor only operates if desired or necessary.

Design: unmistakably MINI, undoubtedly new.

At first glance, the MINI E is obviously an iteration of the brand. But its design, which is the blueprint for the zero-emissions two-seater, has been complemented by a number of visual cues that point to its revolutionary drive concept. All of the units produced for the pilot project will have the same paintwork and bear a serial number on their front fenders.

The MINI E's coachwork sports an exclusive combination of metallic Dark Silver on all panels but the roof, which is clad in Pure Silver. What distinguishes the zero-emissions MINI is a specially designed logo in Interchange Yellow, depicting a stylized power plug in the shape of an "E" set against the silver backdrop. It has been applied to the roof, in smaller dimensions to the front and back, to the charger port lid, the dashboard trim, and – combined with the MINI logo – to the door jamb, in slightly modified form. The color of the roof edges, mirror housings, interior style cues and seat seams will match the logo's yellow tone as well.

Moreover, the central gauge and the battery level indicator behind the wheel of the MINI E, which replaces the MINI's rev counter, feature yellow lettering against a dark grey background. The battery level is displayed in percentage figures. The central gauge includes an LED display indicating power consumption in red and power recuperation in green.

MINI E customers will be part of a pioneering mission.

A 500-unit, limited-production MINI E series will be manufactured through the end of 2008. The project will thus attain an order of magnitude that clearly exceeds the size of currently comparable test series. Putting the MINI E on the road on a daily basis will be a pioneering feat to which both the drivers and engineers of the first zero-emissions MINI will contribute as a team.

MINI E customers will join forces with BMW Group experts to assist in the project's scientific evaluation. MINI E engineers accord high importance to staying in touch with the drivers on a regular basis, as this will help them analyze driver behavior besides vehicle characteristics in order to gain the most accurate and realistic picture of the demands placed on a vehicle with a purely electrical drive in the select usage areas.

Special charging station and full service for every MINI E.

The cars will change hands based on a one-year lease with an extension option. Monthly lease installments will cover any required technical service including all necessary maintenance and the replacement of wearing parts. At the end of the lease, all of the automobiles belonging to the project will be returned to the BMW Group's engineering fleet where they will be subjected to comparative tests.

The MINI E's lithium-ion battery can be charged using a wallbox provided to MINI customers. Only lockable garages or similar buildings will qualify as homebases and power stations for the MINI E.

Maintenance by qualified specialists.

The electric drive's high-voltage technology requires that maintenance work be done by qualified personnel using special tools that are not included in MINI service partners' standard toolboxes. In light of this, a service base will be set up on both coasts, staffed by service engineers that are specially trained to perform maintenance and repair work on the MINI E's electrical components. In the event of drive malfunction, these experts will provide professional support at the customer's local MINI dealer or the service base's specially equipped workshop. Technical inspections will take place after 3,000 miles (just under 5,000 kilometers) and at least after six months.

Production in Oxford and Munich.

The MINI E has already gone through the major phases of product development for mass-produced vehicles and passed numerous crash tests on the way. Aspects investigated besides passenger protection were the impact of collision forces on the lithium-ion battery and finding a non-hazardous location for it in the car. The MINI E's energy storage unit emerged completely unscathed from all of the crash tests mandated by US standards, which are especially high.

Production of the approximately 500 cars will take place at the company's Oxford and Munich sites and is scheduled for completion before the end of 2008. MINI's UK plant will be responsible for manufacturing the entire vehicle with the exception of the drive components and the lithium-ion battery, with the brand's series models rolling off its assembly lines concurrently. The units will then be transferred to a specially equipped manufacturing complex situated on BMW plant premises where the electric motor, battery units, performance electronics and transmission will be integrated.

Spy Shot: Look Ma, No Tailpipe – All-Electric Mini Spied!

Seyth Miersma — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 15:58:37 -0500

Engineers at BMW are busy cooking up an all-electric version of the effervescent Mini, a car that should help the automaker off-set its less conscientious offerings from the likes of the M motorsports division and Rolls-Royce. Such an EV will come in handy when trying make the grade for upcoming European Union CO2 standards, as well as regulations coming on the books for California in 2012.

The electric Mini may look very similar (re: almost exactly the same) as the current cars, but can be fairly easily distinguished by two things; the slightly misleading “HYBRID” sticker on the side, and the total absence of offal-spewing tailpipes.

Have a closer look at the super-green Mini in our gallery above or read the shooter’s words down below.

Mini goes electric…….

BMW and Mini are working on a full electric version of the Mini to help them lower the total CO2 emissions for the brand. With not so CO2 friendly brands as Rolls Royce and the M models in the portfolio all help is needed to fulfill the new EU standards as well as the new Californian regulations for manufacturers to offer zero emission vehicles by 2012.

Clear giveaway is the exhaust pipe, or should we say the lack of the exhaust pipe. And of course the Hybrid sticker, even if this is no hybrid but a full electric car.

GM’s Volt Changes Its Tune; No Longer Charges Battery On-The-Fly

Reilly Brennan — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 15:17:03 -0500

We were front and center when General Motors launched its Volt concept car at the 2007 North American International Auto Show and we were in a similar position last week when the company rolled out the production version of the 2011 vehicle. Like most media outlets, we praised GM for taking such a bold step in creating not only a gasoline-saving vehicle, but an entirely new class of transportation—something the company has dubbed an “electric range-extended vehicle.”

Last week’s unveiling of the 2011 production car version of the Volt was met with some hubbub, mostly around a new design—with some stating that the bloom had come off the rose. While the design issue is a divided one in our office, we’re in universal agreement (and disappointment) over a new revelation in the Volt story we’ve just learned about over the last 24 hours. It seems that at some point over the last few months GM changed the powertrain story for the Volt, removing one of the concept’s groundbreaking features: the ability to charge its lithium-ion battery on the fly after the initial charge had expired.

In a press release posted by GM on January 7, 2007 (the day of the Volt’s launch at NAIAS), the company said that “when the battery is depleted…(an) engine spins at a constant speed to create electricity and replenish the battery.”

The problem is that’s no longer the case. In the production version of the Volt unveiled last week, little was made of the powertrain changes, but they were published in a press release which was later sniffed out by Edmunds' Inside Line . The new powertrain configuration has the gasoline engine providing power to the electric motor, effectively creating a “powertrain double” in which both the gasoline engine and electric motor are running in tandem when in “extended-range” mode to power the vehicle.

GM responded to inquiries about this today, saying that the change from the original method of charging the batteries on the fly to the new model of running the electric motor from gasoline occurred only recently “when plans for the production version firmed up.” Miles per gallon for the gasoline engine that will provide power to the electric motor are unknown at this point. What is known is the original press release from January 7, 2007 has been pulled from GM’s media website; the link to access it is no longer active, but it's still available on GM Europe's website as of this writing

While the detail might seem small, it is a fundamental change in the Volt story. We’re still big fans of the idea of the car but hope that between now and its on-sale date in two years it still keeps the magic alive. On a side note, our hats our tipped to the team running GM's Twitter feed (Adam and Chris, we believe) who were quick to respond to our inquiries throughout the day.

Return of Isetta? BMW CEO Confirms EV ‘Mega City Car’

Seyth Miersma — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 13:01:42 -0500

BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer has confirmed that the German automaker does indeed have plans toward building what he calls a “mega city” car, perhaps positioning it at the spearhead of a new green brand for the company. Both the tiny new car and the brand could provide a serious buffer against new and upcoming standards of fuel economy and CO2 emissions in the U.S. and Europe.

Said Reithofer, “It’ll be a car with a completely new look, with two engines available. One will be a very efficient combustion engine and the other will be a purely electric model.”

The pure EV model would need to comply with potential California standards requiring fuel cell and battery-powered vehicles to have a range of 200 miles or more by 2012. A popular rumor has BMW reanimating the Isetta nameplate for the project but no official word from the automaker has confirmed a move in that, admittedly synergistic, direction.

+ Autocar: BMW confirms electric city car

Finalized Tesla Powertrain Offers Greater Power, Range

Seyth Miersma — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 11:17:32 -0500

Tesla Motors may have already sold 27 examples of its groundbreaking Roadster, but with an announcement today that a new production-spec one-speed gearbox has been approved; the company is ready to take the next step in ramping up vehicle delivery.

The new BorgWarner gearbox is part of an enhanced powertrain for the Tesla which will see the car net solid gains in both performance and efficiency. The new powertrain will boost torque from the motor by an estimated 30 percent and return a 10 percent more efficient overall mileage rating from the EPA—raising the Roadster’s effective range from the original 221 miles between charges to as many as 244 miles.

The tens of customers who’ve already taken delivery of the Roadster won’t be left out in the cold either, as Tesla has promised to retrofit the new powertrain in existing vehicles free of charge, no pun intended.

With these final details now in place, Tesla hopes to begin producing its EV sports cars at the rate of 10 per week, with a goal of moving to as many as 40 per week by the early part of 2009. Said Tesla chief Ze’ev Drori, “Now that we have a final powertrain design, in a matter of months there will be hundreds of Tesla Roadsters across the country.”

Scroll down below to read the full Tesla release.

10 September, 2008

Tesla Motors Selects BorgWarner for Production of New Gearbox
for Tesla Roadster

Deliveries of 27 Roadsters Completed to Date, Production and Delivery of Roadsters To Accelerate With Final Powertrain Solution

San Carlos, CA – Tesla Motors Inc. has selected BorgWarner Inc. for the production of a single-speed gearbox for the Tesla Roadster and is initiating a ramped-up production rate. So far, 27 customers have taken delivery of Roadsters.

Tesla engineers developed the specifications for the new gearbox and provided them to BorgWarner. The new gearbox is an integral part of an enhanced powertrain with significant performance and efficiency improvements. The new powertrain delivers about 30% higher motor torque on a single gear ratio, and it achieves a 10% higher EPA combined range.

“Last December, when the two-speed transmission designed by a previous supplier proved not to be durable, we announced we would modify our approach,” said JB Straubel, Chief Technology Officer of Tesla Motors. “By using a more powerful inverter and an enhanced motor design, we were able to implement a single-speed gearbox and still achieve our original performance goals. In fact, the new setup is superior in almost every way.”

The new gearbox is designed for the higher peak torque levels of the new Roadster powertrain, which has increased from 286 Newton-meters (211 foot-pounds) to 380 Newton-meters (280 foot-pounds). The new powertrain achieves an EPA combined range of 244 miles on a single charge, up from Tesla’s previously announced EPA range of 221 miles.

Production of Tesla Roadsters began in March, and the first vehicles were built with an interim transmission design. Customers who own Roadsters with the interim transmission can have their powertrain upgraded free of charge.

Tesla Motors starts production of 10 new Roadsters each week. Customers typically take delivery four to six weeks after production begins. The company expects production to ramp up to at least 20 vehicles per week within a few months and 40 per week by early 2009.

“Successfully implementing the new gearbox in less than a year was an incredible technical challenge and huge accomplishment for Tesla’s engineers,” said Ze’ev Drori, Chief Executive Officer of Tesla Motors. “Now that we have a final powertrain design, in a matter of months there will be hundreds of Tesla Roadsters across the country. We’re heralding nothing less than a new era of the automobile.”

About Tesla Motors

Tesla Motors develops and manufactures electric vehicles with exceptional design, performance and efficiency, while conforming to all U.S. safety, environmental and durability standards. The Tesla Roadster is the only highway-capable production electric car of any kind for sale in the United States. With a 0 to 60 mph acceleration of 3.9 seconds, a 14,000 rpm redline, and the fastest top gear acceleration of any production car tested by Car & Driver magazine in 2007, the Tesla Roadster is unique in providing super car performance, zero emissions and extraordinary efficiency. For more information, visit www.teslamotors.com

Detroit Electric Plans Worldwide Sales By End of 2009

Chris Paukert — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 09:06:29 -0500

Even for students of history and those with really long memories, it’s been a long time since any automobiles built by Detroit Electric plied the world’s roadways. But today, the company (whose name was last affixed to a new vehicle in 1939) announced that it will be working with Malaysia’s Proton to build a lineup of pure electric cars, with the first one rolling out worldwide by the end of 2009.

Currently, Detroit Electric has implemented its drive systems into the Lotus Elise (the British sportscar maker is owned by the Malaysian concern) and a pair of Proton cars, the Persona and Savvy. There is no confirmation at this point of which cars will be released in what markets (and when), but DE is looking to put 30,000 of its powertrains on the world’s roads by 2010. According to Paul Tan of PaulTan.org (who managed to snag an invite to Detroit Electric’s press conference and test session at their test circuit in Shah Alam, Malaysia), Detroit Electric is actually talking with three different manufacturers about integrating DE drive systems into their vehicles. Proton appears to be the only named company at this point, although Tan says that the other companies are American and German, respectively.

Click on the link below to read more from PaulTan.org (including some limited drive impressions and photos), and check out Detroit Electric’s official press release below.

+ PaulTan.org: DRIVEN: Detroit Electric’s electric Lotus Elise

Press Release:

SHAH ALAM, Malaysia, September 2, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- - Detroit Electric in Search for Manufacturing Partners to Roll out Electric Cars by 2009

Detroit Electric is making a come back in a big way with plans to progressively roll out affordable electric vehicles worldwide by the end of 2009. The historic electric car brand held a regional media conference today to introduce electric car technology and unveil its business and manufacturing plans moving forward.

As part of the Malaysian Government's initiative to tackle rising fuel prices and the search for green alternative transportation, Detroit Electric's electric vehicle has been identified as one of the potential progressive innovative ways to tackle the on-going concerns. National car maker Proton has been requested by Prime Minister YAB Datuk Seri Abdullah Badawi to test and validate Detroit Electric's technology and explore the potential to collaborate to create a range of pure electric cars.

"The Malaysian Government is taking proactive measures to provide efficient and reliable alternative transportation to the people. Detroit Electric is working closely with them and we hope to provide a sustainable solution," said Albert Lam, Chairman and CEO of Detroit Electric.
"USD5 million has been invested in research and development over the past two and half years at our R&D facility in the Netherlands to develop this technology for electric vehicles. After months of hard work and search for strategic partners and new shareholders, Detroit Electric has now emerged with scaleable and durable electric drive systems solution ready to deliver affordable everyday electric cars."

Proton is kind enough to lend us the test track, so members of the media had the opportunity to experience the driving power and pleasure of pure electric cars. Detroit Electric has to date integrated its electric drive systems into Lotus Elise's, two Proton passenger cars, Daihatsu-Cuore and VW Golf, with the intent to use these electric drive systems to development pure electric vehicles for volume production within the next 18 months.

The complete press release about the relaunch of Detroit Electric is available at http://www.pressrelease.eu.

SOURCE Detroit Electric

Production Chevy Volt Uncovered on Transformers Set!

Seyth Miersma — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 10:21:15 -0500

What would appear to be the final production version of the much ballyhooed Chevrolet Volt has been spotted wheeling around the set of the upcoming Transformers movie, Revenge of the Fallen. A lucky fan was able to capture the Volt on video as it was being uncloaked and then driven away. There’s no word as yet from General Motors as to the veracity of this as the read deal Volt, nor is there likely to be, but the company has yet again splashed out hugely to feature its products in the blockbuster movie and it would seem the perfect place to hype its upcoming car.

Take a look at some still screen captures of the Volt in the gallery above, or watch the movie first hand here .

+ Transformers 2 Unofficial Movie Blog (via Autoblog )

Chevrolet Volt Caught on Set of Transformers 2

Reilly Brennan — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 21:05:42 -0500

Tesla Working With Other Manufacturers On Electrics

Reilly Brennan — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 09:13:26 -0500

Tesla plans on launching all-electric city cars in 2010 in collaboration with several manufacturers, reports the UK’s Car Online. The experience and know-how Tesla gathered from the development of its Roadster (seen above) is playing out well in its mission to become more than just an independent car company—in fact, it appears Tesla will become something more like a Tier 1 supplier as well as a manufacturer.

The small city vehicles likely won’t be sold under the Tesla name, but will appear badged by those manufacturers with which the company has a partnership. It’s likely we’ll hear about Tesla’s role in the development of these vehicles, or perhaps see badging to that effect somewhere on them (or inside them). CAR reports that this new platform of small cars will have less in the way of range than Tesla’s own Roadster—227 miles when fully charged—and will be priced at a premium to other small vehicles.

It’s a busy time at Tesla. In addition to the recent launch of their Roadster, the company is hard at work on their “Model S ,” which has been described as either a sports sedan or a five-door hatchback.

+ CAR Magazine: Tesla to work with other brands