green minded

$10 Million Pot For Best Green Car Design

2008-04-14T16:34:00.000-07:00

In our world today, $10 million is still a lot of money and it could a really, really long way in a person’s life. It could buy you a building full of cars, a uninhabited island in the pacific or a guarantee you’ll never go hungry again until the day you die. Fortunately, someone is offering that same amount of money for anyone who can design and produce the next generation of fuel-efficient vehicles.

With 60 teams vying for the $10 million dollar pot, the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE will test the vehicles designed and produced by these 60 teams in a cross-country race on September 2009. These teams are expected to manufacture fuel-efficient cars that can achieve a fuel consumption of at least 100 miles per gallon or roughly 2.3 liters per 100 kilometers. This competition was introduced at the New York International Auto Show and Mayor Michael Bloomberg described it as “an excellent example of how the private sector can spur solutions to our most complex challenges.”

“The environmentally friendly cars created as a result of this competition will affect everyone who drives in ways we can’t even imagine today. Let the race begin!” added Peter Diamandis, chairman of the X PRIZE Foundation.

Describing itself as a non-profit organization aiming to introduce radical breakthroughs by holding competitions such as the X PRIZE, the pot of $10 million is meant to solve some of the world’s greatest challenges through creative means. The competition is to focus on affordability, safety, and the environment, involving a qualifying race next year and a Grand Prize Final Race in 2010.

The winners will be the vehicles that exceed the fuel efficiency requirements, meet undisclosed emissions standards and finish the fastest.

Thai Govt Supports More Green Cars

2008-04-14T16:33:00.000-07:00

The Thai automotive industry is getting a big boost from their government in order to support the use of more green vehicles in their country. The Thai government introduced the use of incentives to car makers in the country in order to encourage them in producing more green vehicles for the consumer market. This is also a move to lessen the country’s dependence on fossil fuels and help save our environment, according to Thai government officials.

This move was introduced by the government last year and aims to lessen taxes for car makers and buyers. The Thai government is worried that the country’s status as the largest producer of light pickups in the whole world might not be enough to solidify the future of its automotive industry. Thailand manufactures over 900,000 one-ton pickup trucks every year. This equates to about three-fourths of the world’s total output of automobiles.

With oil prices in the global market rising like crazy and concerns about greenhouse gas emissions picking up steam, government officials expressed their worries that the market for trucks with large engine displacements will eventually weaken as more and more people are turning to fuel-efficient cars for their everyday needs.

Sales taxes on smaller cars were also slashed from January 1, which sent sales booming in the first two months of the year.

Seven carmakers—including Japan’s Toyota, Germany’s Volkswagen and India’s Tata—have proposed eco-car projects to Thailand’s Board of Investment. Four have already been approved.

Hyundai To Develop A Green Car Of Its Own

2008-04-14T16:32:00.000-07:00

Guess who’s joining the party? South Korea’s top car brand, Hyundai Motors, has announced last month that they would be directing their efforts in mass producing hybrid cars by next year. This is in line with the public’s rising demand for more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly cars in the market today. The first hybrid baby from Hyundai that’s going to be mass produced will be a compact four-door sedan, known as the Avante.

The Korean car maker also plans to expand its hybrid vehicle line-up with the production of mid-size units in 2010. Fuel-cell cars will then follow as the Hyundai plans to unveil them in 2012.

Since 2004, South Korea’s Hyundai Motors has already manufactured 2,800 compact hybrid cars. Most of these cars are used mostly for government agencies. Even though it has produced considerable numbers in the hybrid race, Japan’s Toyota Motors still retains the lead and the domination of the global hybrid market.

Global market demand for hybrid cars is growing in a rapid manner, with 390,125 units sold in 2006 and 517,911 last year. This number is likely to increase to 750,000 this year and more than a million by 2010 with more and more people preferring to use green cars over conventional ones.

GM To Slowly Integrate The Chevrolet Volt In Two Years Time

2008-04-07T16:41:00.000-07:00

By 2010, more people will have fewer reasons not to own a hybrid vehicle. Why is that so? General Motors Corp. has finally decided to install lithium-ion batteries in the Chevrolet Volt and launch it in two years time.

The giant American car manufacturer said that these batteries are going to be placed in test models of the Chevrolet Malibu. These systems will serve as a test because the Volt also uses the same technology to make the car run.

This opportunity will allow GM to determine if the batteries will perform well in driving conditions. This is also their chance to prove that GM’s hybrid vehicle, which debuts in November 2010, can live up to the hype it generated during the last 2007 North American International Auto Show.

"It's the No. 1 priority project within GM," said Frank Weber, GM’s global vehicle line executive for the Volt.

"This program is not theory, it's reality,'' Weber added.

GM sees the Chevrolet Volt as becoming a mainstream hybrid vehicle that has the ability to be recharged with the use of a household outlet. This amazing concept by GM has been closely monitored by the auto industry and many car consumers in the world. GM claims that the Chevrolet Volt can be powered by an electric motor with the use of lithium-ion batteries.

The fully charged Chevrolet Volt can reach a distance of 40 miles without using gasoline. This amazing hybrid also employs the use of a small engine in recharging the vehicle which results into an extension of its range. GM claims that the Volt can achieve an equivalent of 150 miles per gallon of fuel.

The American car maker has come up with a rough estimate of 100, 000 units of the Chevrolet Volt that it can sell each year starting from 2010 up to 2012.

During a recent event for the press, GM officials spoke in its vehicle engineering center in the Detroit suburb of Warren about the choice of the engine to be used on the Volt. They are also determining to choose from one of two suppliers that also manufacture the batteries the company uses on its hybrid cars. They are determining the performance and durability of these engines and lithium-ion batteries in everyday driving conditions. Testing is being conducted by more than 60 researchers at facilities in Warren and Milford, Mich., and Mainz-Kastel, Germany.

"Our aim is to prove function and life without having a vehicle," said Roland Matthe, engineering group manager of the E-Flex Rechargable Energy Storage System.

"This project is not normal. There's a lot of simulation up front. We hope we have done everything right.''

Andrew Farah, the Volt's chief engineer, showed reporters three-dimensional images of how the nearly six-foot long battery pack, electric motor and other parts would be situated in the Volt's chassis. While he didn't reveal exterior design details, he said the car is based on GM's next-generation global compact vehicle.

The American automaker also decided not to make any plans in developing a diesel version of the Chevrolet Volt, but its officials said they are working on other alternatives on the situation at hand. Among the development and design challenges yet to be solved is long-term storage of fuel, since officials estimate at least 70 percent of drivers might never turn the engine on.

"It's not going to be like a regular car in that regard,'' the Volt's vehicle line director Tony Posawatz said.”You may end up changing the fuel more often than your oil.''

Paul Lacy, an auto analyst with the consulting firm Global Insight, said he was surprised to hear that customers will need to be trained with the use and operation of the hybrid vehicle, since most consumers are going to expect that the car will be much like the traditional ones they've driven.

"It's almost a whole new world for the average consumer," he said.

"The work they're doing is very impressive," Lacy added. ``They've put a great deal ... into making a viable, volume-capable product," he said. "But we don't know enough yet to make judgment on how it's going to fare.''

Virgin Airlines To Use GM's Green Cars In Its Operations.

2008-03-18T20:06:00.000-07:00

Does a big, successful airline company such as Virgin Atlantic Airways have any use for green vehicles? Apparently, the answer is yes.

Virgin has employed the use of Chevrolet’s own Equinox fuel cell cars for the passengers’ complimentary ground transfer. These cars are powered by hydrogen and it releases zero emission from its engine. This partnership is part of Chevrolet’s Project Driveway, a 30-month proposal to place more than 100 electric vehicles powered by hydrogen across the roads of key cities around the world. This is GM’s way to gather feedback from the users on how their hybrid cars handle and in what manner should they improve it.

GM’s fourth generation fuel cell system powers the amazing Equinox Fuel Cell in all of its endeavors. Being the fourth generation of this technology, the Equinox Fuel Cell is capable of starting in freezing temperatures and reach 200 miles in just one fill up. Vehicles equipped with the Equinox Fuel Cell can also run along the road and reach a speed of 100mph without releasing harmful gasses. All of these are possible with the vehicle’s use of a single-speed electric motor traction system that produces ample amounts of torque and instant acceleration. These vehicles are also equipped with nickel-metal hydride battery packs that gather and store energy from the braking system to increase the car’s performance.

Placed inside a conventional engine compartment, the fuel cell system shares its place inside the car with three compressed storage tanks of hydrogen. These storage tanks are composed of carbon fiber and are designed to handle extreme amounts of pressure measuring up to 10,000 pounds per square inch. Around nine pounds of hydrogen can be stored in these storage tanks.

As a result of their partnership, Virgin Atlantic Airways will drive three of these babies later this month. This partnership will allow Virgin to decrease their carbon footprint on the ground as it has always been a valuable cornerstone of the company to improve its environmental strategy.

"Our mission to be the sustainable airline is clear, both on the ground and in the air. Partnerships such as this with General Motors show that we are pioneering in the aviation industry when it comes to reducing emissions at every stage of our passengers' journey," said Sir Richard Branson.

Volvo To Launch ReCharge Plug-in Hybrid Sooner Than Expected

2008-03-18T20:05:00.000-07:00

When it was first launched at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, Volvo’s own ReCharge plug-in hybrid concept turned a lot of heads into its direction. Regrettably, it was only a demonstration of Volvo’s plans and they didn’t announce any definite plans of releasing this amazing hybrid car at that time.

But after a few months, it looks like the people over at Volvo are slowly, but surely, becoming serious in launching this innovation to the public. Volvo finally legitimized this technology and began working on a concept model based on their C30 car. In addition to that, Volvo has also joined forces with Saab to develop plug-in hybrids in the span of five years. As of now, the Swedish car maker is planning to launch a fleet of 10 cars to test its capabilities.

In the next five years, Volvo is also planning to announce and unveil to the public hybrid versions of their vehicles.

Saab To Unveil Hybrid Sports Car At The 2008 Geneva Motor Show

2008-03-18T20:04:00.000-07:00

Hybrid cars are slowly evolving into race cars nowadays. A proof of this testament is the introduction of the Saab 9-X BioHybrid earlier this month. This amazing hybrid vehicle combines power with outstanding design as it houses 200 hp in its 1.4 liter BioPower turbo engine coupled with an aircraft-inspired body. The engine is equipped with GM’s latest technology Hybrid system which allows the car to accelerate quickly without ever worrying about harmful emissions.

Some of the car’s amazing qualities include Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and automatic light dimming due to a use of a front-mounted camera. This camera checks out the road for light sources and determines if the car should automatically dim the lights or not. Touch-sensitive keyless entry, advanced connectivity options and a solar cell in the glass roof are all standard in the Saab 9-X.The additional solar cell is used to supply the car with power and to charge the hybrid battery pack. This three-door hybrid car will make its official debut at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show.

“This concept redefines conventional compact car design,” says Jan Åke Jonsson, Saab’s Managing Director. “It shows how progressive Saab design can be combined with smart features and responsible, rightsizing performance that is in tune with the expectations of younger buyers in this segment,” Jonsson added.

The car’s impressive body design boosts its aerodynamics due to the inclusion of a longer roof line and a “sawn off’ rear design. The Saab X-9 also employs the use of retractable rear-view camera pods and keyless entry technology against the standard large door mirrors and dropping door handles in order to end up with an outstanding body design.

When the Saab X-9 reaches 43mph, this hybrid wonder extends its roof spoiler and acts as an underbody diffuser. When heavy braking occurs from a speed of 62mph and above, the rear spoiler is automatically raised to improve downforce and stabilize the hybrid car better.

Open the door and step inside the car and you’ll probably see a glimpse of heaven when you take your seat and take hold of the steering wheel. The interior supports a white leather upholstered four-seater cabin and a driver-focused layout that includes a main instrument panel replaces the standard central floor-mounted console. The main instrument panel is also coupled along with a row of five display screen shown brightly with the use of green 3-D graphics. A driver can easily locate and use the rear view monitor, infotainment screen and control monitor to maintain control of he Saab X-9 in the most convenient manner possible. The steering wheel also houses several controls for better access while driving on the road. The light emitted inside the car can be chosen from a selection of bright, cold, warm and soft intensities to better suit the driver and the passengers.

The Saab X-9 hybrid vehicle is also equipped with the latest connectivity options in the market today. Bluetooth and WiFi communication come with the hybrid car and is enhanced by the function to use more than one device simultaneously. This gives many drivers the ability to operate various handheld devices and upload their own playlists and displays while driving on the road safely.

The Saab X-9 also includes innovative storage solutions with the use of an electrically-powered slide-out floor placed on the rear cargo deck. When this storage is activated, the bottom half of the split tailgate drops down. The top section then hinges off from the roof and can be opened in a separate manner so the placement of smaller items may placed inside it easily.

The 200hp and 280 Nm of torque generated by the 1.4 liter BioPower turbo engine revs up all the way from 1,750 to 5,000 rpm. This amazing engine is powered by E85 fuel which improves fuel economy and reduces C02 emissions. Fuel consumption of the Saab X-9 when running on petrol is projected at 57.6 miles per gallon and when it runs on E85, fuel consumption is estimated at 44.1 miles per gallon. The BioPower turbo engine also employs the use of direct injection and continuously variable valve timing on bothe the inlet and exhaust sides. This hybrid vehicle uses a six-speed transmission manual gearbox equipped with an automatic clutch and steering wheel controls.

The Saab X-9 uses the next-generation GM Hybrid system that features a lithium-ion battery to supply the car with sufficient power while reaching top speeds on the road. The hybrid vehicle’s electric motor reacts and complements the boosted torque of the 1.4 turbo charged BioPower engine.

This amazing hybrid vehicle will make its much-awaited debut at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show along with the 9-4X BioPower Crossover Concept vehicle.

Toyota Won't Release Diesel Hybrids Anytime Soon

2008-03-13T22:18:00.000-07:00

Diesel hybrids are being developed by major car companies lately. Companies such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Volkswagen baffled the audience at the recently concluded Geneva Motor Show with the unveiling of their diesel hybrid concepts. The speculations may have caught more fire with the introduction of the VW Golf TDI hybrid and rumor has it that this car may hit the stores very soon. It may seem that diesel hybrid cars may be the next best thing to be made by these car companies and everyone may have plans to go along with this trend.

Toyota thinks otherwise.

Toyota’s president and main man, Katsuaki Watanebe, voiced out the Japanese car maker’s view on not releasing any diesel hybrid vehicle any time soon. It may seem ironic because Toyota is always at the frontlines whenever any green technology trend rises and some, if not all, of Toyota’s faithful followers will be disappointed with this announcement.

During another motor show, the Detroit Auto Show to be exact, Watanabe announced that the Japanese car company would take on a different path and offer the Sequioa and the Tundra, equipped with diesel engines, in 2010. However, Watanabe reasoned out that a diesel hybrid doesn’t offer a great leap in terms of fuel efficiency. As of the moment, Toyota already has a capable line-up of diesel cars in the European market and the company is focusing on this rather than introduce diesel hybrids into their stables.

Plus, Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive isn’t exactly compatible with their big trucks so they are just focusing on improving their diesel cars for now. As of now, the production of diesel hybrids is feasible but the only thing that may be hindering Toyota is the marketing cost involved.

GM Foots The Bill For Green Car Owners

2008-03-07T16:41:00.001-08:00

The prices of fuel have skyrocketed recently in an upward pace that scares the people out of their wits. Back then, it would only scratch your wallet a little to have your fuel tanks filled up. But with the alarming rate of rising fuel prices in the global market, a filled-up fuel tank at a lesser cost is just figment of man’s imagination.

General Motors thought otherwise.

Last February 26, 2008, FlexFuel users, which totals to 46,000 in the Los Angeles area, were treated by the US car maker by lowering the rates of the alternative fuel to only 85.9 cents per gallon. This was part of General Motor’s initiative to help promote the awareness of using alternative fuels to help save our environment.

Too bad this great idea lasted only on February 26, from noon up until 2 in the afternoon. This was held at the Conserv Fuel, 11699 San Vicente Blvd in Brentwood, Los Angeles.

With 46,000 FlexFuel users in the Los Angeles area and a total of 2.5 million users on the road, General Motors aims to increase that number as it takes the lead in the production of vehicles that run on the amazing E85 ethanol fuel.

With the current trend of using alternative fuels, the numbers above are expected to double by the year 2010. Annual production of cars that are capable of using E85 ethanol fuel is also expected to reach 400,000 by 2010 too.

As of now, General Motors has 11 FlexFuel models under its wing and they are identified by carrying the FlexFuel exterior badges and yellow gasoline caps.

Mercedes Unveils New BlueEFFECIENCY Cars

2008-03-07T16:40:00.000-08:00

Mercedes Benz is riding along the green wave with the release of their brand new line up of environmentally friendly cars. With the rise of consumers supporting green vehicles in the United States and Europe, Mercedes will launch a brand new line-up of vehicles to address the need of concerned environmentalists worldwide.

Mercedes Benz’ BlueEFFICIENCY saloons, scheduled to be released by spring 2008, will be added to their C-Class range and will have the capability to consume less fuel by 12%. These features can be found on the C 180 Kompressor and C 200 CDI models of Mercedes Benz. Along with fuel efficiency of these Mercedes models, these cars still retain their renowned sense of class and comfort without sacrificing anything to lessen the fuel consumption of the cars.

The BlueEFFICIENCY version of the C 200 CDI, which runs on a 100 kW/136 hp, consumes only a minimal amount of 5.1 liters per 100 km. on the other hand, the C 180 Kompressor runs on a 115 kW/156 hp engine consume only 6.5 liters of fuel for 100 km covered by the car. Last, but definitely not the least among the three is the C 350 CGI. This car from Mercedes uses a six-cylinder engine and consumes 10% less fuel than its V6 engine counterpart.

The ingenious minds over at Mercedes have managed to lessen fuel consumption of their cars by reducing the weight, aerodyanamic drag and rolling resistance. They’ve also organized the onboard energy management of these cars under the BlueEFFICIENCY line-up to save even more fuel efficiently.

When it came to the weight of their cars, the people of Mercedes managed to reduce the saloons’ weight by 19 up to 32 kg depending on the model. This is made possible by using a windscreen, a technology transferred from the Maybach luxury saloon, which weighs 1.2 kg less than before. The reduction of the windshield’s thickness obtained a decrese in weight without sacrificing noise comfort in the process.

With the help of special materials and precise calculation methods, the lining of the firewall was improved further to optimize its weight. The geniuses of Mercedes thought of redefining the material thickness of the resinous foam and it resulted in a weight loss of around 20%.

Toyota Prius Tops Consumer Reports List As The Best Green Car

2008-03-07T16:39:00.000-08:00

Just like paying one’s taxes and death, there are some things in this life that are sure and certain. The same goes with the Toyota Prius being the default choice for the consumers when it comes to picking a green vehicle for their respective needs.

Every year, the cream of the crop and the lowest of the low when it comes to cars are decided upon by the people of Consumer Reports. They give consumers the lowdown on the best and the worst each year. And included in the list is the Toyota Prius, hailed as the best green car for the fifth straight year in a row. Even with the sudden sprout of hybrid challengers to oust the Japanese carmakers top green vehicle, the Toyota Prius stands from the competition high and proud.

Here’s a list of who made it io the top with the Toyota Prius from Consumer Reports.

Press Release:

CONSUMER REPORTS NEW TOP PICKS FOR 2008: HYUNDAI ELANTRA SE, HYUNDAI SANTA FE, CHEVROLET SILVERADO AND LEXUS LS 460L

First time a South Korean automaker represented in Top Picks

First time since 2005 a U.S. model makes list for pickup truck

YONKERS, NY - Consumer Reports has named four new models to its Top Picks list for 2008-the Hyundai

Elantra SE and Hyundai Santa Fe as top choices for small sedans and midsized SUVs, respectively; the redesigned Chevrolet Silverado as the top choice for pickup truck; and the Lexus LS 460L as the best luxury sedan.

The announcement was made today during a Washington Automotive Press Association (WAPA) press conference. Details can be found in CR's Annual April Auto Issue, on sale Tuesday, March 4.

This marks the first time that a South Korean automaker – Hyundai – is represented, and the first time since 2005 that a U.S. model – the Chevrolet Silverado – has made the list. Historically, Consumer Reports Top Picks have been a blend of Japanese, European, and domestic models, but for the last two years the Top Picks have all been from Japanese manufacturers.

The Toyota Prius remains the Top Pick in the "green" car category for the fifth year in a row. The Prius demonstrated an excellent 44 mpg overall in Consumer Reports' real-world fuel economy tests, the best of any five-passenger vehicles tested by CR.

Consumer Reports' Top Picks are the most well-rounded models in their categories and must meet stringent road test, reliability, and safety requirements. Each Top Pick scores at or near the top of its category among more than 260 vehicles CR recently tested at its Auto Test Center; has average or better predicted reliability (based on the problems subscribers reported on in CR's Annual Car Reliability Survey of almost 1.3 million vehicles), and performed adequately in overall safety if tested by the government or insurance industry.

Starting this year, they also must provide a critical safety feature, electronic stability control (ESC), either as standard equipment or as a readily available option. That's why the Honda Accord, for example, is the Top Pick in family sedans over the Nissan Altima. The Altima scored slightly higher in CR's testing, but offers ESC only as a pricey option on the V6 and standard on the hybrid model.

"All the vehicles in Consumer Reports' Top Picks list are standouts for performance, versatility, reliability, and

safety," said David Champion, senior director of automotive testing, Consumer Reports. "CR's Top Picks list is a great place for consumers to start when they're looking for a new car."

Consumer Reports' testing procedures are the most comprehensive of any U.S. publication or Web site. More than 50 individual tests are performed on every vehicle, including evaluations of braking, handling, comfort, convenience, safety, and fuel economy. Around 6,000 miles of general driving and evaluations are racked up on each test car during the testing process.

Here, by category, are the issue's best performers. Changes from last year's Top Picks list are noted:

• SMALL SEDAN: Hyundai Elantra SE. The Hyundai Elantra SE ($18,000) is a well-rounded small car that provides good fuel economy, a comfortable ride, and an interior that's quiet, roomy, and well-equipped. The SE also has standard electronic stability control, a proven safety feature that's absent on many other small cars. The Honda Civic EX and Mazda3 scored almost as well and are more fun to drive, but lack ESC on more affordable versions. (Last year's Top Pick for Small Sedan was the Honda Civic.)

• MIDSIZED SUV: Hyundai Santa Fe. Redesigned for 2007, the much-improved Santa Fe ($22,000 to $31,000) edged out the Honda Pilot in CR's tests. It provides a quiet and roomy interior, excellent fit and finish, a refined powertrain, a relatively good ride, and an optional third-row seat. Standard ESC helps provide secure handling. (Last year's Top Pick for Midsized SUV was the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.)

• PICKUP TRUCK: Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab. The redesigned Silverado ($27,000 to $39,000) is considerably improved. It achieves a nice balance between work attributes and livability, including a generous payload rating, a comfortable ride, improved interior quality and steering feel, and easy access. ESC is standard on all crew-cab models. The GMC Sierra is virtually identical to the Silverado. The redesigned Toyota Tundra outscored the Silverado in CR's tests, but first-year reliability of the 4WD, V8 version was below average.

• LUXURY SEDAN: Lexus LS 460L. With a score of 99 out of 100 in CR's road test, the LS 460L ($77,000) is CR's highest-rated vehicle. It provides a no-compromise environment of comfort and roominess, coupled with an isolating quietness. It also delivers quick acceleration and relatively good fuel economy. While it's brimming with electronic amenities, its controls are easy to use. (Last year's Top Pick for Luxury Sedan was the Infiniti M35.)

• FAMILY SEDAN: Honda Accord. The Accord ($22,000 to $31,000), redesigned for 2008, is a well-rounded roomy sedan with a comfortable ride, agile handling, and smooth, refined powertrains. Electronic stability control is standard on all models, and crash-test results are impressive. Although the Nissan Altima edged out the Accord in CR's ratings, most affordable versions of the Altima lack ESC, a requirement to be a Top Pick. (This is the sixth consecutive year that the Accord was named a Top Pick for Family Sedan.)

• UPSCALE SEDAN: Infiniti G35. The G35 ($33,000 to $35,000) successfully blends sportiness and luxury. Available in rear- or all-wheel drive, it has an exuberant powertrain, agile handling, and a well-crafted interior. (This is the second consecutive year the G35 was named Top Pick for Upscale Sedan.)

• FUN TO DRIVE: Mazda MX-5 Miata. The MX-5 ($27,000) won drivers over with its balanced handling, quick and precise steering, and crisp-shifting six-speed manual transmission. It virtually tied the Porsche Boxster in CR's test scoring, but it's roughly half the price. The manual top can be lowered and raised with one hand from the driver's seat, making open motoring a snap. (Unchanged from last year.)

• SMALL SUV: Toyota RAV4. The impressive RAV4 ($23,000 to $30,000) is versatile, comfortable, and roomy enough for a small third-row seat. The spirited V6 version accelerates quickly (the same as a Mazda Miata from 0 to 60 mph), yet delivers an excellent 22 mpg overall. The four-cylinder version gets 23 mpg, the best of any nonhybrid SUV CR has tested. (Unchanged from last year.)

• MINIVAN: Toyota Sienna. The Sienna ($24,000 to $37,000) is CR's pick for the second year in a row. Its spacious, quiet, and refined interior is on par with some luxury sedans and its V6 engine is powerful and fuel efficient. It is also the only minivan available with all-wheel drive. The Honda Odyssey, on the other hand, is more agile and fun to drive.

• GREEN CAR: Toyota Prius. The gas/electric Prius hybrid ($24,000) retains its lock on this category for the fifth straight year. Despite a wave of new hybrid models, the Prius' 44 mpg overall is still the best CR has measured in any five-passenger car. The interior is roomy and versatile, and the Prius has been very reliable.

CR's Annual April Auto Issue is on sale from March 4 through June 4. The Consumer Reports Auto Issue is available wherever magazines are sold. Free highlights from the April Auto Issue will be available at

www.ConsumerReports.org.

Consumer Reports is one of the most trusted sources for information and advice on consumer products and services. It conducts the most comprehensive auto-test program of any U.S. publication or Web site; the magazine's auto experts have decades of experience in driving, testing, and reporting on cars. To subscribe to Consumer Reports, call 1-800-234-1645.

Information and articles from the magazine can be accessed online at www.ConsumerReports.org.

Porsche To Unveil Green Cars At The 2008 Geneva Auto Salon

2008-02-29T17:39:00.002-08:00

The gas guzzling carmaker, Porsche, is out to change its direction with the release of a environmentally friendly race car, sometime in the near future. This is a very refreshing development on their part mainly because Porsche’s cars are known to gulp great amounts of fuel which in turn endangers the environment.

Porsche plans to unveil the race car at this year’s Geneva Auto Salon and impress the whole motoring world with it. Along with their green race car, Porsche is also planning to release a brand new line-up of vehicles that are fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly to the market. The Geneva Auto Salon, which is a traditional event where carmakers showcase their upcoming or brand new vehicles, is going to be held on March 6 up to its last day on March 16, 2008.

Porsche plans to feature some of their new toys this year at the Geneva Auto Saloon. Included in its line-up is the future version of the Porsche Cayenne Hybrid and the Porsche RS Spyder. The Porsche RS Spyder holds the title for being the most successful car to ever race in the American Le Mans Series with eight overall victories for the year 2007 alone. The Porsche RS Spyder used the E10 fuel which contains a 10% bioethanol mixture to fuel the race car.

Porsche is also planning to release second-generation Cayennes powered by environmentally friendly engines that boast of using 15% less fuel. They are also planning to use the Geneva Auto Salon this year to launch the new Boxster RS 60 Spyder, the 911 Turbo Cabriolet and the 911 GT2.

Hybrids causing accidents due to lack of noise according to a concerned group

2008-02-29T17:39:00.001-08:00

If ever you find yourself driving in Maryland sometime in the future, make sure your car can be heard or else the cops might pull you over. A silly notion, you might think? These guys think otherwise.

Members of the National Federation of the Blind are expressing their distress to the Maryland legislative committee over the lack of noise some vehicles have as it causes serious accidents. They’ve specifically pointed out hybrid vehicles as a major factor in accidents that are caused by lack of noise. This lack of noise is pointed out as a cause of accident due to the failure of the vehicle to be noticed on the road, especially at night.

While running in all-electric mode, hybrid vehicles can run without making substantial noise. There are reports that most people rely on their hearing to be warned of incoming vehicles without having to use the side and rear view mirrors. This means an increased risk for those who rely on their ears as the hybrid vehicles doesn’t generate enough sound to be noticed.

Being the most popular of all the hybrid vehicles in the US market, the Toyota Prius is being targeted by this concerned group. Maryland’s own legislative task force is now investigating how safe the Toyota Prius and other hybrid vehicles in terms of pedestrian safety and the effects of its noise levels on the road.

Maybe if things will go their way, we’ll see the Toyota Prius and other hybrid vehicles strolling down the road sounding like a muscle car to avoid not being noticed anymore. But of course, it’ll still be a tree hugging hybrid even if it roars like it has a V8 engine under its hood.

Toyota To Release More Plug-in Hybrids By 2010

2008-02-29T17:36:00.000-08:00

When it comes to saving the planet, Toyota has proved time and time again that their work could actually pull the impossible feat off.

Toyota announced they were launching a small fleet of plug-in hybrids by 2010 during the recently concluded Detroit Motor Show. Toyota’s move is expected to meet opposition with General Motors’ impending release of the plug-in hybrid Chevrolet Volt by 2010 too. The fleet of plug-in hybrids is also expected to be tested in due time and is going to be part of a bigger environmental sustainability plan, Toyota’s chief, Katsuaki Watanabe, said.

The Japanese carmaker also revealed that they will introduce two brand-new hybrids at next year’s Detroit Motor Show. The first will be under Toyota’s luxury brand, Lexus, while the second will be under the Toyota Marque. These two vehicles will be based on the same technology that catapulted the Toyota Prius to the top of the heap.

The introduction of these two hybrids will push Toyota’s goal of selling a million hybrids annually closer to reality, according to Watanabe.

Aside from introducing two new hybrids by next year, Toyota is also planning to unveil clean-diesel versions of its Tundra pickup and Sequoia sports-utility vehicle to consumers in the US very soon.

These vehicles will greatly help the Japanese carmaker to comply with new regulations that requires cars in the US to have an average fuel economy of 35 miles per gallon (around 14 kilometers per liter) by 2020.

“Toyota strongly supports this long overdue legislation,” he said. “We will not wait until the deadline to comply. I have issued a challenge to our engineers to meet the new standards well in advance of 2020. I believe it can be done, it should be done and that Toyota is capable of doing it,” Watanabe said.

US Carmakers Push The Need For More Green Vehicles At Detroit Motor Show

2008-02-15T20:44:00.000-08:00

I guess they finally understand the gravity of the situation at hand. And what’s ironic is that they plan on doing something about it.

The top three carmakers in the US – GM, Ford and Chrysler – are stressing the need to develop more ecologically-friendly vehicles in order to lessen the market’s dependence on rising oil prices. They unveiled this announcement during the recently held North American International Auto Show last January 19 to 27 in Detroit, Michigan.

General Motors chief, Rick Wagoner, said that boosting the use of alternative fuels is “business necessity and an obligation for society” in a world that consumes 1,000 barrels of oil a second.

According to Wagoner, carmakers should see the need to develop alternative sources of propulsion because the demand for energy around the world is growing faster than the supply.

Even as the US market and the whole world are worrying about the steady rise of oil, the Big Three announced their commitment to developing more green cars.

In line with their announcement, GM unveiled the new Cadillac Provoq, which boasts of a battery-powered four-wheel drive. The giant carmaker is also set to release a test fleet of 100 battery-powered Chevrolet Equinox in the course of the following weeks. Along with the Provoq and the Equinox, GM is also planning to unveil eight new hybrids in the US before the year ends. GM also announced a partnership with Coskata, a renewable energy company, to produce quantities of plant-based ethanol fuel for vehicles.

Not wanting to be outdone, Ford also presented their plans for developing more green vehicles at the North American International Auto Show. Ford’s head honcho, Bill Ford, announced “a global commitment” to become “leader in sustainability.” Taking a lead from their European branch, Ford unveiled a new nature-friendly brand called Ecoboost. This brand will be expanded to their signature big pickup trucks, among other vehicles, in 2010. The company hopes to sell 500, 000 units of their Ecoboost brand in the next five years.

The last of the Big Three, Chrysler, also presented prototypes of upcoming electric and hybrid vehicles at the Motor Show.

Bananas Being Groomed To Be A Source Of Alternative Fuel

2008-02-12T21:00:00.000-08:00

After you read this entry, you’ll find another reason to love bananas even more.

An organization from the land down under has begun a process of using banana waste as an alternative from using gasoline or diesel for our vehicles. Growcom, known for leading the advocacy of horticulture in Queensland, Australia, is currently developing a process to use the banana peel to produce biomethane to provide cars that run on natural gas a source of fuel.

The first step to this process is to break down the banana peel to its base microorganisms with the use of an anaerobic digester. Think of it as a human being’s intestines where the food gets broken down to be converted into energy for the body to use.

The end product of first step is the production of large amounts of methane that can be used to power vehicles whose engines accept this kind of fuel.

The efficiency of the process is still being tested due to the digester technology’s cost being reduced in order to produce enough quantities of methane for public use.

Monkeys all over the world may see their smiles turn into a frown but delighted motorists may find this news as a ray of sunshine amidst the ever rising prices of fossil fuels in the global market. Nevertheless, the banana peel joins the group of alternative choices opposed to the monopoly of fossil fuels and if this is developed to its fullest, then we can bid hazardous fumes a sweet goodbye.

Cheap Air Car To Be Released By The End Of ‘08

2008-02-12T20:51:00.000-08:00

BBC News has recently confirmed the impending release of an air car from an Indian carmaker, competitively priced at 3,500 Euros or $7,000, by the end of the year. To the sheer delight of Al Gore and other environmentalists on the planet, Tata Motors has designed and developed an air car that can be very friendly to Mother Nature and your bank account at the same time. And it doesn’t stop there.

Dubbed as the Mini-CAT by Tata Motors, this green car is claimed to have the ability to go up to 200 km for just a rough price of 1.50 Euros or $3 and a trip to gas stations specially equipped with air-compressors to refuel the vehicle. Being cheaper than most cars in the market today, the Mini-CAT is claimed to run on the road with speeds up to 68 mph, making it perfect for the average nature-loving Joe to use in his everyday needs.

The car will be powered by compressed air, eliminating the combustion process in the engine and dangerous fumes that can be hazardous, not only to nature, but to many people as well. A fiberglass body and innovative electrical system will also be featured in the Mini-CAT, providing optimum efficiency and stability to the vehicle. The car will also be completely controlled by a computer.

Tata Motors is known world-wide as makers of environment-friendly vehicles such as compressed gas busses that have been on the market since 2000. They are currently developing plans to produce a car, on which they boast to be the cheapest in the world at only $2,500 and is made up of almost 100% plastic.

Tata Motors is currently interested in expanding its operations outside of India with the prospect of purchasing Jaguar and Land Rover from Ford. After acquiring South Korea’s Daewoo in 2004, this move may signal increased productions for Tata Motors and an expansion of its plans to produce more environment-friendly cars to lessen our dependence on fossil fuels.

Hybrid-Electric Delivery Truck from Isuzu

2008-01-23T21:53:00.000-08:00

Isuzu Commercial Truck of America will be providing a prototype diesel hybrid-electric delivery truck to Corporate Express US Inc. This company is part of the Corporate Express NV based in Dutch and it will be one of the first companies in North America to drive the prototype diesel hybrid-electric vehicle.

This move of Corporate Express to pilot a hybrid-electric delivery truck from Venus marks its first step towards adding the hybrid-electric vehicles of Isuzu to its array of US delivery trucks. It is the company’s goal to help reduce carbon dioxide emissions and to lessen the impact of vehicles on the environment.

The President of Corporate Express US, Jay Mutschler, said, "As a pure business-to-business company, our distribution operations are a primary focus as we work to reduce our carbon footprint. We approached Isuzu about a diesel hybrid-electric vehicle last year, and we are extremely pleased that our partnership with them is enhanced with a pilot of this terrific emerging technology here in the US."

Isuzu is actually one of the company’s longest trucking partners as the automaker stared providing them, trucks since 1992. Thus, majority of its trucks are from the automaker.

The President of Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Makoto Kawahara, agreed on what Mutschler said saying, "Isuzu is committed to technologies and programs to address safety, environment and economy, and this partnership reinforces that commitment. We will continue to work with Corporate Express and other environmentally conscious companies to meet their needs."

Corporate Express US’ move to include hybrid-electric vehicles to their fleet of delivery trucks is naturally because of its overall plan to help decrease environmental impact through its goals for facilities, sustainable forestry, social responsibility, distribution operations, and environmentally sustainable products. These plans are actually included in the US Sustainability Policy of Corporate Express US.

Isuzu is actually working with Enova Systems to be able to fit the Isuzu truck prototype with their HybridPower drive system. This system is a turnkey system which combines an improved electric motor with electric controls in powering the vehicle.

Corporate Express US is scheduled to receive its prototype diesel hybrid-electric delivery trucks from Isuze on April 2008.

Incentive for hybrid vehicles

2008-01-22T21:50:00.000-08:00

The Environmental advisory committee has recommended that the “government recommended” hybrid vehicles in the city of Kawartha Lakes be allowed for a free parking. This recommendation has already been given the go signal by the development and public works services committee.

Ric McGee, the Mayor of the City of Kawartha Lakes said that this free parking plan on hybrid vehicles is a small gesture on the part of the officials of the city despite the report from a staff saying that this plan should not move forward. McGee said, "I think it is an extremely easy one. I think that this supports of our vision and our environment first approach in the City of Kawartha Lakes."

McGee also suggested that the staff should also be able to bring forth a bylaw to amend the current parking bylaw so that hybrid vehicles can be exempted from the bylaw. He said, "I am quite certain that with this motion staff will be able to bring forward a bylaw to amend the parking bylaw. I don't think this is too onerous a task."

The Councilor of Ward 7, Pete Cziraky, also agreed and said, "It shouldn't be that difficult to do. "It should be easy for someone to discover (the vehicle is hybrid). I think this is an easy way to do the right thing."

However, Ward 4 Councilor Glenn Campbell said that he would not give his support to the motion. He said, "I don't support the motion. I think everything is easy until you have to do it. I find it hard to believe that offering free parking will encourage anyone to buy a hybrid vehicle."

But McGee is saying that Kawartha Lakes is an “environment first” community saying, "We're an environment first community - sometimes that takes work, sometimes that takes leadership. I am not the strongest environmentalist in the world but I don't think that this is all that hard."

Mercedes’ first hybrid vehicle

2008-01-16T19:19:00.000-08:00

German automaker Mercedes Benz has finally decided to produce its own hybrid vehicle and it is said to come out by 2009. Though Mercedes Benz has produced cars that provide reduced emissions, this will be the German automaker’s first time to produce a hybrid vehicle. Its first hybrid vehicle will be a version of its M-Class sport utility vehicle which is assembled at the Alabama plant of Mercedes Benz in Vance.

The announcement of producing its first hybrid came during this week’s North American International Auto Show. The German automaker said that its ML450 Hybrid could actually be powered solely by electricity.

Mercedes Benz actually has an eco-friendly strategy and the ML450 Hybrid is one of its many plans that include many hybrids and an expansion of clean diesel technology.

The ML450 Hybrid will be outfitted with a V6 engine and two electric motors. And to ensure that it is equipped with one of the best hybrid technologies, teams of employees in Alabama have been traveling to Germany to be more knowledgeable about the hybrid design. Aside from that, the plant spokeswoman Felyicia Jerald said that the plant is currently in training mode for producing the hybrid.

However, Mercedes Benz has still not disclosed any information regarding how much the ML450 Hybrid will be prized and what effect it will have regarding the improved fuel economy for U.S drivers.

Alabama had actually been first known in the auto manufacturing industry when it made and rolled off its first Alabama-made sports utility vehicle which is the Mercedes Benz M-Class. Because of this, the R-Class crossover and the GL-Class full-sized spot utility vehicle have also started to be produced in the $1 billion-plus Vance plant. And now, it currently employs 4,000 people.

2011 will welcome 3 new hybrids from Honda

2008-01-15T16:28:00.000-08:00

Toyota’s Prius may have the limelight now as the leading hybrid vehicle in the world but another Japanese automaker, Honda Motor Corporation, wants to have the limelight as well. But more than that, Honda wants to add more hybrid vehicles into the market in the hopes to increase fuel efficiency of vehicles and decrease toxic exhaust emissions. With that, Honda is planning on launching three new hybrid vehicles in the next three years, until 2011. Two of these will be entirely new hybrid models from Honda while the third one will be an upgraded version of an existing hybrid model.

Honda officials are saying that the Japanese automaker is already on track to deliver a new dedicated hybrid model in 2009. However, this hybrid’s cost will be less than the price of the Civic hybrid, so it would costs only about $22,600. Perhaps because it is priced lower than the Civic hybrid, the Japanese automaker is expecting that it will be able to sell 200,000 units of this hybrid-only model worldwide in the first full year and 100,000 units are expected to be sold in the United States.

The next-generation Civic Hybrid is scheduled to be launched by 2011. meanwhile, those who will participate at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit will be able to take a peek on the Honda CR-Z, a hybrid sports car. However, the Japanese automaker is still not sure if this model will be available in the United States.

Honda President Takeo Fukui said, “Around 2011, all those three models are ready to go, so we’ll be achieving 400,000 to 500,000 global production of hybrids.”

Even though the pricing details of these Honda hybrid models have not been disclosed, Fukui assured that the new models will be much more affordable than the hybrid models being sold today.

Fukui also said, “These models we worked on the cost to reduce their costs because MSRP is very important to customers, so we think these vehicles will be very appealing.”

Honda should have been the leader of the hybrid technology as its Honda Insight, its first hybrid model, was actually launched in 1999, a year before the Toyota Prius. But Prius was able to surpass the Honda Insight and so became the globally-known pioneering hybrid vehicle. On the other hand, Honda has ceased production of its Honda Insight.

Perhaps it was because the Honda insight was not practical enough that it failed to generate high volume of sales unlike the Toyota Prius. However, Honda is already taking a new approach in its next generation of hybrid vehicles, so it has high hopes.

And we’ll see what will become of Honda’s new approach to hybrid technology once it has released the three hybrid models it is planning to by 2011.

Porsche Panamera Hybrid

2008-01-09T16:22:00.000-08:00

Porsche wants to expand its line of vehicles that are mostly sports car and one offering of sports utility vehicle. The automaker has now decided to produce a sedan, and not just any sedan as this four-door and front-engine vehicle will be having a hybrid drive system under its bonnet, the same hybrid drive found in the Cayenne Hybrid Prototype, which will go on sale by 2010. This hybrid drive system is what’s going to set the Porsche Panamera apart from its competition.

Like in the Porsche Cayenne Hybrid prototype, the Panamera will make use of an electric motor and an extra set of clutch and these will be fitted between the engine and transmission. Of course, like other hybrid vehicles, it will have its own battery pack as well and this will be situated below the trunk in a covered compartment. And as the Porsche Panamera Hybrid will be similar with the Cayenne Hybrid, it is likely that it will also have a narrow-angle, gasoline direct injected V6 for its gasoline engine. This should be able to provide the Panamera with strong power and impressive fuel economy.

As Porsche is known for fantastic speed nand impressive road performance, the automaker promises that buyers will also find that the Panamera will have that unique Porsche performance but without the deal of high fuel bills. Compared with the standard Panamera, its hybrid version will have 30 percent more fuel economy. And as this is built to have the full parallel hybrid drive system, the Porsche Panamera Hybrid can run solely on electric motor, gas engine, or a combination of the two.

Porsche’s reason for offering the Panamera in a hybrid version is for the four-door sedan to have an edge over its lower-end rivals, for which most feature a turbodiesel power. This will sure be the Panamera’s asset as it will provide its owners low cost for operation and a chance to be allowed for tax rebates. Besides, it will also be known as the sportiest hybrid vehicle, making the Porsche Panamera really tempting to have and exciting to drive.

Even though Porsche has already announced the coming of its hybrid version of the Panamera, those wanting to get their hands on one would wait for two years more, in 2010, before they can finally get the feel of this sportiest hybrid vehicle.

2009 Saturn Vue Green Line Two-Mode Hybrid

2008-01-08T16:12:00.000-08:00

General Motors now stands high and proud as it announced that its 2009 saturn Vue Green Line with Two-Mode Hybrid could be the world’s most fuel efficient V6 sports utility vehicle. Because of the two-mode hybrid system installed in the standard V6 Vue, the model was able to improve its fuel economy by as much as 50 percent.

This Green Line model combines its 3.6-liter V6 engine with variable valve timing and direct fuel injection. However, what’s great about it is that it doesn’t require premium fuel. what the two-mode hybrid system does to help increase fuel economy is to cut off fuel supply to the engine during idle and deceleration. And at the same time, it makes use of regenerative braking to charge the nickel-metal hydride batteries of the Green Line model. This stored electricity is what is used to power the twin, active-cooled 55-kW electric motors that are integrated into the vehicle’s automatic transmission. For low speeds and reverse, the electronic-only propulsion is used. Aside from these fuel-saving devices, the Vue Green Line also has energy efficient accessories which contribute to the model’s being a green vehicle.

The enhancements made on its chassis and suspension accommodate the altered weight distribution of the hybrid model and there’s an energy-flow graphic in the center console to illustrate power management. Standard equipment in the 2009 Vue Green Line Two-Mode Hybrid include a leather-covered steering wheel complete with audio control and six-speaker stereo. For additional features, choices for customers are navigation and power sunroof.

Saturn has built this hybrid SUV under an attractive design, proving the automotive industry that it has finished producing dull-looking vehicles. This also means that Saturn is finally living up to its new image of being a car maker with fine taste in vehicle design.

5th graders design future green cars

2008-01-05T16:45:00.000-08:00

Ford Motor Corporation decided to hold a unique event that will have the minds of 5^th graders of Brookside Elementary School working like pros. Ford held a competition and which participants are from elementary school and the automaker had them design environmentally friendly cars. It was amazing that although these kids look ignorant of hat the environmental issues are today, they actually have knowledge on what’s truly happening.

One participant, Andrew Friedman, said, "In 100 years, oil will be gone.” He is one of the designers of the car Electric, a vehicle which would run on solar power and electricity. “They won’t make you sick like the stuff that comes out of the back of the car,” his teammate, Luke Shkreli, added.

Another team had a different approach towards an environment friendly car with their ENVI. This concept vehicle is quite ambitious as it utilizes four power sources – wind, solar, hydrogen fuel cell, and electricity as back up power source. One of the designers, Swarnay Pujari, explained saying, "They all work together charging three batteries.” He said that the wind will come in from the front grill then hit a turbine that will in turn move a shaft that will make energy and go to a generator.

The competition held among the 5^th graders helped the students use and develop their creativity, research, and teamwork skills. And that’s exactly what their teacher, Charles S. Brooks, hoped to happen when he helped organize the competition.

The event was actually inspired by an article about Ian and Moray Callum, brother who drew and designed cars as children and eventually growing up to be car designers for automakers like Jaguar and Mazda. Brooks and two other colleagues presented the idea to Ford and designer director for cars, Moray Callum, liked the idea and so the event was created.

Callum said, "I wanted to be a car designer because I just wanted to draw cool cars. But these youngsters are a lot deeper.”

He also said, “The kids are at an age when they are very creative and not overburdened by engineering and business. Adults are often concerned primarily with economics, but kids have an honesty and freshness - they want to save the Earth."

Another Ford Designer, Jeff Nield, made a visit to the Westchester County School last October 2007 to brief the students about the automotive industry. He was amazed at how much interested the kids were. He said, “Their attention span was better than older age groups. They asked some pretty interesting questions such as what vehicles he was working on that were environmentally friendly and what Ford was doing to reduce dependence on oil.”

It’s truly amazing how kids can be so involved in the environmental issues when you take time to listen to their opinions and let them in on related activities such as this event.

Land Rover’s LRX Concept Car

2008-01-03T16:07:00.000-08:00

Land Rover wants to come clean, that is, Land Rover wants to be a part of the growing population of green cars. It has decided to come up with its own green car, the Land over LRX Concept vehicle. The automaker is claiming that the LRX shows its “seriousness about continued relevance and sustainability.”

Land Rover’s Managing Director, Phil Popham, said, “The LRX concept delivers the powerful message we are as serious about sustainability as we are confident about the continuing desirability of our vehicles.”

He added, “The LRX is in every respect a Land Rover, but it's a very different Land Rover. The LRX has unmistakable Land Rover design and the breadth of capability that you'd expect from our vehicles. But it carries those essentials into a segment where the brand has never been before, and with a proposed level of efficiency that would make it one of the cleanest vehicles in its class. It is Land Rover's way of affirming the brand's responsible approach to future product development."

Land Rover’s LRX concept car takes the fashionable design of cross-over coupe off-roaders. Its body structure is smaller than that of the Land Rover Freelander and has been based on a three-door bodyshell.

Of course, some of its styling features are still very much Land Rover-ish such as the clamshell hood and he “floating roof,” and blackout pillars. But since Land Rover intended it to be more environment-friendly than most of its vehicles, the LRX features a more compact size and lighter weight.

Its design may be moving away from the typical Land Rover look and leaning towards off-road crossover genres but the automaker is saying that it still has the rugged image of Land Rover.

The LRX concept car features a full-time four-wheel drive system and a Hill Descent control which is a special version of the Terrain Response System of the automaker. This way, the LRX has the ability to optimize traction on difficult surfaces which include gravel, snow wet grass, and icy roads. Its Terrain Response has a new eco mode to make it emit lower emissions.

It features a luxurious cabin and Apple enthusiasts would be happy to know that it has a dedicated dock in the center console for the new Apple iPhone. One can also determine which drivetrain mode is being used as of the moment as these are matched to a certain color. Green for economy, blue for standard mode, and red in sports mode. There’s a horizontally split, power-operate tailgate, and removable and power-adjustable speakers.

The automaker is saying that its LRX concept also adopts the intelligent power management systems and other technologies that are featured in the Land-e concept last 2006.

Prius celebrates 10th year in the industry

2007-12-27T17:42:00.000-08:00

The month of December is a festive month for Toyota Motor Corporation. Aside from being the holiday season, December serves as the tenth year for its famous and pioneering Toyota Prius hybrid vehicle. This hybrid model is the first of its kind and has started the trend for low-emitting and fuel efficient vehicles.

The Toyota Prius is known to be the pioneer of may automotive technologies specifically the Toyota Hybrid System (THS) powertrain, the reason for which it being so popular to many car enthusiasts. But more so than that, it has become popular because of its being easy to use, low cost of operation, environmental credentials, and its versatility. To date, it is the world’s cleanest family vehicle – its carbon dioxide emissions are just 104g/km and has a great fuel economy of 65.7 miles per gallon.

It was in the year 1997 that the first generation of Toyota Prius made its debut and it was in 2001 that it was globally introduced. Since then, there are already around 900,000 units of Toyota Prius sold and to which 81,000 of these units were sold in Europe alone. Then the Japanese automaker decided to launch an all-new Toyota Prius in 2004. The launch of this al-new Prius triggered the rise of sales so high that Toyota had to commission a new production center in Changchun, China, just so it could cope with the rising demand of its Toyota Prius.

But still, UK is one of the important auto markets for the Toyota Prius as over 16,000 first and second generation Prius have been sold here. Aside from its low emission offering, the Toyota Prius public reputation had been boosted by its exemption from the London congestion charge and lower parking permit charges in some of the local authority areas, naturally because of its low emissions. Its goodness doesn’t stop there – it was named the top-ranked individual model by J.D Power and Associates UK in 2007 because it ranked highest in the Customer Satisfaction Survey. This only means that Prius owners are among the happiest car owners in town.

All these naturally put the Toyota Prius as the world’s best-selling hybrid power vehicle. This model is also the standard bearer for Toyota’s commitment to produce cars that are environment-friendly. It s equipped with a revolutionary hybrid power system which combines the electric motor with the 1.5-liter petrol engine and the compact battery pack. All these auto components are reliable and strong and the model comes equipped with an eight-year warranty on all its hybrid components.

Hybrid Regulations next year

2007-12-21T19:17:00.000-08:00

There are talks of forming regulations for hybrid vehicles next year in India. The country has actually started preparing a committee which will be in charged of forming these hybrid vehicle regulations. This committee is comprised of top officials from Tata Motors, Mahindra, Bajaj, and Ashok Leyland and members from the Ministry of Surface Transport and from the Ministry of Heavy Industries.

The Director for Automotive Research Association in India, Mr. Shrikant Marathe, said, “There are a few manufacturers in India who are trying to introduce such vehicles. Some Indian manufacturers like Mahindras and Tatas are working in the area of hybrids. These type of vehicles will be good for our country. A panel is working to expedite the finalizing of standards for hybrid cars.”

But on the other hand, Mr. V.G. Gujrathi, also a member of the committee from Tat Motors, said that the framework will be finalized in the next one year. He added that the committee is considering adapting some of the global regulations on hybrid vehicles for the domestic market such as fuel efficiency and safety.

Another thing he added, “The regulations would mainly look at defining the mileage that would term a car as a hybrid. Safety is also an important aspect as batteries in the vehicles can be of high voltage and in case of accidents can lead to electrocution. Hence, electric wiring norms would be formed.”

As there are automakers importing their hybrid vehicles and technology in the country, they will likely benefit from the hybrid regulations India is preparing to introduce.

Another Hybrid Vehicle in China

2007-12-20T01:42:00.000-08:00

China has again said hello to another hybrid vehicle as Chang’an Automotive Group developed its own hybrid vehicle. The automotive group has just recently launched this in China and sales are slated to begin next year, in 2008.

Chang’an is a known partner of Suzuki and Ford. However, since there’s a government-sponsored advanced-technology research program, it has taken it upon itself to develop its own hybrid technology.

This is not the only automotive group which introduced self-developed hybrids in the recent months. Other automotive groups which also did the same thing include the Chinese automakers SAIC, Chery, and BYD. These automakers have announced that they will also bring their hybrid technology in 2008-2009. General Motors has also pledged to start selling a gas-electric version of the China market Buick LaCrosse during the summer of next year, just a little before the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games start.

It was only last week that Chang’an showcased its new hybrid version of the Jiexun, a crossover vehicle. The officials of the company are saying that its hybrid version is able to meet the emission standards set forth by the Euro IV. Because of this, the hybrid version of the Jiexun can decrease the fuel consumption by up to 20 percent. The engine in this model is a 1.5-liter four-cylinder and has an electric motor and together they can cover 36 miles per gallon.

Another good thing about the Jiexun HEV is that it costs only 20 percent higher than the gasoline-powered Jiexun. This is just around $20,000 or about just half the price of the Toyota Prius built in China.

Honda India now has a hybrid vehicle

2007-11-24T17:33:00.000-08:00

Honda Motor Company in India, the Honda Siel Car India, has decided to try and be one of the producers of hybrid vehicles as it has decided to try and manufacture a hybrid vehicle. Producing a hybrid vehicle will also serve as an achievement to Honda Siel as it will be the first hybrid vehicle to be launched in India.

The Honda Civic Hybrid will be released in India in the summer of 2008, the first ever hybrid vehicle in India. The Honda Civic Hybrid was first launched in 2003 but the one that will arrive in India is the 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid version.

The chassis and the overall body of the Honda Civic have not been changed too much but since it’s a hybrid version, then an electric motor has been incorporated into the internal combustion engine. This electric motor recharges everytime the car is being driven. The 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid makes use of two power sources which can be used interchangeably or depending on the situation and requirement. Because the car burns less fuel because of the use of electric motor, there result is more fuel mileage for the car. But of course, the hybrid version offers lesser power output than the petrol engine. If the petrol’s maximum power output is 130bhp, the hybrid’s is 110bhp.

However, perhaps the downside to this green Honda car is its price in India. As it will be imported to the country, the price may be high. But Honda is not much worried as the Japanese automaker isn’t really aiming to boost its sales. What it really wants is to extend its Civic Hybrid technology to India as well. “Our aim to launch the hybrid version is not to add a huge volume to our sales. The idea is to bring an environment friendly technology to India and since Honda sells the Civic Hybrid globally, we want to offer it our Indian consumers,” said Jnaneshwar Sen, the Senior General Manager for Marketing.

One senior official from Honda further said, “Even if Honda sells a few numbers of the hybrid model, it will create awareness, which will go a long way into creating a better environment for the future.”

But one problem rose as the automaker tried to bring the Hybrid Civic to India as there was no regulation to permit the model to be driven along Indian roads. So, Honda had to first work together with the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) to create the regulation.

Sen said, “There was no regulation for a hybrid car in India. We had to work with the ARAI for nearly two months to get them in place. Once ARAI clears the car, homologation will take about three months and we are planning that the car should be ready for a launch next summer.”

Ford Hybrid Vehicle Innovation

2007-11-17T17:31:00.000-08:00

The automaker Ford has always been one of the well-respected leaders in the automotive industry because of the durable and high-performance cars it provides its customers with. Being one of the leaders of innovation that it is, Ford has yet again decided to be among the leaders of the rising innovation that is the hybrid auto market.

However, as Ford is known more as a producer of sport utility vehicles that Americans love to drive rather than a producer for compact sedans and coupes, the automaker has decided to incorporate the hybrid technology into one of its sport utility vehicles. The end result is the Ford Escape Hybrid first released in 2004. Ford has successfully managed to fuse the SUV and hybrid technology together, creating an electric-powered compact sports utility vehicle. Ford’s customers warmly welcomed this hybrid SUV and loved it so well that production of this model had to be increased just to answer its growing demand.

However, Ford does not take the hybrid technology as its own pioneering innovation. So, Ford entered into legal agreements with Toyota to use the Japanese automaker’s patented hybrid technology in its Ford Escape Hybrid.

The Ford Escape Hybrid was redesigned in 2006 to have more advanced technology and so it has now become a full hybrid vehicle. It is now available in different options to match the different driving styles of car owners all the while offering impressive fuel efficiency, optimum performance, and better power conservation.

Aside from the Ford Escape Hybrid, Ford has also launched a Hybrid SUV in the form of the Mercury Mariner. Ford also has plans in the future in extending this hybrid technology to its sedans but as of the moment is focusing on producing Hybrid SUVs.

Plug-in Ford Escape Hybrid

2007-11-13T18:45:00.001-08:00

Plug-in hybrids are starting to emerge and Ford is not about to be left out with the new technology. It has also released its own plug-in with the Ford Escape hybrid. The automaker has announced its plan to develop a plug-in hybrid earlier this year as part of a test program with Southern California Edison. When it has finally came up with the first plug-in Ford Escape hybrids, the automaker turned to one famous star to help test its plug-in hybrid. This is none other than Jay Leno, The Tonight Show host known to have a soft spot for alternative powertrains. He was asked to sample one of the first Ford Escape hybrids produced.

Leno was given a brief introduction about the vehicle and how it operates and then the Ford engineers left them to enjoy and test the plug-in Ford Escape hybrid for the night.

The Executive Technical Leader, Mike Tamor, was one of the engineers who met Leno and introduced him the plug-in hybrid. He said of Leno, "Jay seemed pumped up about the electric technology and how durable and reliable it is. He said that the big challenge 100 years ago with the Baker Electric is the same challenge carmakers face today -- getting enough energy into the batteries to make the cars practical."

The Ford Escape Hybrid Plug-in is the first of the 20 vehicles to be produced by the collaboration between the automaker and Southern California Edison. These two companies announced just recently that they have plans on advancing the plug-in hybrid technology into commercialization. They said they will do this by developing both the technology and new business models which view electric vehicles as part of the larger energy vision.

Help STOP Air Pollution!

2007-11-10T18:43:00.000-08:00

Air pollution from transportation has yet again been pinpointed as the major culprit for the 440 premature annual deaths of people in Toronto.

The medical health officer in Toronto, David McKeown, said recently that he has a new study pinpointing air pollution as the major cause of premature deaths in the area. Traffic congestion has been one of Toronto’s major problems, being one of Canada’s urban cities.

Its Mayor, David Miller, has adopted the philosophy of “Think Globally, Act Locally” to address the challenges brought about by climate change.

The study made by the health officer states that it is possible to cut the premature death count by 200 just by cutting traffic in the metropolis by at least one-third. Besides that, the quality of air is even improved.

More of the cheap hybrid vehicles

2007-11-09T17:19:00.000-08:00

An advanced lithium-ion battery costing only a third of the price of the price of today’s lithium batteries is the end product that two companies want to produce in their joint venture development. These two companies are the leading British vehicle engineering company Ricardo and technology specialist QinetiQ and through their development project, they plan to come up with a less expensive lithium-ion battery that also weighs half as much as those available today. The two companies have a two-year collaboration and their real goal is to decrease the costs of manufacturing hybrid vehicles through cheaper lithium-ion batteries.

Juts last year, Ricardo was able to come up with the RED-LION project or REDuced-cost Li-Ion. The company presented a Citroen Berlingo diesel-hybrid prototype which tit co-developed with QinetiQ and PSA Peugeot Citroen. This project as decreasing the cost of technology and this is perhaps the reason why there aren’t many hybrid vehicles being offered today.

Both of the companies working on the development project have had several experiences. Ricardo in vehicle engineering and QinetiQ has worked on energy lithium-ion batteries that have been used in military applications. When this project is a success, Ricardo will be offering this technology to major car companies and manufacturers like PSA.

Texas’ first ever hybrid school bus

2007-11-08T17:19:00.000-08:00

Austin School Board Members Vincent Torres and Cheryl Bradley, together with the Superintendent Pat Forgione, have recently revealed the new plug-in hybrid school bus that the school district has recently bought. They were also joined by Austin City Council Member Lee Leffingwell and other local area officials. This district is the first are in Texas to purchase such kind of bus.

Superintendent Forgione said, “This is one more way the District is working in the community to help keep the environment clean and safe. This also sends an important message to our students, who we want to model good environmental behavior.”

One of the Trustees, Vincent Torres, said, “Our willingness to test this bus for a year says we are committed to improving the quality of Austin’s air, and it says we are committed to creating an environment that is safer and healthier for our students.”

The vice president and general manager of IC Corporation which is the nation’s largest producer of bus, Michael Cancelliere, said, IC Corporation’s hybrid school bus revolutionizes the school bus industry. Improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions helps school districts and the environment. IC Corporation is committed to environmental leadership and delivering value to our customers.”

Hazel Barbour, the program manager for Central Texas’ Clean School Bus Program, said, “Bringing this plug-in hybrid bus to Austin is a good example of how, when organizations like those listed here work in partnership, great things can be achieved. The Clean School Bus Program of Central Texas, which is itself a partnership program of Capital Area Council of Governments and the CLEAN AIR Force of Central Texas, was able to help AISD purchase the plug-in hybrid bus through a grant from the EPA Blue Skyways Collaborative.”

The Advanced Energy’s hybrid program manager, Ewan Pritchard, said, “When we initiated national efforts, Texas emerged as a key leader. Austin was a natural fit because of support from Austin Energy and the city’s dedication to reducing negative impacts on the environment.”

It was at the Gus Garcia Middle School in Northeast Austin Texas that the plug-in hybrid school bus was revealed. This is a 71-passenger school bus built by IC Corporation and is equipped with a MaxxForceâ„¢ engine. It also has a diesel engine aside from the electric motor installed in it which had been built by Enova. The diesel engine complies with the very latest federal emission standards.

The District was able to purchase the plug-in hybrid school bus with the help of the Clean School Bus Program of Central Texas which helped them get grants from several organizations including the Environmental Protection Agency, Austin Energy, and Advanced Energy.

The fuel economy of the bus is rated at 12 miles per gallon and it’s the first of its kind in Texas, and it is also one of the only 18 plug-in hybrid school bus in the United States.

Plans for a cheaper hybrid

2007-10-30T16:06:00.000-07:00

By 2009, hybrid vehicle lovers can expect to see a more affordable hybrid vehicle as Japanese automaker Honda Motor Corporation plans to release one. Honda said it plans to do so because there are now a lot of consumers who find the cost of the eco-friendly vehicles way out of their budgets. The time Japanese automakers released hybrid vehicles could not be more timely as the prices of oil back then were steadily increasing. But the expensive cost of owning a hybrid prevented consumers from getting their fair share of the eco-friendly vehicles.

Thus, during the Tokyo Motor show which recently concluded, Honda presented its CR-Z concept car which is a lightweight sports model but equipped with a hybrid engine. Takeo Fukui, the President of Japanese automaker Honda, said, “Honda plans to release a new hybrid vehicle by 2009 that is more affordable than the Civic Hybrid.”

He further said, “In addition to that model, e are continuing development so that we will be able to release to the market a vehicle based on the CR-Z concept.”

News reports have been saying that these low-priced hybrids will be released globally in 2009. And with this new model, Honda hopes to increase the global sales of hybrid vehicles to 10 times from last year’s sales, which will reach up to 500,000 cars come 2010.

Honda is said to be aiming for the cost of this low-priced hybrid to be $1,800 Cdn less than the traditional car. This reduced price will mean that a lot of consumers buying hybrid vehicles either drive frequently enough to feel that they have saved from petrol costs or they are ideologically motivated.

But Honda is still saying that as of the moment there is still no definite decisions made. “We have said in general terms that we're going to launch a hybrid at a lower price. But we haven't set specific goals such as a production target or sales plan.”

For Better Hybrid Efficiency

2007-10-27T16:04:00.000-07:00

A DC-DC Converter to be specifically used for automotive hybrid and electric vehicles is being developed by a group of British companies. The development of this DC-DC converter is being led by the motorsport specialist Prodrive and this converter aims to make hybrids more efficient, less expensive, and smaller than the ones that are commercially available today.

This development is partly funded by the Technology Strategy Board under its 5^th program which is about electrical/electronic control and power systems. This project is to bring together a number of experts regarding the matter from companies such as International Transformers, Sloan Electronics, Universities of Manxhester and Newcastle, Prodrive, HILTech Developments, and LDV.

It is already established that hybrids are being powered by petrol or diesel engines together with an electric motor. Hybrids are also known to make use of regenerative braking, meaning to get energy from braking to make up for the already used energy and use the captured energy from the brakes to power the electric motor later. This is what makes hybrid vehicles ideal for those who want their vehicles to emit less pollution an be more efficient. Dc-DC converters is therefore important as the hybrid vehicles without them have the tendency to compromise the energy storage device which is usually in the form of batteries or ultra capacitors and the electric motor. Take for instance the regenerative braking. When the vehicle slows down, the voltage that is generated by the motor decreases while the energy in the storage device increases. At some point, the motor will fail to supply the energy storage device with enough voltage, making recovering energy from raking for storage fail. This is the same with the stored energy to be used to propel the electric motors to move the vehicle forward.

So, what the DC-DC converter does is to balance the voltage between the energy storage device and the motor. It will increase or decrease the voltage, whatever is necessary for the situation. The result is that it reclaims more of the energy from braking and provide more under acceleration, allowing the hybrid vehicle be more efficient.

The electronic specialist at Prodrive, Pete James, said, “Our converter will be designed for use with 50 kW systems. This means it can provide an additional power boost of up to 67bhp, which allows a hybrid car to use a much smaller petrol engine without any loss in performance. The other exciting prospect is that such a system could be used instead of a turbo or supercharger on higher performance sports cars.”

This developmental project will necessitate that new technologies in the fields of thermal management and power electronics be developed as well. An essential feature of this system is health monitoring and prognostics, making the converter be able to predict the failure and shut down, or run in decreased ‘limp home’ mode. This feature is a requirement in the industry of automotives.

This project aims to produce a unit of efficiency of 96 percent, power/weight ratio of 4 kW/kg, and power/volume ratio of 6 kW/liter.

Toyota’s Plug-in Hybrid Prototype

2007-10-26T01:55:00.001-07:00

The first ever plug-in hybrid electric vehicle or PHEV to be released may be made by Toyota Motor Corporation. The Japanese automaker has recently announced their plans regarding its future hybrid and alternative fuels. Toyota has also not provided any official announcement but it said that it will not be waiting for the lithium-ion battery technology to mature for the plug-in hybrid development.

The Project General Manager of Toyota’s Hybrid Vehicle System Engineering Development Division, Yoshitaka Asakura, said, “Toyota has the knowledge and experience with nickel metal hydride. And we have to use the battery we know best, in terms of overall performance.”

The proven nickel-metal hydride (NiMh) battery packs will be the ones to be used in Toyota’s prototype and probably for its production of the plug-in hybrid applications. However, these will only be used until the lithium packs are ready. Toyota is already testing its first prototypes in its home country. However, later next month, the University of California Irvine and University of California Berkeley will be receiving their share of prototypes for evaluation.

Asakura said, “After reviewing our results, we expect to accelerate our plug-in hybrid vehicle development.”

The 2009 Toyota Prius will probably be a plug-in hybrid using NiMh battery system that’s the same with the ones equipped in the prototypes now. The prototype PHEVs are making use of two current generation Prius battery packs that are put together and adjusted so that it could deliver a greater ability to charge and discharge. These prototypes can run using only electric power for around 7 miles and these are recharged for three to four hours in a 110-volt outlet.

First Denver Green Car Show

2007-10-23T01:54:00.000-07:00

“Drive Green” was the welcome sign which greeted the visitors during the first ever Green Car Show in Denver at the Auraria Campus some two weeks ago. This Denver Green Car Show had been hosted by students as the president of the Student Government Assembly at the Metro State College of Denver, Jack Wylie, believes that this kind of event is fit for a college campus.

Wylie said, “Climate change is one of the greatest threats to society. Students have become the forefront of that.”

The event featured the new line of electric cars and advanced hybrid cars for all students, faculty members, and members of the community to see.

The demand for green cars is also starting to increase, as observed by the coordinator for the Campus Climate Challenge, Andrew Cepeda. He said, “Green cars have only begun to gain growth.” This is of no wonder as these revolutionary vehicles offer the zero carbon dioxide emissions for a better environment and a decrease in petroleum dependence which is undoubtedly a finite fuel source.

The co-owner of the Smart Wheels in Denver, Stu McPhail, had started offering green cars in May. He did this as Smart Wheels wanted to offer a vehicle with an alternative fuel and electric cars are proving themselves the car choice of people wanting alternative-fuel transportation today.

The owner of the World Peace Mart, Jeff Packman, attended the show and said that the Green Vehicle Show provides more information about the blossoming vehicle technology than the actual marketplace.

But it is unfortunate that most of the advanced hybrids are still not available on the automotive market. Students had been more amazed to these advanced hybrids as they hold more features and power than the electric cars.

The main theme of the first ever Denver Green Car Show is to show car enthusiasts future options for vehicles. And its goal is to create awareness for the technology or renewable energy.

Another Green Car from Saturn

2007-10-19T22:10:00.000-07:00

There’s another green car coming up from Saturn and this is the 2008 AURA Green Line Hybrid. Unlike the VUE which is a small sports utility vehicle, the AURA Green Line Hybrid is a mid-size sedan. Saturn is proud to say that this hybrid model features a bold design and an advanced technology in the hybrid sector.

Like the 2008 VUE Green Line Hybrid, this hybrid mid-size sedan from Saturn is also the lowest-priced mid-size hybrid on the automotive market. It’s price tag starts at $22,790. It also has a fuel economy of 32 miles per gallon in the highway like the VUE hybrid, but its city mileage is a number less than the VUE at 24 miles per gallon.

Saturn boats that the 2008 AURA Green Line Hybrid has a revolutionary hybrid powertrain technology. It also sports state-of-the-art safety features that aim to securely protect its passengers in the event of head-on or low speed collisions.

Saturn’s 2008 VUE Green Line Hybrid

2007-10-17T22:08:00.000-07:00

Saturn Corporation has also now ventured into the green technology in the automotive industry. As Saturn puts it, its VUE Green Line Hybrid “brings together progressive style and an intelligent, innovative hybrid powertrain, VUE Green Line Hybrid proves beauty and brains can coexist.” This is quite an impressive description, right?

Saturn proves its SUV’s intelligence by designing it to have a fuel mileage of up to 25 miles per gallon in the city and 32 miles per gallon on the highway, as estimated by EPA. Saturn claims that this fuel mileage is the “best highway fuel economy of any sports utility vehicle.”

With regards to beauty, the VUE Green Line Hybrid sports sleek exterior with a comprehensive aerodynamic. Its interior is as sleek as its exterior having a refined cabin and all.

The price is also within any vehicle buyer’s budget – it starts at just $24,795. This price makes it the lowest-priced hybrid SUV that’s available on the automotive market today.

VW models hybrid versions?

2007-09-26T00:19:00.001-07:00

Okay, there are “news” (maybe rumors even) that German automaker VW is thinking of producing hybrid versions on all its future VW models. Head of Volkswagen’s development team, Ulrich Hackenberg said that all models of Volkswagen will “fundamentally also be constructed with hybrid concepts.” Well, this would be something if ever this idea materializes. It would really be tricky and expensive (don’t you think?).

Also to add spice to this interesting news, VW is also considering producing some models which are all electrics in the future as well. In 2011, production for the Up! Concept is scheduled to happen. This model will definitely be presented as a hybrid vehicle with the possibility of an all-electric.

The BlueMotion environment-friendly diesel line is also being considered for expansion by Volkswagen to its whole line-up. But as of the moment, Volkswagen is turning its focus on production of a clean diesel Eos convertible and Tiguan SUV.

Source: Mobile Mag

Toyota Prius in Jessica Alba’s life

2007-09-20T01:34:00.000-07:00

Sexy Honey actress Jessica Alba has Good Luck Chuck as her upcoming movie, which opens on September 21, and in here she will be seen driving a Toyota Prius. It appears that Jessica has a soft spot for hybrid cars as she also drives a Toyota Prius in real life. She even said during her acceptance speech in the MTV Movie Awards to “drive a hybrid if you can.”

Can the sultry and sexy actress really convince a part of the male popularity to go and buy a hybrid vehicle to drive? If she can’t who can, right? Well, I’m still hoping that hybrid cars and a lot of alternate fuel sources that are environment-friendly will continue to be developed and emerge soon.

Weed will power vehicles?

2007-09-14T00:32:00.001-07:00

According to science.slashdot.com, a new wonder weed may fuel cars in the future, they wrote,

“Jatropha, n ugly, fast-growing and poisonous weed that has been used as a remedy for constipation, may someday power your car. The plant, resilient to pests and resistant to drought, produces seeds with up to 40 per cent oil content that when crushed can be burned in a diesel car while the residue can be processed into biomass for power plants. Although jatropha has been used for decades by farmers in Africa as a living fence because its smell and taste repel grazing animals, the New York Times reports that jatropha may replace biofuels like ethanol that require large amounts of water, fertilizer, and energy, making their environmental benefits limited. Jatropha requires no pesticides, little water other than rain and no fertilizer beyond the nutrient-rich seed cake left after oil is pressed from its nuts. Poor farmers living close to the equator are planting jatropha on millions of acres spurred on by big oil companies like British Petroleum that are investing in jatropha cultivation."

That is something isn’t? But will soon see. Hopefully, automakers will look at this and research on this “possible” alternate fuel.

Flextreme Diesel-Hybrid E-Flex Concept from Opel

2007-09-08T01:32:00.000-07:00

General Motors may have wanted to keep their make Opel’s Flextreme Diesel-Hybrid E-Flex Concept Car until the Frankfurt Motor, which just recently concluded, but internet proves itself faster than any other technology. Just before its debut to the Frankfurt Auto Show, Opel’s hybrid concept vehicle came out into the internet courtesy of the English kids at Carscoop.

Carscoop reports:

Chevrolet's electric powered Volt Concept has just discovered its European alter ego in the form of Opel's, Frankfurt Show E-Flex Concept. The two concepts share the same basic architecture underneath their differently styled bodies. The only variation is that, whereas the Volt was equipped with a turbocharged, 1.0lt, three-cylinder gasoline engine, the E-Flex takes advantage of Opel's 1.3lt turbo diesel engine. However, the basic principles remain the same as both models are powered by a front-mounted electric motor that runs on electric power until the Lithium-ion batteries are drained out.

Once the batteries are dead, the diesel engine kicks in to "feed" the onboard generator producing electricity while the car is operating. The electricity is then stored in the batteries. As with the Volt, the E-Flex's Lithium-ion batteries can be recharged by plugging into an electrical outlet. We'll have more on the E-Flex as soon as Opel releases all the details.

The Potential of Fuel Cell-Powered Vehicles

2007-08-31T17:02:00.000-07:00

Air pollution continues to grow as time passes and one cannot deny the very obvious fact that one major contributor is the smoke-emitting automotive vehicle. For this reason, experts are looking into the potential use of hydrogen as the fuel source of vehicles. A hydrogen economy might still be a far-fetched idea but we all hope that we are on our way. There are already developments being done on the matter of producing a hydrogen-powered car and a few automakers have already made a prototype hydrogen-powered vehicle.

Recently, members of the U.S Congress joined the leaders in the fuel cell industry and the public to participate in 2007 Congressional Fuel Cell Expo on Capitol Hill. During the vent, a fuel cell vehicle was put to a test drive. The driver commented after taking it for a spin saying, “It is a little heavier than the cars I am used to driving, but it is something that I could get used to. It’s smooth. It’s quiet.”

The fuel cell works similar to how batteries operate. This box-like device gets hydrogen that is stored in tanks located beneath the rear seats. After which, it combines it with oxygen from the air. This process will then produce electricity that will drive the vehicle. As the vehicle is just powered by hydrogen and oxygen, it will naturally just emit water vapor through its exhaust tail pipe. This is the exact reason why environmental enthusiasts (like myself) love this idea and we all hope for the mass-production of fuel cell vehicles in the years to come.

One example of this fuel cell-powered vehicle is General Motor’s Hydrogen3 Opel Zafira, a prototype vehicle, which is glimpse of what’s to come in the future. General Motor’s fuel cell engineer, Matthew Atwell, said, “There is no engine, no internal combustion engine whatsoever. We do use hydrogen as a fuel source, but we are not burning it.”

However, though fuel cell vehicles’ intention are only for the good of the environment, it will have to hold its horses before it is able to solve the auto pollution problems of today. This is because it is still a long shot before mass-production of this type of vehicle is realized. Deron Lovaas, the person who runs the Vehicles Campaign for the Natural Resources Defense Council (an environmental advocacy group) said, “One of the first barriers is designing cars and trucks so that they have adequate on-board storage ton power the fuel cells, and the cost of the fuel cells themselves.”

Well, that said, I do hope that solution will become available, though it may not be soon, but I live with the hope that there is a guarantee that things are being done now and that there is a continuous development on the matter of fuel cell vehicles.

Brake Pads that are Eco-Friendly

2007-08-22T03:18:00.000-07:00

Research from the Sustainable Technologies Initiative (STI) has revealed that brake pads can be made from renewable crops. These renewable crops are the natural fibers such as hemps. These can replace the costly aramid fiber used to make brake pads and its performance will still be the same. The plus point is that it has less impact on the environment.

Brake pads are actually one of the key elements in the pursuit to develop greener transport, as 80 millions are used in the UK every year. Brake pad manufacturers or before used asbestos to make their brake pads with. But on the year 1980, asbestos were phased out. Manufacturers then decided to use man-made aramid fibers. Not only that, but the makers also put in a considerable amount of heavy metal compounds. And when these brake pads wear out, around 20,000 tons of dust that contain these environment-damaging materials are discharged to the environment.

This is indeed an alarming situation and so some opt to research on probable alternatives to the aramid fibers and that’s when they found out about hemps. The hemps could be grown in the UK and it offered a more sustainable solution. The researches behind it demonstrated how renewable fibers could decrease dependency on synthetic materials and how these could permit the replacement of heavy metal constituents with safer alternatives. The expected result is to provide up-to-date solutions to the global transport industry and the supply base of friction material.

This is really an innovative research as this only means that there are concerned people creating steps toward a pollution-free environment. Also that some of the aspects of the automotive industry are contributing a lot into the preservation of the air in their environment through maximizing the means that they know of. This environment-friendly move could be rooted from the awareness that the environment is going straight to its end and the introduction of the catalytic converters to try and combat this evil. Soon, it was followed by hybrid vehicles, ultra low emission vehicles, alternative fuels, ethanol, fuel cell vehicles, and now eco-friendly brake pads.

Well, I do hope that there are more of these to come. If that’s the case, I wonder what will be the next big break.

The benefits of using ethanol fuel or ethanol-powered vehicles

2007-08-18T19:14:00.000-07:00

Ethanol vehicles are vehicles that are designed to operate on E85 (a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline) are called Flexible Fuel Vehicles (FFVs). FFVs are “flexible” because you can fill them up with E85, regular gasoline or a combination of the two.

The Benefits

Hassle -free driving. Ethanol vehicles, such as those made by Ford Motor Corp., automatically adjust to any mixture of E85 and gasoline. Onboard sensors and computers monitor the fuel mixture to optimize performance.

Easy to refuel. Ethanol has grown in popularity and there are already more than 700 refueling stations in North America.

Ethanol is renewable. Because ethanol is produced from crops, it is renewable and reduces the United States' dependence on imported oil.

Ethanol replaces gasoline. The use of 0 percent of ethanol (E10) in gasoline worlwide would cut gasoline consumption by over 10 billion gallons annually.

Source: Ford Motor Company

Who says Off-Roaders Can’t Have Hybrid Versions?

2007-08-11T01:37:00.000-07:00

To answer that question, no one actually. But the image of sports utility vehicles or off-roaders have always been one that trudge the impossible road trails with heavy exhaust coming out of their tail pipes. Thus, people may have assumed that since they have that image, they would not have Hybrid versions as it could lessen their off-road and sporty performance.

It is a good thing that Ford begs to differ in that issue and image. They released a hybrid version for their well-loved Ford Escape. It may be a surprising move as it will surely alter the image of their sports utility vehicle, but this is an image change that the automaker willingly embraces. Also, when you look at it in the bigger picture, aren’t sports utility vehicles supposed to be the first ones to be such environment-friendly cars as they are the ones always treading nature’s territory? In that case, it would be just right for them to take care of their constant road companion, to give respect to its clean-look beauty.

Ford Escape was the very first automaker to produce a sports utility vehicle hybrid. For that, they were awarded the “Truck of the Year Award” at the 2005 International Auto Show in Detroit.

Mercedes F700

2007-08-10T06:29:00.000-07:00

The upcoming Frankfurt auto Show will be seeing a new sedan concept car, the Mercedes F700. It will have the DiesOtto engine. This is the engine that produces 238 horsepower and 295 pound feet of torque from just 1.8 liters of displacement using a new technology called as homogeneous charge compression ignition, or HCCI. It operates in compression ignition mode under light loads and spark ignition at other times.

The fuel consumption of this new Mercedes F700 which uses DiesOtto is expected to be almost 40 miles per gallon, which is already a good number for such a large vehicle. This new model is one of the 18 vehicles that Mercedes is expected to present. They will also be presenting their Bluetec diesls and hybrids with both the diesel and gasoline engines. This is all according to a report by Autobloggreen.

2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid (Now, that’s what were talking about!)

2007-08-08T02:41:00.000-07:00

Toyota Camry has always been one of the favorites of Americans as it provides a safe, comfortable, reliable, attractive and altogether predictable drive for the whole family. This fact is proven as sales of the Camry reached430,000 – and that’s just in the United States and in 2005. How much more now that Toyota has released a Hybrid version for the well-loved family car? Its overall rating should have really gone up by now as it now has its good green ratings as well. With a lot of car enthusiasts now going green as soon as they saw the potential benefits of Hybrid vehicles, this move to make a Hybrid version for the Camry will surely not be wasted.

It had been a bold move on the part of Toyota when they decided to come up with the Prius and to distribute it worldwide, knowing that it would be the first time that hybrids will be introduced to the world. Sure, there were already hybrids before that but it was their bold move that created the awareness for hybrid vehicles. Soon, automakers started producing their hybrid versions in order to appeal to the emerging green car enthusiasts. Now, Toyota continues its commitment with their Toyota Camry Hybrid.

Camry Hybrid’s first half of the drivetrain is a 147 horsepower version of the standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine. The second half is a 150kW electric motor and a 244-volt battery pack that delivers a power output of 45hp. The battery pack has 34 nickel metal hydride modules with each containing six 1.2-volt cells. When you run it through a continuously variable transmission, it would add up to 192 hp, which is more than the standard Camry’s 158hp. It’s also a second faster than the Toyota Prius in speed of acceleration – 0-60 miles in about 8.9 seconds.

The redesigned Camry for 2007 is muc sleeker and has a two-inch longer wheelbase (as it has a bit of the Lexus styling), fancier instrument panel, and other features like a tilting-telescoping steering wheel.

The price that Toyota put in their Camry Hybrid is $25,900. They also plan to sell 60,000 units of this hybrid vehicle, which is 15% of all Camry sales.

Environmentally Cars, and Luxury cars at that

2007-08-04T01:14:00.000-07:00

The “Green Cars” aren’t that really pronounced in showrooms if there is where you look for your luxury green cars. But that doesn’t mean that they don’t exist. With the lot of emerging hybrid cars right now and vehicles with engines that could use alternate fuel other than petrol and diesel, they will soon unveil themselves in famous auto shows.

These are the top 10 Eco-friendly cars of our time:

Lexus RX400h – which has been given a rating of SULEV, Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle, with a hybrid gasoline and electric drive system
Mini Cooper Convertible – which has been given am estimate fuel consumption of 26miles per gallon in the city and 35 mpg in the highway
Cadillac Escalade Hybrid – which will be unveiled in 2009
Mercedes Benz E320 Bluetec – which could surprise you as it could go up a hill with no visible exhaust
Toyota’s GS450h sedan – which have been recognized by J.D. Power and Associates as 2007 Automotive Environmental Index Top Model
Tesla Roadster – the only car 100% powered by a battery

All of these models promise to bring forth a great fuel economy and help preserve the environment.

The Greenbox

2007-07-27T11:27:00.000-07:00

Three fishing buddies from Wales, who coincidentally are also organic chemists and engineers, were able to produce an automotive emission control device. Automakers and engineers have spent billions of dollars just for the research of fuel emission problems that these three fishing buddies were able to accomplish without spending too much dough (or so I think).

They called this emission control the “Greenbox.” This is a real simple automotive device that was simply instructed to neutralize harmful emissions when attached to a vehicle. This invention was said to be the possible solution automakers have all been looking for. Inventors of this “innovative” device may have stumbled into a way to capture most of the harmful greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles, which would also convert these gases into reusable biofuel which could be used again by vehicles as gas.

Its basic process is o trap these environment and people-offensive gases before these work they way out of the exhaust tailpipe. When it is full, it would be removed and be replaced with a new Greenbox. It will then be sent to a bioreactor, full of carbon dioxide in its inert state, to be fed into algae and transformed into biodiesel. The diesel it produced could then be again pumped into vehicles’ gas tanks. The tests they’ve had in undergone revealed that it has 85-95% working efficiency.

This invention is so amazing that it caught up some of the automakers’ attention. The three inventors are now in talks with Toyota and General Motor and that’s a good sign that if it all goes well, we’ll be seeing this Greenbox mass-produced soon enough.

Figures show Hybrids save oil

2007-07-26T15:06:00.000-07:00

Hybrid vehicles have already saved 5.5 million barrels or 230 million gallons of gasoline. That is since their introduction to the US auto market in 1999, according to the Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

The recorded figure for the number of barrels of oil that US imports on a daily basis are 8.5 million barrels a day, just to fuel or power trucks, SUVs, and light vehicles. The number of barrels of oil that Hybrids were able to save may not have a great impact on the US oil consumption but Hybrid’s oil savings continue to grow. In the long run, the economy and people will be able to see the good effect of Hybrid’s oil savings.

Oil is a finite source and after another century, the generation of that time may not have enough oil to keep them going. With hybrids making less fuel consumption and a lot of automakers venturing into the production of their own electrically-motored vehicles and other fuel-saving vehicles, trillions of oil would be saved by the time a whole new generation arises. With that, they’d still be able to see a ton of fuel for their consumption.

Greenest Car in US – the Honda Civic GX

2007-07-25T17:15:00.000-07:00

According to 2007 Green Book, which ranks vehicles according to their environmental friendliness, the Honda Civic that’s powered by natural gas is the greenest car in America.

American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy is the one which published the Green Book, The Environmental Guide to Cars and Trucks, which customers use if they want to look for green cars and trucks to buy.

This book is helping customers compare vehicles on the basis of which is greener, or which has a higher green score. This green score is a measure that incorporates fuel consumption and air pollution, and also includes unhealthy tailpipe emissions and the emissions of gases that slowly contribute to global warming.

Research Assistant of the Council James Kliesch said, “Whether you are looking to buy a compact car, large car, pickup, minivan, or SUV, the Green Book takes the guesswork out of identifying which models are friendlier to the environment.”

The Council annually names the “greenest” and “meanest” cars, and also measures some factors to determine the environmental or green scores of the models. This is already the Council’s tenth year of publishing the rankings of the cars.

Honda Civic GX got the top spot this year, the Toyota Prius and Honda Civic Hybrid claimed the first two spots, Nissan Altima Hybrid and Toyota Yaris complete the top five of the greenest cars for the year.

Other conventional and hybrid models of Honda’s, Hyundai, Kia, and Toyota, are also included in the list.

Toyota to test plug-in Prius

2007-07-21T02:43:00.000-07:00

Toyota, the first-ever automaker to release a hybrid vehicle worldwide, should have released their third generation Prius when the fall of 2008 comes but due to problems in the lithium ion batteries, they decided to delay the release for another six months.

There are rumors spreading around the automotive industry that Toyota has yet again had a change of plans saying that their plans of a possibility of using li-on batteries were scrapped. But yet again, word has it that the automaker is asking permission to be able to test a plug-in Prius prototype in Japan which supposedly has li-on batteries, making that kind of test the first in the country.

Porsche Fuses High Performance and Low Fuel Consumption in 911 GT2

2007-07-19T18:49:00.000-07:00

The new Porsche 911 GT2 is the realization that high performance could still be coupled with a low fuel consumption. It expresses the power and performance potential of the fastest-ever 911 at a standstill. This latest edition of the GT2 maintains its reputation by its striking design and large air intakes at the front and rear wings.

This is exclusively available with rear-wheel drive and a manual six-speed transmission. With this, it could accelerate from 0-62 miles per hour in just as little as 3.7 seconds and its top speed reaches 204 miles per hour. This is combined with an average fuel consumption of just 22.6 miles per gallon or 12.5 liters per 100km in the new European Driving Cycle (NEDC), thus offering a level of fuel economy that seems quite impossible to achieve a few years ago.

This newly-released Porsche has a power unit based on the six-cylinder ‘boxer’ engine of the 911 Turbo, with its air being supplied by two exhaust gas turbochargers featuring variable turbine geometry(VTG). It has a 3.6 liter power unit that could achieve a maximum output of 530bhp (390kW) at 6,500rpm. It has a maximum torque of 680NM (501lb-ft) that is maintained consistently between 2,200 and 4,500rpm. It has an unladen weight of 1,440kg (3,175lb) and so this 911 GT2 could offer a power-to-weight ratio of just 2.7kg/6.00lb per horsepower.

Porsche 911 GT2 also offers new advancements in emission management and control. This is the first-born Porsche that is homologated for the road to feature a rear silencer and a tailpipe made of titanium as standard equipment. This is the material that decreases weight by approximately 50 percent unlike the component made of stainless steel to just 9kg.

Another feature that’s added in this 911 GT2 as a standard is the electronically controlled Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM). It rolls on a 19-inch alloy wheels, running at the front on 235/35 ZR 19 tires and at the rear on 325/35 ZR 19 tires.

This costs about £131,070, including a Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), a sophisticated vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5 standard, and a Porsche Driving Experience course.

It will have its presence at the International Auto Show in Frankfurt Germany in September and it will arrive in Porsche Centers in UK and Ireland in November 2007.

Hybrids, Making Their Way to Hollywood

2007-07-18T03:07:00.000-07:00

This just in this week – Hollywood lets us in on a buzz that Transformers is wiling to do a sequel but only if a Hybrid car would be involved. If that would happen, then it would really do so much good in the promotion of Hybrid vehicles, and basically all vehicles that are environmentally friendly.

Hollywood stars such as Cameron Diaz has already spoken for the promotion of hybrid cars saying that she herself owns one. From then on, awareness of the very first hybrid car to reach global market, the Toyota Prius, has increased and people started buying their own hybrid beauties. Whether this is to show that they really care for the environment of just to ride on with the latest trend does not really matter, for as long as they own a hybrid, the bottom line is they help preserve clean air.

The only missing puzzle to complete the picture for the promotion of hybrid vehicles is perhaps its debut on the silver screens. I only hope that this project would be pursued so that hybrid vehicles finally get the awareness it deserves.

VW Continues to Research Alternative Fuel Sources

2007-07-12T21:46:00.001-07:00

Volkswagen has decided to take action into developing cars that are ecologically sound. The company has been continuously working on a fuel strategy since the year 2000. They did this in order to overcome the challenge of oil, which is already becoming less available each year, being the most important resource in the current fuel production chain. Volkswagen is not only cooking up alternative fuel sources but they are also into designing new vehicle concepts that will make use of diverse energy sources.

Already a lot of automobile companies are into researching more ways into which the result would be the less use of oil and more of something else. The fuel power cars today is a gas that is derived from petroleum, which is a limited fossil fuel that majorly pollutes the air. Volkswagen's long-term project includes improving traditional energy sources based on petroleum and creating a fuel strategy which focuses on different raw materials and not on fuel, this was according to Volkswagen's Fuel and Powertrain Strategy. There are a lot of raw materials that could be utilized in the future in existing cars and which could be distributed at various gas stations and some of these are natural gas and straw.

In order to avoid the use of petroleum and thus lessening the air pollution, Volkswagen advocates the wide-spread use of carbon dioxide-neutral energy sources specifically biomass. This is a biological material that can be used together with oil and natural gas in the production of liquid fuels. The Federal Republic of Germany has also been reported as having created a fuel strategy involving the use of biomass. It is said that by 2010, biofuels would have consisted at least 5.75 percent of the fuel market.

The fuel strategy penned by Volkswagen would create more advantages than declining the use of petroleum. The improved fuels will surely boost the technologies there are in engines such as the direct-injection petrol engine and its counterpart, the direct-injection diesel engine.

There are a lot of materials that can be derived from biomass, and one them is the synthetic fuel of “SunFuel” for short. This is a non-conventional low-sulfur fuel that can be deduced from plants, waste products, and other raw materials. This kind of fuel enables carbon dioxide cycle to be closed completely, which is a real environmentally less damaging.

This is just one of the many ways that Volkswagen is taking social responsibility in helping preserve and protect the environment. This is just the beginning and more will definitely come later on, on their research of the SunFuel.

Volkswagen For Green Driving

2007-07-11T18:58:00.001-07:00

The German automaker is continuing on with what others started or simply be one of those who contribute for a greener future. What I'm talking about here is the genius behind the Beetle, Volkswagen. The company is now placing full efforts on the reduction of toxic emissions and fuel consumption in its models as well as opening up the recyclability process. Also, they now plans on introducing their own hybrid vehicle in 2008.

Volkswagen has already let car enthusiasts see and feel the performance they could put into in car that is also fuel efficient in their VW polo BlueMotion, the most fuel-efficient five-seater in the world. Also, their Golf and Touran models sport a universally fuel-efficient fleet of TDI engines, highly efficient and unique TSI (twin charger) engines. They have successful natural gas vehicles (EcoFuel) under their belt and a lot more range of models that fulfill the dreams of the automotive industry.

Now, their main priority is to offer large numbers of TDI and TSI engines at economical prices as they've seen these engines to be more effective. Also, they opt to realize immediate benefits with regard to oil consumption and emissions by doing so. But that won't stop Volkswagen from further researching and developing all the potential engine types and will introduce them as soon as these are rightly developed and is technically feasible. One engine that they are currently developing is the hybrid powertrain systems. This is the one Volkswagen presented through the form of a volkswagen Touran prototype with its significantly efficient combination of a gasoline engine gotten from the TSI engine, electric drive and dual clutch transmission (DSG).

GM Europe Opts For Greener Vehicles

2007-07-10T23:16:00.000-07:00

The European division of General Motors announced that they will make their vehicles more environmentally-inclined by putting in cleaner engines in their conventional cars, offer more cars that are capable of using the alternative fuel ethanol and make use of the fuel cell technology.

GM Europe has named this program ecoFLEX, saying that this program will offer an ecoFLEX variant with lower emissions in each model line. They will begin this program when they start producing their 2008 Corsa 1.3 CDTI compacts from its European Opel brand.

They plan to make the car emit only 119 grams per kilogram of carbon dioxide, which is already below the proposed EU average standard of 130 grams per kilogram. GM's main objective is to produce vehicles with the same standard for performance but still costs the same as the conventional vehicles.

Their Swedish brand Saab also decided to produce green cars by expanding their range of biofuel engines. Cadillac, one of GM's luxurious brand, will also contribute to GM's ecoFLEX program by offering a model with an E85 biofuel engine by fall of 2007. E85 is a blend of motor fuel composed of 85 percent ethanol, an alcohol which could be obtained from plants.

Vice Chairman of General Motors Bob Lutz said the program offers ways to cut down on CO2 emissions quickly. "E85 has a very strong potential to significantly reduce CO2 from passenger cars in the near term. What is required is a pan-European policy to make the necessary fuels widely available and reflect the lower CO2 emissions in vehicle taxation," he said.

The officials of General Motors said they would approach the environmental concerns through using and maximizing several technologies instead of just focusing on one. They said they were already ahead regarding the development of vehicles that run on hydrogen fuel cells, while the other technologies could just improve the environmental performance of the conventional internal combustion engines.

An example of this kind of engine was the Eco-Turbo engines which use smaller cylinder displacements but still able to produce equivalent power and efficiency with the use of turbocharging. GM plans on developing 16 new GM Europe engine families and 10 new transmission families by 2012.

Global Green for a Greener Revenue

2007-07-06T17:12:00.000-07:00

A lot of automakers have been contributing their share of electronically-motored cars, or the Hybrid vehicles. Whatever their real intention is, we have yet to know. As for now, we stick to the reason that they are for the preservation of the clean air.

That may have been the real reason but a recent news shows that going green brings in a lot of greens. This is not just in revenues as it also increases the company's reputation. People are being more and more aware of the need to protect the environment. Thus, they are promoting whatever idea and technology are being discovered for the preservation of the environment.

Companies, automakers included, would not have any loss on their profits anytime now or in the future. Green Business is fast spreading now and companies are fast on catching up this good disease. They know how great of a business and reputation they'd get from going green but more than that, they know that the preservation of the environment is much more their concern.

Green Cab, Anyone?

2007-07-04T19:14:00.001-07:00

Green Cabs, a real good thing if you ask me. There are already a lot of car owners preferring hybrids over the regular fuel or diesel powered gas but it really wouldn't help us a lot of there are still quite a number of cabs running on pure gasoline.

It's a great thing, again, that geniuses are born from time to time. Car services are now offering hybrid vehicles for rent. These car services are the Ozo Car in New York City and PlanetTran in San Francisco.

Nice move for a pollution-less world, guys!

Ferrari Goes Green

2007-07-03T16:35:00.000-07:00

Finally, one of our favorite sports car brand decided to go green! They had just recently unveiled their FXX Millechili concept car during their 60^th Anniversary celebration in Maranello, Italy. This they did as proff of their promise that their future Ferraris would be “leaner and greener.”

The FXX Millechili looks much like an Enzo, but truncated as it has a much shorter front and rear overhangs. However, the Millechili is much shorter than the Enzo93.7 inches while Enzo is at 104.3 inches. But despite the concept of a leaner and greener car, Ferrari hasn't disclosed on what kind of engine the Millechili will have for its environmental approach. However, they did say that it could accommodate a V8 or V12 engine.

But let's not keep our hopes up. The start of its production was never mentioned and so we could still not be sure if they will indeed go through with this concept. Let's just keep our fingers crossed that they won't go back on their word. Besides, the model that Ferrari had shown was just made of cardboard and plastic. Pretty deceiving right?

In Your Face!

2007-06-28T17:52:00.000-07:00

Many may not have heard of this but this is a fact – automobile pollution can be much more dangerous than similar amounts of pollution from larges sources such as power plants since car emissions are literally in your face!

Asides from the car and truck emissions that contribute to unhealthy air pollution, there is the problem of oil spills that will sooner or later poison the water supplies, damage to habitats, and in the long run, global climate disruption and global warming.

So, when thinking of buying a car, be sure to always considerate its fuel economy mileage and remember, the car emissions – IN YOUR FACE!

Solar Powered Vehicles

2007-06-27T17:22:00.000-07:00

On the journey to producing environment friendly cars, Hybrids and alternative fuel were born. Along with them, came the idea that since there are already solar-powered things existing, why not power a vehicle from the sun's heat? So, some car engineers and enthusiasts came up with a prototype vehicle that's solar-powered.

Although this is a good thing, I can't help but wonder if this would receive a warm welcome from many car enthusiasts. Although I'm all for the preservation of the environment, this idea of a solar-powered vehicle doesn't arouse much interest in me. The prototype I've seen of the solar-powered vehicle isn't much of a sight to see as it has a wide grid for a top that would receive the solar rays to power up the electric motors. This vehicle would only be of use only on months when the sun is high, during the summer season.

I do not degrade this idea as this is an amazing concept to be thought of by minds that are clearly for nature's preservation. But I do not just see this fit to be put on cars where the overall look and design of the car could be sacrificed because of the grid-like top that receives the solar rays. This could be ideal for boats and ships but for a car, it would only result to wider cars just so it could suck up enough power for the car's engine.

Although I believe this concept would still be developed in the coming years and perhaps one day, people could come up with one with a perfect design.

A Showcase of Green Cars

2007-06-26T20:34:00.000-07:00

Goodwood had a display of vehicles that were under the green car category just a few days ago. According to the post from Autoblog, the author said that it was called the FoS-TECH. The green vehicles that it presented in the auto show was the best show cars from the last few years. Their amazing line up of green cars included the Nissan Pivo, Quark, Saab Aero X, Peugeot's 908RC, Tesla Roadster, Citroen C-Airplay, BMW Hydrogen 7, H2O, Toyota FT-HS, and Mazda's Hakaze.

The Air Car – One Future Car

2007-06-21T19:19:00.000-07:00

Here's another really good news! I saw from Discovery Channel's Future Cars the ultimate zero-emission car (and I mean ZERO) and it runs on just air. The company who ventured into the research and basically everything there is in producing a car that runs on air is Moteur Developpement International(MDI). After fourteen years of extensive research, Guy Negre was able to develop an engine that could run on just compressed air alone. (He is a hero to the environment, I tell you).

This automotive technology advancement project hits not just two but four birds at one time if it should be developed further and mass-produced. First, we won't be worrying about running out of fuel in the future, as there are studies now that show that the fuel reserve of the world is already lessening (pretty soon, we may not have a single fuel to power our vehicles). Second, because it runs on air, it doesn't have to go through the process of internal combustion, thus never will it emit any harmful gas. Third, it doesn't cost a thing, as air is free, we won't have to pay, if not a single cent but at a real low price to power up our cars. And fourth, it will cost us way less than a Hybrid vehicle for us to be able to contribute to the preservation of th environment. Believe it or not, as of now, it just costs $15,000.

So how does this “perfect” engine work? It works by compressing the air first and after it has been compressed enough, it will release it and that will move the engine's piston. It uses a simple electromagnetic distribution system which controls the flow of air into the engine. That way, smooth running of the car is ensured and the energy efficiency is optimized. There is a storage for air reserve, an exchanger of heat, pitons, and a tailpipe. Pretty simple, right? But don't judge its simplicity as it could actually run like any other cars – 68 miles per hour with a driving range of 125 miles.

With this, I see a hope for the future of the environment. It may have been a far-fetched idea before but engineers today have proved those who though it impossible wrong. As in Ripley's Believe It or Not? Believe It. Let's brace ourselves as we may later find ourselves driving The Air Car.

Fuel Cell Vehicle

2007-06-19T22:38:00.000-07:00

Fuel Cell Vehicles(FCV) is a rising technology in the automotive industry and along the line of Hybrid cars. But these are not Hybrid vehicles, these cars are only the same with them in the sense that they both goal for lesser harmful emissions and fuel economy. It will also reduce vehicle's dependence on foreign oil.

The Fuel Cell Vehicles represent a revolutionary departure from vehicles with the traditional internal combustion engines. Like the battery-electric vehicles, this Fuel cell vehicles will also be powered by electric motors. However, fuel cell vehicles will create their own energy and use it, unlike battery electric vehicles which use electricity from an external source. These fuel cells on the vehicle produces electricity through a chemical process using hydrogen fuel and oxygen from air.

But these fuel cell vehicles could be powered by pure hydrogen gas stored on-board high-pressure tanks. Other fuel sources for FCVs are those rich in hydrogen like methanol, natural gas, or even gasoline. However, these fuels must initially be transformed into hydrogen gas though an on-board device called the “reformer.”

These FCVs with pure hydrogen shall emit no pollutants, only heat and water, and the use of the hydrogen-rich fuels emit only little amount of air pollutants. A plus point in using FCVs is that it could be twice as efficient compared with similarly sized conventional vehicles. These could also be incorporated with advanced technologies that help in increasing efficiency.

Greener Motor Sport

2007-06-18T22:37:00.000-07:00

Swedish car Volvo initiated in the use of Bioethanol fuel when it was first allowed in the Swedish Touring Car Championship, as part of their environmental commitment. As all have been aware of by now, this Bioethanol fuel gives an overall saving in fossil CO2 tailpipe emissions of up to 80% as opposed to petrol gas.

It was a successful launch as Volvo came out victorious in the first two rounds of the said event. Volvo also sees this event as a great opportunity for them to lead and be involved in the development of Greener Motor Sport.

As part of their environmental commitment, Volvo has teamed up with researchers, manufacturers and agencies in developing sustainable mobility solutions. To further strengthen their commitment, they have incorporated their cars with an interior air quality system to keep the car cabins fresh and clean, and have used flexi-fuel ethanol-buming engines for the reduction of oil consumption and CO2 emissions.

Volvo has been more than proud of their initiation for a greener motor sport and their contribution in the preservation of the environment.

Another Good Thing, The 2007 Honda Civic Hybrid

2007-06-15T20:03:00.001-07:00

Hybrids have been born in every automaker house since Toyota initiated in the production of Hybrid cars with their Prius. Almost all automakers have made their contribution of Hybrid cars incorporated with their own unique trademarks. Honda was among those who followed in Toyota's steps with their Honda Insight, the first among their coming Hybrid cars.

Now, they have released yet another one of their Hybrid beauties, the 2007 Honda Civic Hybrid. This new Honda Civic Hybrid earned the Advanced Technology Partial Zero-Emission Vehicle rating with the technical innovations they had put into it.

It has an Integrated Motor Assist(IMA) System which includes a super-efficient 1.3L gasoline engine coupled with lightweight but high-powered electric motor that will add extra power when needed. Another great spec that this beauty has is the uncannily smooth continuous variable transmission(CVT), which got the best of both the efficiency of automatic and manual transmissions. Another plus factor is that it has an idle-stop feature that automatically stops the Hybrid's gasoline engine when drivers stop to save on gas and preserve the air.

Drivers would be happy to know that certain states give a warranty of eight to ten years or 80,000 – 150,000 miles for a greater gas mileage. And of course, the interior and exterior style can be uniquely identified with a Honda Civic and the amenities, features, and accessories that are usually available in Civic are present in their Hybrid version too.

Hydrogen Cars

2007-06-14T18:00:00.000-07:00

Hydrogen-fueled cars are the solution they say for alternative fuels in order to help preserve the environment. It made its way into the minds of those in Melbourne University, who promoted for its research in the 1970's because of the oil crisis happening at that time.

Hydrogen-powered cars will surely give us a fresher air to breathe as it has a cleaner operation. It is pure hydrogen, combining with oxygen to produce water, and so it burns clearly. It is very promising as it eliminates hydrocarbon emissions. The benefits of this concept when it is made to become reality is that it depletes no resources, does not danger the atmosphere, lessens harmful emissions, and can be made from a variety of renewable resources.

BMW had already produced a Hydrogen car and their first was the BMW 750hL. This is powered by sunlight and water and was demonstrated seven years ago at the Expo 2000, after almost three decades od careful research on the subject.

I hope that there will still be a lot more ways that automakers could come up to in order to preserve the atmosphere and nature, so that we could truly look forward into a brighter and fresher future.

Throttle Body Spacers for Quality Airflow

2007-06-13T20:39:00.000-07:00

It isn't just the catalytic converters in our cars that do the work of lessening the car's harmful emission. Though this is already a standard device that certain states require cars to install, after thousands of mileage and many combustion processes, the catalytic converter may totally break down and fail to do its job.

Thus, the employment of a Throttle Body Spacer is needed. What this device does is to improve the quality of airflow, letting a more condensed air to enter the combustion chamber, thus allowing more oxygen laden. It will lead to a more efficient burn, and release more energy from fuel. An additional benefit that this brings is the increase of horsepower.

With the more efficient burn this throttle body spacers help make comes more release of oxygen and the oxygen sensor will make the proper adjustment for the air-to-fuel ratio. And the help it gives to catalytic converters is even more appealing for the environment-conscious people. A more condensed and quality airflow would mean cleaner burn for the catalytic converter to convert to less harmful emissions. This will then help preserve the healthy function of catalytic converters, giving them more longer running life to operate.

This would be ideal for those who don't own a Hybrid vehicle and only use a catalytic converter to contribute in the preserving of our green environment. And it would only cost lesser amount of money compared to buying a Hybrid vehicle(if savings don't permit it).

There are so many ways that people could contribute to have a healthier environment even when using a vehicle that farts out fuel emissions, and I hope to share with you these things.

Mild Hybrid Vehicles

2007-06-06T18:28:00.000-07:00

Hybrid electronic vehicles(HEVs) use two or more distinct power or fuel sources like a rechargeable energy storage system and a fueled power source for vehicle propulsion. The most common type of Hybrid technology used in vehicles is a petroleum-electric hybrid. This type of hybrid usually uses internal combustion engines and electric batteries to power electric motors. Thus, providing more fuel economy and efficiency than the traditional vehicle. This is also because of the fact that the engine is smaller and may be run at different speeds.

Cars of this generation which have hybrid engine installed in them prolong the charge on their batteries by acquiring kinetic energy through regenerative braking(this is recovering or reducing waste energy). HEVS usually shut down the engine when it is only in idle mode, and just restarts it again when necessary. This is to reduce the idling emission which is just as bad as the emission while engine is running. Full hybrids(vehicles running on just the engine, just the batteries, or a combination of both) use the combustion engine to generate electricity by spinning an electrical generator to recharge the battery or directly feed the power to the electric motor that drives the vehicle. But even though these vehicles run on electric motors and batteries, almost all of them still need the use of gasoline, diesel, or ethanol, for fuel source.

The trend that automakers say they will use in the future in producing their Hybrids is to just use regenerative braking t reduce waste energy, instead of the conventional electric motors. This technique or process could be used to recapture the energy and store to power electrical accessories, as mentioned above. And some folks called it mild hybrid technology.

Mazda Follows Suit with a Hybrid SUV

2007-06-05T17:28:00.000-07:00

The Mazda Tribute was revamped in 2005 along with its sister, the Ford Escape. Along with the revamped version of the Tribute came the news that Mazda will soon produce a Hybrid version of everyone's favorite Mazda SUV.

This news and people's speculation of a Tribute Hybrid became a reality and Mazda happily presented its contribution in environmental action during the Auto Show in Detroit at the dawn of 2007. This Hybrid SUV from Mazda sports a horsepower of 94hp, burning gas that could reach up to 25 miles per hour, even with its electric motor for a Hybrid.

The standard drive this Hybrid has is an electronically controlled CVT with front wheel drive. But drivers wanting to feel more power in driving could opt for having the electronic four wheel drive setup. Drivers' anticipation for this Hybrid UV will soon be satisfied as sales will soon start, midway through the year.

Another Tip for Green Driving

2007-06-04T22:47:00.001-07:00

Did you know that the weather and the time of the day that you refuel your precious wheels can also improve fuel efficiency? Bet you've heard of it but haven't really considered it seriously(I know I didn't!). But it's true.

During a warm weather, be sure to practice refueling early in the morning or late in the evening. It will reduce the amount of evaporative emissions being pushed out of the tank during the intense heat of the day, when the smog easily forms. And of course, on Ozone Days, let's try not to refuel at all.

Idling Emission

2007-05-31T19:07:00.000-07:00

Leaving the engine running while on a stop isn't exactly a good thing. Aside from the obvious fact that our gas still runs and is wasted, our cars still fart out harmful emissions. These idling emissions are just as harmful as when the car's driven down the road.

Remember, the engine combustion continues to work because the engine is turned on. It is still emitting the harmful gases which cause major pollution to the environment.

It really wouldn't hurt to turn off the engine while on a busy street or stuck in traffic. It actually costs less pollution to stop the engine and just start it again when you need to have a go already than leaving it turned on while waiting for the light to turn green.

If the reason is just that you need to feel cool under a somewhat sunny day, the solution is easy – rolling down the window and letting the cool breeze is much more refreshing. And there are other devices available in the market if you're looking for some engine-block heating, direct-fired burners, thermal storage devices for heating and cooling and auxiliary power units for heating, cooling and electrical power.

Idling emission is bad. Period.

Diesel Emission, So Harmful

2007-05-30T17:43:00.000-07:00

What you see here is an example of diesel exhaust emission.

It isn't just fuel emission that's harmful to the human body. Any kind of emission as long as it was the result of the engine's combustion process is as harmful as air pollutants. Therefore, we cannot ignore the fact that diesel engines also emit diesel exhaust which is likely as polluted with harmful particles that can harm the human body.

If I may say so, it is even harmful than fuel emissions because diesel exhaust contains substantial level of small particles, commonly known as fine particulate matter. These particles are so fine that thousands of them could be contained in a single dot. The very reason why I say diesel emission is harmful than fuels. Imagine these fine particles easily inhaled by our nose and nesting on our lungs.

Little they may be but they could actually cause lung damage and premature death. Asthmatic people and those who have bronchitis suffer a lot more upon inhaling these particles as these can aggravate their lung problems more.

It becomes even a serious health matter that should be discussed as the government is considering it to be a human carcinogen. Carcinogen, people, is JUST one of the agents directly involved in the promotion of cancer(I'm trying to keep my cool while writing this down but I can't help be sarcastic).

And then we ask ourselves why we suddenly suffer from cancer, where as simple as a diesel emission could actually provide for us a way to acquire this deadly illness. And the list goes on. Diesel exhaust could also contribute to acute and chronic health effects.

That is why I plea for the use of alternative fuel and catalytic converters. Help me spread the word. Let us save humanity and the environment for the coming generation.

Summer Go! But, Stop!

2007-05-29T17:02:00.000-07:00

You might be wondering why the hell would I want to stop summer? I actually don't mean stop the summer season as I love this coming season so much(besides being impossible to stop it!). This is just a reminder not to overdo it with putting gas on our gas tanks when we go on that much-awaited summer trip of the whole family. There are always gas stations every few miles on the freeways so we can all have just a quick stop when we need to refill in our gas tanks.

We save ourselves extra dollars on gas that is just spilled out from our gas tanks(which are actually being fed back into the gas station). This is because in order to prevent the gas into just vaporing into the air, the gas nozzles suck back the gas vapors. We thought we maximized our dollars when we filled it up to the lid, but now we know better. And we even saved our dear Earth from another bitter air pollution.

And then there's another fact that after we pay for the spilled gas(oops!), we also inhale the gas vapors which is a real harmful element for our human body. That would be double the ow! The gasoline vapors add to our having a bad ozone days and benzene, one toxic air pollutants, also comes out of it.

As I've mentioned before, gas stations suck back the gas vapor before it spreads in the air. This is done with the gas station's vapor recovery system. However, if we still try to fill in our car's tanks after the nozzle already clicks to indicate that our tanks our full, the vapor recovery system may fail. And then we are left with gas vapor to inhale and pollute the environment with.

So before rushing into the beach or wherever you feel like spending your summer to, be careful not to spill the gas, okay?

Understanding Things 101: Burning Gasoline

2007-05-23T21:45:00.001-07:00

To understand more why there is a need to use alternative fuel like E85 ethanol fuel, let's first venture into the reason why gasoline doesn't burn cleanly. Gas is made from pure carbon and hydrogen, and is a liquid substance. It also includes carbon chains of different lengths. When gasoline is burned as a vapor using hot flame and a lot of oxygen, the combustion products are pure carbon dioxide and water. But since the gas comes from an automobile exhaust, it should contain more than water and carbon dioxide. After the gasoline is burned in an automobile, the car exhaust emits environment pollutants such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and unburned hydrocarbons. And sometimes, sulfur is emitted brought about by sulfur oxides.

To remedy this, the catalytic converter was invented as an option for reducing the harm these fuel emissions cause, and sometimes, drivers just use alternative fuels like the E85 Ethanol.

Nitrous Oxide Effects

2007-05-22T21:49:00.001-07:00

Let us do some backtracking to the time I posted my catcon blog. There I mentioned that catcons turn carbon monoxide emission from cars into carbon dioxide, which is really helpful for the plants. Another thing besides carbon monoxides that the car's engine emits are nitrous oxides. Nitrous oxides are contributing to smog and acid rain, and cause irritation to human mucus membranes.

The use of nitrous oxides in vehicles is actually significant and really helpful. Racers use it to increase their car's power. This is injected into the car's intake manifold. The gas itself is not flammable so what the nitrous oxides does is to deliver more oxygen than what the atmosphere does, and it breaks down at elevated temperature. This allows the engine to burn more fuel and air and the end result is a more powerful combustion.

However, though helpful they may be, it also can produce enough power to damage or at the worst destroy the car's engine. And abuse of this greenhouse gas has harmful irreversible effects including peripheral neuropathies and limb spasms. When this is inhaled by humans, it can cause analgesia, euphoria, dizziness, flanging of sound, and slight hallucinations, as it is a dissociative drug.

Its effect to our Mother Earth is greatly damaging as it is a greenhouse gas contributing to Global Warming. Global Warming alters the earth's overall climate. And because of that, the result is La Niña or El Niño.

I would seriously recommend that its usage be stopped but I know a lot of drivers who use this for more power would disagree. That's why I just call upon its minimal usage. The result is for everyone after all.

Numero Dos

2007-05-21T16:39:00.000-07:00

10 years after the debut of Toyota Prius in Japan, the very first Hybrid car to be released worldwide in 2001, Toyota has now released their second Hybrid.

They had just recently unveiled their widely-known Lexus model equipped with a Hybrid engine that runs on less gas and partly on electricity on a 5.0L V-8 engine with a full time all wheel drive.

They've already had Lexus Hybrids before but only with a 3.3 – 3.5L V-6 engines. With the release of another Luxury Hybrid Lexus, Toyota Motor Corporation hopes to make the Hybrid system smaller and lighter so that it could go into smaller cars.

Lexus has enjoyed a massive success of sales in the US even without the Hybrid engine, and now that it has gone more powerful, it will surely continue to reign over other luxury cars in the US. People nowadays have taken consideration to the environment, realizing that to move on to the future, there is a great need to conserve the environment. And Lexus enthusiasts could now contribute too, to the betterment of the environment. Not that they haven't before, though.

The Good Cars

2007-05-17T01:15:00.000-07:00

Of course, as I badly lashed out to these mean cars and actually named names, I'd have to recognize those who made it a point to follow the emission standard set upon by the government. You guessed it right, the list of Top 12 Greenest Vehicles of 2007 is yet again from GreenerCars.com.

Honda Civic GX is leading the race with Toyota Prius right on its tail. Honda deserves a pat on the back for overpowering the Prius, don't you think? After all, it was the Prius who pioneered the Hyrbrid cars. But does it really mater? They both are in for the good of the environment, and for that I love 'em both.

The Mean Cars

2007-05-15T22:40:00.000-07:00

You should hear me say that, I sound like an eight-year old being deprived of his favorite toy car, “Meanie!” I'm really proud to admit this, that as much as I love cars, I love the environment more. You can't blame me for wanting to live in a safer and cleaner place and for wishing that my grandchildren and great grandchildren could still be able to inhale a nice clean air. Scratch that saying “A man's best friend is his car,” I'd still go for dogs anytime specially if my car's polluting the air big time.

That is why it saddens me so much to report about the mean cars, with mean portraying to the abuse to the environment. I stumbled upon this website as I was searching for car friendly tips that I could practice in my everyday driving, GreenerCars.com, and they had a list of the Top 12 Meanest Cars. And they had Volkswagen Touareg topping their list, with Mercedez Benz GL320 CDI following closely behind.

It was a really good thing Mercedez Benz has already compensated with that “abuse” with their Mercedez Vision C220 BLUETEC. When is Volkswagen following their lead? And for that matter, when are the other car companies belonging in this least going to decide to follow?

Not Just Another Hybrid

2007-05-14T18:54:00.000-07:00

Europe has its own set of emission standards when it comes to fuel emission levels from vehicles, and they have been very strict for its compliance.

Mercedez Benz was among the pioneer companies which immediately followed the Euro 6 emission standard with their newly-released vehicle, Mercedez Vision C220 BLUETEC, their first four-cylinder BLUETEC model. What's uniquely good about this car is that it has not one, but three catalytic converters, working together to lessen the danger of the vehicle's fuel emission. Though this car utilizes fuel-efficient diesel engine, with its three “catcons,” it reduces the amount of emissions a diesel engine usually emits.

It also boast of 170 horsepower, 400 Nm maximum torque, and a 6-speed manual transmission. Yes, all these power but still within the emission standard limit. How cool is that?

This Is A Plea... For Environmental Shopping!

2007-05-10T23:08:00.000-07:00

Environmental Shopping: This is a little surprising, even for an environment addict like myself (obviously because I'm not really into shopping!). LoL! But this is nonetheless a really fairly good suggestion. Hey, I'm all for the beauty of our environment.

What this really suggests is that recycling is a good thing. If your old thing can still be fixed and used, then by all means, fix it and use it. Don't buy a new one(although manufacturers will totally disagree with me on this one! Haha!). We mustn't be too materialistic as this only gives us more wastes to throw in our environment.

What we could actually do with the things that we don't already need is to give it to charity. That way, we hit two birds with one stone – helping people in need and saving the environment from a possible waste. And continue to do what we traditionally do – have a fantastic garage sale!

But going back to the topic at hand, environmental shopping could really save our environment from the pollution that our wastes bring to them. As with car shopping, just be sure to buy a car that suit both your lifestyle and EPA's regulation on fuel emission. Once again, this would be a double jackpot – we'd get to help preserve clean air and we get to pay less on our road tax.

Remember, let's all hit two birds with one stone – Environmental Shopping it is, then!

Let Cars Breathe With a Nice Air Filter

2007-05-09T17:04:00.000-07:00

We cannot promote fuel efficiency without making sure that we have the best air filter fit for our car. I've often taken advantage of air filters, not minding them too much. So it came as a surprise that my car was suddenly running rough and not a really being cooperative with the clean air.

I made a stop to a mechanic and that's when I learned about the importance of the role air filters hold. I was aware, yes, what part they play in my car but didn't really give too much attention to it. Big mistake. I found out that there was a really big mesh forming around it that caused it to somehow get a little torn apart. That little hole in my car's air filter made it possible for dust and dirt particles to enter and pollute the insides of my car.

Of course, what result could it cause but for a really terrible fuel combustion and thus, a dangerous air-polluting gas comes out of my car's tailpipe. I was really disappointed with myself at that time considering I promote and rally for a cleaner air, yet I contribute terribly to its pollution.

It was from that point on that I started a monthly check-up on my car so that I could prevent any possible damage both on my car and in the environment any part of the car may bring.

I felt that I let down both my car and the environment with my negligence. I let my car breathe in with such a clogged and messed up filter, and I let the environment take the remnants and residues that my car's awful fuel combustion gives out.

For this, I am terribly sorry.

Man! I Feel Good! I Knew That I Would!

2007-05-07T18:51:00.000-07:00

It is just so refreshing to see, read, and hear the good news about the result of the drive for less fuel emissions that we all somehow contributed to in our own little way. The catalytic converters, Hybrid cars, other fuel efficient vehicles, cleaner burning fuels, green driving – these all contributed to the decreasing air pollution that we now savor and enjoy.

U.S Environment Protection Agency has reported a considerable decrease of harmful emissions from automotive vehicles since the policy-makers decided to put extra attention for a cleaner air. EPA has also projected vehicle emissions like nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxides, and organic compounds to continue decreasing by 50% total by the year 2010. Not a bad number, if I may say so.

With the lot of factors contributing to the danger of air pollution, this is a good sign that there is still hope for us to experience a cleaner air come the future. We all can thank EPA for their continuous attention to environment and air pollution and their promotion, policies, and regulations for a cleaner air.

Given the damage that the environment and air had in the 70s, it was hard to say at that time whether we'll still be experiencing fresh air. But with all these solutions that we all provide and the many more to come, clean air could still be within our grasp.

I FEEL GOOD! I KNEW THAT I WOULD! =)

Green Driving for the Environment

2007-05-05T01:09:00.000-07:00

The trend may now be the Hybrid cars if you want to show your appreciation for our dear Mother Earth. But we may not all be able to afraid those green-friendly and innovative cars and so we must settle with what we have and do the most green-friendly driving that we could think of and muster up. There are actually a lot of number of ways to help contribute for a greener and safer nature. Being a real tree-hugger, joining rallies to call for extra attention and care for our environment, and doing weekly visits to websites promoting a greener nature(like EPA's website and also blogging in this site), I've grown accustomed to doing every possible way I could think of and putting into actions what I've learned for the sake of saving our environment so that it may still stand as the future comes. Recycling things so that I'd have lesser garbage(and a lighter load of garbage to take down for that matter), separating them into biodegradable and non-biodegradable, burying some of my garbage so that they'll in time turn into fertilizers for the soil – these are just some of the things i continually practice in my life, hoping that in my own little way, I could contribute to Earth's survival.

On my journey towards a safer surrounding, I've come to incorporate friendly driving techniques so that even while driving with that awful fuel emission farting its way out of my car(and because I don't own a Hybrid,obviously), I could still be able to lessen my emission. For the purpose of my dear blog, I'd like to share it with my readers(if there are! LoL!) the driving techniques I use.

Well, first I'd have to admit that these aren't really techniques, just some thought up ideas. Okay, here goes.

I always make sure that I drive within the speed limit. I just thought that by doing this, my car would emit less smoke, and thus, less pollution. Also, as I've written here before, I bring my car to a car wash service for its weekly washing to conserve more water and less sewage water poison. I don't always use my air conditioning when not necessary, plus, rolling down the window and breathing in the fresh air makes me feel one with the nature(weird feeling, right?). I run my car smooth – I don't just suddenly increase or decrease my acceleration. Before I run out and do my errands, I make sure that I have a list of everything I need so that I wouldn't need to drive down the road again in case I forget something important. I make sure that at least once in two months, I take my car to its mechanical doctor and have its engine checked. That way, problems that may soon trouble me could be prevented. After all, prevention is better than cure right? So I think that applies to all things under the sun(LoL!).

Well, that's just about everything I'm doing for the “Green Driving.” I really do hope it's working, though. Until next time then.

Going For the Hybrid Technology

2007-05-04T01:03:00.000-07:00

The Hybrid Technology is brushing in on us with the debut of Toyota Prius in 1997 in Japan and its 2001 worldwide premiere. Honda had also tried their luck in manufacturing Hybrid vehicles, electrically-motored engine with an on-board rechargeable energy storage system. To date, Honda has come out with three models of Hybrid Version vehicles, that would help lessen fuel emission in the environment.

The first model they produced came out in 1999, two years after Toyota Prius' introduction, and it was known as the Honda Insight. Honda Insight is a two-seater hybrid automobile first to be mass-produced and sold in the United States. Us Environment Protection Agency regarded it as the most fuel efficient vehicle to be sold in the United States with its 5-speed manual transmission. It also earned an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle rating from the California Air Resources Board. With the new technology for engines that the Insight introduced to the US, it was only proper that it won the International Engine of the Year award in 2000, a year after its manufacturing. It was also nominated for the North American car of the Year award in 2001.

However, production of Honda Insight ceased on September 2006. Unfortunately, during the six years that Honda produced it, not more than 14,000 units had been sold. This may probably be the reason they suddenly ceased production of Insights. Anyway, they reasoned out that they will come up with a much better Hybrid vehicle which will me smaller than the eight generation Civic, and that the Insight was merely a world test for the Hybrid technology.

And then true to their word, Honda produced a Hybrid version for their Honda Civic Sedan, Honda Civic Hybrid which they started selling in 2003. For this Hybrid model, they added a continuously variable transmission and an Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system similar with the Insight for a fuel efficient Civic Sedan. Two generation came out under this model – the first in 2003-2005 and the second was in 2006-2007. and, like the Insight, it also won the International Engine of the Year award. The only difference was that it won three years straight, from 2002 to 2004. It also bagged the Best Fuel Economy for 2003 and 2004. And along with the Civic series, it won Motor Trend 2006 Car of the Year award.

Then came the Hybrid for the elite, the Honda Accord Hybrid. The manufacturer put more effort in making this have top performance and so it was immediately tagged as the hybrid for high-end buyers. They also incorporated here Honda's Variable Cylinder Management, a technology wherein 3 out of 6 cylinders could be shut off under certain circumstances for better fuel economy. This kind of engine was derived from Honda's 2005 Odyssey minivan. And like the other preceding Honda Hybrids, it also received a spectacular award for its performance, Canadian Car of the Year Best New Alternative Power award for 2005.

It is a good thing that Honda put forth an extra mile and went on to follow Toyota's footsteps in the world's drive for a cleaner and safer environment. I hope that this will soon be followed by other automakers out there. This will really help out a lot, you know.

A salute to the genius or geniuses out there behind this magnificent environment-saving concept for engines! And hail to those who believed in the concept and put it to good use.

"Catcon"

2007-04-25T23:02:00.000-07:00

Since we're all in for the “betterment of the greenery” or our environment, we can't neglect this one other thing that could save us from not having to buy a hybrid, catalytic converters. This is already being required by some of the States as part of the exhaust system to reduce tailpipe emissions.

This would indeed be one helpful and useful component not just for cars but for trees and plants as well. As all may be aware of right now, trees breathe in carbon dioxide and releases oxygen, as carefully explained to us in our photosynthesis class. Catcon transforms carbon monoxide emission from cars into carbon dioxide before the cars breathe it out in its tailpipe. With this process, it would now become helpful in two ways.

First, after turning the carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide, plants could now start their photosynthesis by breathing in the carbon dioxide. After which, it will release the oxygen. Second, we could now breathe in a 'hopefully' fresher oxygen as it was released by the plants.
Catcons serve their purpose well for the continuity of humankind. In the bigger picture, we would be able to see that as long as there are lesser emissions, both plants and the people could live a longer life, and perhaps because of this, we could live to be a hundred.

A small gesture of initiating what other States require could really go a long, long way. It is obviously not required for nothing.

But of course, we should still practice caution when dealing with catcons. For cars equipped with catcons, it is strongly required to burn only unleaded gasoline. If lead is present, catcons become useless and result to catalyst poisoning. With this, the end result could be lead emissions which is way more harmful for the environment. This should always be remembered with a knot in your finger.

Ethanol Fuel Against Air Pollution

2007-04-25T02:11:00.000-07:00

Finally, another worthwhile contribution from the automotive industry after the debut of Toyota Prius in the attempt for low emission vehicle, which by the way, is a real success. Enter the new breed of fuel to make all cars emit less carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, not just the Toyota Prius. It is now possible for all car owners to contribute more(not just taking your cars to car wash services instead of washing them yourselves) to the preservation of the natural resources.

Ethanol Fuel, or the E85 formula that automotive geniuses have thought of producing contains 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline. Ethanol is made from purely renewable crops that come from farm such as corns. This does not only produce less air pollution but also lengthens and maximizes Earth's quantity of oil, which of course will run out in time.

In many more aspects rather than just conserving Earth's natural resources does Ethanol help. With the call for production of ethanol fuel to supply the demanding market, agricultural farms employed thousands of farmers just for the role of producing ethanol fuel from their renewable crops. In another aspect, it also lessened the need for imported foreign oil as a country's farm could simply produce the ethanol themselves provided they have the right tools and equipment. Economically wise, as ethanol provided more jobs and lesser imports for a country like the US.

Although it seems to be the perfect fuel for both cars and the environment, car owners may find it less rewarding in terms of mileage as it burns 5 mpg less than gasoline in the city and 10 mpg less when in the highways. With this, a negative reaction may arise and some drivers may be discouraged to use this environmental fuel.

Most flex fuel cars can be filled up with ethanol but it would still be best to consult a mechanic or car specialist to know what's best for your car. A good point that this fuel brings is that it keeps fuel systems cleaner, thus, lowering maintenance costs for a long time.

In terms of performance, there is really no big difference that lies between old gasoline and ethanol fuel. They score equal in engine smoothness and sound.

It all goes down to the discretion of a car owner whether to help in the conservation of the environment or not. In any case, ethanol still should be given consideration as it wouldn't really cause us harm, it's our environment that's at stake. And there, is where our decisions are taken against us. Do we want to help or we simply don't care?

Washing for the Betterment of the Greenery

2007-04-23T23:46:00.001-07:00

The easiest way to make an “environment-friendly” example would be to take your car to your nearest car wash service for its weekly(or daily if you want) bath. This may come off as a mythbuster for some but a way-too-old info to others, but still this would be a nice thing to know for environment-conscious peeps. We actually “destroy” our friendly nature when we save on our dollars and do the car wash ourselves.

Major fact is that we don't possess any know-how on car washing fit for the good of our environment. The littlest particles of dirt coming out of the car goes straight to the drainage where all wastes should go right? But of course it doesn't stop there. It will continue on until it reaches the rivers, seas and ocean. “All drains go straight into the ocean, kid,” isn't this what our fish friend Gil in Finding Nemo told Nemo? That's exactly the reason he's so keen into getting flushed out of the toilet.

So now, dear gentlemen, that's where our car's dirts go into. That's where those waters with God-knows-what are poured into. Imagine a whole tank of water brimming with oil leaks, gas, exhaust fumes residues, and other God-knows-what-again “things” that these waters take along with them on their journey to the open-seas. Our swimming friends take all the consequences of these unmindful actions that we do on a weekly basis. Multiply that by the number of guys washing their car/s on weekends, you do the math. Thousand and thousands of gallons of chemical wastes are often unwillingly swallowed by the oceans.

Another thing to consider is the conservation of water. Car was services use specialized hoses to be used on the car's bath. These hoses are made for the minimal use of water so that there are no excess water used. Admit it, we like to play around while washing our beloved SUVs, Chevys and other motor vehicles. Not conserving water today will really cost us much in the future.
It is a really good thing that both the U.S and Canadian government had the good mind of taking up this environmental issue to their federal law and came up with a law requiring all car wash owners to treat their waste water through sewer system before letting it out into the drains. It may not fully comb through the waters to take out every tangle the wastes make but at least major waste pollutions are removed. Knowing this, we can be completely sure that our waters, seas, lakes, rivers, and fish friends are protected from whatever damage these chemical wastes may cause them.

It would be impossible to overhaul these bodies of water once we too-lately-realize that we're already drowning from these unforgivable and God-forsaken wastes. It definitely helps a lot to start treating it now before any major damage has broken loose. And we, car owners, could help a lot by not saving on our dollars and taking our cars to car wash services. Imagine that!

numero uno

2007-04-19T18:57:00.000-07:00

She made a splash during her 1997 Japanese debut, then made a killing in her 2001 worldwide premiere.

Touted as the world’s first commercially produced and marketed hybrid car, the Toyota Prius has emerged a bestselling car model following the “green” revolution that came after environmentally conscious consumers demanded for it.

Almost half a milion Toyota Prius units have been sold in Japan, North America and Europe since it first came out in 1997. The 2000-2003 models have been classified as a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV), which is 90% cleaner than most vehicles, by the California Air Resources Board. From the 2004 version, it has been reclassified as an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV). Many people bought the Prius (”first” in Latin) because of its advanced technology, low particulate emissions and high fuel efficiency.

Like most hybrid vehicles, the Toyota Prius relies on gasoline as its fuel source. Its 1NZ-FXE engine has won numerous International Engine of the Year awards since 2000. The engine drives the electric motor and recharges the batteries. Its onboard computer decides on the most efficient way of its engine and/or electric motor, depending on the driving conditions present.

The Prius also uses its electric motor to recharge its batteries when braking; the heat energy is conserved and reduces wear on the brakes.

The Toyota Prius has become a popular car, because of its numerous tax breaks and perks afforded to its owners. Later on, actors hoping to make an “environmental” statement would be seen driving one.

Green car technology

2007-04-18T18:24:00.000-07:00

With today’s environmentally conscious consumers going green over so many things, many car manufacturers have turned into “green” car production, hoping to get a headstart over the competition and carving out a niche in the business.

One such car model is what manufacturers have termed “hybrid”. Hybrid cars, as the name suggests, is a combination of old and new technology, bringing forth cars running on internal combustion engines and electric motors.

Hybrid vehicles, tests and applications have shown, offer more gas mileage and fuel economy compared to other vehicles. Honda’s hybrid, Insight, in fact, tops the list with its 68 miles per gallon. Also, hybrid vehicles have smaller engines and can be run on higher speeds, bringing more efficiency.

“Fully charged” hybrids use their internal combustion engines to generate electricity, either to recharge their batteries or to directly feed and drive their electric motor.

Most hybrids run on either gasoline or diesel as their fuel source, but there are others that rely on fuel cells, hydrogen or biofuels like E85.

The technology has expanded to other applications, so there are now hybrid locomotives or trains, light and heavy trucks, buses and even taxis. There are even hybrid mopeds and other two-wheeled vehicles.

Advantages of hybrid technology include lower petroleum consumption (via reduction or recapturing of wasted energy), greater fuel economy, reduced noise and air pollution and reduced wear and tear of parts, specifically on the engine and brakes.

The federal and various state governments has implemented various schemes to promote this technology, like tax credits/deductions, exemption on smog tests, free parking, lower registration costs and others.

Things are on the bright side for this technology, as worldwide there is a movement for anything green.