Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Nissan announces e-NV200 all-electric van, production slated for 2013]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/24/nissan-e-nv200-all-electric-van/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/24/nissan-e-nv200-all-electric-van/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/24/nissan-e-nv200-all-electric-van/#comments Nissan announces e-NV200 all-electric van, production slated for 2013

So, Chrysler's electric postal van never really took off -- perhaps a few too many mailmen refused to give up those roomy Grumman LLVs -- but now Nissan is giving the electric van concept a go. Yesterday the company announced the e-NV200 compact van (previously teased as a concept), which will go into production in 2013. The van will be Nissan's second all-electric vehicle, following the 2010 Leaf. The e-NV200's design is quite similar to that of the NV200 van, but it swaps taxi-cab yellow for the Leaf's shade of robin's egg blue. Nissan says it's putting $126 million into producing the new model, but so far it's keeping mum on other details. Head past the break for the full press release

Continue reading Nissan announces e-NV200 all-electric van, production slated for 2013

Nissan announces e-NV200 all-electric van, production slated for 2013 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 24 May 2012 22:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carcarschryslerchrysler evChryslerEve-nv200electric automobileelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricAutomobileElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesEVevsgreen transportationGreenTransportationnissannissan e-nv200Nissan Leafnissan leaf electricNissan LEAF EVnissan nv200Nissan NV200 ConceptNissanE-nv200NissanLeafNissanLeafElectricNissanLeafEvNissanNv200NissanNv200ConceptVanVansThu, 24 May 2012 22:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan adopts 15 EV chargers, is first on nappy duty (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/20/nissan-free-ev-chargers/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/20/nissan-free-ev-chargers/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/20/nissan-free-ev-chargers/#comments Image

Nissan's concerned that Leaf owners aren't getting around enough. So, until IBM's super-batteries arrive or Exxon starts installing charging points in its gas stations, the car maker's got to do it itself. In partnership with charity Adopt-A-Charger, it's paying for 15 charging points in California, three at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and twelve at the Music Concourse in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park. Customers will have totally free access, with Nissan pledging to pay for the upkeep and electricity that the public uses. After the break we've got a video whose narrator probably makes Chris Hansen jealous of his voice.

Continue reading Nissan adopts 15 EV chargers, is first on nappy duty (video)

Nissan adopts 15 EV chargers, is first on nappy duty (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Adopt a ChargerAdoptAChargerChargingEVEV ChargingEV RangeEvChargingEvRangeGolden Gate ParkGoldenGateParkLeafLos AngelesLos Angeles County Museum of ArtLosAngelesLosAngelesCountyMuseumOfArtMusic ConcourseMusicConcourseNissanNissan EV ChargingNissan LeafNissanEvChargingNissanLeafRange AnxietyRangeAnxietysan franciscoSanFranciscovideoFri, 20 Apr 2012 15:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Intel and Nissan collaborate on Infiniti's 2013 infotainment system, Atom inside]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/nissan-2013-infotainment-with-intel-atom/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/nissan-2013-infotainment-with-intel-atom/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/nissan-2013-infotainment-with-intel-atom/#comments Intel and Nissan collaborate on infotainment system for Infiniti's 2013 lineup, Atom processor lurks withinIntel is notorious for marking its territory on a wide array of consumer gear, but one piece of kit that's unlikely to sport that famous sticker is the infotainment system of Nissan's 2013 Infiniti lineup. Unveiled today at the New York International Auto Show, the in-vehicle computer represents a collaboration between Intel and Nissan and was showcased within the Infiniti LE concept vehicle. On the inside lurks an Atom CPU, which bucks the general trend toward ARM architecture in these systems. Both companies put their collective heads together to create cloud-based services for smartphone users such as video surveillance, vehicle control and monitoring. As another nice refinement, users will also be able to use their phone's NFC capabilities for keyless entry to the carriage -- no word on whether it can similarly activate the ignition. You'll find the full PR after the break.

Continue reading Intel and Nissan collaborate on Infiniti's 2013 infotainment system, Atom inside

Intel and Nissan collaborate on Infiniti's 2013 infotainment system, Atom inside originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 20:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atomconceptconcept carConceptCarinfinitiinfiniti leInfinitiLeinfotainmentinfotainment systeminfotainment systemsInfotainmentSystemInfotainmentSystemsintelintel atomIntelAtomnew york citynew york international auto showNewYorkCityNewYorkInternationalAutoShownissannyiasnyias 2012Nyias2012Thu, 05 Apr 2012 20:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan NV200 Taxi of Tomorrow hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/nissan-nv200-taxi-of-tomorrow-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/nissan-nv200-taxi-of-tomorrow-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/nissan-nv200-taxi-of-tomorrow-hands-on-video/#comments Nissan NV200 Taxi of Tomorrow hands-on (video)It is, admittedly, difficult to get too excited about a ride in a taxi. Taxis tend to smell, their drivers tend to be rather abrupt in their piloting style and there's a good chance you won't be able to find one when you really need it. Nissan's "Taxi of Tomorrow," then, is hardly the most alluring concept car on display at the New York International Auto Show, but it is, however, the one you're most likely to actually get to take a ride in. It's also a huge advance compared to the rather tired 'ol Crown Vic. Join us after the break for an exploration of why.

Gallery: Nissan NV200 Taxi of Tomorrow hands-on

Continue reading Nissan NV200 Taxi of Tomorrow hands-on (video)

Nissan NV200 Taxi of Tomorrow hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Renault's planning to take advantage of a change in the law that'll enable 16-year-olds to drive vehicles on the roads without a license by releasing the Twizzy EV. The futuristic golf-cart will have a top speed of 28mph and give budding Dominic Torettos the chance to drag-race each other in mall car parks every night. Unfortunately, environmentally-friendly road-raging will come at a price, with the Twizzy expected to retail at £6,200 ($9,940) and teenage insurance premiums being a further £4,000 ($6,400). At the same event, the company's Andy Heiron mentioned that the high cost of (sister-company's) Nissan Leaf was responsible for the sluggish sales in Blighty, and that Nissan is considering letting buyers rent their EV batteries in order to lower the initial cost of their enviro-whip to more manageable levels. Otherwise, it won't just be the kids fighting over who gets to do that extra paper-route.

Renault's Twizzy EV for 16 year-olds comes too late for Justin to skip the DMV queue originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013EVEVsLight VehicleLight Vehicle UKLightVehicleLightVehicleUkNissanNissan LeafNissanLeafRenaultRenault TwizzyRenaultTwizzyTwizzyMon, 02 Apr 2012 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: gigantic LED cube, synthetic bones and a playground from recycled wind turbines]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/01/led-cube-synthetic-bones-recycled-turbines/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/01/led-cube-synthetic-bones-recycled-turbines/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/01/led-cube-synthetic-bones-recycled-turbines/#comments Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.
Image

Happy April 1st! In honor of the day, we've rounded up some of Inhabitat's best April Fools stories for your reading pleasure. Our collective jaws dropped this morning when we were sent an anonymous photo from a tipster which hints at intergalactic plans for Apple's new Cupertino campus. Google also surprised us today when it announced a partnership with the city of New York to replace NYC taxis with driverless Google Cabs. In other NYC news, it was revealed today that New York City's ever-popular High Line park is going to bring a train back on the High Line to keep up with the growing crowds, and satellite photos divulged that Dubai appears to be building a series of Dubai-shaped islands off of its coast.

In more serious news, the New York Auto Show is hitting Manhattan next week, and in preparation this week Fisker released the first sketch of its highly anticipated Nina Plug-in Hybrid. Inhabitat will be on-scene at the reveal on Tuesday to bring you the first photos of its unveiling, so stay tuned for Inhabitat's live Fisker Nina coverage on Tuesday! We also brought you a sneak peek at several more innovative eco vehicles that will displayed at this year's New York Auto Show -- including NYC's taxi of tomorrow and Infiniti's new Nissan Leaf-based EV. Meanwhile, Lexus divulged that it is considering producing the sexy LF-LC hybrid sports coupe, and Chevy Volt's sexier European twin the Opel Ampera racked up 7,000 orders, putting it well on its way to meeting sales targets. In two-wheel transportation news, bicycles kicked into high gear as Specialized launched the world's fastest E-bike and Jose Hurtado designed a hubless 'Twist Bike' that can be turned into a tandem in a snap.

Continue reading Inhabitat's Week in Green: gigantic LED cube, synthetic bones and a playground from recycled wind turbines

Inhabitat's Week in Green: gigantic LED cube, synthetic bones and a playground from recycled wind turbines originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 01 Apr 2012 20:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperechevycleanecoenergygreengreen autoGreenAutohybridinhabitantinhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreeninhabitatweekingreenleaflegolexusNinanissanrenewable energyRenewableEnergysynthetic boneSyntheticBonethisweekingreenSun, 01 Apr 2012 20:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan Leaf to get minor range boost, prove Moore's Law doesn't apply to EVs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/21/nissan-leaf-upgrade-2013/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/21/nissan-leaf-upgrade-2013/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/21/nissan-leaf-upgrade-2013/#comments ImageFifteen months and 10,000 American sales later, Nissan is preparing a 2013 overhaul of its Leaf EV. What green and fresh bounties can we expect? Leather seats, a "darker" interior and more efficient heater, which could let the EV go up to 20-25 miles further in cold-weather conditions. Sounds minor to our comfortably warm ears, and there's no specific mention of inductive charging (depicted above) either. On the other hand, the 2012 model already hiked up prices and Nissan probably has to stick closely to the current $35,000 bracket or risk being run down by another all-electric, all-emotional hatchback that's also due next year.

Nissan Leaf to get minor range boost, prove Moore's Law doesn't apply to EVs originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 11:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013carefficiencyelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleenvironmentalevgreenleafleatherleather seatsLeatherSeatsnissannissan leafNissanLeafrangetransporttransportationupgradevehicleWed, 21 Mar 2012 11:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford Focus gets EPA rating: 105 MPGe, 76-mile range]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/02/ford-focus-gets-epa-rating-105-mpge-76-mile-range/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/02/ford-focus-gets-epa-rating-105-mpge-76-mile-range/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/02/ford-focus-gets-epa-rating-105-mpge-76-mile-range/#comments
The EPA has finished its usual gauntlet of tests and has found that this year's Ford Focus Electric is the most efficient five-seater in America. The agency certified that it gets 105 miles to the electric equivalent to the gallon (divided between 110MPGe in the city and 99MPGe on the highway), which is better than Ford's own claim of just 100MPGe. The company's found cause to celebrate the milestone and throw a few jabs at its closest rival, the Nissan Leaf. In fact, you could say that the House that Henry built has a bit of a complex about the leafy EV -- in the press release we've got for you after the break, it mentions the rival vehicle no less than nine times.

Continue reading Ford Focus gets EPA rating: 105 MPGe, 76-mile range

Ford Focus gets EPA rating: 105 MPGe, 76-mile range originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 15:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Electric CarElectric VehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleEnvironmental Protection AgencyEnvironmentalProtectionAgencyEPAEVEV EfficiencyEV RangeEvEfficiencyEvRangeEVsFordFord Focus ElectricFordFocusElectricMiles Per Gallon EquivalentMilesPerGallonEquivalentMPGeNissanNissan LeafNissanLeafRange AnxietyRangeAnxietyRatingFri, 02 Mar 2012 15:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Chevy Volt sees best sales yet in December, Nissan Leaf still outpaces it for the year]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/chevy-volt-nissan-leaf-sales-2011/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/chevy-volt-nissan-leaf-sales-2011/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/chevy-volt-nissan-leaf-sales-2011/#comments
It looks like GM had some good news and some bad news for the Chevy Volt to end 2011 with. As Autoblog Green reports, the plug-in vehicle saw its best ever month in December with 1,529 cars sold, bringing its total sales for the year to 7,671. That still wasn't enough to pull ahead of the Leaf electric vehicle in sales for the year, however, as Nissan managed to move a total of 9,674 units despite falling a bit short in December with just 954 cars sold. Both of those numbers are off the automakers' targets for their respective vehicles, though, with Nissan just a bit short of its 10,000-unit goal, and GM well off its original aim of 10,000-12,000 units sold. Unfortunately for GM, 2012 got off to a start with a few new headaches for the Volt.

Chevy Volt sees best sales yet in December, Nissan Leaf still outpaces it for the year originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevychevy voltChevyVoltelectric vehicleElectricVehiclegmleafnissannissan leafNissanLeafplug-inplug-in vehiclePlug-inVehiclevoltThu, 05 Jan 2012 19:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: 5 megawatt solar roof, driverless electric cars and ten of the world's craziest Christmas trees]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/11/inhabitats-week-in-green-5-megawatt-solar-roof-driverless-ele/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/11/inhabitats-week-in-green-5-megawatt-solar-roof-driverless-ele/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/11/inhabitats-week-in-green-5-megawatt-solar-roof-driverless-ele/#comments Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.
Solar-powered buildings heated up this week as Inhabitat reported that Apple will crown its new Cupertino headquarters with a 5 megawatt solar roof, and we took a peek inside a sun-powered prefab pod home set in the Italian Alps. We also showcased several fresh examples of wintry architecture this week as we brought you six amazing buildings made from ice and snow and we learned that BIG's waste-to-energy ski slope incinerator was scrapped due to environmental concerns. We also showcased an innovative shelf for interiors made from movable pins, a set of awesome night lights made from retrofitted vintage cameras, and since the holidays are on the way we shared a kit that will help you make your own geodesic gingerbread house!

Speaking of the holiday season, this week we rounded up the world's 10 craziest Christmas trees made from recycled objects, and we brought you photos of a massive luminous Xmas tree in Lithuania made from 40,000 plastic bottles. We also brought you a guide for making your own DIY terrarium Christmas ornaments, and if you're looking for cool techy gifts to stick beneath the tree you won't want to miss Theo Jansen's 3d-printed miniature Strandbeest wind walking robots and this fun wooden iPhone toy for tots.

In other news, eco transportation blasted off to the future as Zapata Racing unveiled a set of insane water-propelled rocket boots that will send you soaring like a superhero and Audi and BIG unveiled plans for a network of driverless electric cars and luminous high-tech roadways. We were also excited to announce that the Nissan Leaf was named Japan's Car of the Year at the Tokyo Motor Show, we saw Daimler unveil plans for a new E-Cell hybrid with inductive charging, and Smart shared a sneak peek of their upcoming "For-US" compact electric pickup truck.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: 5 megawatt solar roof, driverless electric cars and ten of the world's craziest Christmas trees originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 11 Dec 2011 20:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleAudiBIGDIYE-Cellelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehiclegreeninhabitatinhabitat.comNissanNissan leafNissanLeafrecycledsolar powerSolarPowersun-poweredthis week in greenThisWeekInGreenTokyo Motor showTokyoMotorShowSun, 11 Dec 2011 20:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan Leaf branches out to an additional six states, plus one Island]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/07/nissan-leaf-branches-out-to-an-additional-six-states-plus-one-i/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/07/nissan-leaf-branches-out-to-an-additional-six-states-plus-one-i/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/07/nissan-leaf-branches-out-to-an-additional-six-states-plus-one-i/#comments
The Nissan Leaf is inching closer to national ubiquity, with the addition of seven new markets across the continental US. In a statement issued yesterday, the manufacturer announced that its EV will soon be available within Delaware, Indiana, Louisiana, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island, with the first deliveries scheduled to roll out in Spring 2012. This expansion, which comes nearly one year after the Leaf's grand debut, means that the plug-in is now available in a full 30 US states (including Washington, DC), though Nissan hopes to bring it to the full 50 by March of next year. Rustle past the break for the full PR.

Continue reading Nissan Leaf branches out to an additional six states, plus one Island

Nissan Leaf branches out to an additional six states, plus one Island originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autocarcarsdeliveryelectricelectric carElectricCarEVgreenindustrymanufacturingmarketmoneynissannissan leafNissanLeafplug inPlugInstatestransporttransportationUSWed, 07 Dec 2011 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan Leaf to get inductive charging, lose its stem in 2013 (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/nissan-leaf-to-get-inductive-charging-lose-its-stem-in-2013-vi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/nissan-leaf-to-get-inductive-charging-lose-its-stem-in-2013-vi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/nissan-leaf-to-get-inductive-charging-lose-its-stem-in-2013-vi/#comments Nissan has big plans for the still-budding Leaf. The Japanese automaker lit up its impressive Leaf-powered Smart House at the Tokyo Motor Show last week, but also demoed its wireless charging solution for a much smaller crowd at the company's Oppama factory. The device uses electromagnetic induction to transfer power between a charging pad and a receiver on the bottom of the car, with an efficiency level between 80 and 90 percent -- simply park your EV directly above the system to begin charging, and monitor progress on the ground transmission unit's control panel. The pad is expected to become available as soon as 2013, but will only be compatible with new vehicles, so you won't be able to use it with an older Leaf, unfortunately. There's a silent demo video waiting for you just past the break.

Continue reading Nissan Leaf to get inductive charging, lose its stem in 2013 (video)

Nissan Leaf to get inductive charging, lose its stem in 2013 (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carcarschargingelectricelectric vehicleelectricityElectricVehicleevinductioninductiveinductive charginginductive powerInductiveChargingInductivePowerleafnissannissan carnissan carsnissan evnissan leafNissanCarNissanCarsNissanEvNissanLeafpowervehiclevehiclesvideowirelesswireless chargingwireless powerWirelessChargingWirelessPowerMon, 05 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: worlds largest LEGO Christmas tree, turbine powered LEDs and a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/inhabitats-week-in-green-worlds-largest-lego-christmas-tree-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/inhabitats-week-in-green-worlds-largest-lego-christmas-tree-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/inhabitats-week-in-green-worlds-largest-lego-christmas-tree-t/#comments Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.
This week Inhabitat got into the spirit of the holiday season as we reported that a French firm wants to transform the Eiffel Tower into a gigantic tree, we brought you the world's largest LEGO Christmas tree, and we watched GE flip the switch on the new National Christmas Tree, which is decked out with high-tech LED lights. We also spotted a seriously sweet Star Wars AT-AT walker made entirely from gingerbread, and we shined the spotlight on the amazing life-size light-up ice palaces that rise each year at the Harbin snow festival in China.

Continue reading Inhabitat's Week in Green: worlds largest LEGO Christmas tree, turbine powered LEDs and a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle

Inhabitat's Week in Green: worlds largest LEGO Christmas tree, turbine powered LEDs and a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ev-sterfuel efficiencyFuelEfficiencygreenhondainhabitatInhabitatsWeekInGreenledLEGOnissanMon, 05 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan demonstrates Leaf-powered Smart House, we go hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/nissan-demonstrates-leaf-powered-smart-house-we-go-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/nissan-demonstrates-leaf-powered-smart-house-we-go-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/nissan-demonstrates-leaf-powered-smart-house-we-go-hands-on/#comments Back in August, Nissan shared its vision of making its Leaf EV a secondary power source for houses, be it for emergency power outage or for powering lodges in the countryside. Here at the Tokyo Motor Show, we got to see a Smart House that demonstrates just that. To supply the electricity from the Leaf, Nissan uses a power control system box that can supply up to 6kW of power -- plenty of juice for this structure, which consumes about 1 to 2kW for its lights, fan, TV, clock, mini fridge and air conditioner. As for battery life, a Leaf can keep a typical Japanese household powered for about two days, and customers can pick up this power control system in around end of March next year (the retail version will be about half the size of the one pictured). Nissan also said potentially the Smart House can supply excess electricity back to the grid, though this isn't yet possible in Japan due to the lack of such service, which is understandable given the natural disasters earlier this year.

Additionally, it turns out that the Smart House can also power itself during sunny days using its solar panels on the top, and any remaining electricity is used to charge up the Leaf; so effectively the car is acting as a mobile battery for the house. But what if it's cloudy and the Leaf is out and about? Well, the fuel cells inside the Smart House's belly will keep your party going, so there's really nothing to worry about as long as you keep an eye on your propane level. Head past the break to watch Nissan's Shinsuke Suzuki switch the house off and on for us.

Gallery: Nissan Leaf Smart House hands-on

Continue reading Nissan demonstrates Leaf-powered Smart House, we go hands-on

Nissan demonstrates Leaf-powered Smart House, we go hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 11:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleElectricVehicleevfeaturedfeatureshands-onleafnissanNissan LeafNissanLeafpcspower control systemPowerControlSystemShinsuke SuzukiShinsukeSuzukismart houseSmartHousetokyo motor showtokyo motor show 2011TokyoMotorShowTokyoMotorShow2011videoThu, 01 Dec 2011 11:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan Pivo 3 extreme agility concept EV hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/nissan-pivo-3-extreme-agility-concept-ev-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/nissan-pivo-3-extreme-agility-concept-ev-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/nissan-pivo-3-extreme-agility-concept-ev-hands-on/#comments Nope, there's nothing wrong with those wheels. As you may recall, this is Nissan's Pivo 3, the company's latest concept EV that provides extreme agility using its four oddly pivoted, individually powered wheels. While we couldn't see this three-seater make sharp U-turns and do automatic parking at the Tokyo Motor Show, our very own Zach Honig managed to get his finger and trouser grease all over it.

Behind those pop-out doors one of the most interesting features we saw was the subtle side-view cameras with accompanying screens, thus reducing the car's width. Also, it turns out the lone steering wheel handles all four wheels, meaning the driver won't have to sacrifice too much brain power over multiple controls. That said, we can imagine that even the most experienced drivers may find this car to be a tough animal to tame initially -- the lady in Nissan's earlier demo looked like she had to steer dramatically around sharp corners. But keep the car going straight and it'll accelerate up to 120km/h (75mph), while on a single charge it can go up to 100km (62 miles). Video after the break.

Gallery: Nissan Pivo 3 extreme agility concept EV hands-on

Continue reading Nissan Pivo 3 extreme agility concept EV hands-on

Nissan Pivo 3 extreme agility concept EV hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 09:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptconcept carconcept evConceptCarConceptEvelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevhands-onjapannissannissan pivo3NissanPivo3pivo 3pivo3tokyotokyo motor showtokyo motor show 2011TokyoMotorShowTokyoMotorShow2011videozero emissionZeroEmissionThu, 01 Dec 2011 09:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan sells more than 20,000 Leafs in first year, high-fives commence on Tokyo Motor Show floor]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/nissan-sells-more-than-20-000-leafs-in-first-year-high-fives-co/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/nissan-sells-more-than-20-000-leafs-in-first-year-high-fives-co/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/nissan-sells-more-than-20-000-leafs-in-first-year-high-fives-co/#comments You win this round, hippies! Only a few months after announcing that it sold 10,000 all-electric Leaf cars in international markets, Nissan stated at the Tokyo Motor Show today that the company has sold over 20,000 Leafs since the car went on sale in December of 2010. Of the 9,000 Leafs that have been sold to U.S. owners, over 60 percent went to homes in California, where owners no doubt admire their electric cars while enjoying their tasty organic kale and starfruit smoothies. The company also added that it expects to sell more than 10,000 Leafs in the U.S. by the end of 2011, which dovetails perfectly into their predictions. Given that the Japanese EV's prime competition has been plagued by concerns about its flammability, Nissan might just exceed those expectations.

Nissan sells more than 20,000 Leafs in first year, high-fives commence on Tokyo Motor Show floor originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 02:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010autoautomobileCaliforniacarDecemberelectricelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevinternationalkaleLeafNissansalesTokyo Motor ShowTokyoMotorShowWed, 30 Nov 2011 02:27:00 EST<![CDATA[OSCar eO build finally finished, electric offroader prepares for the mountains of South America]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/17/oscar-eo-build-finally-finished-electric-offroader-prepares-for/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/17/oscar-eo-build-finally-finished-electric-offroader-prepares-for/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/17/oscar-eo-build-finally-finished-electric-offroader-prepares-for/#comments It's been a few months since we first heard about OSCar eO and its plans to tackle the (arguably) most difficult task in motorsport: make it from the start of the Dakar Rally to the finish. Well, the race starts in about a month and a half, and the Latvian team building the rugged EV has finally finished its arduous task. Aside from countless welds to create a formidable frame, there was also plenty of wiring and programming involved in getting the range-extended EV ready for the coming off-road battle. Winston Battery packs provide 52kWh of juice to the electric motor, which can produce up to a massive 335kW of power on command. Should a lead-footed driver tap into that tire-shredding ability too much, a 60kW generator driven by a Nissan V6 is there to pick up the slack. You may be wondering just how hard it is to build a machine that can conquer the Andes while powered by humble electrons? Find out for yourself in the video after the break.

[Thanks, John]

Continue reading OSCar eO build finally finished, electric offroader prepares for the mountains of South America

OSCar eO build finally finished, electric offroader prepares for the mountains of South America originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 23:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dakardakar 2012Dakar2012electricelectric vehicleElectricVehicleeoevhybridnissanOffRoadoffroaderoffroadingoscoscaroscar eoOscarEorallyrigaseries hybridSeriesHybridvideowinstonwinston batteryWinstonBatteryThu, 17 Nov 2011 23:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan's showing off the Pivo 3, another EV-concept we wish it'd sell us (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/nissans-showing-off-the-pivo-3-another-ev-concept-we-wish-itd/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/nissans-showing-off-the-pivo-3-another-ev-concept-we-wish-itd/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/nissans-showing-off-the-pivo-3-another-ev-concept-we-wish-itd/#comments
Nissan's unveiled the Pivo 3, the latest version in the formerly egg-shaped Pivo line of Concept EVs. Ditching the spherical, independently moving cabin for a boxier, sharper look, the zero-emission car retains the roomy 1+2 configuration of it's forebears (all the better to pretend you're driving a McClaren F1) and motors mounted on each of the wheels. It's designed for the urban environment, with a tiny four-meter turning circle and automatic parking (it'll also come to you if you summon it with a smartphone). As much as we want one of these on our driveway, the company is still pondering putting it into production, and if it does arrive, it won't be until 2017 at the earliest, by which point we'll all be riding Rynos. Watch footage of the car in action, including it's snapping turning abilities at the video we've got for you after the break.

Continue reading Nissan's showing off the Pivo 3, another EV-concept we wish it'd sell us (video)

Nissan's showing off the Pivo 3, another EV-concept we wish it'd sell us (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Nov 2011 17:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Automatic ParkingAutomaticParkingConcept CarsConceptCarsEVEVsNissanNissan PivioNissanPivioPivio 3Pivio3RynosSmartphoneUrban CarUrban EVUrbanCarUrbanEvvideoWed, 09 Nov 2011 17:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan Leaf EVs to join NYC taxis, won't make hailing a cab in Manhattan any easier]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/nissan-leaf-evs-to-join-nyc-taxis-wont-make-hailing-a-cab-in-m/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/nissan-leaf-evs-to-join-nyc-taxis-wont-make-hailing-a-cab-in-m/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/nissan-leaf-evs-to-join-nyc-taxis-wont-make-hailing-a-cab-in-m/#comments
We've come a long way since Crown Vics crowded the streets of the Big Apple, opting instead for a fleet of hybrid taxis -- but today the New York City Taxi & Limousine Commission is taking its green approach one step further with the introduction of six electric Nissan Leaf cabs. Starting next spring, the electric cars will join the procession of mustard-colored whips as part of the Electric Taxi Pilot Program. The new additions are part of Bloomberg's plans for an all electric cab system by 2012. It's unsure yet whether the five-door electrics will have a distance or duty limitation and exactly what type of charging stations will be used. Curious cabbies can check out the source to find out how to sign up. Now, if we could only flag one down...

Filed under:

Nissan Leaf EVs to join NYC taxis, won't make hailing a cab in Manhattan any easier originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bloombergcabcabselectric carElectric Taxi Pilot ProgramElectricCarElectricTaxiPilotProgramEVNew York CityNew York City Taxi Limousine CommissionNewYorkCityNewYorkCityTaxiLimousineCommissionNissanNissan leafnissan leaf EVNissanLeafNissanLeafEvNYCtaxitaxisMon, 31 Oct 2011 17:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan's new charging technology will juice your EV in ten minutes, ten years from now]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/nissans-new-charging-technology-will-juice-your-ev-in-ten-minut/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/nissans-new-charging-technology-will-juice-your-ev-in-ten-minut/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/nissans-new-charging-technology-will-juice-your-ev-in-ten-minut/#comments
Nearly a month after unveiling its revamped quick charger, Nissan has now announced that it's working on new technology that would make EV charging... well, quicker. A lot quicker. Developed alongside researchers from Japan's Kansai University, the manufacturer's approach would allow drivers to fully charge their plug-ins in just ten minutes, without taking any toll on a lithium-ion battery's storage or voltage. Nissan says it could achieve this by tinkering with a charger's capacitor -- more specifically, by replacing its carbon electrode with one based on a composite of tungsten oxide and vanadium oxide. Industry insiders, however, say this technology may not reach the commercial level for another ten years -- substantially longer than ten minutes.

Nissan's new charging technology will juice your EV in ten minutes, ten years from now originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Oct 2011 09:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10 minutes10Minutesbatterycapacitorcarchargerchargingcharging stationChargingStationelectricelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleEVEV chargerEvChargergreenjapanKansai UniversityKansaiUniversityLithium Ionlithium ion batteryLithiumIonLithiumIonBatterynissannissan leafNissanLeaftransportTue, 11 Oct 2011 09:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan downsizes EV quick charger, slashes price while eying US, EU and Japanese markets]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/13/nissan-downsizes-ev-quick-charger-slashes-price-while-eying-us/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/13/nissan-downsizes-ev-quick-charger-slashes-price-while-eying-us/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/13/nissan-downsizes-ev-quick-charger-slashes-price-while-eying-us/#comments Like a hamburger Happy Meal, Nissan's brand new quick-charge station is fast, cheap and easy, thanks to its tasty new electric circuit technology. Nissan claims the 49kW charger takes up less space, is easier to install and a heckuva lot cheaper than former models, leaving only a ¥1 million yen (or around $10,000) dent in your pocket compared to the former ¥1.47 million (or $19,088) crater. Hoping to sell around 5,000 units and set up charging stations throughout the Land of the Rising Sun by March 2016, Nissan sees the technology rolling out in the US and Europe sometime in the near future -- no toy included. Pull over for the full PR after the break.

Continue reading Nissan downsizes EV quick charger, slashes price while eying US, EU and Japanese markets

Nissan downsizes EV quick charger, slashes price while eying US, EU and Japanese markets originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 21:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>49kW 3- AC200VCHAdeMOchademo standardChademoStandardchargerchargingelectric vehicleelectric vehicle chargerelectric vehicle chargingelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehicleChargerElectricVehicleChargingElectricVehiclesEVEV chargerEV chargingEvChargerEvChargingJapanNissanNissan Leafnissan leaf electricNissan LEAF EVNissanLeafNissanLeafElectricNissanLeafEvQuick Chargequick chargerquick chargersQuickChargeQuickChargerQuickChargersTue, 13 Sep 2011 21:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan Leaf mod offers more accurate battery status, less streamlined interior]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/30/nissan-leaf-mod-offers-more-accurate-battery-status/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/30/nissan-leaf-mod-offers-more-accurate-battery-status/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/30/nissan-leaf-mod-offers-more-accurate-battery-status/#comments
Car mods come in many forms -- including, even, a piece of cardboard with some switches and an LED display. The car being modded in this case is the Nissan Leaf, and the mod in question (still in its temporary form here, thankfully) is a simple but important one. It's a homebrew device that plugs into the Leaf's OBD-II diagnostics port and displays the battery's exact state of charge, as opposed to the somewhat less specific bars that are displayed on the main dashboard display. Absolutely necessary? Not exactly, but the mod seems to be catching on with a growing contingent of DIY-minded Leaf forum members. Hit the source link below for a few more examples and some additional details for building your own.

[Image credit: mwalsh / My Nissan Leaf Forum]

Nissan Leaf mod offers more accurate battery status, less streamlined interior originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 30 Aug 2011 20:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteryelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevleafmodnissannissan leafNissanLeafsocstate of chargeStateOfChargeTue, 30 Aug 2011 20:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan's Leaf rollout speeds up in Chicago this fall]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/nissans-leaf-rollout-speeds-up-in-chicago-this-fall/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/nissans-leaf-rollout-speeds-up-in-chicago-this-fall/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/nissans-leaf-rollout-speeds-up-in-chicago-this-fall/#comments Oprah may have left town and packed up her "You get a car!" philanthropic ways, but that's not stopping Nissan from injecting the windy city with a little auto excitement. Responding to an overwhelming customer demand for its all-electric Leaf vehicles, the Japanese car maker is accelerating the line's rollout to Chicago residents, with the first models to be available this fall. The launch will be bolstered by a planned 280 EV charging stations, funded in part by a pledged $1 million from the state and an additional $1 million grant. If you're living in the second city to our north and haven't yet hitched your ride to the electric hatchback caravan, now might be the time.

Continue reading Nissan's Leaf rollout speeds up in Chicago this fall

Nissan's Leaf rollout speeds up in Chicago this fall originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 20:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagoElectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleEVillinoisminipostNissanNissan Leafnissan leaf electricNissan LEAF EVNissanLeafNissanLeafElectricNissanLeafEvFri, 26 Aug 2011 20:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan's Android app lets you charge your Leaf from afar, puts the 'ease' in EV]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/05/nissans-android-app-lets-you-charge-your-leaf-from-afar-puts-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/05/nissans-android-app-lets-you-charge-your-leaf-from-afar-puts-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/05/nissans-android-app-lets-you-charge-your-leaf-from-afar-puts-t/#comments
If you happen to be both a Nissan Leaf owner and an Android user, you're in luck today, because the automaker has just released an official app that could make your life a little easier. With Nissan's tool, you'll be able to monitor your electric vehicle's battery life and estimated driving range directly from your smartphone, which you can also use to remotely charge your Leaf, or start its air conditioning. It may not be the most groundbreaking app ever, but it definitely offers some welcomed convenience to Nissan's growing base of EV drivers. Yesterday, the company confirmed to Autoblog Green that Leaf sales "crossed the 10,000 mark a couple weeks ago." Exact figures are hard to come by, due to Japan's summer holiday, but Nissan says it's 100 percent certain that the milestone was crossed. Next up: world domination.

Nissan's Android app lets you charge your Leaf from afar, puts the 'ease' in EV originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 05 Aug 2011 09:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid marketAndroidMarketappbatterychargerchargingElectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleEVgreennissannissan leafNissan LEAF EVnissan leaf salesNissanLeafNissanLeafEvNissanLeafSalessalessmartphoneFri, 05 Aug 2011 09:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan's 'Leaf to Home' system sends power back to your house or the grid]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/03/nissans-leaf-to-home-system-sends-power-back-to-your-house-or/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/03/nissans-leaf-to-home-system-sends-power-back-to-your-house-or/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/03/nissans-leaf-to-home-system-sends-power-back-to-your-house-or/#comments The Nissan Leaf may look like a car, but it turns out it will soon also be an emergency power generator on wheels. The automaker just took the wraps off its new "Leaf to Home" system in Japan this week, which promises to let you send power stored in the car back to your house in the case of an outage, or even back to the grid (letting you charge the car during off-peak hours and profiting when demand is high, for instance). Of course, that also requires more than your basic charging station (this one ties directly into your home's electricity distribution panel), and it's not quite ready for consumer use just yet -- Nissan expects it to be available in Japan by April of next year.

Nissan's 'Leaf to Home' system sends power back to your house or the grid originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 03 Aug 2011 16:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleelectricyevgridleafleaf to homeLeafToHomenissannissan leafNissanLeafpowersmart gridSmartGridWed, 03 Aug 2011 16:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan expands Leaf's US availability, makes seat warmers standard]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/21/nissan-expands-leafs-us-availibility-makes-seat-warmers-standa/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/21/nissan-expands-leafs-us-availibility-makes-seat-warmers-standa/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/21/nissan-expands-leafs-us-availibility-makes-seat-warmers-standa/#comments

Hey Leaf owners -- that's right, all 4,000 of you -- it looks like Nissan took your complaints feedback to heart and is making a few standard additions its EV auto line. Prospective owners of the yet-to-be delivered 2012 models can look forward to the inclusion of a DC fast charge port that'll have your roadster 80 percent juiced in under 30 minutes and some cold weather features -- like heated seats and a battery warmer. The Japanese carmaker also announced plans to expand availability of the auto to Illinois and parts of the southeastern US, and will open reservations to the general public once existing orders are fulfilled. So that's the good, now are you ready for the bad? These electric hatchbacks are getting a new, higher MSRP that takes the SV trim level model to $35,200 and the SL to $37,250. It's an entirely reasonable price to pay for warm buns and, hey, you're saving the planet.

Continue reading Nissan expands Leaf's US availability, makes seat warmers standard

Nissan expands Leaf's US availability, makes seat warmers standard originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carcarselectricelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevleafnissannissan leafNissanLeafThu, 21 Jul 2011 00:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan plant in Smyrna, Tennessee to start Leaf production by late 2012]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/13/nissan-plant-in-smyrna-tennessee-to-start-leaf-production-by-la/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/13/nissan-plant-in-smyrna-tennessee-to-start-leaf-production-by-la/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/13/nissan-plant-in-smyrna-tennessee-to-start-leaf-production-by-la/#comments Nissan plant in Smyrna to start Leaf production by late 2012
No worries Nissan EV fans, more Leaves are on the way -- that's according to Bill Kreuger, the head honcho of Nissan's manufacturing and supply chain division. Kreuger tells Automotive News, the catastrophic earthquake in Japan that shut down several large plants was just a small speedbump in the release of the flagship electric vehicle. Nissan North America has been preparing a 1.6 billion dollar production complex in Smyrna, Tennessee, to begin rolling out EVs in the masses by late 2012. The plan is to have the plant assemble about 200,000 battery modules and as many as 150,000 Leafs each year, and we're guessing it'll have quite an easy go finding names for each and every one.

Nissan plant in Smyrna, Tennessee to start Leaf production by late 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 13 Jul 2011 22:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20122013AutoblogAutoblog GreenAutoblogGreenautomotiveAutomotive NewsAutomotiveNewsBillBill KreugerBillKreugerelectricelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleElectronic vehicleElectronicVehicleevgreenKreugerlaunchleafLEAF EVLeafEvnissanNissan LeafNissanLeafproductionSmyrnasmyrna tennesseeSmyrnaTennesseetenesseeTenneseeWed, 13 Jul 2011 22:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaf sales outpacing the Volt, winning the fight for American garage space]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/07/leaf-sales-outpacing-the-volt-winning-the-fight-for-american-ga/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/07/leaf-sales-outpacing-the-volt-winning-the-fight-for-american-ga/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/07/leaf-sales-outpacing-the-volt-winning-the-fight-for-american-ga/#comments Leaf Vs. Volt According to Automobile, Nissan is winning the race to put the most electric cars in American driveways, selling 3,875 Leafs in the first six months of 2011, while Chevy only managed to put 2,754 Volt keys in the hands of consumers. This is despite Nissan suffering a month long manufacturing setback following the tsunami that struck in March. Chevy has had its own delays, having closed the Volt plant five weeks ago for upgrades that will allow it to pump out more vehicles. Lets not forget though, the Leaf starts at about $8,000 less than its American made competitor and, when it comes to weaning us off gas and putting us behind the wheel of tech-packed cars -- there's no shame in being number two. Perhaps GM will have better luck with that cheaper, shorter range version it's been contemplating.

Leaf sales outpacing the Volt, winning the fight for American garage space originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011carcarschevroletchevychevy voltChevyVoltdataelectricelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevfebruaryfiguresgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmhybridleafnissannissan leafNissanLeafnumbersparallel hybridParallelHybridphevsalesseries hybridSeriesHybridstatsusus salesUsSalesvoltThu, 07 Jul 2011 09:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Yokohama EV sets new Pikes Peak Hill Climb record, leaves Leaf blowing in the wind]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/28/yokohama-ev-sets-new-pikes-peak-hill-climb-record-leaves-leaf-b/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/28/yokohama-ev-sets-new-pikes-peak-hill-climb-record-leaves-leaf-b/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/28/yokohama-ev-sets-new-pikes-peak-hill-climb-record-leaves-leaf-b/#comments Yokohama EV sets new Pikes Peak Hill Climb record, leaves Leaf blowing in the wind Remember the unmodified Nissan Leaf that dared to take on the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb? No, it didn't win the electric vehicle class, but it did have the honor of playing second fiddle to a new paladin. By pairing the motor they used to set last year's EV record with a new high-performance cooling system, Team Yokohama managed to shave nearly a minute off of their previous record-setting time, completing the course in 12 minutes and 20 seconds. The Leaf? It leisurely drifted through the finish line at 14 minutes, 33 seconds. Not the quickest way to the top, but let's be fair -- if it's a choice between being comfortable or being king of the hill, we'll stretch our legs, thanks.

Yokohama EV sets new Pikes Peak Hill Climb record, leaves Leaf blowing in the wind originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 01:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevhill climbHillClimbleafnissanpikes peakpikes peak hill climbPikes Peak International Hill ClimbPikesPeakPikesPeakHillClimbPikesPeakInternationalHillClimbteam yokohamaTeamYokohamayokohamayokohama evYokohamaEvTue, 28 Jun 2011 01:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Don't tell us where you're going, Nissan Leaf driver, we already know (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/16/dont-tell-us-where-youre-going-nissan-leaf-driver-we-already/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/16/dont-tell-us-where-youre-going-nissan-leaf-driver-we-already/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/16/dont-tell-us-where-youre-going-nissan-leaf-driver-we-already/#comments That cute little bugger above certainly looks innocent enough, but it might have been spreading some pretty detailed gossip behind your back. Leaf-driver Casey Halverson was playing around with the RSS reader in his Carwings system when he discovered that it wasn't just collecting feeds from RSS servers, it was also telling those servers his car's current location, speed, heading and even the destination he'd set in the sat nav. Strangely, Halverson's undercover tattletale appears to have halted its indiscretions after he posted the discovery on his blog, but we're surmising there's still hundreds of server logs up and down the country that prove it really happened, not to mention his video after the break. Cue Rockwell, fade to black.

Continue reading Don't tell us where you're going, Nissan Leaf driver, we already know (video)

Don't tell us where you're going, Nissan Leaf driver, we already know (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 14:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carwingsdatadata protectionDataProtectionelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevleaflocationlocation datalocation-awarelocation-basedLocationDatanissannissan leafNissanLeafprivacyRSSrss feedrss feedsrss readerRssFeedRssFeedsRssReaderservervideoThu, 16 Jun 2011 14:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Japan trying out roadside service vehicles capable of charging EVs, soothing range anxiety]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/09/japan-trying-out-roadside-service-vehicles-capable-of-charging-e/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/09/japan-trying-out-roadside-service-vehicles-capable-of-charging-e/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/09/japan-trying-out-roadside-service-vehicles-capable-of-charging-e/#comments No matter how hard Nissan tries to convince folks that driving an EV won't leave them stranded on the side of the road gagging for electricity, that pesky range anxiety issue continues to permeate discussions about electric cars. So, what else to do but strap an EV charger on roadside service vehicles? The Japan Automobile Federation is trialing just such a scheme, with a Nissan-built prototype service truck helping to top up electrified transporters that have ended up bereft of juice at an inopportune moment. The trial's gotten its start in Kanagawa Prefecture this week, which, incidentally, happens to be using a Nissan Leaf as its governor's official car. So, even if you do figure out a way to use up your Leaf's entire battery, you get the comfort of knowing you're riding like a governor and that the good men in orange jumpsuits will be there to take care of your problemo.

Continue reading Japan trying out roadside service vehicles capable of charging EVs, soothing range anxiety

Japan trying out roadside service vehicles capable of charging EVs, soothing range anxiety originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carcarschargerchargingelectricelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleenvironmentevev chargerEvChargerjapanjapan automobile federationJapanAutomobileFederationnissanprototyperange anxietyRangeAnxietyrechargingtesttransporttransportationtrialvehicleThu, 09 Jun 2011 08:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: Cities of the future, the Aqua Star, and 0-60 in 3.4 seconds... with a go-kart]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/08/inhabitats-week-in-green-cities-of-the-future-paper-gadgets/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/08/inhabitats-week-in-green-cities-of-the-future-paper-gadgets/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/08/inhabitats-week-in-green-cities-of-the-future-paper-gadgets/#commentsEach week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

What will the high-tech city of the future look like? This week Inhabitat brought you a sneak peek as we took an exclusive look inside Abu Dhabi's carbon-neutral Masdar City, which just opened for business. We also brought you brand new photos of the world's largest wooden structure, and we spotted several innovative solar-powered buildings - Sweden's rotating photovoltaic cog building and a self-sustaining pod home that can be perched on any roof.

Green transportation also took off with a blast this week as the Linde E1 Electric Go-Kart set a Guinness World Record by traveling from 0-60 in 3.4 seconds and Synergy's folded-wing glider plane announced plans to compete in the CAFE Green Flight Challenge. We also saw greener vehicles gear up around the world as France announced plans to deploy a fleet of all-electric garbage trucks next week and Nissan unveiled the NV200 -- New York City's taxi of tomorrow. And for those looking for an underwater escape this summer, don't miss out on the Aqua Star - a submersible electric scooter capable of charting the ocean depths.

In other news, this week we showcased several high-tech concept gadgets made from paper - an origami cell phone that folds into a flat piece of cardboard and the world's first interactive paper computer. We also brought you a sensor glove that could help stroke patients recover through gaming, and we covered a clutch of wired home furnishings that bring new meaning to the term geek chic -- from an interweb chaise made from 1,100 feet of coaxial cable to an analog cassette tape chair, to a modern computer mouse made from fine wool felt.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: Cities of the future, the Aqua Star, and 0-60 in 3.4 seconds... with a go-kart originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 08 May 2011 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aqua starAquaStararchitecturechairchairsgarbage truckGarbageTruckglidergo-kartinhabitatinhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreenLinde e1LindeE1Masdar cityMasdarCityNissanNV200origamipaperpaper computerPaperComputerplaneSynergytaxiweek in greenWeekInGreenwoodSun, 08 May 2011 21:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan NV200 van named NYC's 'Taxi of Tomorrow,' Travis Bickle cringes (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/04/nissan-nv200-van-named-nycs-taxi-of-tomorrow-travis-bickle-c/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/04/nissan-nv200-van-named-nycs-taxi-of-tomorrow-travis-bickle-c/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/04/nissan-nv200-van-named-nycs-taxi-of-tomorrow-travis-bickle-c/#comments New Yorkers, this is your "Taxi of Tomorrow." After two years of deliberation, Nissan's NV200 was chosen as the city's exclusive taxi yesterday, edging out models from Ford Motor Co. and Turkish manufacturer Karsan. The four-passenger van is slated to hit New York's streets in late 2013, after which it will be gradually phased in on a more widespread basis. With a manufacturer suggested retail price of around $29,000, the commodious NV200 boasts a 2.0L 4-cylinder powertrain, transparent roof panel, driver navigation system, overhead reading lights and a mobile charging unit, replete with a 12V outlet and two USB ports. Nissan also placed an emphasis on passenger and pedestrian safety, with front and rear-seat curtain airbags, standard traction control and an external lighting system designed to alert others when the NV200's doors are opening. The van's microbial seat fabric should help assuage the fears of many germophobes, while its "low-annoyance" horn promises to put a (probably miniscule) dent in the city's noise pollution. Mayor Bloomberg definitely won't realize his all-hybrid dreams by 2012, but Nissan has agreed to participate in a forthcoming EV pilot program, involving up to six of the company's electric LEAFs. Until then, New Yorkers will have plenty of time to get used to the city's new soccer mom approach to taxi transport. Cruise past the break for full PR and video.

Continue reading Nissan NV200 van named NYC's 'Taxi of Tomorrow,' Travis Bickle cringes (video)

Nissan NV200 van named NYC's 'Taxi of Tomorrow,' Travis Bickle cringes (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 May 2011 15:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airbagautobloombergcarchargerDrivingelectric vehicleElectricVehicleEVleafmayor bloombergMayorBloombergnavigationNavigationSystemnew yorknew york cityNewYorkNewYorkCitynissanNissan Leafnissan nv200NissanLeafNissanNv200NYCpowertrainpublic transportationPublicTransportationtaxiusbvideoWed, 04 May 2011 15:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan Leaf entered in 2011 Pikes Peak Hill Climb, can feel free to just coast back down again]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/26/nissan-leaf-entered-in-2011-pikes-peak-hill-climb-can-feel-free/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/26/nissan-leaf-entered-in-2011-pikes-peak-hill-climb-can-feel-free/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/26/nissan-leaf-entered-in-2011-pikes-peak-hill-climb-can-feel-free/#commentsNissan Leaf entered in 2011 Pikes Peak Hill Climb, can feel free to just coast back down again There are many, many tests of automotive performance throughout the average calendar year, yet the Pikes Peak Hill Climb stands out as one of America's most historic and most brutal. Oh, and most pucker-inducing, what with the general lack of guardrails and corner edges bounded by nothing but thousands of feet of free-fall -- then rocks. This is the challenge that an unmodified Nissan Leaf will face this summer, all 110 horsepower dedicated to hitting the summit in a time that hopefully won't be too embarrassing but surely won't challenge the current EV record of 13 minutes and 17 seconds. Driver Chad Hord will sit behind the wheel when the event gets underway on June 26th, burning nary a drop of gas on the way up and putting on something less of a show than Ari Vatanen did in his (traditionally-powered) Peugeot back in 1990. That rather invigorating performance is embedded below for your viewing pleasure.

Continue reading Nissan Leaf entered in 2011 Pikes Peak Hill Climb, can feel free to just coast back down again

Nissan Leaf entered in 2011 Pikes Peak Hill Climb, can feel free to just coast back down again originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bevelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevleafnissanpikes peakpikes peak hill climbPikesPeakPikesPeakHillClimbTue, 26 Apr 2011 11:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan recovering from quake, ramps up Leaf deliveries]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/21/nissan-recovering-from-quake-ramps-up-leaf-deliveries/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/21/nissan-recovering-from-quake-ramps-up-leaf-deliveries/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/21/nissan-recovering-from-quake-ramps-up-leaf-deliveries/#commentsNissan Lead production line
 We have some good news from the Land of the Rising Sun -- a fresh batch of Leafs are on their way to American shores. At the New York Auto show, Nissan announced that the first shipments of post earthquake-produced EVs should be in the hands of American consumers by April 27th. The company still expects to fulfill current orders by the end of summer and on May 1st will begin accepting new reservations for vehicles in Arizona, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, and Washington. Buyers in the southeastern US will be able to join the plug-in parade this fall, to be followed by a nationwide launch in 2012. Now that the auto manufacturing plants are getting back to business as usual following the tsunami that ravaged Japan, we can only hope the rest of the country isn't too far behind. PR after the break.

Continue reading Nissan recovering from quake, ramps up Leaf deliveries

Nissan recovering from quake, ramps up Leaf deliveries originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 11:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>availabilitycarcarsdeliveryelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleEVfactoriesjapanleafmanufaturingnew york auto showNewYorkAutoShownissanNissan LeafNissan LEAF EVNissanLeafNissanLeafEvroadmapscheduleThu, 21 Apr 2011 11:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan Leaf Nismo RC all-electric race car eyes-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/20/nissan-leaf-nismo-rc-all-electric-race-car-eyes-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/20/nissan-leaf-nismo-rc-all-electric-race-car-eyes-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/20/nissan-leaf-nismo-rc-all-electric-race-car-eyes-on/#commentsNissan Leaf Nismo RC all-electric race car eyes-on When Nissan announced the Leaf RC we, naturally, were expecting a little radio controlled version of the battery-electric sedan that's making its way to driveways now -- slowly. We certainly didn't expect a race version of the thing, but that's what Nissan created, and now here it is at the New York International Auto Show, sitting on a turntable and spinning away. In fact you could envision that spinning stretching it out. It's rather... longer than the stock Leaf. In fact, it really looks nothing at all like the stock car, but if it did it'd be all the more strange on the track than this long, low, spread-out, carbon fiber wedge. They are at least both pure electrics and both painted blue, though under the cerulean lights here just about everything is looking decidedly cool. Okay, so 107HP, a top speed of 93MPH, and a maximum duration of just 20 minutes on the track will hardly see this winning any WTCC races, but with a weight of just 2,068 pounds (some 700 less than a Tesla Roadster) we'd certainly take one for a spin -- even if it were a short one.

Gallery: Nissan Leaf Nismo RC

Nissan Leaf Nismo RC all-electric race car eyes-on originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 17:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battery electricBatteryElectricbevelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevleafleaf rcLeafRcnew yorknew york international auto showNewYorkNewYorkInternationalAutoShownismonissannyiasnyias 2011Nyias2011race carRaceCarWed, 20 Apr 2011 17:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan Leaf Nismo RC swaps basic comforts for a carbon fiber body and some racing good looks]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/18/nissan-leaf-nismo-rc-swaps-basic-comforts-for-a-carbon-fiber-bod/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/18/nissan-leaf-nismo-rc-swaps-basic-comforts-for-a-carbon-fiber-bod/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/18/nissan-leaf-nismo-rc-swaps-basic-comforts-for-a-carbon-fiber-bod/#comments Electric vehicles may have that instant torque thing going for them, but they're still a bit behind when it comes to giving heart palpitations to those diehard petrolheads. Hoping to change that perception, Nissan is setting up to unveil a brand new concept vehicle, dubbed the Leaf Nismo RC (that stands for Racing Competition, not "radio-controlled"), which strips the one-size-fits-all Leaf down to its constituent elements. The drivetrain is still 100 percent electric, however it's now powering the rear wheels instead of the front, while things like the rear seats, trunk, audio system, carpeting, and navigation have been completely removed. A carbon fiber chassis helps the Nismo RC keep weight down to 2,068 pounds (938kg), equivalent to just 60 percent of the original Leaf's heft. Yes, the Leaf is now lighter! In performance terms, you're looking at a car that can hit 62mph within 6.85 seconds, max out the speedometer at 93mph, and last a terrifying 20 minutes under racing conditions. This prototype vehicle will debut at the upcoming New York Auto Show and will thereafter help Nissan research better aerodynamics and, presumably, slightly better energy efficiency.

Continue reading Nissan Leaf Nismo RC swaps basic comforts for a carbon fiber body and some racing good looks

Nissan Leaf Nismo RC swaps basic comforts for a carbon fiber body and some racing good looks originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 18 Apr 2011 07:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto showAutoShowcarcarbon fiberCarbonFiberconceptconcept carConceptCarelectricelectric carelectric racingelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricRacingElectricVehicleelectring racing carElectringRacingCarevleafnew yorknew york auto showNewYorkNewYorkAutoShownismonismo rcNismoRcnissannissan leafNissanLeafprototyperacingracing carRacingCarMon, 18 Apr 2011 07:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Hertz launches hourly EV rentals in London, self-satisfaction comes free]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/hertz-launches-hourly-ev-rentals-in-london-self-satisfaction-co/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/hertz-launches-hourly-ev-rentals-in-london-self-satisfaction-co/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/hertz-launches-hourly-ev-rentals-in-london-self-satisfaction-co/#commentsConnect by Hertz Contract-free cellphones, declining marriage rates and car-sharing services all tell us you're a bunch of commitmentphobes. Lucky for you the world is willing to oblige your wishy-washy ways, and for those who also happen to have a bit of a green streak, Connect by Hertz offers hourly rentals on electric cars. After launching its EV rental program here in New York last year, Hertz promised to expand to several other cities and countries by the end of 2011, with London being the next to go online this Friday. British urbanites averse to car ownership will be able to pick from a fleet of vehicles including the iMieV, Nissan LEAF and Renault Kangoo, range anxiety diminished thanks to the city's 16 charging stations. It's not exactly the Jetsons, but if this is the future of transportation, we're ok with that -- we're thinking Mother Earth is too.

Hertz launches hourly EV rentals in London, self-satisfaction comes free originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 01:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carcar rentalcar sharingCarRentalCarSharingconnectconnect by hertzConnectByHertzelectricelectric carelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesevgreenhertzimievkangarooleaflondonnissannissan leafNissanLeafplug inplug-inPlugInrenaultRenault KangooRenaultKangoorentalrentalstransportationFri, 15 Apr 2011 01:01:00 EST<![CDATA[OSCar eO will bring EVs to the Dakar rally (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/11/oscar-eo-will-bring-evs-to-the-dakar-rally-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/11/oscar-eo-will-bring-evs-to-the-dakar-rally-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/11/oscar-eo-will-bring-evs-to-the-dakar-rally-video/#commentsOSCar eO will bring EVs to the Dakar rally (video) The Dakar is the most grueling race in the world and, while that historic location is no longer the destination, the race itself still serves as the most brutal punishment a car (or bike) can take. If you can cover 5,500 miles across some of the roughest terrain in the world you know you built it right. The Rīga Rally-Raid Team has done just that in the past, and for its next attempt it'll make things more interesting with a series hybrid powertrain. Its car is called the OSCar eO, an EV with enough batteries to make it between 150 and 300km on a charge. However, most Dakar stages are well longer than that, so the car also carries an on-board generator, a Nissan-sourced engine fueled by a 200 liter fuel tank. That's 53 gallons worth of the good stuff to keep this thing going over the kind of terrain you can see in the video below, with regenerative dampers helping to add juice as well. Will the whole contraption make it all the way to Dakar Lima? We're hopeful, but then again we all know how well sand and electronics get along.

Continue reading OSCar eO will bring EVs to the Dakar rally (video)

OSCar eO will bring EVs to the Dakar rally (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 12:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dakardakar 2012Dakar2012eohybridnissanoscoscarraidrallyrigaseries hybridSeriesHybridvideowinstonwinston batteryWinstonBatteryMon, 11 Apr 2011 12:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaf deliveries delayed by Japanese quake, but Nissan and Sony already reopening factories]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/21/leaf-deliveries-delayed-by-japanese-quake-but-nissan-and-sony-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/21/leaf-deliveries-delayed-by-japanese-quake-but-nissan-and-sony-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/21/leaf-deliveries-delayed-by-japanese-quake-but-nissan-and-sony-a/#comments Not the jolliest of news if you were waiting on a fresh new Leaf EV to blow in any time soon, as Nissan has had to understandably delay shipments as a result of the natural disaster that has befallen Japan. Updates on when customers might expect their orders to be completed will be forthcoming as soon as available. There are happier developments on the isle of Japan itself, however, where Nissan is resuming limited operations at five plants today and expects to be producing vehicles again by Thursday, which will last as long as supplies do. Sony has also shaken off some of the effects of the recent earthquake and says it'll restart production of lithium-ion batteries at its Tochigi prefecture plant tomorrow. So, encouraging signs ahead for Japan's industry, let's hope everyone else's recovery proves to be as swift.

Leaf deliveries delayed by Japanese quake, but Nissan and Sony already reopening factories originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cardelaydelaysdeliveryelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevfactoriesfactoryfalloutjapanleafmanufacturingnissannissan leafNissanLeafproductionreopensonytsunamiMon, 21 Mar 2011 15:25:00 EST