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[Ford says Sync is now in 4 million vehicles, takes a moment to talk up Focus Electric]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/26/ford-sync-in-4-million-vehicles/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/26/ford-sync-in-4-million-vehicles/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/26/ford-sync-in-4-million-vehicles/#comments Ford says Sync is now in 4 million vehicles, takes a moment to talk up Focus Electric

Since its debut in 2007, Ford and Microsoft's Sync infotainment system has made its way into several of the auto maker's models, including the 2012 Focus Electric. At this week's Future in Review tech conference, Ford announced that more than 4 million vehicles in the US have its entertainment platform on board. In addition to dropping that stat, the company talked up its new EV, which it says can charge in half the time it takes for the Nissan Leaf. Maybe Ford caught wind of Nissan's just-announced e-NV200 all-electric van and wanted to remind those in the market for an EV that a blue box isn't the only option.

Continue reading Ford says Sync is now in 4 million vehicles, takes a moment to talk up Focus Electric

Ford says Sync is now in 4 million vehicles, takes a moment to talk up Focus Electric originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 26 May 2012 01:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Electric carelectric carselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricCarsElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesEVevsfordford focus electricford microsoftford microsoft syncford syncFordFocusElectricFordMicrosoftFordMicrosoftSyncFordSyncFuture in Review conferenceFutureInReviewConferenceinfotainmentinfotainment systeminfotainment systemsInfotainmentSystemInfotainmentSystemsminipostnissan e-nv200Nissan LeafNissan LEAF EVNissanE-nv200NissanLeafNissanLeafEvsyncSat, 26 May 2012 01:31:00 EST<![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[Autocar takes Gordon Murray's T.25 and T.27 city cars for a spin, gives us its impressions]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/23/gordon-murray-t27-t25-city-car/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/23/gordon-murray-t27-t25-city-car/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/23/gordon-murray-t27-t25-city-car/#comments Image

When he isn't tinkering around with McLaren F1 supercars and Batmobiles, Gordon Murray is working on fuel-efficient -- or even fuel-independent -- city cars. Autocar just got its hands on the gas-powered T.25 and battery-powered T.27, and reports a pleasant experience with the three-seaters. We already knew that the T.27 crashes well and offers efficiency comparable to an astounding 350MPG, but we learned even more info today. The 74MPG T.25 will cost £6000 ($9467) should it ever go into production, while the T.27 would theoretically run you a grand more, but also get you 100-130 miles between four-hour charges. The body and interior is simple and innovative which becomes evident before you even get inside -- stepping behind a windscreen that pivots forward on struts. Neither travels at high speeds (90mph for the T25 and 65mph for the T.27, though it's faster off the mark), but these cars don't aspire to compete with Formula 1 racers; they're going for efficiency and simplicity -- and evidently doing it pretty well.

Autocar takes Gordon Murray's T.25 and T.27 city cars for a spin, gives us its impressions originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 May 2012 17:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autocarefficiencyelectric carelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesf1formula 1Formula1gordon murrayGordonMurraymclarenmclaren f1MclarenF1t.25t.27t25T25 City CarT25CityCart27t27 city carT27CityCarWed, 23 May 2012 17:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Midtronics GRX-5100 simplifies servicing hybrid and EV batteries]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/18/midtronics-grx-5100-simplifies-servicing-hybrid-and-ev-batteries/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/18/midtronics-grx-5100-simplifies-servicing-hybrid-and-ev-batteries/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/18/midtronics-grx-5100-simplifies-servicing-hybrid-and-ev-batteries/#comments Midtronics GRX-5100 simplifies servicing hybrid and EV batteries

As we move away from traditional fossil fuel-burning automobiles towards hybrids and EVs, we're presented with new challenges -- namely servicing those vehicles and their high-voltage batteries. When it comes time for transport, in the event of an accident or when components need to be serviced individually, it's necessary to completely drain the cells on board, and that's where Midtronics' GRX-5100 comes in. The vehicle battery service and de-power tool is wrapping up field testing at GM and may soon find itself in "reclamation yards" (read: junk yards) as well as your local mechanic. With testing out of the way Midtronics plans to ramp up production before the end of the year, and its updateable firmware means it will be able to handle future vehicles with nothing more than an upgrade loaded on a USB key. For more info check out the PR after the break.

Continue reading Midtronics GRX-5100 simplifies servicing hybrid and EV batteries

Midtronics GRX-5100 simplifies servicing hybrid and EV batteries originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 18 May 2012 05:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battery serviceBatteryServiceelectric vehiclesElectricVehiclesEVGRX-5100hybridhybrid carsHybridCarsMidtronicsmidtronics GRX-5100MidtronicsGrx-5100serviceFri, 18 May 2012 05:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker rep defends Karma hybrid sedan in garage fire aftermath]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/fisker-rep-defends-karma-hybrid-sedan-garage-fire-aftermath/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/fisker-rep-defends-karma-hybrid-sedan-garage-fire-aftermath/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/fisker-rep-defends-karma-hybrid-sedan-garage-fire-aftermath/#comments Fisker rep defends its hybrid sedan in garage fire aftermath

Last week, a newly purchased Fisker Karma went up in flames, damaging its owner's home and earning the company behind that hybrid sedan plenty of bad press. The auto maker hasn't submitted an official explanation for the fire, though the former chief engineer for the late General Motors EV1 electric car places the blame on the hybrid's tight engine bay packing. Fisker clearly isn't having any of that -- according to the company's director of powertrain:

Our technologies and engine design have been fully tested and certified at the highest level. It is irresponsible and ill-informed for technology pundits to suggest otherwise in order to secure media attention for unfounded claims.

No defensiveness there, then.

Fisker rep defends Karma hybrid sedan in garage fire aftermath originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 May 2012 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Electric carelectric carselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricCarsElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesEVFireFire HazardFireHazardFiskerFisker KarmaFiskerKarmahybrid carsHybridCarshybridsLithium Ionlithium ion batterieslithium ion batteryLithiumIonLithiumIonBatteriesLithiumIonBatteryTue, 15 May 2012 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker Karma reportedly sets house on fire, doesn't restore cosmic balance (updated)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/fisker-karma-reportedly-sets-house-on-fire/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/fisker-karma-reportedly-sets-house-on-fire/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/fisker-karma-reportedly-sets-house-on-fire/#comments Image

Fisker's Karma woes aren't relenting anytime soon, as one new owner just found out the hard way. A driver in Sugar Land, Texas parked his recently obtained hybrid sedan in his garage last week, only to have the car self-immolate minutes later and damage his new home. Despite the slight risk of lithium-ion batteries catching fire, the luxury car's power pack (unplugged at the time) appears to have been left in one piece -- suggesting that something more complicated is at fault. For their part, neither Fisker nor insurance investigators are ready to offer a definite explanation as to what set the car on fire, although an electrical panel in the garage is a possible lead. Hybrids and pure EVs typically aren't at significant risk of igniting, so we might not ask for a refund... but we would recommend keeping an eye (and a nose) on any potential fire hazards around your eco-friendly auto.

Update: Looks like Fisker's about to take some more heat. Here's a statement from the owner's attorney:

The fire department recently completed their investigation and determined the origin of the fire was, in fact, Gutierrez's newly purchased Fisker Karma hybrid electric vehicle that he just took possession of two weeks earlier

Hit up our source link after the break to read the note in full.

Fisker Karma reportedly sets house on fire, doesn't restore cosmic balance (updated) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 May 2012 23:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battery fireBatteryFireElectric carelectric carselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricCarsElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesEVfirefiskerFisker KarmaFiskerKarmakarmaLithium Ionlithium ion batteryLithium-Ionlithium-ion batteryLithium-ionBatteryLithiumIonLithiumIonBatterysafetyTue, 08 May 2012 23:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi, GM, others unite on 20-minute EV charging standard for green drivers in a rush]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/automakers-unite-on-20-minute-ev-charging/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/automakers-unite-on-20-minute-ev-charging/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/automakers-unite-on-20-minute-ev-charging/#comments 20-minute EV charger

Fast-charging an EV isn't new in itself, but deciding on a standard for it is. Which is why we're glad to hear that Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Daimler, Ford, GM, Porsche and Volkswagen have all agreed to a common format for their EV charging ports, the not-very-elegantly-titled DC Fast Charging with a Combined Charging System. Together, the automakers are promising a consistent way to power up a car within 15 to 20 minutes, all without breaking a current Type 1 AC charging implementation. The new format will be demoed at the Electric Vehicle Symposium 26 in Los Angeles starting May 6. Just be aware that your first-generation Focus Electric won't be certain to use the newly universal technology: the first cars to tout the new plug won't be at dealerships until 2013, and the European vehicle association ACEA is only guaranteeing that charging stations on the continent will be using the DC Fast Charging system by 2017. Check after the break for a further look at the port.

Continue reading Audi, GM, others unite on 20-minute EV charging standard for green drivers in a rush

Audi, GM, others unite on 20-minute EV charging standard for green drivers in a rush originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 May 2012 01:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ACEAaudibmwchryslerDaimlerelectric vehicleelectric vehicle chargerselectric vehicle chargingelectric vehicle charging stationelectric vehicle charging stationselectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehicleChargersElectricVehicleChargingElectricVehicleChargingStationElectricVehicleChargingStationsElectricVehiclesEVev chargingev charging standardev charging stationEvChargingEvChargingStandardEvChargingStationfordgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmPorschestandardstandardsvolkswagenFri, 04 May 2012 01:35:00 EST<![CDATA[FAA writing rules for electric aircraft, to allow public to fly them in the next decade]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/27/faa-electirc-aircraft-rules/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/27/faa-electirc-aircraft-rules/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/27/faa-electirc-aircraft-rules/#comments FAA writing rules for electric aircraft, to allow public to fly them in the next decade

There are those in the general aviation community who think electric planes are the future for private aircraft, but regulatory hurdles are in place preventing them from proliferating in our skies. You see, current FAA requirements for light sport aircraft (LSA) -- planes that can be flown by anyone with a pilot's license -- preclude electric powerplants, and that makes such planes unavailable to most private pilots. Well, today at the CAFE Electric Aircraft Symposium, FAA analyst Tom Gunnarson delivered some good news for flying EV advocates, stating that the FAA has completed its regulatory study on electric aircraft, and the rulemaking process will begin soon. Once those rules have been written, electrically-propelled aircraft will be available for use as LSA by the public, which isn't possible today given their current status as experimental craft. The bad news? Governmental wheels spin slowly, and Gunnarson said that incorporating those new rules into the current regulatory framework will take five years if we're lucky, but ten years is a more likely time frame for the FAA to finish. In the meantime, you'll have to settle for air shows or terrestrial transport to get your EV fix.

FAA writing rules for electric aircraft, to allow public to fly them in the next decade originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 19:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aircraftairplanecafecafe electriccafe electric aircraft symposiumCafeElectricCafeElectricAircraftSymposiumelectric aircraftelectric planeelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricAircraftElectricPlaneElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesevfaaplaneplanesregulationregulationstom gunnarsonTomGunnarsonFri, 27 Apr 2012 19:33:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW i8 Concept Spyder takes to the road, sounds almost as gorgeous as it looks (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/02/bmw-i8-concept-spyder-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/02/bmw-i8-concept-spyder-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/02/bmw-i8-concept-spyder-video/#comments It's been less than a year since our first opportunity to get up close and personal with BMW's i8 plug-in electric car, and now the German automaker is back to tease a whole new beast. The Concept Spyder made a static appearance over the weekend, but today the sportier i8 has returned to the spotlight, with video footage in tow. BimmerPost managed to share some clips via YouTube, including a straight-cut-gear-fueled drive around a parking lot and across a lamp-lit bridge, somewhere in the Eastern U.S., believe it or not (take note of the I-95 sign in the first few seconds). You can also gawk at some side-to-side pans of the Spyder's exterior, with a few HD interior close-ups to boot. And where can you find said stimulating simulations? Buckle up and click past the break.

Update: That's Miami there in the bridge scene. A perfect setting for the Spyder test drive.

Continue reading BMW i8 Concept Spyder takes to the road, sounds almost as gorgeous as it looks (video)

BMW i8 Concept Spyder takes to the road, sounds almost as gorgeous as it looks (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 19:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bmwbmw ibmw i8 spyderBmwIBmwI8Spydercarcarselectricelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleshybridi8plug-in hybridPlug-inHybridprototypeprototypesspydertransportationvehiclevehiclesvideovideosMon, 02 Apr 2012 19:46:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW adds extra sportiness to its i-series lineup, unveils i8 Concept Spyder]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/31/bmw-unveils-i8-concept-spyder-hybrid-plug-in/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/31/bmw-unveils-i8-concept-spyder-hybrid-plug-in/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/31/bmw-unveils-i8-concept-spyder-hybrid-plug-in/#comments Image
We've swooned over BMW's i3 and i8 plug-in gasoline electric hybrids for some time now, so naturally our hearts raced today when the company announced its latest addition to the series, the i8 Concept Spyder. What you're looking at is essentially a sportier version of the i8 Coupe, with the appropriate accents and design tweaks to match. So, what's different in this variant of the nearly gull-winged wonder with a 96 kW / 131hp electric motor up front and 164 kW / 223hp gasoline engine on back? BMW notes that the vehicle features a shorter wheelbase and overall length (all while maintaining its 50-50 weight distribution), a slighter darker interior and refreshed paint job on its exterior, topless roof and even a pair of matching folded kickboards(!) that stow in the back. BMW hasn't mentioned when they'll be showing this Spyder in flesh, but as Autoblog notes, the New York Auto show is only a week way -- and we'll be sure to let you know if we spot it ourselves. In the meantime, you can zip over to Autoblog and the press release after the break for the details.

Continue reading BMW adds extra sportiness to its i-series lineup, unveils i8 Concept Spyder

BMW adds extra sportiness to its i-series lineup, unveils i8 Concept Spyder originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 31 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bmwbmw ibmw i8 spyderBmwIBmwI8Spyderelectricelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleshybridnew york auto showNewYorkAutoShowplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridSat, 31 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW and Toyota come together, right now, over batteries]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/27/bmw-toyota-battery-research/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/27/bmw-toyota-battery-research/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/27/bmw-toyota-battery-research/#comments ImageClue's in the headline, really. Car makers BMW and Toyota have finally gotten around to confirming that they're pairing up to research next generation lithium-ion batteries. The focus will be on building environmentally friendly technologies that'll boost the power of future EVs. The duo will also examine new ways of combining materials to build better cathodes, anodes and electrolytes. As part of the deal, Toyota will be buying diesel engines for its European subsidiary from its Teutonic new best friend from 2014.

Continue reading BMW and Toyota come together, right now, over batteries

BMW and Toyota come together, right now, over batteries originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 13:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMWbmw i3bmw i8bmw project iBmwI3BmwI8BmwProjectIelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesi3i8lithium ionlithium-ionLithiumIonplug inplug in hybridPlugInPlugInHybridPriusproject iProjectITMCToyotaToyota Motor CorporationToyotaMotorCorporationTue, 27 Mar 2012 13:38:00 EST<![CDATA[NRG to bring 200 fast-charging EV stations to the Golden State, pump $100 million into CA infrastructure]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/25/nrg-to-bring-200-fast-charging-ev-stations-to-the-golden-state/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/25/nrg-to-bring-200-fast-charging-ev-stations-to-the-golden-state/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/25/nrg-to-bring-200-fast-charging-ev-stations-to-the-golden-state/#comments Way back before NRG was making electric DeLoreans and building solar power plants, it co-owned a slew of power facilities in California with Dynegy -- an energy outfit that got caught up in a long-term litigation over some old energy contracts with the state. Long story short, that legal dispute became NRG's problem in 2006, after it acquired Dynegy's majority stake in the partnership -- a problem it's finally resolving by peppering California with 200 fast-charging EV stations. The $120 million settlement promises to create jobs, invest in the state's economy and provide job training for the stations' maintenance and installation crews.

NRG may be shelling out some serious cash, but the deal is still mutually beneficial -- those extra vehicle chargers will be running on its own fee-based eVgo network, after all. Governor Jerry Brown calls the settlement the beginning of a "virtuous circle" that will boost EV sales for the state, which will in turn, provoke investors to expand California's charging infrastructure, which will, of course, sell more cars. In fact, he's banking on it, and has signed an executive order setting targets for EV adoption. If all goes as planned, you'll be looking at a smog free San Francisco skyline by 2050. Won't that be nice?

Continue reading NRG to bring 200 fast-charging EV stations to the Golden State, pump $100 million into CA infrastructure

NRG to bring 200 fast-charging EV stations to the Golden State, pump $100 million into CA infrastructure originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 25 Mar 2012 07:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiaDynegyelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesEVevgoevgo networkEvgoNetworkFreedom StationFreedomStationgas guzzlergas guzzlersGasGuzzlerGasGuzzlersGovernor Jerry BrownGovernorJerryBrowninfrastructurejerry brownJerryBrownNissan LeafNRGNRG EnergyNrgEnergySun, 25 Mar 2012 07:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Device warns of catastrophic failure in lithium-ion batteries, robots celebrate]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/24/device-warns-of-catastrophic-failure-in-lithium-ion-batteries-r/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/24/device-warns-of-catastrophic-failure-in-lithium-ion-batteries-r/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/24/device-warns-of-catastrophic-failure-in-lithium-ion-batteries-r/#comments
"Catastrophic lithium-ion battery failure" are five words Malfunctioning Eddie never wants to hear, and may not have to, thanks to a new sensor developed by the folks at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory. Despite the popularity of lithium-ion batteries in everything from consumer electronics to hybrid and electric vehicles, they have been associated with a phenomenon called "thermal runaway" -- known to cause overheating and potentially, fire. The newly developed device measures the electrical parameter of the cell, which is an indicator of whether the internal layer temperatures are getting too toasty. The best part? The warning comes before the heat can reach the surface and cause catastrophic failure, perhaps saving our electronics from a fate like the one in the video after the break.

Continue reading Device warns of catastrophic failure in lithium-ion batteries, robots celebrate

Device warns of catastrophic failure in lithium-ion batteries, robots celebrate originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 24 Dec 2011 23:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteriesconsumer electronicsConsumerElectronicselectric vehicleselectrical vehiclesElectricalVehiclesElectricVehicleselectrodeselectrolytesenergyheatJohn Hopkins University Applied Physics LaboratoryJohnHopkinsUniversityAppliedPhysicsLaboratoryjohns hopkinsJohnsHopkinsLithium Ionlithium ion batteriesLithiumIonLithiumIonBatteriesthermal runawayThermalRunawayvideoSat, 24 Dec 2011 23:54:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW and Toyota to collaborate on future lithium-ion tech, love notes]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/bmw-and-toyota-to-collaborate-on-future-lithium-ion-tech-love-n/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/bmw-and-toyota-to-collaborate-on-future-lithium-ion-tech-love-n/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/bmw-and-toyota-to-collaborate-on-future-lithium-ion-tech-love-n/#comments What kind of doors open when you're Toyota and you sell over three million hybrids? Apparently a partnership with BMW on "next-generation" lithium-ion packs and all sorts of future green debauchery. Whether the collaboration will bear fruit in time for München's upcoming lithium-ion powered i3 and i8 remains to be seen, but the tie-up should save the duo mucho dinero as they pool development time and cut costs with economies of scale. The memorandum will also grant Toyota's European outfit with access to BMW's 1.6 and 2.0 liter diesel engines come 2014. Does that mean we're a little over three years from the bimmer powered oil burning Prius of our dreams? Guess we'll have to find out, but we can't imagine things are exactly peachy over in France right about now.

Continue reading BMW and Toyota to collaborate on future lithium-ion tech, love notes

BMW and Toyota to collaborate on future lithium-ion tech, love notes originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 08:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw i3bmw i8bmw project iBmwI3BmwI8BmwProjectIelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesi3i8lithium ionlithium-ionLithiumIonplug inplug in hybridPlugInPlugInHybridpriusproject iProjectItoyotatoyota priusToyotaPriusFri, 02 Dec 2011 08:50:00 EST<![CDATA[GM's got a brand new electric motor and it'll give you the key (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/gms-got-a-brand-new-electric-motor-and-itll-give-you-the-key/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/gms-got-a-brand-new-electric-motor-and-itll-give-you-the-key/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/gms-got-a-brand-new-electric-motor-and-itll-give-you-the-key/#comments
Cars with electric motors running the show are few and far between, which is something we need to change -- that's why General Motors is finishing up a new plant in White Marsh, Maryland. The facility will be cooking up magnet and induction electrical motors to power GM's next generation of EVs. The first off the line will be the 85 kW (114hp) electric engine that'll sit inside the hood of 2013's dinky Chevy Spark EV. Peek after the break and you'll be rewarded with a cornucopia (that's the technical term for four, right?) of videos and a press release about the company's plans for electrical domination.

[Thanks, Nicole]

Continue reading GM's got a brand new electric motor and it'll give you the key (video)

GM's got a brand new electric motor and it'll give you the key (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BaltimoreChevy SparkChevy Spark EVChevySparkChevySparkEvElectric MotorElectric VehicleElectric VehiclesElectricMotorElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesEVGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMInduction Electric MotorInductionElectricMotorMagnet Electric MotorMagnet MotorMagnetElectricMotorMagnetMotorRick RhodesRickRhodesvideoMon, 31 Oct 2011 15:32:00 EST<![CDATA[EV manufacturers get harmonized, agree to build a universal charging system]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/ev-manufacturers-get-harmonized-agree-to-build-a-universal-char/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/ev-manufacturers-get-harmonized-agree-to-build-a-universal-char/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/ev-manufacturers-get-harmonized-agree-to-build-a-universal-char/#comments Fancy segregating EV charging stations by vehicle manufacturer? No? A slew of major automobile firms didn't like the idea much either, and have agreed on a combined charging system to use as an international standard. Audi, BMW, Daimler, Ford, General Motors, Porsche and Volkswagen now support a single-port fast charging system that integrates all charging configurations -- from spiffy quick charging setups, down to modest Level 1 rigs. The new system also crowns HomePlug Green PHY as the standard communication protocol, allowing charging stations to hook compatible EVs to Powerline Smart Grid applications. Where do all these fancy features leave you and your Leaf? Charged, of course -- the new "harmonized electric vehicle charging solution" promises to be backward compatible with current industry standard J1772 connectors. Hit the break for Ford's official press release.

Continue reading EV manufacturers get harmonized, agree to build a universal charging system

EV manufacturers get harmonized, agree to build a universal charging system originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 06:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AudiBMWcarchargerchargingDaimlereco-friendlyelectricelectric carelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesevEV chargingEV charging stationsEvChargingEvChargingStationsFordFord Motor CoGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsgmgreenHomePlug Green PHYHomeplugGreenPhyJ1772LeafNpowerplug inplug in vehiclesplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridPlugInPlugInVehiclesPorscheprotocolstandardVolkswagenFri, 14 Oct 2011 06:19:00 EST<![CDATA[350Green to install 400 EV charging stations across the US]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/23/350green-to-install-400-ev-charging-stations-across-the-us/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/23/350green-to-install-400-ev-charging-stations-across-the-us/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/23/350green-to-install-400-ev-charging-stations-across-the-us/#comments ChargePoint EV charging stations are still hard to come by here in the US and, while 400 new ones won't exactly blanket the nation, we'll take what we can get. 350Green is teaming up with Coulomb Technologies to build exactly that many new ChargePoint stations across New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Indiana and California. With the latest announcement the ChargePoint Network is expected to grow to over 1,000 locations, many with fast charging capabilities. We wouldn't exactly call the plan a game changer but, like we said, every little bit helps. Check out the PR after the break.

Continue reading 350Green to install 400 EV charging stations across the US

350Green to install 400 EV charging stations across the US originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 23 Sep 2011 14:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>350greenchargepointchargepoint networkChargepointNetworkcharging stationcharging stationsChargingStationChargingStationsCoulombcoulomb technologiesCoulombTechnologieselectric vehicleelectric vehicle chargingelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehicleChargingElectricVehiclesevev charging stationev charging stationsEvChargingStationEvChargingStationsevsFri, 23 Sep 2011 14:12:00 EST<![CDATA[TomTom announces Z.E. Live navigation system to measure EV battery juice, keeps you truckin']]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/15/tomtom-announces-z-e-live-navigation-system-to-measure-ev-batte/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/15/tomtom-announces-z-e-live-navigation-system-to-measure-ev-batte/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/15/tomtom-announces-z-e-live-navigation-system-to-measure-ev-batte/#comments There's nothing worse than going for a late-night chili dog run only to find your EV sucked dry in a 7-11 parking lot. To reduce so-called "range-anxiety," there's the Carminat TomTom Z.E. Live, an in-dash navigation system that not only keeps drivers from getting lost, but also offers a visual cue to how much power's left. Sticking with the green theme, the device provides the most eco-friendly and efficient routes (with nearby charging stations) -- leaving drivers feeling good about putting the pedal to the metal. The nav will come pre-baked in all future Renault Fluence Z.E.s -- but we wouldn't be surprised to see other EV manufacturers implement similar add-ons in the future. Check out the full PR after the break.

Continue reading TomTom announces Z.E. Live navigation system to measure EV battery juice, keeps you truckin'

TomTom announces Z.E. Live navigation system to measure EV battery juice, keeps you truckin' originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 03:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carCarminat TomTom Z.E. LiveCarminatTomtomZ.e.Livecarseco-routingelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesEVFluence Z.E.FluenceZ.e.Frankfurt Motor Showfrankfurt motor show 2011FrankfurtMotorShowFrankfurtMotorShow2011GPSHD TrafficHdTrafficnavigationnavigation systemnavigation systemsNavigationSystemNavigationSystemsrange-anxietyrenaultTomTomThu, 15 Sep 2011 03:51:00 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[Exoconcept EXO all-electric jet ski: perfect for lake recon, your next indie action film]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/exoconcept-exo-all-electric-jet-ski-perfect-for-lake-recon-you/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/exoconcept-exo-all-electric-jet-ski-perfect-for-lake-recon-you/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/exoconcept-exo-all-electric-jet-ski-perfect-for-lake-recon-you/#comments Part jet ski, part electric water scooter, 100 percent awesome. That's the Exoconcept Exo -- a new sea-born vehicle for stealth missions and the occasional run-in with Mr. Living Vicariously. The craft comes in a few flavors with shells made of high-end carbon fiber or ABS plastic, and engines ranging from 3.5-7kWh. Capable of cruising the open waters at a max speed of 15-27 knots (17-31 mph), it doesn't really rival the thrust of some of its non-electric cousins, but it's certainly fast and quiet enough for some reconnoitering or good old fashioned family fun. With four racks of Li Fe PO4 high capacity batteries, the motor powers a water jet turbine drive system to cut through waves without any sound pollution. Unfortunately, zipping around on electric power doesn't come cheap -- at €7,290 (or $9,939), it'll probably only appeal to those who also own the lake needed to enjoy it on. But hey, at least you've got until Q1 2012 to save up!

Continue reading Exoconcept EXO all-electric jet ski: perfect for lake recon, your next indie action film

Exoconcept EXO all-electric jet ski: perfect for lake recon, your next indie action film originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 22:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesenvironmentexoconcept exoExoconceptExogreenjetskijetskiskWhLi Fe PO4 batteriesLiFePo4BatteriesreconspieswaterMon, 12 Sep 2011 22:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker's shooting brake Surf EV to make waves at Frankfurt]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/07/fiskers-shooting-brake-surf-ev-to-make-waves-at-frankfurt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/07/fiskers-shooting-brake-surf-ev-to-make-waves-at-frankfurt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/07/fiskers-shooting-brake-surf-ev-to-make-waves-at-frankfurt/#comments
Frankfurt's ready to hang ten as teaser images of Fisker Automotive's new "shooting brake" electric whip dropped in just in time for the city's automotive show on September 13th. Affectionately nicknamed the Surf, the two-door sedan is the latest incarnation of the Karma, Fisker's range-extended electric vehicle launched last year. Although the company won't release any details on the new ride just yet, we're expecting it to be somewhat similar to the company's former model, which boasts two 150 kW electric motors, a turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 and a lithium-ion battery. Joining the ranks of other luxury wagons like the Ferrari FF, the Surf's blast-from-the-past design is guaranteed to be a gnarly change from the standard four-door luxury variety, and you can bet we'll be there for the full reveal.

Fisker's shooting brake Surf EV to make waves at Frankfurt originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 20:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electricelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesEVferrari ffFerrariFfFisker AutomotiveFiskerAutomotiveFrankfurt Motor ShowFrankfurtMotorShowkarmaLithium Ionlithium ion batterieslithium ion batteryLithiumIonLithiumIonBatteriesLithiumIonBatteryrange extended electric vehiclerange-extended vehicleRange-extendedVehicleRangeExtendedElectricVehicleshooting brakeShootingBrakesurfWed, 07 Sep 2011 20:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Daimler Smart Forvision: a solar-powered roof with plastic wheels never looked so good]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/daimler-smart-forvision-a-solar-powered-roof-with-plastic-wheel/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/daimler-smart-forvision-a-solar-powered-roof-with-plastic-wheel/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/daimler-smart-forvision-a-solar-powered-roof-with-plastic-wheel/#comments
No, it's not a Micro Machine -- it's the Daimler Smart Forvision. Daimler paired up with chemicals giant BASF to improve Smart's flagship EV after being soundly trounced by the Nissan Leaf's longer range. With an emphasis on efficiency, the Forvision goes up to 20 percent further than the standard Fortwo. It has a transparent solar-panel roof which generates power to keep the cooling fans running even when stationary, see-through dashboard and clear OLEDs for internal lighting at night. BASF's wizardry helped in the development of all-plastic wheels, a super-thin heat shield and aluminum fiber paints that insulate the car but allow for GPS, WiFi and Bluetooth signals to pass through unimpeded. The concept will be unveiled properly at the Frankfurt Motor Show but check out the preview gallery and press release to learn more.

Gallery: Smart Forvision

Smart Forvision

Continue reading Daimler Smart Forvision: a solar-powered roof with plastic wheels never looked so good

Daimler Smart Forvision: a solar-powered roof with plastic wheels never looked so good originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 15:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DaimlerDaimler SmartDaimlerSmartElectric CarElectric VehiclesElectricCarElectricVehiclesEVFrankfurt Motor ShowFrankfurt Motor Show 2011FrankfurtMotorShowFrankfurtMotorShow2011Nissan LeafNissanLeafSmartSmart ForvisionSmart FourTwoSmartForvisionSmartFourtwoFri, 02 Sep 2011 15:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker inks BMW deal, Nina EVs gain Ultimate Driving Machine DNA]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/fisker-inks-bmw-deal-nina-evs-gain-ultimate-driving-machine-dna/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/fisker-inks-bmw-deal-nina-evs-gain-ultimate-driving-machine-dna/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/fisker-inks-bmw-deal-nina-evs-gain-ultimate-driving-machine-dna/#comments Fisker Nina -- sounds more like a Bolshoi ballerina to us, but these codenamed, future EVs are now on course for a German heart and soul infusion. BMW has recently inked a deal that will see its four-cylinder turbocharged engine and additional components included in 2012 production models of the American auto maker's mid-sized sedans. The line of electric cars are currently slated for an early 2013 debut, but we'd sprinkle a cup of salt on that date considering the Karma's long road to launch. Skip on past the break for the company's official eco-meets-luxury handshake announcement.

Continue reading Fisker inks BMW deal, Nina EVs gain Ultimate Driving Machine DNA

Fisker inks BMW deal, Nina EVs gain Ultimate Driving Machine DNA originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 11:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMWdealecoElectric carelectric carselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricCarsElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesengineEngineSwapEVFiskerFisker AutomotiveFisker NinaFiskerAutomotiveFiskerNinaluxuryminipostNinaFri, 02 Sep 2011 11:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Nichicon lays claim to the world's smallest EV chargers with NGQ-202, NGQ-203 models]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/28/nichicon-lays-claim-to-the-worlds-smallest-ev-chargers-with-ngq/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/28/nichicon-lays-claim-to-the-worlds-smallest-ev-chargers-with-ngq/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/28/nichicon-lays-claim-to-the-worlds-smallest-ev-chargers-with-ngq/#comments Although it'll still be hard to misplace in your pile of electronics, a company called Nichicon has launched what it says is the world's smallest chargers for electric vehicles, the NGQ-A202 and the NGQ-A302. By using what the company calls advanced module technology, it was able to shrink its EV charger down by 50 percent to around 59 x 13.8 x 23.6 inches, also reducing the weight by up to 66 percent. Compatible with the ChAdeMO standard, these 20-30kW chargers will work with electric vehicles like Mitsubishi's i-MiEV and the Nissan Leaf, taking between 35 and 60 minutes to fully power your whip. Charging doesn't come cheap, however, as the batteries are said to retail between $24,600 and $27,000 when they launch sometime in October. Next step -- cutting the cord and going wireless, perhaps? Check out the full PR after the break.

Continue reading Nichicon lays claim to the world's smallest EV chargers with NGQ-202, NGQ-203 models

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Nichicon lays claim to the world's smallest EV chargers with NGQ-202, NGQ-203 models originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 28 Aug 2011 06:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteriesbatterychademochademo standardChademoStandardelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesEVmistubishi i-mievNGQ-A202NGQ-A203nichiconNissan Leafnissan leaf evNissanLeafNissanLeafEvSun, 28 Aug 2011 06:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi's Urban Concept heads to IAA Frankfurt, tickles our EV sensibilities]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/audis-urban-concept-heads-to-iaa-frankfurt-tickles-our-ev-sens/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/audis-urban-concept-heads-to-iaa-frankfurt-tickles-our-ev-sens/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/audis-urban-concept-heads-to-iaa-frankfurt-tickles-our-ev-sens/#comments
The Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung (IAA) Frankfurt looms on the horizon, meaning its time for another round of bodacious concept cars we want, but sadly can never have. We've already seen BMW's entry and now it's Audi's turn to show off an electric city-dweller. Dubbed the "Urban Concept," this latest e-tron is made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic and wields a door contraption that'll put Lambos to shame -- assuming it ever makes it to market. And it just might, seeing as our friends over at Autoblog caught it slumming around Berlin in prototype garb. We'll hear more from Ingolstadt come September, but in the meantime more sketches and snaps of the development mule await you at the source links below.

Continue reading Audi's Urban Concept heads to IAA Frankfurt, tickles our EV sensibilities

Audi's Urban Concept heads to IAA Frankfurt, tickles our EV sensibilities originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 20:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi etronaudi urban conceptAudiEtronAudiUrbanConceptautomotivecarsconcept carsConceptCarselectric vehiclesElectricVehiclesetronEVIAA frankfurtIaaFrankfurtlithium ionLithiumIonurban conceptUrbanConceptThu, 11 Aug 2011 20:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford teams with SunPower, offers EV owners $10,000 solar charging system]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/ford-teams-with-sunpower-offers-ev-owners-10-000-solar-chargin/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/ford-teams-with-sunpower-offers-ev-owners-10-000-solar-chargin/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/ford-teams-with-sunpower-offers-ev-owners-10-000-solar-chargin/#comments We might not know how much Ford's expecting for the Focus Electric, but it's already put a hefty $10,000 price tag on one of its accessories. The company announced today that it has teamed with SunPower to offer purchasers of the upcoming Focus Electric and C-MAX Energi a 2.5-kilowatt rooftop solar system. That setup will apparently provide "enough renewable energy production to offset the energy used for charging" cars that log 1,000 miles per month (about 30 miles per day) or less. If $10,000 is just a little too rich for your blood, there's always Best Buy's $1,500 budget-friendly charging station. Full PR after the break.

Continue reading Ford teams with SunPower, offers EV owners $10,000 solar charging system

Ford teams with SunPower, offers EV owners $10,000 solar charging system originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 05:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carcarselectric carelectric carsElectric VehicleElectric VehiclesElectricCarElectricCarsElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesEVEVsForFordFord FocusFordFocusphotovoltaic cellphotovoltaic cellsPhotovoltaicCellPhotovoltaicCellssolarsolar cellsolar cellssolar chargersolar chargingsolar charging stationsolar powerSolarCellSolarCellsSolarChargerSolarChargingSolarChargingStationSolarPowerSunPowerThu, 11 Aug 2011 05:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Evatran's Plugless Power wireless EV charger gets smaller, conscripts Chevy Volts for testing]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/01/evatrans-plugless-power-wireless-ev-charger-gets-smaller-consc/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/01/evatrans-plugless-power-wireless-ev-charger-gets-smaller-consc/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/01/evatrans-plugless-power-wireless-ev-charger-gets-smaller-consc/#comments Evatran's Plugless Power EV charger gets smaller When it comes to technology, the old adage of "bigger is better" died a long time ago, so it's not a surprise to see "smaller is smarter" thinking apply to products and prototypes across the board. Today's (relatively) tiny wonder is Evatran's Plugless Power electric vehicle charging system: now smaller, more efficient, and primed for its first trial phase. The last time we saw Plugless Power, the system's wireless charging "station block" stretched nearly the length of a full vehicle and charged at 80 percent efficiency. Today the charge block is only slightly larger than an average hubcap, boasts a 97 percent charging efficiency, and is less picky about your car missing the wireless charger's "sweet spot." Evatran is now working on launching a test fleet of up to 12 Chevy Volts to put the system through its paces, and hopes to expand the tests to as many as 30 vehicles by January. Ready to ditch pumps and plugs forever? Start saving: a complete Plugless Power system (including vehicle retrofitting) will set you back as much as $5000 after production starts sometime in 2012. Don't be too surprised, cool stuff rarely comes cheap -- besides, that old adage has to apply to something, doesn't it?

Evatran's Plugless Power wireless EV charger gets smaller, conscripts Chevy Volts for testing originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 01 Aug 2011 23:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car chargerCarChargerchargechargerelectric vehicle chargerELectric VehiclesElectricVehicleChargerElectricVehiclesEVev chargerevatranEvChargerinduction chargerinduction chargingInductionChargerInductionCharginginductive chargingInductiveChargingJ1772level 2Level2plug in 2011plug-in 2011Plug-in2011PlugIn2011pluglessplugless powerPluglessPowerproximityproximity chargerproximity chargingProximityChargerProximityChargingwireless inductionwireless powerWirelessInductionWirelessPowerMon, 01 Aug 2011 23:57:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW unveils new i3 and revamped i8 concepts, we await our automotive future (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/30/bmw-unveils-new-i3-and-revamped-i8-concepts-we-await-our-automo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/30/bmw-unveils-new-i3-and-revamped-i8-concepts-we-await-our-automo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/30/bmw-unveils-new-i3-and-revamped-i8-concepts-we-await-our-automo/#comments BMW's been teasing us with its vision for electric motoroing for years, and today, folks, the trend continues. The German automaker has unveiled two concepts from its upcoming i sub-brand: the city-dwelling i3 and a rehashed version of its i8. This is the first time we've officially seen the smaller of the two, as the car formerly known as the Megacity had only been spied in an official render and during routine testing at the arctic circle. It'll haul four peeps with its 150km range (around 100 miles) and accelerate from 0-60mph in around 8 seconds. As for those with range anxiety, the German company will soothe such fears with an optional range-extending motor dubbed "REx." Either variant could land in your garage in 2013, where you'll be able top them up in 6 hours with a standard socket, or up to eighty percent in an hour if you're rocking a spiffy high capacity charger.

The i8, which you'll recall for its radical aerodynamic design and hybrid diesel-electric drivetrain, has received a bevy of aerodynamic tweaks and junked its oil burner, opting for a gasoline one instead. Engine swap aside, the sporty coupé apparently drinks only 2.7 liters per 100km -- 87 mpg (!) for yanks -- which is unreal in a car that'll accelerate to 62mph in 4.6 seconds. Sound too good to be true? We'll have to wait until 2014 to see if München can make good on those promises, but in the meantime feel free to peruse the galleries, videos, and PR after the break.

Gallery: BMW i Family

Continue reading BMW unveils new i3 and revamped i8 concepts, we await our automotive future (video)

BMW unveils new i3 and revamped i8 concepts, we await our automotive future (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 30 Jul 2011 14:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automobilebmwbmw i3bmw i8bmw project iBmwI3BmwI8BmwProjectIcarcarsconcept carConceptCarelectric automobileelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricAutomobileElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesevhybridi3i8IAA FrankfurtIaaFrankfurtproject iProjectIrange extenderRangeExtendervehiclesvideoSat, 30 Jul 2011 14:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker Karma boss nabs first set of keys, s'pose we'd do the same]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/fisker-karma-boss-nabs-first-set-of-keys-spose-wed-do-the-sam/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/fisker-karma-boss-nabs-first-set-of-keys-spose-wed-do-the-sam/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/fisker-karma-boss-nabs-first-set-of-keys-spose-wed-do-the-sam/#comments In an old-fashioned display of corporate introversion, the keys to the first production Fisker Karma will be handed not to a real customer, or a profile-raising celeb, or even to a good cause. Nope, they'll be whisked straight into the silky pockets of Ray Lane, chairman of the board of directors at Fisker Automotive. Unless it's an entirely empty publicity stunt and he has to hand the keys right back, lucky Lane will be driving home this afternoon in a luxury EV with a 300-mile range and 125MPH top speed. The rest of us, however, will have to wait til October -- and cough up $95,900.

Fisker Karma boss nabs first set of keys, s'pose we'd do the same originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 Jul 2011 06:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric carelectric carselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricCarselectricvehicleElectricVehiclesEVFiskerFisker AutomotiveFisker KarmaFiskerAutomotiveFiskerKarmaKarmaluxuryluxury EVLuxuryEvperformance EVPerformanceEvRay LaneRayLaneTue, 26 Jul 2011 06:31:00 EST<![CDATA[California's zero-emissions rebate program ironically runs out of green]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/22/californias-zero-emissions-rebate-program-ironically-runs-out-o/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/22/californias-zero-emissions-rebate-program-ironically-runs-out-o/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/22/californias-zero-emissions-rebate-program-ironically-runs-out-o/#comments
Californians will have to look elsewhere to start receiving cash back for buying eco-friendly vehicles, as the California Air Resources Board has just announced that its ever popular rebate program is no more for the time being. CARB, as the board also goes by, launched its Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP) in March of 2010 with initial funding of over $11 million to go around -- but we knew it wouldn't last. According to the CVRP website, the program has issued a little over $7 million worth of rebates thus far, with the rest pending or reserved for the already existing EV-owners.

The board hopes to bring the program back within the next fiscal year by charging it up with $17 million worth of rebates. It'll create more opportunities to get some of these rebates, while simultaneously extending the duration of the CVRP by decreasing the maximum amount to $2,500 (about half of the previous maximum). If you're doing your math correctly, that equates to more than 6,000 total rebates that'll be up for grabs -- opposed to the 1,400 first-rounders who were awarded the rebates already. With luck and some economical upturns, Californian volt-heads can cruise into 2012 with their non-petrol-deficient wallets a little bit fuller.

California's zero-emissions rebate program ironically runs out of green originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Jun 2011 03:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Autoblogautoblog GreenAutoblogGreenCaliforniacalifornia air resou...California Air Resources BoardCaliforniaAirResou...CaliforniaAirResourcesBoardCalifornianCARBCleanclean vehicle programclean vehicle rebateClean Vehicle Rebate Projectclean vehiclesclean vehicles programCleanVehicleProgramCleanVehicleRebateCleanVehicleRebateProjectCleanVehiclesCleanVehiclesProgramCVRPElectric CarElectric carselectric vehicleElectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricCarsElectricVehicleElectricVehicleseletric carEletricCargreenmoneyrebateRebatesWed, 22 Jun 2011 03:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Battery-powered 'Black Current' VW Beetle flaunts itself in drag (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/19/battery-powered-black-current-vw-beetle-flaunts-itself-in-drag/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/19/battery-powered-black-current-vw-beetle-flaunts-itself-in-drag/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/19/battery-powered-black-current-vw-beetle-flaunts-itself-in-drag/#comments Electric supercars have been hitting some crazy speeds recently, but this is on another level. The Black Current is a Volkswagen Beetle reborn as an electric drag racer. It hits 135mph and demolishes the quarter-mile straight in 9.51 seconds. What's more, it does it quietly -- all you can hear is the delicious screech of sticky rubber. Plug into the video after the break for a taste of what it's like behind the wheel. And can someone please explain why that other car on the left even bothered to turn up?

Continue reading Battery-powered 'Black Current' VW Beetle flaunts itself in drag (video)

Battery-powered 'Black Current' VW Beetle flaunts itself in drag (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 May 2011 09:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black currentBlackCurrentcarconverteddragdrag racerDragRacerelectricElectric carelectric carselectric supercarselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricCarsElectricSupercarsElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesevfastracerracingspeedsupercarsupercarsvehiclevideovolkswagenvolkswagen beetleVolkswagenBeetlevwvw beetleVwBeetleThu, 19 May 2011 09:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Philippines launches electric tricycles, reignites your infatuation with Big Wheels]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/19/philippines-launches-electric-tricycles-reignites-your-infatuat/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/19/philippines-launches-electric-tricycles-reignites-your-infatuat/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/19/philippines-launches-electric-tricycles-reignites-your-infatuat/#comments
The lowly tricycle: occupying some hazy middle ground between car and bicycle, all too often it's dismissed as a novelty, a lark suitable only for children and dedicated iconoclasts - see, for example, T3 Motion's R3. But some places recognize the tricycle's usefulness, and one of those places is the Philippines, where the three-wheeled wonders are a keystone of public transit. Now the country is taking another step forward by upgrading its gasoline-powered trikes to electric. Obviously not designed to compete with, say, electric motorcycles on speed or style, they do have a certain yellow-school-bus charm. More important than aesthetic concerns, the new electric models will have one-quarter the carbon footprint of their gas-burning predecessors; in a nation where tricycles burn nearly five billion dollars worth of fuel each year, emitting ten million tons of carbon dioxide, that's a huge impact. The government also hopes to save tens of millions of dollars by upgrading; it's already committed to 20,000 trikes for the capital, with more to follow nationwide. If electric tricycles succeed in the Philippines, maybe we'll all be one step closer to eliminating the stigma of the third wheel - at least when it comes to transportation.

Philippines launches electric tricycles, reignites your infatuation with Big Wheels originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 07:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Benigno AquinoBenigno Aquino IIIBenignoAquinoBenignoAquinoIiicleantechelectricelectric carselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarsElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesevgreen powerGreenPowerPhilippinesphillipinesphysorgr3T3 MotionT3MotiontricyclesTue, 19 Apr 2011 07:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Kenneth Cobonpue's biodegradable car: time to ditch the Gremlin rusting in your yard]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/kenneth-cobonpues-biodegradable-car-time-to-ditch-the-gremlin/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/kenneth-cobonpues-biodegradable-car-time-to-ditch-the-gremlin/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/kenneth-cobonpues-biodegradable-car-time-to-ditch-the-gremlin/#comments Is there any sadder sight than a 1958 Plymouth Fury rotting in the woods, Christine-style, its dead headlights staring into the gloaming? We don't think so. That's why we're downright giddy over Kenneth Cobonpue's Phoenix roadster, a biodegradable concept car made from bamboo, rattan, steel and nylon. Style wise, it's propped somewhere between Tata's Nano and Tesla's Roadster, and there's no word yet on what might go under the hood -- presumably a smallish electric engine... or a stardust-powered unicorn, perhaps. That funky-looking body should last the average length of ownership; after five years (or even longer, depending on the composition), it can be replaced or naturally returned to the Ma Earth. One potential downside of biodegradable vehicles? No more "dead car" Flickr albums. Also, no warranties.

Kenneth Cobonpue's biodegradable car: time to ditch the Gremlin rusting in your yard originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 03:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoautomotiveautosbamboocarscomposite materialsCompositeMaterialscompositeselectric carselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricCarsElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesevgreen carsGreen MaterialsGreen TransportationGreenCarsGreenMaterialsGreenTransportationKenneth CobonpueKennethCobonpuenanorattanroadsterSustainable MaterialsSustainableMaterialstatateslaFri, 15 Apr 2011 03:46:00 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[Fiat will lose $10,000 on every 500 EV it sells, still intends to bring it to US in 2012]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/05/fiat-will-lose-10-000-on-every-500-ev-it-sells-still-intends-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/05/fiat-will-lose-10-000-on-every-500-ev-it-sells-still-intends-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/05/fiat-will-lose-10-000-on-every-500-ev-it-sells-still-intends-t/#comments Any new technology generally costs an arm, a leg, and a bit of your sanity to adopt early, but that's a luxury that the well settled auto market cannot afford. In light of its elastic economics, car makers looking to go electric have had to be extremely aggressive in cutting their own profits, an aggressiveness that's now been estimated by Fiat's CEO Sergio Marchionne to cost them as much as $10,000 per unit sold. Fiat's famed little car, the Cinquecento, is going to be hitting the US in a new EV configuration in 2012, in spite of the fact it'll be causing a ding to the company's bottom line. It's not actually clear whether Mr. Marchionne is factoring in research and development costs or whether he's talking purely of material costs, though Fiat's fate is hardly unique -- the Nissan Leaf isn't expected to generate a profit for a good couple of years yet. The Fiat 500 EV's likely price was indirectly revealed, too, by the company chief's assertion that it'll retail for about three times the cost of its gas-powered version. So about $45,000. Yikes!

Fiat will lose $10,000 on every 500 EV it sells, still intends to bring it to US in 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>500 ev500Evaffordabilitycarcarsceochryslercinquecentoelectric carelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesevfiatfiat 500 evFiat500Evlosslossespricepricingquotedsergio marchionneSergioMarchionneTue, 05 Apr 2011 16:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Google HQ gets juiced with Plugless Power EV charging unit]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/23/google-hq-gets-juiced-with-plugless-power-ev-charging-unit/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/23/google-hq-gets-juiced-with-plugless-power-ev-charging-unit/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/23/google-hq-gets-juiced-with-plugless-power-ev-charging-unit/#comments
We've seen it adorned with a giant Honeycomb and an oversized Gingerbread man, and now Google's bringing a more practical addition to its Mountain View campus -- specifically, a Plugless Power EV charging station. Its maker touts the installation as "the first public release" of the handsfree re-juicing system, and says it will eventually provided power to a fleet of low-speed EVs already in use at El Goog HQ -- the first of which has already been retrofitted to get pumped up. Who knows, maybe now we'll see something come of Google's claims to make electrical vehicles charge more efficiently. Full PR after the break.

Continue reading Google HQ gets juiced with Plugless Power EV charging unit

Google HQ gets juiced with Plugless Power EV charging unit originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 18:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batterycampuscarcar chargerCarChargercarschargerchargingcharging stationcharging stationsChargingStationChargingStationselectricelectric vehicleelectric vehicle chargingelectric vehicle charging stationsElectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehicleChargingElectricVehicleChargingStationsElectricVehiclesEVgooglegoogle campusGoogleCampusinductiveinductive chargingInductiveChargingplugless powerPluglessPowerproximityproximity chargerProximityChargervehiclewirelesswireless inductionwireless powerWirelessInductionWirelessPowerWed, 23 Mar 2011 18:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Google adds EV charging stations to Google Maps, but you still have to drive to them yourself]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/13/google-adds-ev-charging-stations-to-google-maps-but-you-still-h/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/13/google-adds-ev-charging-stations-to-google-maps-but-you-still-h/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/13/google-adds-ev-charging-stations-to-google-maps-but-you-still-h/#comments If electric cars are ever going to replace their gas-guzzling ancestors, we'll inevitably need a few more places to plug in and charge up. Cue Google, who's just added a database of EV -- that's electric vehicle for you non-green folk -- charging stations to Google Maps, enabling drivers to locate places to get their juice on while on longer trips or when out of town (though without the social flare of PlugShare). We've gotta say, a future of self-driving cars that can automatically charge themselves doesn't sound too bad to us -- and spending less on gas only makes the deal even sweeter.

Google adds EV charging stations to Google Maps, but you still have to drive to them yourself originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 13 Mar 2011 19:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automobilescarselectric carelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricVehiclesevgooglegoogle mapsGoogleMapsSun, 13 Mar 2011 19:43:00 EST<![CDATA[PlugShare app lets you share your plugs with other EV drivers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/08/plugshare-app-lets-you-share-your-plugs-with-other-ev-drivers/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/08/plugshare-app-lets-you-share-your-plugs-with-other-ev-drivers/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/08/plugshare-app-lets-you-share-your-plugs-with-other-ev-drivers/#comments Are you the sort that doesn't mind letting random people pull up in your driveway to recharge their electric vehicle? Then you might want to consider using the new PlugShare app for iOS devices that was just released today, which will let you broadcast your location and plug status to everyone passing by. Of course, there are also some privacy settings if you prefer to control things a bit more tightly, and the app also includes a complete database of public charging stations across the US if you'd rather not bother someone else at all when you're out on the road. What's more, while the app is iOS-only at the moment, the company promises that an Android version is "coming soon." Head on past the break for a quick demo video.

Continue reading PlugShare app lets you share your plugs with other EV drivers

PlugShare app lets you share your plugs with other EV drivers originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Mar 2011 04:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chargerchargerselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesevev chargerev chargersEvChargerEvChargersplugsharevideoTue, 08 Mar 2011 04:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Renault's Zoe EV to give Nissan Leaf competition at lower price -- Nissan-Renault alliance forges on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/23/renaults-zoe-ev-to-give-nissan-leaf-competition-at-lower-price/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/23/renaults-zoe-ev-to-give-nissan-leaf-competition-at-lower-price/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/23/renaults-zoe-ev-to-give-nissan-leaf-competition-at-lower-price/#comments Ever since they struck an alliance back in 1999, Renault and Nissan have been super tight, sharing both a CEO and a goal to make EVs more accessible, but with Renault's Zoe gearing up to hit the market in 2012, the French automaker has proven it's not pulling any punches when it comes to competing with its Japanese partner. In fact, reports give Renault's EV a starting price of roughly €15,000, which compared to the Leaf's €27,000 price tag, is a pretty hefty difference. The catch -- of course, there's a catch -- is Zoe owners will have to lease their batteries for about €100 a month. With the added battery expense, however, it would still take nearly 10 years for the Zoe to meet the Leaf's price. We hope this doesn't put a damper on this 12-year love affair, but honestly, we'll take an affordable EV any way we can get it.

Renault's Zoe EV to give Nissan Leaf competition at lower price -- Nissan-Renault alliance forges on originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 09:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carcarselectricElectric carelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesEVev salesEvSalesLeafNissanNissan Leafnissan-renaultnissan-renault allianceNissan-renaultAllianceNissanLeafRenaultRenault ZoeRenaultZoesalesZoeWed, 23 Feb 2011 09:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Virginia pilot program halves electricity bill for charging EVs overnight]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/04/virginia-pilot-program-halves-electricity-bill-for-charging-evs/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/04/virginia-pilot-program-halves-electricity-bill-for-charging-evs/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/04/virginia-pilot-program-halves-electricity-bill-for-charging-evs/#comments Regardless of whether the internal combustion engine gets snuffed out this century, EV chargers aren't going to replace gas pumps at the rate they're presently rolling out, so it's quite likely new Leaf and Prius PHEV owners will need to charge at home. How might that affect one's electricity bill? It'll probably go up, but a Virginia utility says that a full tank of juice might not cost all that much. Dominion Virginia Power is volunteering to cut its rates by more than half for off-peak charging as part of a proposed pilot program, whereby 750 lucky EV owners will get enough electricity for a 40-mile commute for just 35 cents so long as they charge overnight. The utility's not talking kilowatt-hours here, but it says it typically gets $0.86 for the same amount. The deal requires the installation of a specially-approved charging station, but Virginia's looking at a second scheme too -- if those 750 agree to pay a flexible off-peak rate of between $0.33 and $0.41 per 40-mile dose, they can power the rest of their house using the budget volts as well. PR after the break.

Continue reading Virginia pilot program halves electricity bill for charging EVs overnight

Virginia pilot program halves electricity bill for charging EVs overnight originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 Feb 2011 07:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chargerchargingdiscountDominion Virginia PowerDominionVirginiaPowerelectric vehicleselectricityElectricVehiclesEVFocus ElectricFocusElectricoff peakoff-peakOffPeakpilotpilot programPilotProgramsaletransportationutilitiesutilityVirginiaFri, 04 Feb 2011 07:39:00 EST