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[Porsche 918 Spyder prototype returns to the road with polished black and white shell]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/16/porsche-918-spyder/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/16/porsche-918-spyder/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/16/porsche-918-spyder/#comments Image

It may not be the first time Porsche's 918 plug-in hybrid has had a chance to flex its 770 horse power for the camera, but when we last saw the pricey insanely expensive speed demon strut its stuff on record, it certainly didn't look like this. The freakish prototype has emerged as a beautiful, high-performance vision of efficiency, blasting its way past 100 kilometers of terrain for every three liters of petrol (78 miles/gallon). The $845,000 machine pairs a combustion engine with electric motors to achieve that consumption rating, and sports a carbon-fiber reinforced-plastic monocoque (self-supporting) shell, rear-axle steering and that unique upward-venting exhausted system that you may have noticed in the shot above. The 918 Spyder is slated for its initial production run beginning in September of 2013, with the first models making their way to US customers late next year. It's time to start saving -- just a few thousand blog posts to go.

Gallery: Porsche 918 Spyder

Continue reading Porsche 918 Spyder prototype returns to the road with polished black and white shell

Porsche 918 Spyder prototype returns to the road with polished black and white shell originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 16 May 2012 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>918918 spyder918Spydercarcarshybridhybrid carhybrid vehicleHybridCarHybridVehicleli-ionluxuryluxury carLuxuryCarphevplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridporscheporsche 918porsche 918 spyderporsche spyderPorsche918Porsche918SpyderPorscheSpyderspydersupercarsupercarsWed, 16 May 2012 17:02:00 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[Fisker's Project Nina exposed ahead of New York Auto Show debut]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/30/fiskers-project-nina-exposed-ahead-of-new-york-auto-show-debut/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/30/fiskers-project-nina-exposed-ahead-of-new-york-auto-show-debut/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/30/fiskers-project-nina-exposed-ahead-of-new-york-auto-show-debut/#comments Fisker's Project Nina exposed ahead of New York Auto Show debutAn unreleased gadget is pretty easy to conceal, but an upcoming automobile? Not so much. Thanks to some quick reflexes, you're looking at the first spy shots of Fisker's second and smaller plug-in hybrid sedan, heretofore known as Project Nina. Last we heard, the BMW-powered auto had been put on life-support, as the remainder of the company's DOE loan evaporated as it failed to meet timely deadlines in bringing its first EV, the Karma, to market. That could mean the above is a mere concept designed to woo potential investors -- but with less than a week before its supposed New York auto show debut, it won't be long until we know for sure. Until then, ogle at more eye candy of the beaut over at Autoblog in the source link below.

Fisker's Project Nina exposed ahead of New York Auto Show debut originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 10:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>doedoe loanDoeLoanelectric carElectricCarEVfiskerfisker automotivefisker project ninaFiskerAutomotiveFiskerProjectNinaplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridpluginplugin hybridPluginHybridproject ninaProjectNinaFri, 30 Mar 2012 10:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Porsche 918 hybrid supercar rolls out of our dreams, onto the tarmac]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/20/porsche-918-hybrid-supercar/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/20/porsche-918-hybrid-supercar/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/20/porsche-918-hybrid-supercar/#comments ImageConcepts, concepts, darned concepts. Teasing us with their curvy lines, and never-to-be-seen futuristic promise. Every once in a while, though, one pops out from the drawing board and into reality -- the Porsche 918 hybrid supercar being one such example. We'll admit we drooled a little when we saw the initial shots, and trembled slightly at the real world concept outed at the Geneva Motor Show 18 months ago. So, knowing it's finally made it out on the track filled us with more than a little glee. It seems development is coming along just fine, with three test versions out in the wild, and our friends over at Autoblog were lucky enough to get a ride in one of them. Sure, it was "only" at half power, so not the full roar of that 770 horsepower engine, but we're still pretty jelly. The $845,000 price tag might make you wince a little, but tears of joy will wash any pain away 3.1 seconds later, as you hit that magical 60mph. You've got until September 18th next year to save up the pennies, or ogle the gallery below.

Gallery: Porsche 918 Spyder

Porsche 918 Spyder

Porsche 918 hybrid supercar rolls out of our dreams, onto the tarmac originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 12:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>918 spyder918Spyderhybridplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridporscheporsche 918porsche 918 spyderPorsche918Porsche918SpyderspyderTue, 20 Mar 2012 12:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford unveils Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid, alongside gas and regular hybrid variants]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/ford-unveils-fusion-energi-plug-in-hybrid/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/ford-unveils-fusion-energi-plug-in-hybrid/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/ford-unveils-fusion-energi-plug-in-hybrid/#comments
It might not be a full EV like last year's Focus Electric, but that doesn't mean you should count the 2013 Fusion out. All-new and packed to the gills with gadgetry like lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control, it's notable for being offered in gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. Efficiency for the mid-sized sedan ranges from 26MPG city and 37MPG highway in the gasoline burner all the way to 47MPG city and 44MPG highway for the lithium-ion toting hybrids. And for the Fusion Energi plug-in, it'll rock an estimated 100MPGe -- 7MPGe better than the Volt and 13MPGe better than the Prius plug-in, despite being larger than either. It'll also roam electrically for 20 miles before firing up its engine, and like the Prius equivalent it'll accelerate all the way up to 62MPH on battery power alone.

On the infotainment side you're looking at the latest, more-simple version of MyFord Touch, naturally paired with SYNC. And just like the Focus Electric or C-MAX Energi, charging, heating and cooling can all be controlled remotely with MyFord Mobile. No word on price, but Ford says it'll show up in stateside showrooms, later this year. As for curious Europeans in the crowd, Ford says much of the design carries over to next year's Mondeo. We'll get our drive-on hands-on shortly, but PR and a gallery await after the break.

Gallery: 2013 Ford Fusion

Continue reading Ford unveils Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid, alongside gas and regular hybrid variants

Ford unveils Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid, alongside gas and regular hybrid variants originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012Ces2012fordford fusionford fusion hybridford myford touchford mytouchFordFusionFordFusionHybridFordMyfordTouchFordMytouchfusion hybridfusion plugin hybridFusionHybridFusionPluginHybridhybridplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridplugin hybridPluginHybridMon, 09 Jan 2012 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker Karma recall is official, 239 cars will need their battery packs swapped]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/01/fisker-karma-recall-is-official-239-cars-will-need-their-batter/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/01/fisker-karma-recall-is-official-239-cars-will-need-their-batter/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/01/fisker-karma-recall-is-official-239-cars-will-need-their-batter/#comments The folks at Fisker are probably more excited to see the calendar roll over than anyone, as a tumultuous 2011 comes to an end with another setback for the Karma. A battery issue previously thought to affect around 50 cars will actually result in the recall of 239. GigaOM points out an NHTSA notice confirming a problem with the positioning of hose clamps on the high-voltage Li-Ion batteries. It could result in said hoses leaking coolant into the battery creating the risk of an electrical short-circuit (still not seeing how this is a bad thing) and fire (oh), which the company will resolve by replacing the batteries. The recall probably covers everyone out there rolling like Walden Schmidt, since the CEO announced December 21st that 225 cars had been shipped and its factory was producing 25 cars per day. Still, assuming the ~$96k price tag isn't an issue, would you really let a little thing like potentially bursting into flames keep you away from such a sleek, smooth handling luxury sedan that puts 657hp of hybrid power at your disposal? Neither would we.

Continue reading Fisker Karma recall is official, 239 cars will need their battery packs swapped

Fisker Karma recall is official, 239 cars will need their battery packs swapped originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 01 Jan 2012 07:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a123automobilebatterycarcoupefiskerhybridkarmaleakLi-IonLithium IonLithiumIonnhtsaplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridSun, 01 Jan 2012 07:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Jay Leno's Chevy Volt still has original tank of gas, 11,000 miles later]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/19/jay-lenos-chevy-volt-still-has-original-tank-of-gas-11-000-mil/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/19/jay-lenos-chevy-volt-still-has-original-tank-of-gas-11-000-mil/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/19/jay-lenos-chevy-volt-still-has-original-tank-of-gas-11-000-mil/#comments What daily driver do you pick when you're rockin' a warehouse with over a hundred enviable whips? Well, if you happen to be a famous comedian named Jay Leno, apparently it's the Chevy Volt. Since procuring the plug-in chariot last year, the late night star has "yet to put gas in it," despite accumulating over 11,000 miles driving to and from what we'll assume is The Tonight Show. Not all of that has been gasoline-free automotive bliss, as Leno's exceeded the car's electric 40-ish mile range more than a few times, burning through around half of the vehicle's original tank. At that rate, the Volt will need refueling by this time next year -- or not, barring any further timeslot kerfuffles.

Jay Leno's Chevy Volt still has original tank of gas, 11,000 miles later originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 19 Nov 2011 04:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ChevroletchevyChevy VoltChevyVoltElectric carElectricCarEVgasolineGMJay Lenoplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridThe Tonight ShowVoltSat, 19 Nov 2011 04:18:00 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[Hands-on with Toyota's Prius plug-in hybrid (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/17/hands-on-with-toyotas-prius-plug-in-hybrid-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/17/hands-on-with-toyotas-prius-plug-in-hybrid-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/17/hands-on-with-toyotas-prius-plug-in-hybrid-video/#comments Yesterday we attended Toyota's Green Drive Expo where we were given the opportunity to take the production version of the Prius plug-in hybrid (PHV) -- and its smorgasbord of technology -- for a spin. We spent a couple hours driving interfacing with the computers aboard the Advanced model, which besides being outlet-friendly, includes some unique features within the Prius lineup. Explore our gallery below, and hit the break for our impressions and hands-on videos with the latest incarnation of Toyota's iconic vehicle.

Gallery: Toyota Prius production plug-in hybrid

Continue reading Hands-on with Toyota's Prius plug-in hybrid (video)

Hands-on with Toyota's Prius plug-in hybrid (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 17 Sep 2011 21:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 prius2012 toyota prius2012Prius2012ToyotaPriusAdvancedbattery chargerBatteryChargerelectric vehicleElectricVehicleEntuneEVGPSgps navigationGpsNavigationgreen drive expoGreenDriveExpohands-onheads-up displayHeads-upDisplayHUDhybridhybrid electrichybrid electric vehiclehybrid vehicleHybridElectricHybridElectricVehicleHybridVehicleinfotainmentJBLled headlightsLedHeadlightsLithium-ionlithium-ion-batteriesmillimeter wave radarMillimeterWaveRadarnavigationOnStarPHVplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridPop-TartsPriusprius plug-inprius plug-in hybridPriusPlug-inPriusPlug-inHybridStar TrekStarTrektoasterTouch Tracer DisplaytouchscreenTouchTracerDisplayToyotaToyota Priustoyota prius plug in hybridToyota Prius plug-inToyotaPriusToyotaPriusPlug-inToyotaPriusPlugInHybridvideovoice controlVoiceControlSat, 17 Sep 2011 21:11:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW i3 electric and i8 plug-in cars on display at Frankfurt]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/13/bmw-i3-electric-and-i8-plug-in-cars-on-display-at-frankfurt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/13/bmw-i3-electric-and-i8-plug-in-cars-on-display-at-frankfurt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/13/bmw-i3-electric-and-i8-plug-in-cars-on-display-at-frankfurt/#comments We've seen 'em as sketches and we've seen 'em having fun on the snow, but now, after getting a few upgrades, they're parked on the stage at Frankfurt. BMW rolled out its new i3 and i8 electric cars, part of a new sub-brand focused on efficiency and responsive driving -- though it'll ultimately be up to the driver to determine just how responsively these behave on the road.

The i3 is a pure electric, 150km range (about 100 miles) and a very lightweight construction of both aluminum and carbon fiber. The i8, meanwhile, is a plug-in hybrid that is said to deliver about 87MPG and yet still get from 0 - 60MPH in under five seconds. Spunky, then. It also sports those funky laser headlights that are both far more efficient and far more awesome sounding than current LED models. This is what they look like in the flesh, and if all goes according to plan you'll be seeing them for yourselves when they enter production in 2013.

Gallery: BMW i3 and i8


Gallery: BMW i Family

BMW i3 electric and i8 plug-in cars on display at Frankfurt originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw iBmwIelectricfrankfurtfrankfurt motor showfrankfurt motor show 2011FrankfurtMotorShowFrankfurtMotorShow2011ii3i8phevplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridTue, 13 Sep 2011 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford Evos cloud-connected concept car unveiled at Frankfurt]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/ford-evos-cloud-connected-concept-car-unveiled-at-frankfurt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/ford-evos-cloud-connected-concept-car-unveiled-at-frankfurt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/ford-evos-cloud-connected-concept-car-unveiled-at-frankfurt/#comments Ford Evos cloud-connected concept car unveiled at Frankfurt The 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show doesn't kick off until tomorrow, but already Ford's unveiled the tasty hunk of conceptual automotive design it teased us with a few weeks back. It's called the Evos, it's loaded with technology and, while it doesn't look much like any of the current autos you'll find down at the local Blue Oval dealer, it's actually said to be the precursor of a new model that's coming in just four months time. Join us after the break for more details.

Gallery: Ford Evos concept

Continue reading Ford Evos cloud-connected concept car unveiled at Frankfurt

Ford Evos cloud-connected concept car unveiled at Frankfurt originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 14:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptconcept carConceptCarevosfordfrankfurtfrankfurt 2011frankfurt motor show 2011frankfurt motorshowFrankfurt2011FrankfurtMotorshowFrankfurtMotorShow2011hybrid carHybridCarphevplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridvideoMon, 12 Sep 2011 14:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Cadillac Converj hits production as ELR, escapes concept purgatory]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/18/cadillac-converj-hits-production-as-elr-escapes-concept-purgato/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/18/cadillac-converj-hits-production-as-elr-escapes-concept-purgato/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/18/cadillac-converj-hits-production-as-elr-escapes-concept-purgato/#comments Cadillac Converj hits production as ELR, escapes concept purgatory If you're not already familiar with the story of the Cadillac Converj, take this quick primer: the Converj is the Chevy Volt's luxurious, canceled cousin. The up-and-coming concept suffered an early death shortly after its debut at the 2009 Detroit auto show. Now it's back, returning to development under the name Cadillac ELR. The new electric caddy is said to feature an updated version of the Voltec powertrain, complete with a Chevy Volt-like range-extending generator. Detroit promises that pricing and availability will be released "later," but you can cruise past the break right now for some extra classy PR.

Continue reading Cadillac Converj hits production as ELR, escapes concept purgatory

Cadillac Converj hits production as ELR, escapes concept purgatory originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 04:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CaddyCaddy ELRCaddyElrCadillacCadillac converjCadillac ELRCadillacConverjCadillacElrConverjElectric CaddyElectric CarElectric VehicleElectricCaddyElectricCarElectricVehicleELREVGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMgreenhybridparallel hybridParallelHybridplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridseries hybridSeriesHybridVoltecvoltec powertrainVoltecPowertrainThu, 18 Aug 2011 04:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Plug-in Prius pulling into American driveways in February or March of 2012]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/09/plug-in-prius-pulling-into-american-driveways-in-february-or-mar/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/09/plug-in-prius-pulling-into-american-driveways-in-february-or-mar/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/09/plug-in-prius-pulling-into-american-driveways-in-february-or-mar/#comments Plug-in Prius Good new PHV fans, the plug-in Prius you've been promised should start pulling into American driveways in February or March of 2012 -- at least according to a startup date chart at Donlen. The fleet management firm claims initial orders will be taken on November 10th of this year, with the vehicle scheduled to into production in January. An Autoblog tipster also claims to have some rather vague details about trim and color options, as well as its estimated MSRP, which should be below $30,000. Now we've just got to figure out how many extension cords it'll take to reach from our apartment window to the street below.

Plug-in Prius pulling into American driveways in February or March of 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 15:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>donlenhybridphvplug-in hybridplug-in priusPlug-inHybridPlug-inPriuspriusprius phvprius phv plug inprius phv plug-inPriusPhvPriusPhvPlug-inPriusPhvPlugIntoyotatoyota priustoyota prius phvToyotaPriusToyotaPriusPhvTue, 09 Aug 2011 15:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Circles knockoff hits Facebook courtesy of unofficial plug-in]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/04/google-circles-knockoff-hits-facebook-courtesy-of-unofficial-plu/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/04/google-circles-knockoff-hits-facebook-courtesy-of-unofficial-plu/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/04/google-circles-knockoff-hits-facebook-courtesy-of-unofficial-plu/#comments Have a bad case of Google+ envy? Here's a little something that should help hold you over until the site fully opens its flood gates. Circle Hack is a self-described "one-night experiment with Javascript" created by a few Facebook engineers in a non-affiliated capacity, which unofficially brings Google Circles-like functionality to the top social network. The creators of the Facebook plug-in have borrowed liberally from Google on this one (turnabout is fair play, perhaps). Once you log in with your Facebook account, you can drag and drop rectangles of your friends from that site into circles at the bottom of your page -- a quick method for curating your Facebook lists. Given the short development of the plug-in, the functionality of the site is, not surprisingly, a bit limited. Certain things like, say, deleting circles, are absent at present -- perhaps its creators are too busy working on the Facebook Hangouts hack.

Google Circles knockoff hits Facebook courtesy of unofficial plug-in originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 04 Jul 2011 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>circle hackCircleHackfacebookfacebook plug-inFacebookPlug-ingooglegoogle circlesgoogle+GoogleCircleshackplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridMon, 04 Jul 2011 11:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota premiers smart charging G-Stations in Japan, world instantly jealous]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/23/toyota-premiers-smart-charging-g-stations-in-japan-world-instan/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/23/toyota-premiers-smart-charging-g-stations-in-japan-world-instan/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/23/toyota-premiers-smart-charging-g-stations-in-japan-world-instan/#comments
Recharging tired EVs and plug-in hybrids in Japan just got a little more exciting thanks to Toyota's upcoming G-Station charger, which relies on contact-less smart-cards to identify vehicles and owners. Toyota's Windows Azure-powered Smart Center drives the machines, which allows users to connect to the internet and use smartphone apps to find chargers, receive notifications, and check usage history. The G-Station will be coming this July in two flavors, creatively named Type A for the standard and Type B for the more advanced model. Pricing for the aforementioned units will be 280,000 yen ($3,469 USD) and 448,000 yen ($5,549 USD) respectively. Toyota is expecting to sell around 3,000 units by the end of 2012, making these stations available to its retail car dealers, shopping malls and restaurants. Soon the outside of pachinko parlors will be just as electric as the inside.

Toyota premiers smart charging G-Stations in Japan, world instantly jealous originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 09:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AzurechargerChargeringchargerschargingcharging stationCharging stationsChargingStationChargingStationscloudcloud computingCloudComputingcomputingelectric carselectric vehicleElectricCarsElectricVehicleinternetJapanplugplug inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridPlugInSmart CenterSmartCenterstationToyotaWindows AzureWindows7WindowsAzureThu, 23 Jun 2011 09:21:00 EST<![CDATA[2012 plug-in Prius to include selectable EV mode, full battery regeneration]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/16/2012-plug-in-prius-to-include-selectable-ev-mode-full-battery-r/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/16/2012-plug-in-prius-to-include-selectable-ev-mode-full-battery-r/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/16/2012-plug-in-prius-to-include-selectable-ev-mode-full-battery-r/#comments
We already know to expect Toyota's Entune infotainment system in the dash of the 2012 Prius, but the hybrid's monster EV batteries will be powering much more than a touchscreen and apps. According to ConsumerSearch, next year's plug-in vehicle will include two new features aimed at improving the car's electric-only range for local driving, especially when your commute also includes a trip down the freeway. The first improvement comes in the form of an EV mode button, allowing you to turn off EV for highway driving, which tends to drain those batts faster than a Thunderbolt in Hotspot mode. The Prius will also offer full battery regeneration, so power-off activities like braking and driving downhill will restore the hybrid's EV-only range -- especially helpful if you live in a hilly area or tend to make frequent stops. Both new features should have a fairly significant impact on efficiency, so you'll soon be able to drive further in the city without tapping a single drop of crude.

2012 plug-in Prius to include selectable EV mode, full battery regeneration originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carcarsconsumersearchconsumersearch.comelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevhybridhybrid carHybridCarplug inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridPlugInpriusprius vPriusVtoyotatoyota priustoyota prius vToyotaPriusToyotaPriusVThu, 16 Jun 2011 17:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Chevy drops Volt base price by $1,000 for 2012, makes saving the world slightly more affordable]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/11/chevy-drops-volt-base-price-by-1-000-for-2012-makes-saving-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/11/chevy-drops-volt-base-price-by-1-000-for-2012-makes-saving-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/11/chevy-drops-volt-base-price-by-1-000-for-2012-makes-saving-the/#comments Chevy wants to know what it can do to get you into one of its plug-in hybrids today. A $1,000 price drop? You got it. The carmaker announced this week that the 2012 Volt base price will come in a grand lower than its predecessor, thanks to the sorts of additional configurations that come with increased availability. The 2011 version was available in seven states and the District of Columbia and came in three configurations -- 2012's Volt is available nationwide in seven different packages, ranging from $39,995 to $46,265. And keep in mind that those prices don't factor in potential tax credits. The latest version of the plug-in vehicle is available now for order and offers up features like MyLink media streaming, OnStar driving directions, and passive locking (though the new base model does strip away a couple of features found in its predecessor). Also there's the whole lessening your dependence on gasoline, if you're into that sort of thing.

Continue reading Chevy drops Volt base price by $1,000 for 2012, makes saving the world slightly more affordable

Chevy drops Volt base price by $1,000 for 2012, makes saving the world slightly more affordable originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 11 Jun 2011 16:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevrolet voltChevroletVoltchevychevy voltChevyVoltelectric vehicleElectricVehicleEVgreenhybridmylinkonstarplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridvoltSat, 11 Jun 2011 16:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Volvo kicks off C30 Electric production for 2012 delivery, promises V60 plug-in hybrid for the US later]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/10/volvo-kicks-off-c30-electric-production-for-2012-delivery-promi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/10/volvo-kicks-off-c30-electric-production-for-2012-delivery-promi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/10/volvo-kicks-off-c30-electric-production-for-2012-delivery-promi/#comments Not enough electric vehicles in the market, you say? Well, at least there'll be a new candidate rolling out from Volvo next year. Earlier this week, the car maker announced that it's just started producing the C30 Electric (as test-driven by us back in March), the task of which is split between the company's Belgium and Swedish plants. If all goes well, Volvo will deliver 250 or more units to leasing customers across Europe (Sweden, Belgium, the Netherlands and Norway) by the end of 2012. There's no word on US availability for this petrol-free ride, but Volvo will instead be offering the more powerful V60 plug-in hybrid to its American friends in 2013 or 2014. Patience is a virtue, dear friends.

Volvo kicks off C30 Electric production for 2012 delivery, promises V60 plug-in hybrid for the US later originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Jun 2011 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c30c30 ElectricC30Electriccarelectricelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleeuropeevgreenhybridmanufacturingPHEVplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridproductiontransportationV60V60 PHEVV60Phevvehiclevolvovolvo c30VolvoC30Fri, 10 Jun 2011 09:20:00 EST<![CDATA[All 2014 Prius hybrids to roll with plug-in and 2011 pricing, Hoitz and Gamble rejoice (update: not true)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/10/all-2014-prius-hybrids-to-roll-with-plug-in-and-2011-pricing-ho/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/10/all-2014-prius-hybrids-to-roll-with-plug-in-and-2011-pricing-ho/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/10/all-2014-prius-hybrids-to-roll-with-plug-in-and-2011-pricing-ho/#comments
Hybrid cars are sleek, efficient, and even occasionally sexy. Cheap they are not, however, though Toyota hopes to stir up the market in 2014, with affordable plug-in models that also boast much-improved mileage ratings. That year's Prii will ship standard with plug-in, and will quietly conquer at least 90 highway miles per gallon (compared to about 50 mpg for current models), according to Autoblog. The 2014 Prius will also be priced comparably to current non-plug-in models -- around $25,000 -- assuming Toyota can successfully reduce the cost of batteries and other key components. We can only hope that fuel prices aren't any higher three years from now, but even if they are, at least you'll still be able to afford to commute in something larger than a Vespa.

Update: Oops! Toyota responded to this report saying "there is no formal plan to make all Priuses [sic] plug-in by 2014." Not even a possibility, Autoblog was told. Ah well.

All 2014 Prius hybrids to roll with plug-in and 2011 pricing, Hoitz and Gamble rejoice (update: not true) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 May 2011 19:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014carhybridhybrid vehicleHybridCarHybridVehiclephevplug inplug in hybridplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridPlugInPlugInHybridpriipriustoyotaTue, 10 May 2011 19:47:00 EST<![CDATA[EV milestone: Fisker rolls first Karma off the assembly line, aims to deliver 7,000 this year]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/23/ev-milestone-fisker-rolls-first-karma-off-the-assembly-line-ai/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/23/ev-milestone-fisker-rolls-first-karma-off-the-assembly-line-ai/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/23/ev-milestone-fisker-rolls-first-karma-off-the-assembly-line-ai/#comments Patience can bear such wonderful fruit, can't it? The electrified (and electrifying) Karma, which first graced the world with its presence back in 2008, has managed to negotiate the slalom course of funding and logistical issues that faces any new upstart company and can now boast its very first production unit. The Karma 1 above will be making its way out within a month (presumably after every nook, cranny and capacitor has been polished to perfection) and company spokesman Roger Ormisher says the plan is to ramp up very slowly and carefully, reaching "over 7,000 deliveries" by year's end. Considering the rate at which Leafs and Volts have been selling so far, that doesn't actually sound half bad.

EV milestone: Fisker rolls first Karma off the assembly line, aims to deliver 7,000 this year originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 03:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automotivecarelectricelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevexpensivefactoryfinlandfirstfiskerfisker karmaFiskerKarmakarmaluxurymanufacturingmilestonephevplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridpremiumproductionvalmetvalmet automotiveValmetAutomotiveWed, 23 Mar 2011 03:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Porsche opens 918 Spyder plug-in supercar pre-orders, $845,000 gets you a ticket to ride]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/21/porsche-opens-918-spyder-plug-in-supercar-pre-orders-845-000-g/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/21/porsche-opens-918-spyder-plug-in-supercar-pre-orders-845-000-g/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/21/porsche-opens-918-spyder-plug-in-supercar-pre-orders-845-000-g/#commentsPorsche opens 918 Spyder plug-in supercar pre-orders, $845,000 gets you a ticket to ride It isn't quite as hot as the 918 RSR, but it is at least street legal. Or, will be, anyway. It's the 918 Spyder, one of the hottest hybrids we've ever seen, and Porsche has now opened the doors for those who want to order them. $845,000 gets you a car with a mid-mounted V8 putting down "at least" 500HP. That's paired with two electric motors, one front and one rear, which provide an additional 218 horsepower and AWD handling to boot. Unlike the RSR these motors will be powered by a Li-ion battery pack that will offer 16 miles of purely electric range when charged for about seven hours on a standard 110 outlet. More impressively, this carbon-fiber convertible will get to 60MPH in 3.1 seconds (matching the 911 Turbo S we played with last month) yet deliver 78MPG. That's not quite up to the levels Volvo's promising for its V60 plug-in diesel, but we're thinking this bad boy might be a little more fun to drive. What won't be fun is the wait: the 918 isn't expected to start shipping until the end of 2013. That gives you plenty of time to build your dream garage -- and practice your pronunciation of "Doppelkupplung."

Gallery: Porsche 918 Sypder

Continue reading Porsche opens 918 Spyder plug-in supercar pre-orders, $845,000 gets you a ticket to ride

Porsche opens 918 Spyder plug-in supercar pre-orders, $845,000 gets you a ticket to ride originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 06:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>918918 spyder918Spyderhybridli-ionphevplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridporschesupercarMon, 21 Mar 2011 06:34:00 EST<![CDATA[BYD Motors sneaks on to American market, could make US debut official by year's end]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/17/byd-motors-sneaks-on-to-american-market-could-make-us-debut-off/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/17/byd-motors-sneaks-on-to-american-market-could-make-us-debut-off/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/17/byd-motors-sneaks-on-to-american-market-could-make-us-debut-off/#comments We've heard rumblings of BYD coming to America before, but it seems it won't be making a big deal of its Stateside entrée -- at least not yet. According to the Los Angeles Times, China's sixth-largest car maker is quietly making its presence known in the US, occupying the offices of Cars 911 -- a dealership in Glendale, CA -- and solidifying plans to open 10 American dealerships by the end of 2011. BYD is also in the process of building its US headquarters in downtown LA, and has been servicing a fleet of its F3DM hybrids, leased to the city's housing authority, from the Cars 911 lot. BYD's e6, which is slated as a Leaf competitor, is suspected to appear on the American market, alongside the F3DM, by year's end. Considering the Leaf's recent woes, this might be just the right time for BYD to strike.

BYD Motors sneaks on to American market, could make US debut official by year's end originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 06:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>americaamericanamerican debutAmericanDebutautoautomotiveBYDBYD motorsBydMotorschinachinesecross overcrossoverdebute6Electric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevf3dmGlendaleglendale caGlendaleCaGreenAutohybridphevplug inplug in hybridplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridPlugInPlugInHybridThu, 17 Mar 2011 06:29:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW promises 5 Series 'New Energy Vehicle' for China]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/16/bmw-promises-5-series-new-energy-vehicle-for-china/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/16/bmw-promises-5-series-new-energy-vehicle-for-china/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/16/bmw-promises-5-series-new-energy-vehicle-for-china/#comments There's an unfortunate lack of details on this one at the moment, but it looks like BMW has something a little special in store for China at the Shanghai Motor Show next month. It will be showing off its new 5 Series "New Energy Vehicle," a plug-in hybrid that, as previously suggested, will be exclusive to the Chinese market. That will presumably be somewhat similar to the company's ActiveHybrid 5 concept pictured above, which it first showed off last year but still hasn't put into production. As Motor Authority notes, however, the New York Auto Show actually coincides with the Shanghai show, so there's a chance that BMW could be set to provide an update on the ActiveHybrid 5, or possibly introduce a North American counterpart to the New Energy Vehicle.

BMW promises 5 Series 'New Energy Vehicle' for China originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 19:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5 series5Seriesactivehybrid 5Activehybrid5bmwhybridnew energy vehicleNewEnergyVehiclephevplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridshanghai motor showShanghaiMotorShowWed, 16 Mar 2011 19:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Veritas RSIII Roadster Hybrid melds plug-in tech with 600HP]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/09/veritas-rsiii-roadster-hybrid-melds-plug-in-tech-with-600hp/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/09/veritas-rsiii-roadster-hybrid-melds-plug-in-tech-with-600hp/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/09/veritas-rsiii-roadster-hybrid-melds-plug-in-tech-with-600hp/#commentsVeritas RSIII Roadster Hybrid melds technology with 600hp of muscle It isn't exactly the hottest hybrid we've ever seen, Porsche's ludicrous 918 RSR still takes that crown, but the Veritas RSIII Roadster Hybrid is certainly no wheezy commuter. It's a tiny, open-topped racer that features a 507HP V10 from BMW that's been paired with a 105kW motor to spin the front wheels. It's much the same arrangement of the Porsche, again relying on a KERS flywheel to generate electricity that's stored in a Li-ion battery pack, which can also be charged separately. The car can actually limp around for up to 31 miles powered by just that front motor, but when both sources of thrust are called upon the sled gets to 62MPH in 3.1 seconds, as fast as a 911 Turbo S, and it'll keep on going until the speedo hits 205 -- or the car hits something immovable. No word on price or availability, but there is a version with a roof coming this summer, and a fully-electric model due in 2013.

Veritas RSIII Roadster Hybrid melds plug-in tech with 600HP originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Mar 2011 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carflywheelhybridhybrid carHybridCarkersphevplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridrsiiirsiii roadster hybridRsiiiRoadsterHybridvehicleveritasWed, 09 Mar 2011 18:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog drives the 2012 Fisker Karma, deems it 'best handling large premium car']]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/22/autoblog-drives-the-2012-fisker-karma-deems-it-best-handling-l/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/22/autoblog-drives-the-2012-fisker-karma-deems-it-best-handling-l/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/22/autoblog-drives-the-2012-fisker-karma-deems-it-best-handling-l/#commentsAutoblog drives the 2012 Fisker Karma, deems it 'best handling large premium car' Karma, in a religious sense, is the sort of divine retribution or cause for your deeds or misdeeds. In an automotive sense it's a $95,900 plug-in luxury performance car that Fisker has been teasing since 2007. That machine is finally nearing production and Autoblog was lucky enough to take an early model for a spin around California Speedway, a brief test-drive that left the pilots concluding "the Fisker Karma is a rolling dream machine for anyone who wants something very different that works and drives exceptionally well." For the rest of the impressions on this $100k plug-in hybrid that offers a combined 657hp and 981lb-ft of torque from three motors and will go 50 miles on batteries alone you'll need to click on through the source link below. For the details on what's in store from your own karma you need only look inside yourself.

Autoblog drives the 2012 Fisker Karma, deems it 'best handling large premium car' originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Feb 2011 10:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fisker karma2012 karma2012FiskerKarma2012Karmafiskerhybridkarmaphevplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridTue, 22 Feb 2011 10:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Volvo releases more details on 124MPG V60 plug-in, shows off iPhone app (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/21/volvo-releases-more-details-on-124mpg-v60-plug-in-shows-off-iph/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/21/volvo-releases-more-details-on-124mpg-v60-plug-in-shows-off-iph/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/21/volvo-releases-more-details-on-124mpg-v60-plug-in-shows-off-iph/#commentsVolvo releases more details on V60 plug-in, promises 124mpg, shows off iPhone app (video) Current gasoline-powered hybrids can barely manage to keep ahead of small diesels in the mpg wars that will shape our future transportation structure, but in theory a diesel hybrid would rule the roost -- for the moment, at least. That's what Volvo will be showing off in Geneva shortly, promising a whopping 124MPG from the V60 plug-in diesel hybrid it announced a few weeks back. The car uses an internal combustion engine driving the front wheels and an electric one to spin the rears, meaning 2WD efficiency but AWD grip -- and a combined 285hp to handily blow the doors off any Prius that dares step up at a streetlight. Volvo is saying the car will take about five hours to charge on a standard household outlet and that you'll be able to monitor that status from your iPhone. Check it out in the video below and turn up those speakers in preparation for one heck of an inspirational piano solo.

Continue reading Volvo releases more details on 124MPG V60 plug-in, shows off iPhone app (video)

Volvo releases more details on 124MPG V60 plug-in, shows off iPhone app (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Feb 2011 08:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappleawddiesel hybridDieselHybridgenevageneva 2011Geneva2011hybridiphonephevplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridv60v69videovolvoMon, 21 Feb 2011 08:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Imperia plug-in hybrid does 0 - 60 in four seconds, looks classy while doing it]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/20/imperia-plug-in-hybrid-does-0-60-in-four-seconds-looks-classy/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/20/imperia-plug-in-hybrid-does-0-60-in-four-seconds-looks-classy/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/20/imperia-plug-in-hybrid-does-0-60-in-four-seconds-looks-classy/#comments If you're tired of hybrids like the Prius or Volt, cars that could easily get lost in a Hertz parking lot, check out the GP. It's the first and only product from resurrected Belgian auto maker Imperia, which previously operated in the early 20th century, but other than the pronounced front grille offers little resemblance to its forbears either above or below that pronounced bonnet. It has an inline four cylinder turbo engine offering 212hp that's paired with a 134hp electric engine, itself backed by a Li-polymer battery pack. It'll do about 45 miles on batteries alone but, more importantly, will roll the 0 - 60mph sprint in under four seconds. Or, at least, it will if it ever hits production. A concept of the car was unveiled at the Brussels Auto Show, but it's anyone's guess when it might actually hit the road for reals.

Gallery: Imperia GP

Imperia plug-in hybrid does 0 - 60 in four seconds, looks classy while doing it originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 20 Feb 2011 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BelgiumConceptGpHybridImperiaImperia GpImperiaGpPhevPlug-inPlug-in HybridPlug-inHybridSeries HybridSeriesHybridSun, 20 Feb 2011 14:02:00 EST<![CDATA[SAE and Zigbee team up to make plug-in cars charge smarter]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/03/sae-and-zigbee-team-up-to-make-plug-in-cars-charge-smarter/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/03/sae-and-zigbee-team-up-to-make-plug-in-cars-charge-smarter/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/03/sae-and-zigbee-team-up-to-make-plug-in-cars-charge-smarter/#commentsSAE and Zigbee Alliance team up to make plug-in cars charge smarterWe're no strangers to Zigbee around these parts, using the various Alliance-certified devices to monitor our power usage and let our refrigerators talk to our washing machines. Soon our cars might be able to get in on that little conversation with the Zigbee Alliance and SAE International starting to work together. SAE develops standards and certifications in the automotive industry (amongst many others) and it embracing Zigbee Smart Energy means that we should see many more auto manufacturers adopting this tech to enable their cars to talk to the grid straight through their plugs. They'll be able to do things like provide charging status updates and to pull down utility pricing information, ensuring your ride charges when rates are lowest. Many current and most upcoming electric cars can do this sort of thing, but they rely on wireless data connectivity to do so. Zigbee would eliminate that. No word on which manufacturers will jump on first, but given the pull the SAE has we think many will.

Continue reading SAE and Zigbee team up to make plug-in cars charge smarter

SAE and Zigbee team up to make plug-in cars charge smarter originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 Feb 2011 16:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleElectricVehicleevplug-inplug-in hybridplug-in vehiclePlug-inHybridPlug-inVehiclepowerline eternetpowerline networkingPowerlineEternetPowerlineNetworkingsaesae internationalSaeInternationalstandardstandardszigbeezigbee alliancezigbee smart energyZigbeeAllianceZigbeeSmartEnergyThu, 03 Feb 2011 16:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler shows off Ram plug-in hybrid electric truck, won't sell it to you]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/30/chrysler-shows-off-ram-plug-in-hybrid-electric-truck-wont-sell/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/30/chrysler-shows-off-ram-plug-in-hybrid-electric-truck-wont-sell/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/30/chrysler-shows-off-ram-plug-in-hybrid-electric-truck-wont-sell/#commentsThere's already a few hybrid trucks on the market (most notably from GM), but true plug-in hybrid electric trucks are another matter altogether. Chrysler now looks set to change that, however -- at least in a small way -- with its new Ram plug-in hybrid that's set to roll out to fleet operators this summer. It was just unveiled at the Washington D.C. Auto Show, and it pairs a 12 kWh battery pack from Canadian battery-maker Electrovaya with Chrysler's own 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine, which Electrovaya says will allow for up to 20 miles of driving on electricity only. Unfortunately, there's no word on any plans to actually make the truck available to individual consumers, but Chrysler does seem to at least be optimistic about hybrid trucks in general, with a company spokesman noting that half-ton pickups are naturally much better at carrying a battery pack than a car, and that trucks work better as hybrid vehicle platforms.

Continue reading Chrysler shows off Ram plug-in hybrid electric truck, won't sell it to you

Chrysler shows off Ram plug-in hybrid electric truck, won't sell it to you originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 30 Jan 2011 10:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerdodgedodge ramDodgeRamelectrovayahybridphevpickupplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridramtrucktruckswashington auto showWashingtonAutoShowSun, 30 Jan 2011 10:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Zipcar adds the plug-in Prius PHEV to its fleet, probably not changing name to Zapcar]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/29/zipcar-adds-the-plug-in-prius-phev-to-its-fleet-probably-not-ch/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/29/zipcar-adds-the-plug-in-prius-phev-to-its-fleet-probably-not-ch/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/29/zipcar-adds-the-plug-in-prius-phev-to-its-fleet-probably-not-ch/#commentsZipcar adds plug-in Prius to its fleet, probably not changing name to Zapcar Would you like a plug-in Prius, the sort that we spent a few days with last year, back when the seasons were changing and there was only a hint of this killer winter to come? Well, too bad, because you still can't buy them. But Zipcar can, apparently, adding eight of the things to its fleet, and they're available now in Boston, San Francisco, and Portland, Oregon. Given the company has 8,000 total cars available your chances of securing one of these particular Priuses (Prii?) is slim, but if you score, know that they charge in just three hours on a 110 outlet, and half that if you're wired for 220, so no fancy-pants charging station is required for use.

Zipcar adds the plug-in Prius PHEV to its fleet, probably not changing name to Zapcar originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 29 Jan 2011 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bostonhybridparallel hybridParallelHybridplug-inplug-in hybridplug-in priusPlug-inHybridPlug-inPriusportlandpriusprius pevprius phevPriusPevPriusPhevsan franciscoSanFranciscozipcarSat, 29 Jan 2011 19:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Chevrolet rolling out Volt nationwide by end of year, everybody gets a plug-in]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/28/chevrolet-rolling-out-volt-nationwide-by-end-of-year-everybody/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/28/chevrolet-rolling-out-volt-nationwide-by-end-of-year-everybody/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/28/chevrolet-rolling-out-volt-nationwide-by-end-of-year-everybody/#commentsChevrolet rolling out Volt nationwide by end of year, everybody gets a plug-in Sick of waiting for your Leaf? Maybe you'll have more luck finding a Volt. Sure, it's not a pure EV, or even a pure series hybrid, but it is going to be a lot easier to find in the near future. Chevrolet has confirmed that the car will be going nationwide by the end of the year, expanding from its current availability in just a few states -- the crimson ones above. By the third quarter it will hit the great Pacific Northwest and the muggy Southeast, and then toward the end of the year it'll fill in the bits in the middle and warm the hearts and garages of Americans all the way up in Maine and Alaska. So, who's buying?

Continue reading Chevrolet rolling out Volt nationwide by end of year, everybody gets a plug-in

Chevrolet rolling out Volt nationwide by end of year, everybody gets a plug-in originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>availabilitychevroletchevygeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmhybridparallel hybridParallelHybridphevplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridseries hybridSeriesHybridvoltFri, 28 Jan 2011 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Volvo set to unveil V60 Plug-in at Geneva, pledges to be slightly less naughty]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/27/volvo-set-to-unveil-v60-plug-in-at-geneva-pledges-to-be-slightl/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/27/volvo-set-to-unveil-v60-plug-in-at-geneva-pledges-to-be-slightl/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/27/volvo-set-to-unveil-v60-plug-in-at-geneva-pledges-to-be-slightl/#comments The new V60 is billed by its creators as being a "naughty Volvo," and while the reviews we've read of its sedan counterpart haven't exactly found it to be particularly uncouth, we're thinking the upcoming plug-in wagon version should be even more friendly. Volvo has announced it will unveil the PHEV V60 in Geneva in March before releasing it for sale in 2012. When fully charged it will offer 50km (31 miles) on pure electricity -- about the same as the Volt -- thanks to a 70hp electric motor mounted in the rear and driving the wheels out back courtesy of a 12kWh Li-ion battery pack. Up front, meanwhile, is a 215hp, 2.4 liter, five-cylinder turbodiesel. It remains to be seen whether there is any mechanical link between the disparate power systems or whether they remain alone, working together yet apart, but we should be getting all the details shortly.

Continue reading Volvo set to unveil V60 Plug-in at Geneva, pledges to be slightly less naughty

Volvo set to unveil V60 Plug-in at Geneva, pledges to be slightly less naughty originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 27 Jan 2011 11:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>phevplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridstation wagonStationWagonv60volvowagonThu, 27 Jan 2011 11:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Volkswagen's XL1 concept plug-in diesel hybrid has 260MPG fuel efficiency, questionable aesthetics]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/25/volkswagens-xl1-concept-plug-in-diesel-hybrid-has-313mpg-fuel-e/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/25/volkswagens-xl1-concept-plug-in-diesel-hybrid-has-313mpg-fuel-e/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/25/volkswagens-xl1-concept-plug-in-diesel-hybrid-has-313mpg-fuel-e/#comments Steaming down the autobahn could be about to get a whole lot more efficient. Volkswagen has carted out its newly updated Super Efficient Vehicle concept, now dubbed the XL1, which -- after a great deal of fuzzy math, we're sure -- is rated at a 313MPG fuel efficiency and produces only 24g of CO2 per kilometer traveled. There's an electric motor and a TDI diesel engine making all the buzzing and roaring noises inside, while the overall body design is focused on making the car as light and as aerodynamic as possible. Volkswagen has achieved a 795kg curb weight by using carbon fiber, magnesium, ceramics, and aluminum to shave down any excess portliness from the XL1, while wind-tunnel testing and optimizations have resulted in a rather exemplary 0.186 drag coefficient. It's rare to see such attributes on anything outside the supercar realm, but then there's a reason why this PHEV is still only a concept. FOF.

Update: Oh bother. Turns out Volkswagen's mileage claim is based on Imperial gallons, which are 1.2 times the size of the American stuff, meaning that the XL1 actually measures in at 260MPG when viewed through US glasses. Now do you see why the rest of the world has gone metric?

Continue reading Volkswagen's XL1 concept plug-in diesel hybrid has 260MPG fuel efficiency, questionable aesthetics

Volkswagen's XL1 concept plug-in diesel hybrid has 260MPG fuel efficiency, questionable aesthetics originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 23:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aerodynamicaerodynamicscarcarbon fiberCarbonFiberconceptconcept carConceptCardieselelectricelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevfuel efficiencyFuelEfficiencyhatchbackhybridmpgphevplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridsevsuper efficient vehicleSuperEfficientVehicletdivolkswagenvolkswagen xl1VolkswagenXl1vwxl1Tue, 25 Jan 2011 23:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Mitsubishi launching eight electrified vehicles by 2015]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/21/mitsubishi-launching-eight-electrified-vehicles-by-2015/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/21/mitsubishi-launching-eight-electrified-vehicles-by-2015/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/21/mitsubishi-launching-eight-electrified-vehicles-by-2015/#commentsMitsubishi launching eight electrified vehicles by 2015 Mitsu's i MiEV may be getting off to a slow start, but it's just the beginning. The company has announced a number of programs collectively titled "Environment Initiative Program 2015," a sort of stepping stone toward a broader reaching "Environmental Vision 2020." That Vision indicates a desire to have 20 percent of Mitsubishi sales be either pure electric vehicles or at least plug-in hybrids. The 2015 initiative sets a more modest goal of five percent, and to get there the company will launch a whopping eight electro-augmented vehicles between now and 2015. It starts with a commercialized MiEV this year, moving to two PHEVs next year, a new EV in 2013, and then another new EV in 2014 -- hopefully with names that roll off the tongue a little better than "i MiEV." Might we suggest the 2014 Mitsubishi Mitueevee?

Mitsubishi launching eight electrified vehicles by 2015 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 21 Jan 2011 09:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleElectricVehicleEnvironment Initiative Program 2015Environmental Vision 2020EnvironmentalVision2020EnvironmentInitiativeProgram2015evi mievIMieviniativemievmitsubishiphevplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridFri, 21 Jan 2011 09:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker Karma now set for production in March, deliveries this spring -- maybe]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/19/fisker-karma-now-set-for-production-in-march-deliveries-this-sp/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/19/fisker-karma-now-set-for-production-in-march-deliveries-this-sp/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/19/fisker-karma-now-set-for-production-in-march-deliveries-this-sp/#commentsFisker Karma now set for production in March, deliveries this spring -- maybe Still hanging on to your Fisker Karma pre-order slip despite the decidedly sizeable boost in MSRP, up to $95,900? Well, we now have an idea of when you might actually have a chance of getting a car. The most recent estimates we heard indicated deliveries starting in late 2010, but that obviously didn't happen. Now Fisker is indicating that full production is set to begin in March, about two months from now, with people getting their rides "soon after." Initial examples of the car are to be produced in Europe, Finland to be exact, and they'll need the services of a fairly substantial boat to get across the Atlantic before they become available here. But, still, a potential release date just a few months away is a reasonably encouraging thing -- and you can't deny the car is still quite a looker.

Fisker Karma now set for production in March, deliveries this spring -- maybe originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 08:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delayfinlandfiskerhybridkarmaphevplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridproductionWed, 19 Jan 2011 08:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota debuts new Prius models, family-friendlier Prius V and funkier Prius C]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/10/toyota-debuts-new-prius-models-including-family-friendlier-priu/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/10/toyota-debuts-new-prius-models-including-family-friendlier-priu/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/10/toyota-debuts-new-prius-models-including-family-friendlier-priu/#comments Toyota made no bones about the fact that more Prius models were to be unveiled in Detroit for the North American International Auto Show, even throwing advertisements up around town asking whether it's supposed to be Priuses or Priii. (We, as you can see, chose to side-step the debate.) Now we know what's coming, first being the Prius V. It's the MPV the company has been teasing, basically just a taller version of the four-door sedan with a hatchback and a whopping 60 percent more cargo space -- 32 cubic feet, which is more than most compact SUVs. It's to be rated 42mpg city, 38 highway, and 40 combined, which is a surprising 10mpg lower than the sedan model. That's perhaps a bit disappointing, but availability this summer is a pleasant surprise.

Next is the Prius C, naturally for "concept," which is aimed at "young singles and couples." It's definitely funkier and way cooler than the current model, looking to have a nose very similar to the car's FT-86 concept. We hope the production model looks quite close to this, and while that's always a doubtful proposition we won't have all that long to wait, with it hitting dealerships in the first half of 2012. Toyota also showed off the Prius Plug-In, the very same one we test drove last year, said to be coming first to the western and eastern coasts of the US first, and re-affirmed the "patriarch" status of the current-generation Prius sedan, having sold 230,000 cars since 2009. It's good to be the king.

Gallery: Toyota Prius V and Prius C

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Toyota debuts new Prius models, family-friendlier Prius V and funkier Prius C originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 Jan 2011 13:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsdetroit auto showDetroitAutoShowfeaturefeaturedfeatureshybridnaiasnaias 2011Naias2011phevplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridpriusprius mpvPriusMpvtoyotaMon, 10 Jan 2011 13:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford announces C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid cars for 2012 release]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/10/ford-announces-c-max-hybrid-and-c-max-energi-plug-in-hybrid-cars/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/10/ford-announces-c-max-hybrid-and-c-max-energi-plug-in-hybrid-cars/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/10/ford-announces-c-max-hybrid-and-c-max-energi-plug-in-hybrid-cars/#commentsFord announces C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid cars for 2012 release Ford indicated that CES was simply the right place to debut the Ford Focus Electric, and we'd tend to agree given the company's history of showing off cool stuff at the show. But, perhaps part of that reason is because the company wasn't done with the new car announcements. In Detroit Ford has announced two new flavors of its C-MAX, both coming to the US: hybrid and plug-in hybrid. The C-MAX is a European market compact MPV, basically a tall station wagon that'll comfortably seat five and still leave room for luggage, dogs, or '70s era mainframe systems in the back. More details on both versions, plus the full PR, after the break.

Gallery: Ford C-MAX models

Continue reading Ford announces C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid cars for 2012 release

Ford announces C-MAX Hybrid and C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid cars for 2012 release originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 Jan 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c-maxc-max energic-max hybridC-maxEnergiC-maxHybriddetroit auto showDetroitAutoShowenergifocushybridmyfordmyford mobileMyfordMobilenaiasnaias 2011Naias2011pevphevplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridMon, 10 Jan 2011 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[BYD Motors to debut e6 Premier, S6DM plug-in vehicles at the Detroit Auto Show]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/29/byd-motors-to-debut-e6-premier-s6dm-plug-in-vehicles-at-the-det/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/29/byd-motors-to-debut-e6-premier-s6dm-plug-in-vehicles-at-the-det/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/29/byd-motors-to-debut-e6-premier-s6dm-plug-in-vehicles-at-the-det/#comments China's BYD came out of nowhere in early 2009 to debut a MID / phone running Windows XP, but consumer electronics are just one arm (actually spun off) of the relatively young mega-corporation. Its BYD Motors division has also been working on various plug-in vehicles for the past few years, and it's now set to roll into the Detroit Auto Show next month with two new models. Those include the all-electric e6 Premier crossover, and the S6DM dual-mode plug-in hybrid SUV, the former of which promises a range of 300 kilometers and a top speed of 140km/h, while the latter can eek out 60 kilometers solely on electric power or close to 500 kilometers when the 2.0L gasoline engine comes into play. What's more, the company is apparently also promising a US launch announcement of some sort, although Autoblog Green suspects that will involve the earlier F3DM hybrid (pictured above), which has already begun testing in California, and the E6 electric crossover. Head on past the break for the full press release.

Continue reading BYD Motors to debut e6 Premier, S6DM plug-in vehicles at the Detroit Auto Show

BYD Motors to debut e6 Premier, S6DM plug-in vehicles at the Detroit Auto Show originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Dec 2010 01:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-electricBYDBYD MotorsBydMotorscrossoverdetroit auto showDetroitAutoShowe6e6 PremierE6PremierelectricF3DMhybridplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridS6DMWed, 29 Dec 2010 01:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Porsche promises to unveil 'new model' in Detroit, could it be the 918 Spyder plug-in?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/28/porsche-promises-to-unveil-new-model-in-detroit-could-it-be-t/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/28/porsche-promises-to-unveil-new-model-in-detroit-could-it-be-t/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/28/porsche-promises-to-unveil-new-model-in-detroit-could-it-be-t/#commentsPorsche promises to unveil 'new model' in Detroit, could it be the 918 Spyder plug-in? Maybe this is wishful thinking and maybe we're optimists, but maybe, just maybe, Porsche could be ready to unveil to the world the final version of its supremely hot hybrid. We already know the company has given the 918 Spyder plug-in hybrid a green light for a run down assembly lines, a legitimate supercar with a 700+ horsepower on tap despite achieving near 80mpg. But, we don't know the when nor the all-important how much. With Porsche promising to give "a new model its world debut" at the North American International Auto Show we can't help but hope that this is it. Want to be the first to find out? When the time comes you can watch the unveil yourself, live streamed at www.porsche.com/detroit.

Update: Marco wrote in to let us know the spoil-sports at Autobild are indicating this will be just the relatively plain 918, neither a spyder nor a hybrid. We'll just have to wait a few weeks to see.

Continue reading Porsche promises to unveil 'new model' in Detroit, could it be the 918 Spyder plug-in?

Porsche promises to unveil 'new model' in Detroit, could it be the 918 Spyder plug-in? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Dec 2010 17:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>918 spyder918Spyderconceptdetroithybridnaiasnaias 2011Naias2011plug-in hybridPlug-inHybridporschesupercarunveilTue, 28 Dec 2010 17:53:00 EST