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Alvarez Electric Motors rolls out budget-friendly line of Eco vehicles
Sure, there's already a ton of electric rides out there, but some folks might not be interested in all those bells and whistles found in something like, say, that precious Tesla Model S or the upcoming Audi A3 e-tron. Luckily for them, there are indie companies like Alvarez Electric Motors trying to stir things up a bit in the EV market. The California company (with the help of Chinese OEM Liuzhou Wuling) has just announced three eco-friendly vehicles, starting with its Eco-E Commuter Car and followed by two larger ones, the EcoTruck and EcoVan -- all of which are priced at around $10,000, $17,000 and $18,000, respectively, though this isn't taking into consideration the tax credits and rebates that come with going the green route. Naturally, saving cash also means taking a couple of hits in key departments, and thus it shouldn't come as a surprise the EV trio is only expected to have a mild range of 30-40 miles, while top speeds are said to clock in at a mere 25 mph. You'll find more info on these at the source below, along with extra pictures for your kind viewing pleasure.
Mercedes-Benz said to be exploring SLS AMG E-Cell in roadster guise
Mercedes-Benz has already committed to bringing the SLS AMG E-Cell gullwing to dealers in 2013, but we'd advise holding back on taking out a second mortgage to pay for it until you're done reading. The Netherlands' De Telegraaf hears from an unnamed spokesperson that there's enough interest to make a roadster version of the EV supercar. What action the automaker takes depends on sales of the hardtop: if it's clear more people want an open-air experience, that's what will happen. The electric motor layout is easily transferred to a roadster, the representative says. If that E-Cell variant becomes a reality, Audi might want to hurry up and build a production-grade e-tron Spyder before Mercedes claims all of the (very niche) German electric roadster market for itself.
Nissan pins Leaf's WattStation charging woes on a software bug, works on a fix
GE and Nissan had previously ruled out GE's WattStation as the cause of a few Leaf charging failures, and that story of EV tragedy looks to be winding to a close with a more definitive explanation. As the two tell us, a bug in the Leaf's on-board charging software can damage the relevant hardware under a perfect storm of conditions: if a drivers uses a specific (but not necessarily GE) charger, an undervoltage or similar power crisis can bring the Leaf to its knees. Nissan says it's hurrying towards a remedy, although we're working to confirm just what that entails. In the meantime, the automaker is asking owners to be cautious and avoid plugging in when there's lightning or brownouts in the making.
BMW opens i Store in sync with London Olympics, shows tourists their electric destiny
Technology companies have been lining up to milk the London Olympics spotlight for all it's worth. BMW isn't shy about taking its turn, but it's not looking to cash in -- directly, we mean. The automaker is instead using its just-opened i Store to showcase everything electric and hybrid for downtown visitors who aren't busy watching the cycling. Its centerpieces are unquestionably the i3 and i8, which won't even go on sale until many months after the summer games' closing ceremonies; the i3 on the floor is closer to the street model, though, and will tease EV drivers with BMW's option packs. Should that make your bank account cringe far too soon, the i Pedelec scooter and the i Wallbox charger will be hanging around as well. If you didn't book a ticket to Heathrow in time, don't panic: the i line is going on a world tour this year that starts in Rome, swings past the US and Japan, and comes full circle to London in 2013.
Ford C-Max Energi pricing: $29,995 after a federal tax credit, available this fall
Ford already spilled the beans on its $25,995 C-Max Hybrid (shown in the vid just after the break), but those anxiously awaiting more surrounding the C-Max Energi can finally start saving a precise amount of pennies. The automaker's first production plug-in hybrid will go on sale this autumn for $29,995 after a federal tax credit, and according to Ford, that's "more affordable than the Prius plug-in hybrid." For those in need of a memory jar, the Energi is expected to deliver 550 miles of total range, representing a 95 mpg equivalent (MPGe) and an electric-only top speed higher than the Prius plug-in. As the Prius bashing continues, Ford is also quick to point out that its Energi will boast 60 more horsepower than Toyota's rival. Those intrigued can visit the source links to see the newly launched "build-and-price" website for the car, and those who reside in the state of California will likely qualify for an extra $1,500 in tax credits.
Ford's 2013 C-Max Energi rolls out 95 MPGe, arrives later this fall
There's no question America's favorite Motor Company faces a hefty amount of competition in the eco-friendly cars department, but the outfit is hoping to lure some green humans away from its adversaries with the upcoming C-Max Energi series. Interestingly enough, but not surprisingly, Ford's touting the 2013 Energi's cheaper price tag -- when compared to something like a Toyota Prius V -- as one of the ride's features, though it's also hoping its combined 550-mile range (PHEV-20) and expected 95 MPGe are good enough reasons for you to spend a cool 26k ($25,995, to be exact) amount of cash on this plug-in hybrid. Ford says dealers are now taking your orders, and that the C-Max Energi will be ready to hit the streets in a few more months. Update: As one of our dear readers pointed out, the $25,995 price is for the C-Max Hybrid. Meanwhile, we're still waiting to hear just how much the Energi will cost at the time of launch. [Thanks, Lauren]
A123 Systems' new lithium ion tech keeps EV batteries cool, your wallet in check
EV battery maker A123 Systems has had a rocky history as of late following a Fisker battery recall, but it may just be turning the corner with a new lithium ion advancement. Nanophosphate EXT widens the temperature range that A123's lithium iron phosphate-based batteries can withstand before losing power: an EXT battery musters 20 percent more power than before when it's as chilly as -22F and can keep over 90 percent of its original capacity after 2,000 full charges, even if it's been run in a blistering 113F heat. The longevity has its obvious advantages for anyone who lives in an extreme climate, but it could also lead to cheaper EVs and hybrids -- the less cooling a car battery needs, the lower the up-front cost and the lighter the car gets. Full production won't start until the first half of 2013, though that's ample time for companies to at least think about slotting Nanophosphate EXT battery packs into 2014 or later cars such as the Atlantic.
Tesla gives Model S Signature drivers a year of free data, reveals their cars' true colors (video)
Although Tesla has already delivered the first Model S to its eager owner, the fledgling automaker is still offering a steady stream of treats to those patiently waiting for the official June 22nd date. Drivers who spring for the Signature Series trim level of the EV sedan now get a year's worth of mobile data at no extra cost, a bonus no doubt helpful for buyers who get lost on the first drive. Regardless of which Model S might eventually find the driveway in the future, Tesla is providing a look at how it paints the car's chosen color. Each aluminum shell is dipped in an electro-coating solution, baked in an oven, water-sealed and given its final clear coat paint by robots -- no dealer will be charging extra for weatherproofing here. It's all appropriately futuristic, and you can get a peek at the whole process in the video after the break as well as at the source.
Audi cancels A1 and A2 EVs due to pricing concerns (update: not exactly)
Audi's A2 and A1 EV concepts have been floating around for a while now, but it looks like neither will make it past the exploratory phase. According to Car Magazine, the auto maker is cancelling production of the two models due to concerns about pricing. The projected cost is apparently just south of $50,000. That's not to say that Audi is giving up on developing EVs entirely, though -- it's still pushing the A3 e-tron pilot program announced earlier this year. Update: As it would turn out, Audi states it never actually announced it would be producing these vehicles, thus there is nothing to cancel. The Audi A2 and A1 are concept vehicles only. To say that "production was cancelled" isn't accurate. The A2 concept was meant to provide a preview of electric driving in the mega-cities of the future. Audi hasn't commented on possible series production. With the A1 e-tron, Audi has demonstrated an approach to electric mobility that combines an electric motor with an internal-combustion motor as range extender. The A1 e-tron is currently undergoing testing under everyday conditions within a fleet trial in Munich. Based on the results from the fleet trial, Audi will decide on a concept that is aligned as closely as possible with the needs of customers. Audi has not commented on speculation as to decisions on volume production.
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.
Electric Motor Werks hands-on at Maker Faire (video)
Have a BMW 3-Series that requires major engine work? Want to convert it to electric and improve performance, ActiveE style? The folks at Electric Motor Werks have you covered. Instead of making purpose-built electric cars, the company -- which showed a converted 3-Series sedan and coupé at Maker Faire Bay Area 2012 -- provides affordable and environmentally responsible electric conversion kits for the BMW E46. These are available directly to consumers but Electric Motor Werks is also building a network of installers (via tuner / speed shops) and setting up its own facilities. We chatted with founder Val Miftakhov who gave us a tour of the prototype kit in the vehicles on display, so head past the break for more information and for our hands-on video.%Gallery-155864%
Fisker rep defends Karma 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 Karma reportedly sets house on fire, doesn't restore cosmic balance (updated)
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.
Coda sedan EV hits California dealerships, spreads semi-frugal greenness
Coda Automotive's EV sedan has been a long time coming -- but it's here in earnest now. After some initial deliveries two months earlier and the slight matter of parts arriving from China with minor damage, the California-assembled electric car should be in the fledgling automaker's Los Angeles dealership this week. Don't assume the sales rep will have the sedan in your preferred shade of periwinkle blue, however: although all four of Coda's dealerships in California will have samples for test drives, just ten units of the inaugural EV are on sale at the LA location. Should you happen to jump to the front of the small queue, expect to pay a relatively reasonable $39,900 before a tax credit for the regular sedan with a 150-mile range, or an ever-so slightly more economical $37,250 for the 125-mile edition.
Chevy Volt safe from fire hazard after all, says government
The Chevy Volt isn't prone to catching fire after all, says the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The all-electric car came under scrutiny last year after one caught fire following a side-impact crash test. GM offered a buyback program for Volt owners concerned their cars might suddenly immolate, then the company made "enhancements" to the Volt's battery coolant system. That set things right, as far as the NHTSA is concerned: it says "no discernable defect trend exists" in the Volt, and that GM's revisions "reduce the potential for battery intrusion resulting from side impacts." Chevy dropped the Volt's price by $1,000 for 2012, too. So what do you think? Is a $39,000 starting price and less of a chance of burning to death enough to make you go electric?
Say 'ta ta' to the Tata eMO: the $20,000 EV you'll never set eyes on
This story ends before it even starts, but it's nice to look at what could have been, should destiny -- or a corporate boardroom -- have taken a different course. Tata Motors, maker of the Nano EV, has been working on new concept -- the eMO -- that it already tells us, we'll never see. It claims the nifty looking car would do 100 imaginary miles per charge and a theoretical 65 mph top speed. It would cost a fictitious 20,000 dollars, thanks to lots of non-existent weight being saved through thrift design principles -- such as space saving suicide doors. There isn't even a hatch for the trunk to easily put away all that shopping you didn't buy. Back in the real world, however, we'll be seeing at least a little more of this fantastical EV as the firm enters it into the Michelin Challenge Design at next week's Detroit Auto Show.
Aptera fresh out of greenbacks, closes up shop
Bummer for fans of teardrop shaped three-wheelers, as your favorite chariot, Aptera's 2e, will never see the light of day. Despite getting the ball rolling on a $150 million loan from the DOE, subsequent funding and time just weren't on the startup's side. An unfortunate prognosis, as CEO Paul Wilbur revealed the company had been working on a $30,000 mid-sized sedan that would have touted 190 miles of electrical range. He's still adamant the company had "never been closer" to realizing its vision, but hopes someone else can carry on Aptera's torch. Those nuggets and more await in what is possibly the company's final tell-all after the break.
Fisker inks BMW deal, Nina EVs gain Ultimate Driving Machine DNA
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.
Volvo and Siemens team up to build better electric engines
Electric cars are finally starting to make a dent in the market, but they've got a long way to go before you'll find one in every driveway. Thankfully companies like Volvo and Siemens are working hard to improve EV technology and grant Mother Earth a bit of a reprieve from our pollutant-spewing rides. The two manufacturers are collaborating on vehicles equipped with electric drive motors, in particular Siemens's C30 DRIVe. Tests will begin later this year, with 200 vehicles set to be delivered in late 2012 for evaluation under "real-life conditions." Check out the PR after the break.
Toyota smashes EV record on Nurburgring, speed rivals gas-powered cars (video)
Last week, Toyota's racing team set out to break the current EV record on the Nordschleife track, part of Germany's infamous Nürburgring -- and they've done it, clocking a swift 7:47.79 seconds with the P001 electric racing car. The Peugeot EX1 EV's previous 9:01.338 record seems like a distant memory as the new contender shaved more than a minute off the time, giving even gasoline-powered vehicles a run for their money. Toyota's car is no slouch as it can reach 260km/h (174mph), with a track time that rivals the Radical SR8 LM's record breaking time of 6:48. Beating its predicted goal of eight minutes, Toyota hopes the victory will bring new awareness to electric racing and perhaps to help sell custom race cars in the future -- yes, you too might be able to cop a car with the same guts (albeit different body and chassis) as a Radical Sportscar some day. Check out the full PR after the jump.
