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Toyota announces plug-in hybrid for 2010
According to reports, roost-ruling, green automaker Toyota has confirmed plans to launch a plug-in hybrid by 2010. Our man in Japan Katsuaki Watanabe (company president) dropped the bombshell at this year's Detroit Auto Show while detailing the automaker's plans for tackling environmental concerns. Apparently, the new lithium-ion-equipped vehicles will first be made available to Toyota's commercial customers -- such as government agencies. Watanabe gave no indication of when a general consumer rollout would occur. The vehicle, which is a modified version of the ultra-popular Prius, is capable of achieving fuel efficiency of 99.9 miles-per-gallon in EV mode, though it can only sustain pure battery power for about seven miles. The announcement will no doubt come as a total bummer to GM, which has plans to sell its own plug-in, the Volt, around the same time -- though the Chevy vehicle is said to be able to make trips of up to 40 miles on a six-hour charge. It's about time we saw some healthy competition in the green-auto-game -- let's just hope consumers reap the benefits.
Tata Motors' $2,500 NANO automobile gets official
While many around the globe have their eyes fixated on the events going down in Las Vegas this week, the 9th Auto Expo in New Delhi, India is managing to steal at least a hint of the limelight. Announced today, Tata Motors' $2,500 "1-Lakh" car will actually see production in India later this year, and it has affectionately been dubbed the NANO. For those not keen on such a title, it can also be recognized as "The People's Car," but it seems "The Person's Car" may have been more appropriate. Nevertheless, this little bundle of automotive joy will feature an all-aluminum, two-cylinder engine that can deliver around 54 US miles per gallon, and while stripped down would be a gross understatement, it does promise to "exceed current regulatory (read: safety) requirements." Hit the read link for Tata's official release along with a plethora of photos.[Image courtesy of Manan Vatsyayana/Raveendran for Getty]
Knight Rider storms back, new K.I.T.T. showcased
We know, it's a little sad how dear Knight Rider is to our hearts, but honestly, we couldn't be more elated to find that the show is finally getting a new breath of life. Starting in February, an updated version of the classic will be hitting NBC, and while we could spend hours gushing over the cast, our eyes are fixed on the star pictured above. The new K.I.T.T. will be played by a Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR, and while three versions will make appearances, it should come as no surprise to hear that out personal favorite is the driverless K.I.T.T. Remote. Go on, indulge in the links below for more pictorial goodness, we won't tell anyone.[Via TVSquad, thanks to everyone who sent this in]
Toyota makes vehicles communicate with surroundings to prevent collisions
We've already seen Intelligent Transport Systems discussed ad nauseum when referring to Nissan, but now Toyota is taking the time to demonstrate its latest advancements in vehicle-infrastructure cooperative systems. Put simply, the aforementioned ITS technologies are being tapped to "enable communication between cars and elements of their surroundings in an effort to reduce collisions." Complementing the massive simulator also on display, the automaker was demonstrating its strides in implementing road-to-vehicle, vehicle-to-vehicle and pedestrian-to-vehicle communications, which can warn drivers via audio / visual cues and even slow the vehicle's speed in order to prevent an accident. Sadly, Toyota failed to mention when we'd see these newfangled safety features integrated into civilian rides, but we can't wait to wave such niceties in the face of our insurance companies as we campaign for lower rates.[Via FarEastGizmos]
Toyota demos massive driving simulator, aims to nix traffic deaths
Simulators similar to the one recently unveiled to the world by Toyota aren't all that uncommon, but this 4.5-meter high pod is "the first to move laterally and has the longest range of 35-meters front to back and 20-meters from right to left." Reportedly, the automaker plans to use its newest toy to "analyze driving characteristics under various conditions such as drunkenness and drowsiness" and subsequently decide what new safety features should be added to its fleet of motorcars. More specifically, the device enables researchers to "conduct driving tests that would be too dangerous to perform in the real world or that require specific driving conditions," and we're pretty sure the 360-degree concave video screen is quite the draw, too. Unfortunately, we have little faith that you'll ever see a tamed version of this here simulator at your local arcade, but one can hope, we suppose.[Via Yahoo / Reuters, image courtesy of Tech.co.uk]
Chrysler 300 sports display-equipped wheels at SEMA
One may wonder how on Earth a wheel manufacturer can top the sheer gaudiness displayed on the world's biggest spinners, but apparently, somebody's already all over it. Shown at SEMA 2007, the pictured Chrysler 300 was sporting a set of LED-equipped wheels (PimpStar, anyone?), each of which contained its own (effectively worthless) color display. Unfortunately, all we have to go by is a short video (posted after the jump, if you dare) which incorrectly calls the car a Bentley, so as you may expect, we've no idea how much coin these will demand. But then again, your money would probably be better spent on in-car electronics -- or pretty much anything else, to be frank.
Mitsubishi shows off sporty all electric i-MiEV car, Tesla puts up its dukes
Granted, we'll still give the Tesla Roadster the upper hand in terms of sheer sexiness, but Mitsubishi is hoping to attract any wandering eyes by unveiling a sporty new all electric whip of its very own. Shown recently at the Tokyo Motor Show, the compact i-MiEV will reportedly be powered by a pack of Li-ions that can enable drivers to scoot about 100 miles before needing a recharge. After it's out of juice, it'll take around 7-hours at 200V or 14-hours at 100V to charge it back up. Most notable about this ride, however, is the proposed release date: 2009. This figure was recently moved up a year from the original 2010 projection, but unfortunately, no details surrounding a price or specific launch markets have been disclosed. Be sure and hit the via link for a bevy of photos.[Via Autoblog]
First image of Fisker's plug-in luxury hybrid released?
You can't be too careful these days, but if the above image isn't just the work of some overzealous fanboy (or girl), that's what Fisker's forthcoming luxury plug-in hybrid will look like. The vehicle itself will be developed in conjunction with Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies, which reportedly hopes to aid Fisker in developing an entire line of "environmentally friendly premium cars." If all goes well, the whip could make its North American entrance at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, but as you can probably imagine, owning such a svelte looking ride won't run you cheap. The company plans to crank out some 15,000 of these creations initially and fetch around $100,000 for each, but until we actually get the word that people are taking delivery, we won't get too attached.[Via Autoblog]
Schwarzenegger signs ban on teen cell phone use while driving
Arnold Schwarzenegger isn't as much fun as a Governor as he was in The Terminator... just ask California's teen drivers. The former action movie star has signed a new bill -- which we told you about in August -- into law, making it illegal for anyone aged 16 or 17 to use a mobile phone, pager, laptop, or handheld computer while driving a vehicle. Effective July 1, 2008 (the same day that California's ban on non-hands-free mobile-use while driving takes effect), the state will begin to fine offenders $20 for their first incident, and $50 for each recurrent violation. The law is targeting teen drivers due to the wealth of statistics that demonstrate young motorists are more likely to end up in car accidents which result in death. According to reports, 13.6-percent of all fatal accidents are caused by teenagers, and studies show that car crashes are the leading cause of death for people between the ages of 16-19. "The simple fact is that teenage drivers are more easily distracted," said Schwarzenegger in a statement, adding, "We want to eliminate any extra distractions so they can focus on paying attention to the road and being good drivers." He then paused and remarked, "We just don't want to say 'Hasta la vista, baby' to young drivers anymore."
Hands-on with Panasonic's Strada CN-GP50N
We finally wrangled some Panasonic reps around midday, then promptly convinced them to let us take the Strada CN-GP50N GPS navigator for a spin... in our hands. At a glance, the device comes off vaguely like a TomTom high-end model, or similarly-classed device, though we take a little issue with the kinda-sorta fugly UI, which produced violent 1997 flashbacks in the staff. Also, the interface seemed a bit slower than it should, with brief but noticeable pauses every now and again. Our word to Panasonic? Fix it up! Check out the gallery to see what we're lamentin'.%Gallery-6750%
Toyota turns to Sony for help with "intelligent" new vehicle
While it doesn't look like there will be AIBOs scampering around Toyota offices anytime soon, it appears that the company has in fact turned to Sony for some of their robotics-related expertise. According to the AP, the two companies will be working together to develop an "innovative, intelligent, single-seat vehicle" as part of a deal that stems from Toyota's acquisition of various Sony technology and patents earlier this year. Under the new partnership, seven Sony researchers have started to work temporarily in Toyota's robot research unit, helping Toyota make sense of the technology. While details on the vehicle itself are light, as the AP points out, Toyota's i-swing "personal mobility vehicle" does seem to meet the general description. In related news, Toyota also officially unveiled its TPR-Robina showroom guide robot today, which we're guessing has already given those visiting Sony researchers a suitably creepy welcoming.
Nissan unveils concept car with anti-drunk driving technology
Just as expected, Nissan has indeed rolled out a concept vehicle that showcases its long-awaited anti-drunk driving technology. The vehicle sports "multiple preventative features" designed to curb inebriated operation of vehicles, and essentially detects the driver's state of sobriety and kicks into action if you've had a bit much. Amongst the detection agents are alcohol odor sensors built into the locking shift knob, seat-mounted sensors that can activate a voice and navigation screen warning, and a facial monitoring system that determines your "state of consciousness through your eyes." Regrettably, there's still no word as to when this system could actually hit showroom floors, but if the automaker has shelled out enough dough to craft a concept vehicle, we'd imagine it's not too far out.[Via TheAutoChannel]
Volkswagen conjuring up adaptive sunshade
Just a day after a clever Jetta owner figured out how to chart his joyrides with a Wiimote, it looks like Volkswagen has a trick up its own sleeve, too. Reportedly, the automaker is developing an "adaptive sun visor" that recognizes the position of the sun and darkens the areas that require it in order to make your drive a less squint-filled one. The technology supposedly works around curves and elevation changes, meaning that leaving your sunglasses behind may not ruin your afternoon commute. As expected, further details are few and far between at the moment, and while there's no set date (nor vehicle) for the innovative sunshade to be launched on, the sun-lovin' Eos wouldn't be a bad guinea pig.[Via Foursprung]
Car modder repurposes Wiimote as accelerometer
Looking to collect a little acceleration / braking data on the cheap? Even if you're just scouting alternative uses for that oh-so-handy Wiimote, a recent project from klee just may suit your fancy. A proud owner of a 2000 Volkswagen Jetta managed to rig up a Wiimote-based tracking system that gathered information on g-forces, acceleration, turning, and overall speed, and thanks to a little Excel computation, the results are neatly graphed once the outing concludes. Of course, you may need a little help in the script writing department, by judging by the looks of things, most everything you need is awaiting you in the read link -- you know, except your own Wiimote and a Vee-Dub.[Thanks, Matt]
Wooden Supercar takes to the streets
We've seen a smorgasbord of unusual ways to get back and forth to work, and while you could certainly catch us aboard a real-world Mario Kart or jet-powered scooter, traversing the 101 in a completely wooden automobile isn't exactly within our realm of acceptable risk. Nevertheless, the Sada furniture company in Japan has crafted such a vehicle, and the president of the firm has even driven it into a news studio just to show it off. Reportedly, the vehicle can actually reach a top speed of just under 50 miles-per-hour, but considering it would cost you around ¥3,900,000 ($32,819) to take one of your own home -- not to mention the implausibly high insurance rates on a flammable vehicle -- you're probably better off just living vicariously through the videos after the jump.[Via Coolest-Gadgets]
Windows Live Local SUV spotted in Sacramento
Leave it to Redmond to ante up with a big, gas guzzling SUV for its "street-side view" purposes. Recently caught cruising in Northern California, this hulking Chevy makes Immersive Media's Google fleet (family mini-van and college grad's first car) look pretty tame. Now if only they could snap more pics of Ballmer pulling this face. Take another look after the break.[Thanks, Gabriel H]
UK's Lightning to build all-electric GT sports car
Adding its name to the ever-growing list of all-electric cars that never seem to seep onto lots is Lightning, which is apparently developing a 700bhp whip that unashamedly rips styling cues from quintessential British cars of the past and present. Designed to "compete with premium market sport cars," the GT is hoping to "combine high performance electric motive power with an advanced regenerative energy system that recharges the car's batteries under braking by capturing lost friction energy." Additionally, motorists can expect a sub-four second 0-60 time, and better yet, just a ten minute charge time to sustain a 250 mile range. As expected, Lightning would love to secure your deposit on the not-yet-launched car right now for a 2008 delivery, but we'd recommend checking with its shipping department before you place an order from outside of Britain.[Via Autoblog]
Texas DOT could institute SPECS-style speed cameras
Just as soon as we finished cheering for the Texas Legislature's stance on those pesky speed cameras, the state's Department of Transportation is apparently trying to override their good will. According to a June 10th filing, the Texas DOT is looking to install "turnkey automated speed notification services" on Highway 10 in Hudspeth County and Highway 6 near College Station (watch those lead feet, Aggies). Reportedly, this project is simply to "assess and evaluate all elements" of such a system, but it doesn't take a genius to guess that money's on the brain. Notably, the "quality assurance" section of the plan points out that these suckers will be accurate to within two miles-per-hour in either direction, so your wiggle room is sliced dramatically. Of course, we can all hope that Texas' iteration of the SPECS-style camera is as easy to circumvent as those in Britain.[Via FARK]
Speed Racer's Mach 5 comes to life
Sorry K.I.T.T., you had a nice run there, but we're pretty certain the newly created Mach 5 could destroy you in the quarter mile. As the crew readies for the Speed Racer-inspired motion picture to land in May 2008, this blast from the animated past has finally become a reality, and it even parked for a photograph and an unveiling ceremony, too. The sparkly white ride sports a blinding red interior, stripped down dashboard, push button start, and a hint of nostalgia to boot. We know, next May is a long ways off, but feel free to click through and see the presentation of the tangible Mach 5 in all of its glory -- now go, Speed Racer, go.[Via CNET]
Itronix's semi-rugged GoBook VR-2 gets a day job
General Dynamics Itronix certainly has the rugged computer gig down pat, but the GoBook VR-2 scales things back a bit and only gets the "semi-rugged" treatment. Don't think this bad boy's not a workhorse, however, as this machine was reportedly designed to "meet the demanding needs of mobile workers in a variety of commercial, field service, public safety, and military markets." Among the niceties that make the day-to-day a bit easier is a 13.3-inch XGA DynaVue touchscreen display, Intel's 2GHz T7300 Core 2 Duo processor, up to 4GB of RAM, up to 120GB of hard drive space, an optional HDD heater for those chilly morns in Killington, DVD burner, PC Card slot, optional ExpressCard slot, VGA output, audio in / out, four USB 2.0 ports, gigabit Ethernet, 802.11a/g/n, integrated fingerprint reader, optional WWAN / GPS, Bluetooth, and a three-year warranty that should keep you feeling secure. Of course, this beast can handle a decent amount of shock, dust, and humidity too, but we wouldn't expect anything less with a base price of around $3,500. Click on through for a few on-the-job snaps.
