tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41388315285131282762023-06-20T23:32:25.831-05:00Green Cars, Blue SkiesArticles and information about "green" cars and trucks designed to keep the sky blue.LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-10959354453199909492010-08-19T17:34:00.000-05:002010-08-19T17:34:50.755-05:00What Makes the Ford Fusion Hybrid So Good?Levi Quinn<br />
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With so many hybrid vehicles suddenly popping up all over the world there is definitely a lot of competition in the market. However, deciding which make and model is the best is generally a personal opinion because it comes down on the need of each person from their vehicle. While many of the leading auto manufacturers in the world are developing and producing a variety of hybrid vehicles, many people think that the Ford Motor Company may be leading the way. If you really want to know if the Ford hybrid is the best available, it would be a good idea to do some research on the cars and test drive one as well. Reading as many reviews as you can get your hands on will also help.<br />
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On Jan. 11, 2010, the Fusion Hybrid received the 2010 North American Car of the Year award at the recent version of the auto show held in Detroit. A group of 49 automotive journalists from North America sat on a panel and selected the winners after judging the cars on a variety of factors. These include innovation, safety, design, handling, value, and driver satisfaction. These Hybrids have set a record for winning the award five times in total.<br />
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The Ford Fusion set a brand new bar by raising the hybrid technology up to a higher level. The vehicle combines a sophisticated and seamless hybrid powertrain with an exceptional Fusion platform that is entrenched firmly in the centre of the auto world's mainstream market, and it resulted in a winning venture. Most reports state that the car is exciting to drive. It is very refined all around, including its braking and handling along with its convenience and comfort. However, the Ford Fusion has sold a lot less cars than the Toyota Prius and Camry Hybrid.<br />
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USA Today newspaper stated that "the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid is the best gasoline-electric hybrid yet." A popular website -- Cars.com -- also praised it by saying that the car "is a significant step forward for the technology, particularly for family sedans". And the popular magazine -- Car and Driver were quoted as saying - "the Ford Fusion Hybrid "wipes the floor with the Toyota Camry Hybrid."<br />
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At this point in time, the Ford Fusion, Nissan Altima Hybrid, and Toyota Camry Hybrid are the top three hybrid vehicles when it comes to the medium-size family sedan models. The Fusion Hybrid can drive 41 city and 36 highway miles per gallon. The Camry Hybrid can get 33 and 34 miles. The Altima Hybrid can go 35 and 33 miles per gallon. According to most experts, the Fusion Hybrid also transfers from gasoline to electric very smoothly.<br />
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The Fusion and the Mercury Milan Hybrids are the first cars to utilize the company's second-generation system for hybrids. The new system reportedly supplies a tighter combination of power delivery and engine operation. These are some of the things that make Ford one of the leading companies on the planet when it comes to hybrid technology. However, there is only one way to decide if their products are for you, and that is to try one out for yourself.<br />
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July 17, 2010</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="subsection"> </span> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> Toyota Motor Company announced they have formalized an agreement to develop an electric version of the RAV4 SUV with Tesla Motors. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> In May 2010, Akio Toyoda and Elon Musk, leaders of Toyota and Telsa, respectively, announced they would work together on electric vehicles. The agreement formalizes this announcement and would allow Tesla to work with Toyota at an automobile production plant in California. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> The plant will open 2011, when Tesla reopens it after it bought the Fremont, California plant. The plant was previously used by Toyota and General Motors, but was shut down when Toyota said it would not produce cars in California. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> Tesla currently produces only a single model, the US$109,000 Roadster, although it is currently designing a second model, the Model S, which will be produced at the Fremont factory. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> Analysts supported the move; John Boesel, CEO of a green-transportation trade group, said that "Toyota's willingness to partner with Tesla to provide an electric version of one of the Japanese automaker's existing vehicles suggests the partnership between the two companies is going to be a meaningful one." </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> Following this announcement, Telsa's shares rose $0.75, while Toyota's fell $1.65.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This article is licensed under the <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.5/">Creative Commons Attribution 2.5</a> License. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-2077163788937508862010-02-21T20:04:00.000-06:002010-04-20T20:05:33.385-05:002010 Toyota Prius/Lexus HS Recall<a href="http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/recalls/results.cfm?rcl_id=10V039&searchtype=quicksearch&summary=true&refurl=email">http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/recalls/results.cfm?rcl_id=10V039&searchtype=quicksearch&summary=true&refurl=email</a><br />
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NHTSA Campaign ID number : 10V039000<br />
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Vehicle Make / Model: Model Year(s):<br />
LEXUS / HS 2010<br />
TOYOTA / PRIUS 2010<br />
Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC. Mfr's Report Date: FEB 09, 2010<br />
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 10V039000 <br />
N/A<br />
NHTSA Action Number: N/A<br />
Component: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE<br />
Potential Number of Units Affected: 148549<br />
Summary:<br />
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS AND LEXUS HS250H PASSENGER VEHICLES. CUSTOMERS HAVE EXPERIENCED INCONSISTENT BRAKE FEEL AFTER ABS ACTUATION DURING SLOW AND STEADY APPLICATION OF THE BRAKES ON ROUGH OR SLICK ROAD SURFACES. STOPPING DISTANCES MAY BE INCREASED COMPARED WITH A CUSTOMER'S EXPECTATION FOR A GIVEN PEDAL FORCE.<br />
Consequence:<br />
VEHICLE STOPPING DISTANCES MAY INCREASE RELATIVE TO A CUSTOMER'S EXPECTATION INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.<br />
Remedy:<br />
DEALERS WILL REWRITE THE PROGRAMMING OF THE ABS CONTROL UNIT FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN LATE FEBRUARY AND BE COMPLETED IN LATE MARCH 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331 AND LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987.<br />
Notes:<br />
OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO <!-- m --><a class="postlink" href="http://www.safercar.gov/">HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV</a><!-- m --> .Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-72869769213129565622009-04-08T00:53:00.000-05:002009-04-08T00:54:02.887-05:00Ford TransitThe Ford Transit van is hardly what anyone would consider a true "green vehicle." However, green comes in many shades, and in this case, a slight change in shade will make a big impact in America.<br /><br />Ford announced that the Transit will be coming to the US market. The vehicle is more fuel efficient than the current Ford Econoline sold here. With it's V8 engine, heavy metal body that appears to have been borrowed from tank designs, and technology that hasn't changed since 1992, the Econoline is a beast...but also a very necessary workhorse for many businesses. Ford sold 168,722 of them in 2007, capturing 79.6% of the full size van market against competition from Chevrolet and Dodge.<br /><br />Not everyone needs the heavy hauling capacity of the Econoline, and for those who simply need some mobile enclosed space, the Transit should do more than adequately. Even if Ford converts just 1/3 of its sales of Econolines to Transits, it's still potentially selling over 50,000 of the far more efficient of the two vans. While the Transit may not be green next to the Honda Clarity, it's plenty green next to the Econoline. It's not perfect, but it's a step in the right direction.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-53605534142758714632009-04-08T00:51:00.001-05:002009-04-08T00:52:43.763-05:00Green Motoring ForumCheck out the <a href="http://greenforums.ethicaldirectory.org/forumdisplay.php?f=7">Green Motoring</a> section of The Green Forums at Ethical Directory.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-17166751650459814682008-03-27T23:26:00.000-05:002008-03-27T23:27:15.434-05:00Thai Pushes 'Green' Car Production<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">By Anthony Fontanelle</span><br /><br /><span name="KonaFilter"><span><span style="font-size:85%;"> <span style="font-size:85%;"> Thai government is giving incentives to encourage the production of “green” cars. According to experts, the incentives have yielded a raft of major investments in the territory and started to alter how Thais drive. </span></span><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> “Green” tax breaks were introduced in Thailand last year. This is an effort of the nation as the world’s largest manufacturer of light pickups to tuck the title in the years to come. Annually, Thailand churns out 900,000 one-tonne trucks. The figure is three-fourths of global output. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> The government is threatened by escalating oil prices and global warming concerns that could result in truck sales doldrums. This scenario could put a dent to Thai economy because shoppers are expected to shift to fuel-efficient compact cars. These reasons prompted the Thai government to offer incentives for the manufacturer of “eco-cars” that meet European emission standards. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> "First-time car owners, and especially motorcyclists who want to become car owners, are cost-conscious consumers," said Surapong Paisitpatnapong, spokesman for the Federation of Thai Industries' automotive club. "Investments in eco-car production will help grow this new segment of the country's domestic auto market while increasing exports.” </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> By far, seven automakers have proposed eco-car projects to Thailand's Board of Investment. The automakers include Toyota Motor Corp., Volkswagen AG, and Tata Motors. Thai enthusiasts are excited to see their <a href="http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByDepartment/Lights" title="car lights">car lights</a> installed in eco-cars. Surapong said four proposals have already been approved. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Also, Honda Motor Co. intends to invest $214 million to assemble eco-cars while manufacturing engines and parts in Thailand. Suzuki Motors, meanwhile, will invest $303.658 million to build a new factory in central Thailand. Approximately 80 percent of cars produces will be for export. Nissan Motors Co. also will invest $177 million to build 120,000 units annually. The output is also mainly allotted for export. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> "Eco-cars are going to be hot in Thailand's auto market. The lower prices for these minicars, along with high oil prices, will drive up the demand," said Nongnapat Wilepana, a Nissan dealer in Bangkok. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> AFP reported that under the scheme, the companies will not have to pay corporate income taxes on their investments for eight years, and duties on imported machinery will be waived. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> “Thailand's main worry is that its auto industry depends entirely on foreign companies, since the kingdom has no national automaker,” Surapong noted. “That means the country will have to keep wooing automakers with attractive offers in the future to deter them from looking for better deals for their factories in other countries.” </span></span></p></span></span><br /></div>LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-21164877811930622072008-03-01T06:35:00.000-06:002008-03-01T06:36:21.423-06:00Freescale Chips On Chevy, GMC Hybrids<div align="justify"><strong>By Anthony Fontanelle</strong></div><div align="justify"><br />General Motor Corp. in partnership with Freescale Semiconductor Corp. will be promoting improved fuel efficiency by using innovative chips. Freescale chips will be used in Chevy and GMC hybrids to pave the way for a green makeover. </div><div align="justify"><br />According to reports, Freescale chips that control the combustion and electric engines as well as the transmission in the new <a title="Chevy Tahoe" href="http://www.thepartsbin.com/guides/chevy/tahoe.html">Chevy Tahoe</a> and GMC Yukon hybrids have produced a 50 percent increase in mileage over their counterparts. The hybrids are efficient for both city and highway. To note, they can tow a 6,000-pound cabin cruiser. The hybrids are now arriving at Valley Chevy and GMC dealerships. </div><div align="justify"><br />John Hartley, Internet sales manager at Midway Pontiac GMC in Phoenix, said there is considerable interest in the vehicles. However, the production of the hybrid sport utilities is currently limited. </div><div align="justify"><br />The increase in fuel efficiency is attributed to the automaker’s two-mode hybrid transmission that is operated by Freescale’s advanced microcontroller technology. </div><div align="justify"><br />"The automotive industry is a very significant part of Freescale's business," said Tony Massimini, an analyst with research company Semico Research Corp. "And the hybrid market is becoming very important part of the U.S. car business." </div><div align="justify"><br />The Austin, Texas-based supplier of microcontrollers found in American cars, is determined to improve the offers of automakers in the industry. And its cutting-edge products are expected to make it happen. </div><div align="justify"><br />Kevin Klein, vice president of marketing for Freescale's automotive group, said that a current luxury car can contain over 100 chips that control everything from disc brakes to parking-assistance radar. He added that automotive chip sales now amount to about a third of Freescale's $5.7 billion in annual revenue. </div><div align="justify"><br />The innovative technology offers two driving modes. Using the first driving mode, the vehicle can operate at low speed and with light loads in three ways: electric power only, engine power only or in any combination of engine and electric power, reported The Arizona Republic. The second mode, meanwhile, is used primarily at highway speeds. This mode provides full eight-cylinder engine power when road conditions require. It can be employed when passing other vehicles, climbing a steep grade or pulling a trailer. Additionally, a refined control unit settles which mode the vehicle should use. </div><div align="justify"><br />"With the introduction of the world's first full-size hybrid SUVs, GM is pioneering a niche in the automotive market that's in step with today's growing concerns about the environment and global warming," said Paul Grimme, senior vice president and general manager of Freescale's Microcontroller Solutions Group. "We're proud that Freescale technology is helping make these innovative, fuel-efficient SUVs a reality in the market."</div>LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-1162495972546735922008-02-28T17:30:00.000-06:002008-02-28T17:31:11.236-06:002008 Hyundai Sonata Receives Green Honor<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">By Anthony Fontanelle</span><br /><br /><span name="KonaFilter"><span><p align="justify"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> If you were a vehicle and you needed to gain the attention of consumers, what would be the best way to do it? </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Well, you could proudly market yourself and place tons of ads on television, radio, print, and billboards. But that would cost you much money. But if you just made sure that you had the right components which would work best and give consumers satisfaction, someone great may notice you and do the advertisement for you for free. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Take the 2008 Hyundai Sonata. Just recently, it was given the honor of being part of the Greener Choices 2008 list which is done by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE). The vehicle was given that honor and that means that consumers looking through that list would be given a heads up that the 2008 Hyundai Sonata could be a good choice, especially if a consumer is looking for a green vehicle that also performs well on the road. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> The 2008 Hyundai Sonata comes with an engine that holds four cylinders which proves to help out a lot in efficiently using fuel. The ACEEE gave this vehicle a green rating of 39 out of a possible 100 points and that is a good rating. These points are not subjective but are based on other ratings and reviews made by organizations focusing on vehicles and how green they can be. These organizations include the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the California Air Resources Board among many others. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> John Krafcik is the vice president for Hyundai Motor America’s Strategic Planning and Product Development and in behalf of the company as reported by Auto Spectator, he has said that they are happy with what the 2008 Hyundai Sonata has received. He added, “The award for our clean, fuel-efficient Sonata recognizes Hyundai’s commitment to the environment. Like industry leading quality and safety, environmental sensitivity is another element of the value equation that makes Hyundai such a smart choice for consumers.” </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> The 2008 Hyundai Sonata was given a certification that it was an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) and that is added point for the vehicle. Consumers would be more attracted to vehicles that hold such titles. Aside from having quality Hyundai parts, the company made sure that the vehicle also was efficient in the use of fuel. The company has clocked in 30 miles per gallon for the vehicle, thanks to the 2.4 liter DOHC engine which comes with four incline cylinders. </span></span></p></span></span><br /></div>LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-28043884792521304842008-02-13T20:01:00.001-06:002008-02-13T20:02:31.326-06:00General Motors North America President Says Industry At Crossroads<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">By Anthony Fontanelle</span><br /><span name="KonaFilter"><span><p align="justify"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> After the huge success that was the North America International Auto Show, automakers are now showing off their wares at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show. Among these automakers is Detroit's General Motors. The said automaker is one of the companies looking forward and looking for a solution to the increasing threat of global warming. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> During his keynote address at the said event, General Motors North America President Troy Clarke pointed out that the industry is in a crossroad. He likened the situation of the auto industry to the country. Clarke likened automakers like General Motors to presidential candidates. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> "When it comes to the pending election, the candidates will tell you that the nation is at a crossroads. There are important issues that must be addressed. And, then they’ll tell you that they are the right person at the right time in history. They reach out to us with their ‘vision’ of a better America… with their ‘vision’ of a better future," said Clarke. He also said that "this is exactly how automakers think as well. I am here to tell you that when it comes to personal transportation, and the auto industry, our way of life is at a crossroads." </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Clarke went on to say that General Motors is addressing the solution of "energy security, climate change and the cost of transportation". These factors are known to not only affect the status of the environment but also the cost of ownership of vehicles. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> The top level executive pointed out that they have three goals which are of course related to each other. Clarke said that the foremost concern is for the people, the consumers. "Starting with the people, which is first and foremost on our list for good reason. We - the industry, to include GM - have to develop cars and trucks that people will want to buy… not just what we may want to sell them," said Clarke. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> The second goal for General Motors according to Clarke is concerned about the protection of the environment thus the development of so-called green cars. General Motors believes that they should offer their consumers with a wide choice of green cars. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> "For GM, the solution involves developing multiple solutions to give the customer choice. Because, just like there are a variety of ways to meet customer needs, there are a variety of ways to get at fuel economy and emissions. And, I want to be clear on this: that’s the main driver for General Motors – we want to stay ahead of the game to bring our best technological solutions to market for our customers. We believe – as always – they will decide which technologies best meet their needs," explained Clarke. This means that the automaker will be manufacturing a number of green vehicles which may be equipped with auto parts as reliable as <a href="http://www.autopartswarehouse.com/shop_parts/a-fs-c_condenser/acura/cl.html" title="Acura CL A/C condenser">Acura CL A/C condenser</a>. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> As for the third goal, Clarke said that they are working on different technology so that they would be able to provide consumers with what they want. </span></span></p></span></span><br /></div>LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-61298112052126485372008-02-09T15:52:00.000-06:002008-02-09T15:53:41.875-06:00GMC Sierra Goes Green For 2009<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">By Anthony Fontanelle</span><br /><span name="KonaFilter"><span><p align="justify"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Quite obviously, vehicles are gradually shifting to an environmentally friendly nature. Cars have started the trend and the gas-guzzling vehicles are expected to follow. Wiping the gas-sipping image, General Motors Corp. will be offering a green version of the Sierra truck for the 2009 model year. The hybrid version of the GMC Sierra will be launched at this year’s Chicago Auto Show. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> General Motors has been working on hybrid versions of its sport utilities. Now, the technology is infecting the truck segment. According to the automaker, the 2009 hybrid version of the Sierra will offer customers the power of a hefty six-litre engine, a 25 percent slash in fuel consumption and a 6,100-pound towing capacity. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> "The Sierra Hybrid represents GMC's commitment to engineering excellence, delivering a fully functional truck that offers a significant improvement in fuel economy," said Jim Bunnell, GMC general manager. "Sierra Hybrid will deliver fuel economy that is expected to be the best in the full-size pickup segment, exceeding the current mileage leader - the non-hybrid Sierra." </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> The Detroit-based automaker said that the Sierra Hybrid will allow owners to realize a fuel savings even when the truck is fully loaded or towing a trailer. The hybrid truck, which features stability control system, trailering package and locking rear axle, will be sold on crew-cab bodied trucks in two and four wheel drives. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Like its famous sibling, the Chevy Silverado, the Sierra truck is now available with the automaker’s two-mode hybrid system. The 6.0-liter V8 is mated to the automaker’s Electrically Variable Transmission, which combines two electric motors into the transmission housing. The electric motors are powered by a 300-volt hybrid battery pack under the backseat. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Light modifications entertained by the Detroit automaker include a number of exterior changes. The word "hybrid" is spelled out on the rear window, windshield and on both sides of the 2009 Sierra. Also, the truck gets hybrid badges on the front fenders and tailgate. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> The hybrid truck boasts of more substantial changes including the low-rolling-resistance tires that are wrapped around 18-inch aluminum <a href="http://www.autopartsdeal.com/gmc_truck/wheels.html" title="GMC wheels">GMC wheels</a>. Additionally, the front air dam is deeper and the truck comes with a tonneau cover to enhance aerodynamics. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> The 2009 Sierra Hybrid is set to go on sale during the fourth quarter of this year. It will join its siblings Chevy Tahoe and Cadillac Escalade to bolster General Motors’ full-size truck lineup. The truck is specially engineered to compete with Ford F-150, Dodge Ram and Toyota Tundra. </span></span></p></span></span><br /></div>LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-47273113104924439812008-01-31T20:53:00.000-06:002008-01-31T20:54:25.626-06:00Automakers Show Off Green, Fuel Efficient Vehicles<span style="font-weight: bold;">By Greg Flakus</span><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.voanews.com/mediaassets/english/2008_01/Audio/Mp3/LCR%20Flakus%20Detroit%20Auto%20Show%205-61030%20pw.Mp3" class="media-asset" onclick="dcsMedia(event);"> <span class="media-asset">Flakus report - Download MP3 (952K)</span><span class="media-asset-small"> - Download (MP3) <img src="http://www.voanews.com/voanews_shared/images/audio_icon.gif" alt="audio clip" border="0" /> </span></a><br /> <a class="media-asset" href="http://www.voanews.com/english/figleaf/mp3filegenerate.cfm?filepath=http://www.voanews.com/mediaassets/english/2008_01/Audio/Mp3/LCR%20Flakus%20Detroit%20Auto%20Show%205-61030%20pw.Mp3" onclick="dcsMedia(event);"> <span class="media-asset"> Flakus report - Download MP3 (952K)</span><span class="media-asset-small"> - Listen (MP3) </span> <img src="http://www.voanews.com/voanews_shared/images/audio_icon.gif" alt="audio clip" border="0" /> </a><br /> <br /> <span class="body"><p><strong>More than 6,700 reporters from 42 nations are in Detroit for the news media preview of that city's North American International Auto Show, which opens to the general public this weekend. This year's show emphasizes fuel efficiency and green technology, but, as VOA's Greg Flakus reports from Detroit, there are also plenty of big glitzy cars and trucks on display.</strong></p></span><p>On display in Detroit's downtown Cobo Convention Center are 700 vehicles from all the major automakers, including local companies like General Motors, Ford and Chrysler and companies from China, Japan, and Europe. Around 50 new vehicles are being introduced by various manufacturers. </p> <p>U.S. automakers are making a big effort this year to go green, showing off many varieties of low-emission, fuel efficient vehicles, including hybrids, fuel-cell cars and vehicles that run on ethanol and bio-diesel fuels. General Motors announced that it has invested heavily in Cosaka Incorporated, an Illinois firm that claims to have developed a cost-cutting technology for producing ethanol, an alcohol fuel produced from plant material. </p> <p>Most ethanol today is produced from corn, but Cosaka plans on using waste material like corn stalks and wood chips.</p><p>General Motors North America President Troy Clarke tells VOA that his company sees a need to move away from reliance on gasoline as the only fuel for its cars.</p> <p>"The next 25 years, maybe even longer, looks a lot like the early part of the (20th) century in the auto industry," Clarke said. "There will be a lot of different propulsion systems. Ninety-six percent of the vehicles in the United States today are moved by gasoline. We need to diversify that."</p> <p>Clarke says his industry has been wrongly criticized for being slow to innovate. He says General Motors began developing an electric car many years ago and has also developed other kinds of fuel-efficient vehicles.</p> <p>"Now we have eight hybrids in the market today," he said. "We have 16 on the way between now and, I think, the end of next year, and we can compete very effectively in the hybrid area. But we really have never given up on our vision of an electric vehicle."</p> <p>General Motors is still testing a new battery to power the Chevrolet Volt, an advanced electric hybrid that was first shown here last year, but which may not be ready for market for a few more years.</p><p>Veteran automotive journalist Paul Eisenstein, who writes for TheCarConnection.com, says car makers use the North American International Auto Show to introduce such innovations and get the word out to people around the world.</p> <p>"This is a place that the manufacturers come, not just to talk to consumers directly, but to talk to global media," Eisenstein said. "This is a place where they can get to everyone from the small bloggers in the Czech Republic to the big networks here in North America. It is no wonder that virtually every manufacturer in the world is here, including five of the Chinese manufacturers that are trying to get into the North American market over the next couple of years."</p> <p>While automakers are emphasizing fuel efficiency and reduced emissions this year, they are also showing off a lot of big cargo pick up trucks, sport utility vehicles and gas-guzzling luxury cars. Paul Eisenstein says that is simply a response to continuing demand for those vehicles.</p> <p>"The reality is Americans like big, they like power, they like performance, they like towing and cargo-hauling and people-hauling capabilities," he said. "So for anybody to say we should stop producing these big trucks and go to produce these small, high-mileage (fuel efficient) cars is ridiculous. The market is there for the big vehicles."</p><p>Eisenstein says U.S. car makers are trying to satisfy the demand for larger vehicles, while at the same time trying to meet new regulations from Washington that require them to improve fuel efficiency. That could be a real challenge for an industry that is already struggling to keep up with foreign competition.</p> <p>The North American International Auto Show began in Detroit as a local event in 1907. The event went international 20 years ago, but it is still organized locally by the Detroit Auto Dealers Association. </p><span class="body"></span>LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-21799437967768713182008-01-30T17:36:00.001-06:002008-01-30T17:36:58.535-06:00Fears Grow Over Meeting 2020 Auto Standards<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">By Anthony Fontanelle</span><br /><br /><span name="KonaFilter"><span><p align="justify"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Automakers are facing a thorny requirement of meeting the 2020 standards which call for the manufacture of vehicles with an average fuel economy of 35 miles per gallon. But automakers fear consumers are not willing to pay more for the technology they are required to meet by 2020. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> "Gas prices would have to be $13 a gallon in today's world for consumers to demand a fleet where half the vehicles achieved better than 35 miles per gallon," said Paul Traub, an economist at Chrysler LLC. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Traub said that while smaller models have and will become more popular, manufacturers cannot depend on consumers to choose the most fuel-efficient options. "Americans still want to go to Wally World on the weekends, and we don't want to leave our grandmas and dogs at home," he addressed the Society of Automotive Analysts. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> While it is apparent that customers are shifting to fuel-efficient cars, the trend is not enough to make all vehicles compliant with the 2020 mileage standard which was mandated by the Congress in 2007. Customer choices are limited to models such as Toyota Motor Corp.’s Prius and General Motors’ Chevy Aveo. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Based on an Autodata report, sales of subcompact models increased 20 percent last year to 351,161 units, but Americans still purchased more than six times as many huge pickups. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Automakers could be forced to meet standards customers do not demand and will not pay a premium for, reported the Detroit News. That means automakers are required to build vehicles that can still carry seven passengers and haul a boat, but meet more stringent fuel economy standards. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> As a direct consequence, aficionados will see modified <a href="http://www.autopartsdeal.com/bmw/parts.html" title="BMW parts">BMW parts</a> and other auto technology which entail more expense on their part. Chrysler estimates such technology would cost $6,000 to $7,000 per vehicle, Traub said. The said view is attested by Bob Lutz, the vice chairman at General Motors Corp. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> “In a highly competitive market, car companies are unlikely to be able to pass that cost on to the consumer,” said Erich Merkle, vice president of forecasting at IRN Inc., who tracks vehicle sales trends. "If the consumer isn't demanding those massive leaps forward, but automakers are forced to produce it, the automakers will have to absorb those costs.” </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Absorbing the cost of fuel-saving technologies cuts into profits, which is particularly difficult for Detroit's Big Three, which are already facing higher labor and health care expenses than their foreign competition, Merkle added. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> But not everyone thinks more fuel efficient vehicles will have an average of $6,000 sticker price. The premium will be closer to a $1,500 average, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Some automakers have opposing view. "Consumers are going to change, we have already seen that in recent years," said George Pipas, a sales analyst at Ford Motor Co. </span></span></p></span></span><br /><br /></div>LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-80462345856747528962008-01-27T08:41:00.000-06:002008-01-27T08:42:58.195-06:00X Prize Foundation Sponsors Competition to Develop Fuel Efficient Automobile<span style="font-weight: bold;">By Greg Flakus</span><br /><br /><a href="http://www.voanews.com/mediaassets/english/2008_01/Audio/Mp3/BKG%20Flakus%20AUMOTIVE%20X%20PRIZE%20561043%20436P%20gg.Mp3" class="media-asset" onclick="dcsMedia(event);"><span class="media-asset">Flakus report - Download (mp3) 851k</span></a><br /><a class="media-asset" href="http://www.voanews.com/english/figleaf/mp3filegenerate.cfm?filepath=http://www.voanews.com/mediaassets/english/2008_01/Audio/Mp3/BKG%20Flakus%20AUMOTIVE%20X%20PRIZE%20561043%20436P%20gg.Mp3" onclick="dcsMedia(event);"> <span class="media-asset"> Listen to Flakus report </span></a><br /><a href="http://www.voanews.com/mediaassets/english/2008_01/Video/wmv/detroit_auto_show_bb.wmv" class="media-asset" onclick="dcsMedia(event);"><span class="media-asset">watch Auto Show report / Windows broadband - download</span></a> <br /><a class="media-asset" href="http://www.voanews.com/english/figleaf/wmafilegenerate.cfm?filepath=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Evoanews%2Ecom%2Fmediaassets%2Fenglish%2F2008%5F01%2FVideo%2Fwmv%2Fdetroit%5Fauto%5Fshow%5Fbb%2Ewmv" onclick="dcsMedia(event);"> <span class="media-asset"> watch Auto Show report / Windows broadband </span></a><br /><a href="http://www.voanews.com/mediaassets/english/2008_01/Video/wmv/detroit_auto_show_du.wmv" class="media-asset" onclick="dcsMedia(event);"><span class="media-asset">watch Auto Show report / Windows dialup - download</span></a> <br /><a class="media-asset" href="http://www.voanews.com/english/figleaf/wmafilegenerate.cfm?filepath=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Evoanews%2Ecom%2Fmediaassets%2Fenglish%2F2008%5F01%2FVideo%2Fwmv%2Fdetroit%5Fauto%5Fshow%5Fdu%2Ewmv" onclick="dcsMedia(event);"> <span class="media-asset"> watch Auto Show report / Windows dialup </span></a><br /><br /><span class="body"><strong>At the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this week, there are hundreds of new cars on display that achieve high fuel efficiency and reduce pollution. Also on hand are representatives of the private X Prize Foundation, which is sponsoring a competition to create a vehicle that is both super efficient and appealing to consumers. VOA's Greg Flakus has more from Detroit.<br /></strong></span><br />The competition aims at promoting the development of vehicles that use far less gasoline than those currently on the road. Part of the push comes from environmental concerns and part comes from the fact that petroleum is selling for close to $100 a barrel. <p><strong><a id="http://auto.xprize.org|" href="http://auto.xprize.org/"><strong>Automotive X Prize</strong> </a></strong>Executive Director Donald Foley says backers of the competition want to move the industry away from vehicles that rely on petroleum-based fuels.</p> <p>"We know that oil is a finite resource and even though the reserves today are considerable, we know that they are dwindling. By having fuel efficient vehicles using less and less of that oil, we know we are going to reduce our dependence on that one form of energy," he said.</p> <p>The X Prize Foundation is best known for the 2004 competition to design a human-piloted space craft that would leave the earth's atmosphere and return twice within a two-week period. The $10 million prize went to aircraft designer Burt Rutan and Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, who gave financial backing to the project.</p> <p>The Automotive X Prize is focused on developing a vehicle that can get 100 miles per gallon, or 43 kilometers per liter. The vehicles chosen for the final competition will compete in a cross country race in 2009 and 2010 that will test speed, urban driving and overall performance. Competition rules require that a vehicle must comfortably carry four adult passengers, meet U.S. auto safety standards and be ready for a production run of at least 10,000 cars.<br /></p>Donald Foley says the winning car must have real market appeal. "Our competition is not about concept cars. We want real, affordable, practical vehicles that people want to buy," he said. <p>Already more than 50 teams from seven nations have signed up to compete. Ulrik Poulsen from Denmark is one of the people with his eyes on the prize. <a id="http://poulsenhybrid.com|" href="http://poulsenhybrid.com/"><strong>His Connecticut-based company</strong> </a>has developed a device using wheel-mounted disks that can turn any vehicle into a hybrid that uses both gasoline and electricity for power.</p> <p>"They are attached externally on to the rear wheels of an existing vehicle. They can actually be installed in three to four hours, with the vehicle standing on the ground. It does not even have to be on a lift," he said.</p><p>Poulsen's team plans to select a light-weight passenger vehicle already on the market and equip it with the hybrid system for the competition. Win or lose, he hopes the competition will draw attention to his product.</p> <p>That is also a motivation for another competitor, automotive entrepreneur Malcolm Bricklin, who has already developed <strong><a id="http://vvcars.com |" href="http://vvcars.com/"><strong>a luxury car</strong> </a></strong>that meets the X Prize criteria and which could be available for purchase by the time the competition gets underway next year.</p> <p>"One of the things that the X Prize is looking for is cars that can get 100 miles to a gallon and can be manufactured. With a little bit of luck, when the X Prize is ready, this car will be coming off the assembly line. So it will go right from the assembly line to the race," he said.</p><p>Beyond the monetary award that comes with the X Prize and the profits he may gain from sales of his vehicle, Bricklin says the venture represents something more important. "My vision is a world in which we do not end up buying oil from people who do not like us, for starters, and at the same time have a cleaner world for my kids and my grandkids," he said.</p> <p>If such a vision comes true, the streets of the future may be filled with vehicles that produce little pollution and transport people and cargo safely and inexpensively.</p>LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-11002256643265044132008-01-22T23:06:00.000-06:002008-01-22T23:07:34.058-06:00Bosch's Green Tech Powers Green Autos At NAIAS<div align="justify"><strong>By Evander Klum</strong></div><div align="justify"><br />This year's theme of the North American International Auto Show is going green. With the threat of global warming becoming more and more a concern for the global community, the auto industry has been going in the right direction by developing and using green technologies for vehicles. </div><div align="justify"><br />The NAIAS is one of the biggest events of its kind. Thus, it is easy to see that it is the event where most major and smaller automakers choose to unveil their newest and cleanest vehicles. According to The Auto Channel, there are more and more vehicles in the event using Bosch's green technologies. The report pointed out that the common diesel rail and gasoline direct injection technologies developed by the German company are being used in many vehicles showcased at the NAIAS. </div><div align="justify"><br />According to The Auto Channel, the German corporation has been developing green technologies for the automotive industry to help automakers come up with fuel efficient vehicles. A powertrain technology developed by Bosch for diesel engines allowed said engines to achieve fuel efficiency by as much as 30 percent compared to gasoline engines. As fuel efficiency becomes better, emission also lowered by as much as 25 percent. As for performance, Bosch's technology allows for production of 50 percent more torque. </div><div align="justify"><br />Chris Qualters, director for marketing at North American Diesel System for Robert Bosch LLC, said that they have played a key role in the current revival of the diesel engine. "Bosch has played a vital role in the advancement of diesel in the automotive industry," said Qualters. "With the introduction of common rail technology in 1997, Bosch brought a new dimension to the diesel engine market resulting in cleaner, quieter, more efficient and responsive vehicles." </div><div align="justify"><br />Another one of Bosch's creations is the second generation of the gasoline direct injection system dubbed DI–Motronic. It is being used on the Lincoln MKS and the 2008 Cadillac CTS. This technology developed by Bosch is certainly much more valuable than <a title="Dodge bug shields" href="http://www.replacementdoparts.com/dodgebugshield.html">Dodge bug shields</a>. </div><div align="justify"><br />Using the DI-Motronic, automakers were able to improve the fuel efficiency of their gasoline powered engines. With the said technology on tap, gasoline engines produce 15 percent less greenhouse gas emission. Injecting the gasoline fuel into the combustion camber like in a diesel engine allows for a more complete burn thus there would be less unburned fuel going out the exhaust system of the engine. </div><div align="justify"><br />Sujit Jain, the general manager of Gasoline Systems North America for Robert Bosch LLC, said in conclusion: "Although alternative propulsion systems are growing in popularity, conventional internal combustion engines will remain the dominant powertrain option among U.S. light vehicles in the near future. Today's consumers are faced with rising fuel costs and a desire to reduce their impact on the environment. Bosch is committed to developing technologies that meet driver demands while benefiting the environment." </div>LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-53798632669055296052008-01-12T23:17:00.000-06:002008-01-12T23:18:38.357-06:00CarsAndRacingStuff.com ForumThe <a href="http://carsandracingstuff.com/forum/index.php"><strong>CarsAndRacingStuff.com Forum</strong></a> has been relaunched with new features!LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-6906468064845058292008-01-12T23:10:00.000-06:002008-01-12T23:11:12.987-06:00Think "Green" When You Buy a Used Car<div align="justify"><strong>By Terry Bolton</strong></div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">Are there something called green used cars? You might think that terms like "automobile" and "environmentalism" are naturally opposing. You may be right, but most of us need cars in order to subsist in our society and a suitable environment within which we can subsist. So how do we find a way to go subsist in both? Probably that old term "moderation" or in Western society terms, we go green and work together for solutions. </div><div align="justify"><br />Cars emit things that attack the suitability of our environment for our subsistence. We know this because people hit us over the head with this fact daily. The cars have such harmful gases to emit as carbon dioxide and ozone. One car does little harm, but a billion or so cars has proven to be quite devastating. Then, just imagine what happens to landfills when those billion cars obsolesce or get in accidents. </div><div align="justify"><br />Thanks to consumer demand for green cars, manufacturers are trying to find less toxic emission solutions. In some places, cars use fuels other than gasoline and diesel. Smaller car models have also helped cut down on how much fuel must be burned and how many materials are used. Just making the cars more durable can help on the materials front. </div><div align="justify"><br />Go Green Car Tips </div><div align="justify"><br />1. Don't be lame unless you've got a good excuse. Some people actually drive their car distances of only a block or two. Walking a couple of extra blocks a day could do wonders for the people of nations struggling with obesity issues. Besides, the human body burns fuel much more efficiently than cars do. Take a walk. Ride a bike. Skate. And, please don't sit in your car idling waiting for the parking spot right in front of the door when there is a perfectly good parking spot a couple hundred feet away. </div><div align="justify"><br />2. Buy only used cars. There are plenty of used cars available that are well-built and have a lot of life left. Buying them new not only creates more use of materials that will at least in part take up landfill space at some point, but it is most often a really bad fiscal move. New cars lose 80% of their value in the first few years. Used cars hardly change in value at all if they're well-maintained. Best of all, there always seems to be a greater number of people trying to sell used cars than the number of people trying to buy used cars. </div><div align="justify"><br />3. Buy cars that operate efficiently. You would think with skyrocketing oil prices this would be a no-brainer even for those who despise green. Go for cars that have good gas mileage. Go with a hybrid. Retrofit your old car with more efficient systems and recycle the current parts on eBay.<br />4. Don't buy a car that has more space and/or bulk than you need. SUVs can be great for a family of eight, achieving nice per-person energy consumption and emission rates. For a single man or woman driving around in the city, big cars and trucks rarely make any sense at all. </div><div align="justify"><br />To learn more about how to find green or traditional <a href="http://www.amazines.com/Automotive/article_detail.cfm/%3Ca%20href=">cheap used cars online</a> as well as finding <a href="http://www.cheap-used-cars.w-eland.com/used_car_loans.htm">used car loans</a> with decent interest rates, in more depth and step-by-step, why not check out these links?.</div>LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-38188229239359307822008-01-11T19:04:00.000-06:002008-01-11T19:05:05.529-06:00KPMG Reports Auto Industry Focusing On Green Tech<div align="justify"><strong>By Anthony Fontanelle</strong></div><div align="justify"><br />According to a study conducted by KPMG, an American audit, tax, and advisory firm, the auto industry is focusing on the development of green technology like finding alternative fuel sources. The industry is also set towards the development of low-cost cars and hybrid vehicles which consumers are asking for. </div><div align="justify"><br />The poll conducted by KPMG included 113 senior executives of automakers and suppliers around the world. According to the survey, 86 percent of the executives believe that consumers will be looking at the quality of a vehicle that they will purchase in the next five years. Close behind, 84 percent of the polled executives said that fuel efficiency will be the main basis that consumers will be considering in their next vehicle purchase. </div><div align="justify"><br />Seventy percent of the polled respondents believe that safety will be the main concern of auto buyers. Sixty nine percent of the executives also pointed out that affordability will be one of the main factors to be considered by auto buyers the next time that they visit their local dealerships to buy a new vehicle. </div><div align="justify"><br />"The industry knows where it is and knows where it needs to be," said Daron Gifford, the National Automotive Leader for KPMG LLP. "It needs to produce quality vehicles that are fuel efficient, especially in this economic cycle, and it needs to invest heavily in developing alternative sources of power. We found the execs in our survey more optimistic than past years, and that's largely because the landscape before them is clearer on the direction they need to go." </div><div align="justify"><br />As the shift in car buying trend continues, the poll asked the executives which auto class will show improvement or decline. 83 percent of the surveyed executives said that they are expecting sales of low-cost cars to increase. The same percentage also predicted that hybrid sales will still increase. Meanwhile, 67 percent of them are saying that car sales will increase in the next five years. Also, 58 percent of the questioned executives said that there will be an increase in the number of crossover that will be sold in the foreseeable future. </div><div align="justify"><br />As consumers shy away from large vehicles due to the increasing price of petroleum fuel, 47 percent of the respondents said that they are expecting sales decrease for SUVs. 50 percent of the executives also said that sales of pickup tricks will slow down. This tough will unlikely affect the supply and demand for car accessories such as <a title="Acura bug shields" href="http://www.autopartswarehouse.com/shop_parts/bug_shield/acura.html">Acura bug shields</a>. </div><div align="justify"><br />"The auto execs expect heavy investment in new models/products and new technologies in the next two years as well as building capacity in Asia," said KPMG's Gifford. "Not investing puts manufacturers at risk in terms of market and product differentiation, resulting in market share decline."</div>LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-26825167203733747022008-01-07T23:17:00.000-06:002008-01-07T23:18:39.652-06:00Biodiesel Fuel<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">By Dennis James</span><br /><br /><span name="KonaFilter"><span><span style="font-size:85%;"> <span style="font-size:85%;"> Many consider biodiesel as the fuel of the future. It is hard not to have heard something about it, because more and more articles discuss its use. Biodiesel is mainly diesel that is not obtained by distilling oil, but from vegetable oil as well as some other sources. The market is settled with diesel cars and the moment to change the crude oil based diesel to the one obtained from natural sources has come. </span></span><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> There are many advantages of using biodiesel for your car over the traditional fuel. In the first place, a notable element is that biodiesel does not harm the environment. It is a lot cleaner to operate a biodiesel based car than a normal one, because the emissions are lower, and the traditional black smoke coming from oil-diesel is gone. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Another great benefit is that you can fuel your vehicle with biodiesel without having to perform any sort of complicated modifications to the engine. There are cases of people mixing biodiesel with traditional diesel fuel, and by doing this, they benefit from the new fuel’s advantage very easily. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> The price of biodiesel is a lot lower compared to other fuels. You can even make it on your own and if you have the proper things, you will not have to go to the gas station at all. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Another benefit of using biodiesel to operate your car is that it is also more efficient than traditional fuels. Its cetane cumber is in excess of 100, which will make your vehicle to easy cold start and have a lower noise at idle revs. (The cetane number represents the quality of a certain igniting fuel type and the higher the number, the more efficient that fuel is). </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Biodiesel can also extend your engine’s life. Because it has fewer impurities that traditional diesel fuels, it will not clog your filters that easily and in the same its lubricating properties are greater, protecting your engine. The power output of biodiesel will not be affected if you use it as the mainly source of power. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Producing these new fuels is cheaper and cleaner than drilling, refining and transporting traditional petrol diesel. Producing the same quantity of biodiesel compared to regular diesel will require less energy, thus making the entire process cleaner to the environment. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> As the sources from which biodiesel is extracted (vegetable oil mostly) can be constantly regenerated compared to the hydrocarbon reserves the planet holds, it is a more viable option for the future. It also keeps the air cleaner, as it has lower polluting emissions. That is why more and more countries in the world turn their attention to biodiesel fuels as a replacement for the ever growing prices of traditional fuels. In Europe for example there are numerous biodiesel equipped stations already and their number continues to rise. More and more car manufacturers try to convert their new models to be able to take advantage of this new fuel. Right now, biodiesel is the best substitute for traditional petrol-extracted diesel fuel. Dennis runs Car Dealer Check which has reviews on <a href="http://www.cardealercheck.com/listing/All/OH/All/">Ohio Car Dealers</a> including <a href="http://www.cardealercheck.com/listing/All/OH/Toledo/">Toledo Car Dealers</a>.</span></span></p></span></span><br /></div>LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-46822973686600528382008-01-05T21:15:00.000-06:002008-01-05T21:16:39.331-06:00Environmental Group Sues EPA Over California Decision<div align="justify"><strong>By Evander Klum</strong></div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">The call to arms against the increasing threat of global warming has called the auto industry into action. States in the United States are also making steps forward in reducing greenhouse gas emission of vehicles. California is in the forefront of this battle. Its emission standard is the toughest so far in the country. But recently, the state was forced not to implement its own emission standard after the Environmental Protection Agency decided that it should follow the national standards. </div><div align="justify"><br />The decision of the EPA is met with much criticism especially after the fact that California was originally cleared to implement its own emission standard as long as it is much tougher than the national standard. This criticism has taken a step forward as five environmental groups have filed a case to dismiss the decision of the EPA. </div><div align="justify"><br />The Conservation Law Foundation, Environmental Defense, International Center for Technology Assessment, Natural Resources Defense Council, and the Sierra Club joined hands to petition the decision. They have their suit in the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in San Francisco. </div><div align="justify"><br />Jim Tripp, the general counsel of Environmental Defense, criticized the EPA saying: "While global warming marches onward, EPA continues to drag its feet. The agency's decision defies the law, the science and the will of states representing nearly half of the U.S. population." </div><div align="justify"><br />According to The Auto Channel, California's own stringent emission standard is scheduled to take effect on 2009 model year vehicles. The standard will ensure a reduction of 30 percent in greenhouse gas production by 2016. The said program would have been the first of its kind in the United States and is considered by environmentalists to be a positive step in the battle against global warming. </div><div align="justify"><br />The standards formulated by California is said to be very good for the environment that sixteen other states have adopted or committed to adopt the standard. Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, and Washington states would then be supporting California in its fight against the decision of the EPA. </div><div align="justify"><br />"The Administrator's denial of California's request relies on a flawed argument that the federal courts already have rejected," said Tripp. "We've won before in the federal courts, so we expect to win again this time too." </div><div align="justify"><br />Karen Douglas, the director of the California Climate Initiative of Environmental Defense, added: "California has long played a pioneering role in clean air efforts. We can and must reduce global warming pollution from automobiles." California's standards would have meant that vehicles to be sold in the state should have limited greenhouse gas emission along with their reliable auto parts such as the <a title="Acura clutch" href="http://www.teamacuparts.com/acura-clutch.html">Acura clutch</a>.<br /></div>LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-59712238710678086322008-01-02T18:03:00.000-06:002008-01-02T18:04:33.792-06:00CTI Symposium Highlights Green Technologies<div align="justify"><strong>By Anthony Fontanelle</strong></div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">With the threat of global warming steadily increasing, it can be expected that more and more consumers will look for eco-friendly vehicles. This demand leads to automakers struggling to come up with green technologies which would set them apart from their peers. Laws have been passed too, mandating that automakers should produce environment friendly vehicles. </div><div align="justify"><br />At the 6th International CTI Symposium in Berlin with a theme Innovative Automotive Transmissions, focus was given to the development of green or eco-friendly vehicle features and the cost it entails. Apart from that, the future of transmission technology in different parts of the world was also tackled. At the said event, experts have come to an agreement that the dual-clutch transmission will be the future of transmission technology in Europe and in the United States. Meanwhile, in India, an auto market steadily growing is expected to create a market for continuously variable transmissions. </div><div align="justify"><br />Dr. Carsten Breitfeld, the manager for transmission development at German automaker BMW, pointed out the pressure on the auto industry with regards to the development of eco-friendly features. "We cannot imagine the extent of the cost pressure on the car industry at all yet," said Breitfeld. "The development already begins to show: Add the target figures and compare them to the market data - it won't work." </div><div align="justify"><br />Suppliers echo the sentiments of automakers regarding the issue. Tobias Hagenmeyer, the president of Getrag Corporate Group, a known manufacturer of transmissions, said: "Competition on the car market has reached a global level." Hagenmeyer thus calls out for auto makers and auto parts manufacturers to work hand in hand to develop new green vehicle features. "We have to develop engines and transmissions in cooperation to reduce fuel consumption and emissions and to meet the economic demands." </div><div align="justify"><br />Today, automakers are credited with about 80 percent of transmission development. Hagenmeyer pointed out that by working together, auto parts manufacturer and automakers will be reducing costs of development. "We envision a common supplier basis, common standards. This creates cost advantages," he mentioned. With companies sharing the cost of developing auto parts like transmissions, they can save a lot. That is not the only advantage as they would be paired with experts on the field which means there is a bigger chance that they will produce better transmission technologies. This approach can also be taken regarding development of other auto components such as a <a title="Subaru coupe sedan radiator" href="http://www.overnightradiator.com/subaru-coupe-sedan-radiator.html">Subaru coupe sedan radiator</a>. Hopefully for the auto industry, the symposium will give them the spark that they need. With the threat of global warming steadily increasing, it can be expected that more and more consumers will look for eco-friendly vehicles. This demand leads to automakers struggling to come up with green technologies which would set them apart from their peers. Laws have been passed too, mandating that automakers should produce environment friendly vehicles. </div><div align="justify"><br />At the 6th International CTI Symposium in Berlin with a theme Innovative Automotive Transmissions, focus was given to the development of green or eco-friendly vehicle features and the cost it entails. Apart from that, the future of transmission technology in different parts of the world was also tackled. At the said event, experts have come to an agreement that the dual-clutch transmission will be the future of transmission technology in Europe and in the United States. Meanwhile, in India, an auto market steadily growing is expected to create a market for continuously variable transmissions. </div><div align="justify"><br />Dr. Carsten Breitfeld, the manager for transmission development at German automaker BMW, pointed out the pressure on the auto industry with regards to the development of eco-friendly features. "We cannot imagine the extent of the cost pressure on the car industry at all yet," said Breitfeld. "The development already begins to show: Add the target figures and compare them to the market data - it won't work." </div><div align="justify"><br />Suppliers echo the sentiments of automakers regarding the issue. Tobias Hagenmeyer, the president of Getrag Corporate Group, a known manufacturer of transmissions, said: "Competition on the car market has reached a global level." Hagenmeyer thus calls out for auto makers and auto parts manufacturers to work hand in hand to develop new green vehicle features. "We have to develop engines and transmissions in cooperation to reduce fuel consumption and emissions and to meet the economic demands." </div><div align="justify"><br />Today, automakers are credited with about 80 percent of transmission development. Hagenmeyer pointed out that by working together, auto parts manufacturer and automakers will be reducing costs of development. "We envision a common supplier basis, common standards. This creates cost advantages," he mentioned. With companies sharing the cost of developing auto parts like transmissions, they can save a lot. That is not the only advantage as they would be paired with experts on the field which means there is a bigger chance that they will produce better transmission technologies. This approach can also be taken regarding development of other auto components such as a <a title="Subaru coupe sedan radiator" href="http://www.overnightradiator.com/subaru-coupe-sedan-radiator.html">Subaru coupe sedan radiator</a>. Hopefully for the auto industry, the symposium will give them the spark that they need.<br /></div>LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-2551601401129281492007-12-31T23:31:00.000-06:002007-12-31T23:33:26.465-06:00Honda taking the Hybrid Challenge<div align="justify"><strong>By Anthony Fontanelle</strong></div><div align="justify"><br />Honda Motor Co., the largest engine-maker in the world and the second largest automobile manufacturer in Japan, is taking the tough hybrid challenge against another Japanese auto giant – in fact, the second largest auto maker in the world – Toyota Motor Corp. in hybrid technology. </div><div align="justify"><br />In 1999, Honda brought the first gas-electric hybrid – the Insight - to America. Unfortunately, it was soon overshadowed by the Toyota Prius, today’s top-selling hybrid in the world. But still, Honda is trying to catch up ever since. </div><div align="justify"><br />After eight years playing second behind Toyota, Honda has decided to push its limit in hybrid technology. </div><div align="justify"><br />According to Honda president Takeo Fukui, the company is investing heavily in hybrids. He claims that the race “has just begun”. He mentioned that the first phase of the technology was all about cultivating green image. The next phase will focus on making the vehicles more affordable and fuel efficient. He said that Honda, so far, has two cars in the pipeline that are likely to challenge Toyota’s eco-supremacy. </div><div align="justify"><br />Fukui said that about 79 percent of the gas-electric vehicles that rolled out of American showrooms last month were from Toyota. Only about 10 percent were from Honda. The fact was due to the discontinuation of the Insight and Accord hybrid production. </div><div align="justify"><br />Fukui predicted that hybrids will cover approximately 10 percent of Honda’s sales by 2010. To attain that goal, Honda will need to have 400,000 hybrids sold annually. But, it may not be enough to catch up, considering that Toyota is planning to sell 1 million hybrids a year within the first half of the next decade. </div><div align="justify"><br />Toyota Prius is a tough player, the toughest actually. It accounted half of the hybrids sold in America last month. Toyota sold 167,000 units of them in the first 11 months of the year – compared with 32,610 units of hybrid Civics, Accords and Insights. </div><div align="justify"><br />Fukui admits the mistake of offering hybrid versions of Honda’s best-selling cars rather than designing a new car. He said that it is because “until now, it has been an image-based competition, not a business-based competition”. </div><div align="justify"><br />Another point of defeat for Honda is the pricing, not with the <a title="Acura CL coil springs" href="http://www.car-stuff.com/mmparts/acura-cl/coil_springs.html">Acura CL coil springs</a> or other individual parts, but with the entire hybrid vehicle. Toyota Prius costs $21,100, while Honda Civic hybrid costs $22,600. Thus, Fukui said, “The price needs to be reasonable and fuel efficiency higher so the (premium) the consumer pays can be returned in a short period of time.” </div><div align="justify"><br />Honda will offer a subcompact hybrid in 2009, Fukui confirms. It will be provided with a smaller, lighter engine for improved fuel economy and lower price than the Civic hybrid. The company is also planning to launch a hybrid sports car based on the CR-Z concept, which has been unveiled earlier this year at the Tokyo Auto Show and will also be features at the upcoming North American International Auto Show in Detroit. It is also investing $425 million for a new research center, which will focus on developing the “next generation” of automobiles, including hybrid and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles such as the FCS Clarity.</div>LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-65598603887071747002007-12-31T23:28:00.000-06:002007-12-31T23:29:24.724-06:00Toyota's Prius -- Is the Hybrid Technology Worth the Extra Cost?<div align="justify"><strong>By Patrick Roberts</strong></div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">The Prius embodies Toyota’s motto, “<a href="http://www.kogmedia.com/">Moving Forward</a>.” They designed the Prius to be a step up in the car world, rather than a step toward awkwardness, as I would expect from any environmentally conscious car. The car looks and feels special. People notice the difference in appearance and realize that the whole motivation for the car is different. </div><div align="justify"><br />The people have cried out for relief from rising gas prices. They have sought after something that doesn’t destroy the environment. Toyota has answered the people with their gas/electric hybrid, the Prius. </div><div align="justify"><br />The Prius gets an average of 45 mpg in the city as well as on highways. People with lead feet complain that this car gives them no better gas mileage then a regular car, but this is because gas usage depends very much on the driver, how he or she works the gas pedal. The driver can ensure the best possible gas mileage by watching the screen mounted on the dashboard. </div><div align="justify"><br />It is disputable whether or not additional cost for the hybrid technology is worth the money saved in gas expenditure. The car costs at least five thousand more than the average Toyota sedan to begin with. Then there is an additional seven to eight thousand dollar cost when the battery wears out. The battery’s warrantee comes to an end after one hundred thousand miles.</div><div align="justify"><br />The car is trim and slim, easy to fit into small spaces. Unfortunately, the leg room is a bit wanting for the driver’s side in particular. I don’t understand why they didn’t allow the front seats to slide back any further. This is one of the few misgivings I have about the Prius. </div><div align="justify"><br />So would you rather give your money to gas companies who are deliberately raising gas prices because they know there is nothing you can do about it, or would you rather support Toyota who is putting forth effort to give you a choice in the matter? Assuming I’ll break even in car payments vs. gas prices, I would rather support Toyota. </div><div align="justify"><br />Toyota’s Prius also includes keyless entry and push button start. As long as the key is in your pocket, the car will sense this and unlock the car. Same thing goes for starting the car. As long as the key is in your pocket, just push the button and the car will start. The keyless key also makes it impossible to lock your keys in the car. </div><div align="justify"><br />by Patrick Roberts. Find media reviews at <a href="http://www.kogmedia.com/">www.KoGmedia.com</a>. Also checkout <a href="http://booksbypatrick.blogspot.com/">www.BooksByPatrick.com</a><br /></div>LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-75257201039644234082007-11-15T17:29:00.000-06:002007-11-15T17:30:31.163-06:00General Motors To Make Chevy Green<strong>By Anthony Fontanelle</strong><br /><br />At the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show, General Motors Corp. will showcase a green Chevrolet by launching the gas-electric Silverado, the nation's first hybrid pickup. This is GM’s effort to make its best-selling brand, the center of an urgent attempt to cast the automaker as a progressive, environmentally friendly company to consumers around the globe. <br />The largest American automaker is battling with the industry’s craving for a greener image to improve mileage and at the same time respond to environmental issues. <br /><br />"In the past, we haven't told our story as well as we could," said Larry Burns, GM's vice president of research and development. "And this is a competitive game." The approach will involve a massive, worldwide marketing campaign and a lineup of vehicles that uses a variety of fuel-saving technologies - including some that have yet to be created. <br /><br />As part of GM’s announcement, the automaker will also introduce the iconic Silverado. The Detroit-based automaker is under pressure to beat a less-than-stellar reputation when it comes to the environment, and trying to do so minus the legendary Toyota Motor Corp.'s Prius hybrid. Just like Bilstein, the automaker is expected to exude efficiency with sacrificing flexibility. <br /><br />Toyota's success with the Prius has boosted the brand synonymous with environmental consciousness, an image that has propelled the Japanese automaker's success worldwide, said The Detroit News. "That bought them an image every other automaker would die for," GM's Burns said. <br /><br />On the contrary, the new strategy for the Chevy brand intends to take a portfolio of complex technologies, some that exist and some yet to be realized, and transform it into something marketable and digestible to American shoppers. <br /><br />The marketing piece of the strategy will tout Chevrolet's five "Fuel Solutions:" more efficient internal combustion engines; biofuels such as E85 ethanol; gas-electric hybrids; electrically driven vehicles; and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. The brand's new tagline is "Chevrolet, from gas-friendly to gas-free," the report continued. <br /><br />Additionally, GM plans to eventually offer a green version of virtually every Chevy model. Taking the center stage is the Chevrolet Volt, GM's much-hyped, ambitious plug-in hybrid car launched at the Detroit auto show in January. <br /><br />But the Volt and the fuel cell project remain veiled in uncertainty. The automaker is still working to develop a lithium-ion battery durable and affordable enough to power a Volt for the mass market, and an infrastructure for hydrogen vehicles does not yet exist, DetNews revealed. But a number of other technologies are either on the market or on the way. <br /><br />"They don't have a strong history of being as environmentally focused as Toyota or even Ford (Motor Co.) with its Escape" hybrid SUV, said Michael Robinet of CSM Worldwide, an automotive forecasting firm in Northville. <br /><br />Robinet said that GM has the product to become credible, even among import-loving East and West coasters who want to drive green vehicles. "It all has to do with product," he said. "There is no reason, as long as the product is right, that someone like General Motors can't do well there, too."LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-74349722759689543972007-11-11T12:12:00.000-06:002007-11-11T12:13:41.677-06:00Saab's 9-3 BioPower delivers Renewable, Economical and Responsible power<div align="justify"><strong>By Evander Klum</strong></div><div align="justify"><br />Recently, the new 9-3 BioPower series of Saab was launched in Australia to offer a wide variety of choices from renewable bioethanol, economical diesel or petrol power engines to the Australian drivers. </div><div align="justify"><br />The unveiling of the 9-3 series is an addition to Saab’s line-up of E85 flex-fuel vehicles giving most environmental advantages. The 9-3 series includes the Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan, SportCombi and the Convertible model priced at a $1,000 premium more than its petrol model which is already on sale. </div><div align="justify"><br />Riding with Saab’s launch of the 9-3, United Petroleum, Australia’s largest fuel retailer confirmed their plans of building two Australia’s first E85 fuel pumps in Melbourne and Sydney. </div><div align="justify"><br />With a vehicle powered by the E85 fuel, CO2 emissions will be largely reduced by 80 percent according to Saab estimates. Saab also said that the most fuel efficient small capacity diesel engines releases between 120-130 grams of fossil CO2 per kilometer. Compared to the 9-3 BioPower, emissions are just 40 grams of fossil CO2 per kilometer and with a bonus of a more desirable performance. </div><div align="justify"><br />Parveen Batish, Director of General Motors premium brands praised United Petroleum and said that its commitment to supplying the consumers with E85 will change the face of transport in Australia. </div><div align="justify"><br />"With the launch of BioPower, Saab set out to break the chicken and egg cycle that prevented Australian drivers from choosing a renewable fuel alternative," Mr Batish said. </div><div align="justify"><br />"Saab took the first leap and United Petroleum is taking the same bold leadership position with its commitment to make E85 commercially available to flex-fuel car drivers. </div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">"This is a big investment by United Petroleum. We think with this support BioPower will be a success in Australia and will stimulate other manufacturers to bring their flex-fuel vehicles to this country as well. This is the tip of the iceberg," Mr Batish said. </div><div align="justify"><br />"With a bioethanol model, a powerful and economical diesel and a carbon off-set through Greenfleet for every new car we sell, the Saab 9-3 (equipped with <a title="Saab radiator hose" href="http://www.swedishoemparts.com/saabradiatorhose.html">Saab radiator hose</a>) range really does deliver on our promise of performance with responsibility." </div><div align="justify"><br />The newly launched 9-3 BioPower is the flex-fuel ethanol version of the Saab 9-3 with just additional environment friendly features. The car will run on E85 fuel made up of 85 percent Ethanol and 15 percent petrol or petrol in any combination from just one fuel tank. </div><div align="justify"><br />Also, Saab Australia became the first automaker to bring the Australian automotive market the first renewable, bioethanol powered car with its launching of the 9-5 Bio Power to go on sale. The 9-5 BioPower is already the leading flex-fuel segment in Europe significantly in Sweden.</div>LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4138831528513128276.post-28074581616783286412007-10-31T22:52:00.000-05:002007-10-31T22:53:29.653-05:00Toyota Prius: Leader of the Global Hybrid Revolution<div align="justify"><strong>By Evander Klum</strong></div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">Toyota’s gas-electric Prius started a revolution in the global automotive industry ten years ago in December. Little did consumers know that the best selling vehicle was a dream come true to one engineer and it lead him later to Toyota’s vice- presidency. Takeshi Uchiyamada’s mind caused this revolution and with his success, he is determined to further transfigure the auto industry with the first mass production of the super car, the Toyota Prius. </div><div align="justify"><br />Quite blessed with determination, Uchiyamada with Toyota’s other engineers doubled their working hours to 16 hours per day to vigilantly test hundreds of engines. Every engineering problem is met with critical suggestions to arrive with the best solution to make the engine nothing but perfect. </div><div align="justify"><br />The Prius was a milestone for environmental vehicles making Toyota’s foot ahead of its rivals as they struggle for the most efficient battery, plug-in hybrids and possible zero-emission fuel-cell cell hydrogen powered cars. Uchiyamada said in an interview that he and his team have grown tired of defending themselves as imitators of technologies developed by their rivals. </div><div align="justify"><br />In December of 1997, the Prius was introduced in Japan and in the United States the next year. The Prius is already on its second generation and as the hybrid system allows electric motor and gas engine take turns to provide the car power, it gets 46 miles per gallon. Out of Toyota’s 1.2 million global hybrid sales, the Prius accounts for the 829,000 units sales thus making itself as the most successful hybrid vehicle in the global auto market. </div><div align="justify"><br />In the beginning, Uchiyamada never thought of designing a hybrid and thought that the Prius is one project Toyoto would not approve. A hybrid would require mounds of hardwork significantly the creation of battery that must long miles and recharge itself as the car is driven. He predicted that the Prius would cause Toyota to lose millions if not billions of dollars but he was wrong. </div><div align="justify"><br />Right now, Toyota’s rivals are all busy making hybrid versions of almost every model vehicle. Last August at the Frankfurt auto show, there was a hybrid galore. Porsche showcased a hybrid of their Cayenne turbo with Volkswagen’s help. BMW opened the box for their X6 (made with original <a title="BMW oxygen sensor" href="http://www.ecatalyticconverter.com/bmw-oxygen.html">BMW oxygen sensor</a>), an SUV coupe crossover hybrid. General Motors have already launched several hybrids but is more preoccupied with their Chevrolet volt plug in, the vehicle the American automaker predicts to dethrone the Prius. Ford’s Escape already had its hybrid version in 2004 but is presently working on a more advanced version. Chrysler LLC is working on their first hybrid versions of the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango set to debut next year. However, as almost all automaker are investing on hybrids, Toyota considers Honda Motor Co. as their greatest rival in the hybrid league as the Honda introduced the hybrid version of the Honda Civic. </div><div align="justify"><br />The next generation of the Prius is expected to be better than it is. According to analysts, this blockbuster must not disappoint its fans and it is a tough challenge that Toyota is facing. "The popularity of Toyota's hybrids has been limited so far to the Prius. That means Toyota still has a lot of work to do," he said. "If a car doesn't meet consumer expectations, it won't sell. That's the fate Prius must now shoulder: It can't disappoint fans." said Yasuaki Iwamoto, an auto analyst with Okasan Securities Co. in Tokyo, Japan.</div>LuBu Bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13127142004851582604noreply@blogger.com0