Cosworth to consider KERS supply in 2013

Cosworth may offer KERS and transmission packages to F1 teams in 2013.

F1 business manager Mark Gallagher told F1 Fanatic they are considering the move to coincide with the move to four-cylinder 1.6-liter turbocharged engines.

Gallagher hailed the rules change, calling it: “a new era where new technologies and innovation will be rewarded.”

Source: F1 Fanatic

50,000 Waiting for Electric Cars

This was the year General Motors Co. and Nissan made good on their promise to bring mass-produced electric cars to the market. But don't count on seeing one in traffic soon. Sales so far have been microscopic and they're likely to stay that way for some time because of limited supplies.

GM sold between 250 and 350 Chevy Volts this month and Nissan's sales totaled less than 10 Leaf sedans in the past two weeks. Production for both is slowly ramping up.

It will be well into 2012 before both the Volt and Leaf are available nationwide. And if you're interested in buying one, you'll need to get behind the 50,000 people already on waiting lists.

The first electric car sales were marked with fanfare. The envy of green-car geeks across the country, new owners were treated like rock stars at dealerships. They were greeted by high-level GM and Nissan executives, followed by cameramen and interviewed by local reporters. When they got home, they blogged about their experiences, sent links of newspaper stories to their friends, and stopped to talk to anyone who expressed interest in their new wheels.

Jeff Heeren of Nashville, Tenn., became the sixth Nissan Leaf owner on Dec. 22. Nissan's advertising agency, Chiat Day, followed Heeren and his family around as they picked up their silver-colored Leaf, and have posted a video on the Leaf's Facebook page. Not surprisingly, Heeren is a fan. "What's amazed me the most in driving it is that it's just a car, like any other car," he said.

The Leaf is the only all-electric car on the market. It can travel about 100 miles on battery power before needing to be recharged. Using a standard outlet, that takes 16 to 18 hours. Nissan Motor Co. recommends that Leaf owners install a 220/240-volt outlet in their homes so they can recharge in about seven hours.

Japan-based Nissan initially sent only 10 Leafs to the U.S. and spokesman David Reuter said a second shipment of around 90 cars that arrived by cargo ship on Dec. 23 is on the way to dealers.

Nissan won't give estimates on how many Leaf sedans it expects to sell in the U.S. next year, but says it has capacity to make 50,000 annually at a plant in Oppama, Japan. Those will be sold in Japan, the U.S. and Europe.

The Volt goes about 40 miles on battery power alone before needing to be recharged. But it comes with a backup gas engine that GM says can extend its range to 375 miles as it kicks in to recharge the batteries on the fly.

The Volts are being assembled in Detroit. GM predicts it will sell 10,000 of them in 2011 and between 35,000 and 45,000 in 2012. By way of comparison, Chevrolet sold 187,250 Malibu sedans in the first 11 months of the year with sticker prices that start at $21,975.

Hybrids made up 2.4 percent of U.S. sales this year and the category that includes hybrids and electric cars is expected to double to 4.8 percent by 2013, according to consumer web site Edmunds.com. But electric vehicles likely will be only a small part of this total, said Michelle Krebs, senior analyst at Edmunds, and she doubts they will be big money makers for the car companies.

Rumors that GM may end on Jan. 3 the $350-a-month lease promotion it began advertising this summer sent some Volt buyers scrambling to close early. Peter Schleck, an attorney in Rockville, Md., knows his Volt is heading towards Maryland on a freight train. But he's already signed the papers making him its official owner.

GM spokesman Rob Peterson says the Volt lease terms "will extend into 2011, but I don't have the specifics on how long it will be out there." He added that the company expects to honor the deal for people who have already put down a deposit.

Paul and Cari Sykes of Fort Worth, Texas, made a $1,000 deposit on a Volt earlier this month, expecting to pay $350 a month for a lease. They know their car is on its way — theirs was the 724th built — and they are both excited and worried that they may have acted a bit irrationally. They've never purchased a car at sticker price before, nor have they bought a car sight unseen. They've never driven the Volt. The closest they came was when the buyer of the first Volt in Granbury, Texas, let them join him in a test drive. As passengers.

"I've never done anything like this before," Cari Sykes said. "I hope I can say three years from now that I was part of the transformation, and will be ready to buy the next generation."
Felix Kramer is doing his part to boost electric car sales. The Redwood City, Calif., resident picked up his white Chevy Volt last week, and he is on the waiting list for a Nissan Leaf. Kramer is the founder of CalCars.org, a group promoting development of cars that get 100 mpg or more.

He said his family put 350 miles on the odometer in the first week and used only 2.4 gallons of gas. He's averaging about 35 miles on electric power per charge, right in the middle of the 25 miles to 50 miles he was expecting.

His son Josh, 20, was driving the Volt around town and was followed home off the freeway by a state trooper. Rather than giving him a ticket, the trooper peppered him with questions about the car.

Kramer said he's impressed by how quickly the Volt accelerates from a stop or on the highway. His only complaint: the loud beeping noise when the car is in reverse. "I'm going to find out if there's some way to change that," he said.

New World Record for an Electric Vehicle

Shawn Lawless and the crew from Discovery channel's Orange County Choppers (OCC) have set a new record for the 1/4 mile by an electric vehicle. The record was previously held by Killacycle with a 7.82 @ 168 MPH.

Breaking the Guinness book of world records for the fastest electric vehicle/bike, the Orange county choppers sponsored 360 volt electric bike recorded a time of 7.77 seconds @ 168 MPH in the Quarter Mile at Quaker City Raceway.

Both bikes are powered by A123 M1 battery cells, 2,000 for Lawless, 1210 for Killacycle and both run custom rewound DC motors paired with a high current Zilla controller.

Killacycle uses 2 modified 6.7-inch Advanced DC motors while Lawless use a 13" DC motor, believed to be of GE origin, that was originally rebuilt for Denis Berube's S-10 and his Worlds Fastest EV dragster Current Eliminator V.

Volvo to employ 200 more workers to meet demand

Volvo is increasing its recruiting an additional 200 employees in Sweden, to meet likely demand in the New Year.

The assembly plant that’s receiving the boost in employment will be Volvo’s Gothenburg factory, which employs around 3,200 people. The additional 200 workers will increase the current production rate from 48 units to 52 units per hour.

A Volvo spokesperson said over the telephone: “We want to be prepared as we expect higher demand next year.”

BAIC bidding for Pininfarina

BAIC (Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Corp.) is allegedly making a bid to acquire Italian design company Pininfarina, which has been on the market for a few months now.

BAIC formerly brought the tooling, powertrain technology and intellectual property associated with the outgoing Saab 9-3. The Chinese car manufacture is developing new models centred on the 9-3 that it plans to sell under the Beijing Auto brand name, and Pininfarina is apparently caught up in the design of that car.

According to Chinese auto-media, a nameless BAIC executive reportedly returned from Italy, where he spoke with Pininfarina about the firm’s joint venture on a bespoke adaptation of the Saab 9-3 that would premier at the 2011 Beijing motor show.

Other potential bidders include Anhui Jiangling, Mahindra and Baja, Brilliance Auto and Magna International.

Four-wheel-drive Fiat 500 spied in Italy

Here’s prove that Fiat is developing a 4x4 variant of the 500. Spied by an eagle-eyed reader in Catania, Sicily, Italy, this mule was attracting attention left, right and centre.

The 500 4x4 will target those who want a compact, fashionable 4x4 without the associated running costs and price-tag. The newcomer will likely to be sold with 5-doors and will underpin the current Panda 4x4, giving the 500 4x4 genuine off-road ability.

Shaft and rear differential

All engines, transmissions and 4x4 hardware will be taken off the current Panda 4x4, although, Fiat will be launching the all-new Panda in 2012, itself with new engines, transmissions and a new platform. That said, we can expect the 500 4x4 to sport the all-new 0.9 litre TwinAir (both naturally-aspirated and turbocharged), 1.2 69bhp, and the 1.3 litre 90bhp turbo-diesel MultiJet. Both 5 speed, 6 speed manual and 6 speed automated Dualogic transmissions will be offered. Prices may start around £13,000 for the entry-level model, rising to £16,000 for the range-topping models with the turbocharged TwinAir engines.

According to plans submitted to unions and the Government, Fiat is looking to launch the 500 4x4 sometime in 2012, alongside the restyled 500 and all-new Panda city-car.

Via Alvolante

Ford recalls 2011 F-Series, Edge and Lincoln MKX (U.S)

Ford is recalling 14,737 F-Series, Edge and Lincoln MKX vehicles due to a faulty body control module. The glitch might cause to an electrical short, resulting to overheating and a fire, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said. The module, assembled by Lear Corporation in Mexico, is faulty on some vehicles manufactured in late October to mid-November.

Ford reportedly informed the NHTSA that two 2011 F-150s caught fire outside its Dearborn, Michigan, manufacturing plant.

Neither Ford nor the NHTSA reported of any injuries or deaths. Ford will recall the vehicles on 1st January to fix the body control module for free.

Vauxhall Astra the most seized car in 2009 (UK)

Around 500 uninsured vehicles are apprehended on a daily basis, with the Vauxhall Astra taking the top spot.
The second most seized car is the BMW 3 Series according to the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB) police helpline.

The figures arrive as a new online video cautioning the consequences of driving without insurance is released by the MIB, which reimburses victims caught up in accidents with uninsured drivers.

MIB chief executive, Ashton West said: "Christmas is a time when household budgets are stretched to the limit and, for some, the renewal of insurance may be overlooked. Modern technology means that motorists who have no insurance are more likely than ever to be caught. It is simply not worth the risk."

He went on: "The proposed change in insurance law in 2011 will mean that the number of people caught without motor insurance will increase. We are working with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency and expect to reduce the numbers of uninsured drivers on UK roads even further."

The 10 most seized uninsured cars in 2009 were:

1. Vauxhall Astra

2. BMW 3 Series

3. Vauxhall Vectra

4. Volkswagen Golf

5. Vauxhall Corsa

6. Ford Mondeo

7. Ford Fiesta

8. Ford Focus

9. Ford Escort

10. Renault Megane.

U.S spec Audi A4 Allroad spied in Scandinavia

Spies have caught what seems to be a U.S spec Audi A4 Allroad, undergoing winter testing in Northern Sweden. Audi decided the A4 Allroad wouldn’t go on sale in the U.S due to the financial slowdown, however, an executive at Audi has overturned that decision.

The A4 Allroad will be similar to the European model; grey/black bodykit, increased ride height and front and rear skid plates will feature as standard.

The biggest giveaway to this virtually undisguised U.S spec A4 Allroad was its amber reflector lights. Other little clues included a reduced license plate surrounding hidden behind the vehicles European plate and the miles-per-hour on the speedometer.

Under the bonnet will be a 2.0 litre 4-cylinder 211bhp petrol engine, mated to a 7 speed dual-clutch S-tronic transmission.

Expect the car to debut at next month’s Detroit motor show.

Via Roadandtrack

STS V6 : Luxuriously a Cadillac

STS V6 : Luxuriously a Cadillac

Perfect Interior Designs of the Cadillac STS-v6

It is an all-new Sigma based car. It is a highly crafted entry level car into the automotive market that deals on global luxury. It is very much a Cadillac in all aspects. It has been available with a rear wheel drive or an all wheel drive system. It is equipped with either the Northstar 4.6 liter V8 VVT engine or the 3.6 liter V6 VVT engine. For a much more balanced ride and handling, this vehicle has an installed Dynamic Integrated Chassis Control System. It is the Cadillac STS.

The Cadillac STS is a luxury sedan or a luxury sports sedan. It sports four doors and has the capacity to take in a maximum of five passengers in its luxurious cabin. It has been made available in two trims which comprise of the V6 and the V8. Made standard for both trim levels is a five speed automatic transmission with overdrive.

This vehicle has been designed, crafted, engineered, and executed so as to deliver precision craftsmanship, a splendid performance as well as deliver the sophistication and luxury plus quality that only a Cadillac could bring. And once a person gets to look at it, he would be able to say that indeed the Cadillac STS is a distinct American package. The Sigma architecture that is used in this vehicle is also the very same base and foundation for the Cadillac CTS sedan, the Cadillac CTS V-series sedan, and the SRX luxury performance utility vehicle.

As per the interior of the Cadillac STS, the entire cabin has been constructed using premium materials and fabrics. The seats are heated and ventilated. Eucalyptus wood and in-mold processed, dent and mar resistant aluminum trim is actually used on the steering wheel, center console, instrument panel, as well as door armrests of this luxury sedan.

Mark LaNeve, the general manager for Cadillac, pronounces, "Our long term goal for Cadillac is to become the Standard of the World once again. In order to succeed globally, we have to build vehicles that have outstanding performance, exceptional quality and reliability, and meet the demands of the most discerning car buyers. The STS represents the latest step in that direction." Jim Taylor, the General Motors' vehicle line executive for prestige vehicles adds, "We feel very comfortable calling this a finely crafted car, but we also realize that's the price of entry into this category. The STS has simply been engineered to more than hold its own when matched against some of the best prestige luxury sedans in the world."

Tesla Says Electric Car Battery Plan Will Be Profitable From Lower Sales

Tesla Motors Inc., the electric carmaker backed by Toyota Motor Corp., said cheaper batteries will make its Model S sedan profitable with much lower sales than Nissan Motor Co. is seeking for its Leaf car.

The $57,000 electric Model S, which uses cells similar to those in laptops, is designed to make money for Palo Alto, California-based Tesla at 20,000 annual deliveries, Chief Technology Officer J.B. Straubel said in an interview. Nissan Chief Executive Officer Carlos Ghosn has said combined battery- car sales for Nissan and affiliate Renault SA may need to reach 500,000 vehicles a year to be profitable without government aid.

Nissan’s choice of a larger type of lithium-ion battery means “they will have a cost challenge that will be more difficult to solve,” Straubel said yesterday in an interview. “It will require a lot higher volume before they really get to a cost point that is internally sustainable.”

Tesla, which has yet to post an annual profit, has delivered $109,000 rechargeable Roadsters since 2008, powered by thousands of small lithium-ion cells similar to those used in portable computers. The Silicon Valley startup says such cells, supplied by Panasonic Corp. and other manufacturers, will remain more cost-effective for the foreseeable future than the larger lithium batteries in the Leaf and General Motors Co.’s $41,000 plug-in Volt, which both went on sale this month.

Not Comparable

Tesla’s battery packs may cost as little as $200 per kilowatt hour, compared with about $700 to $800 per kilowatt hour for so-called large-form cell lithium-ion packs, Martin Eberhard, a Tesla founder and former chief executive, said in an interview last month. Straubel declined to confirm Eberhard’s estimate or discuss the cost of Tesla’s battery packs.

Nissan’s electric vehicle strategy can’t really be compared with that of Tesla, said David Reuter, a spokesman for the Yokohama, Japan-based company’s North American unit. He didn’t elaborate.

“The Nissan Leaf product program will be profitable over its lifecycle,” Reuter said. He declined to say how long the product cycle would be for the $32,780 Leaf.

The company has been developing its lithium-ion battery technology over the past two decades, “so a lot of the investment has already been amortized through many years,” Reuter said.

Nissan fell 1 percent to 777 yen as of the 11 a.m. trading break in Tokyo. The stock has declined 4.1 percent in 2010. Tesla rose $1.32, or 5 percent, yesterday to $27.73 in Nasdaq Stock Market trading in New York. The shares have surged 63 percent since they began trading on June 28.

Higher Prices

Tesla’s Straubel conceded the Model S’s higher price will make it easier to turn a profit with fewer deliveries after it goes on sale in 2012. Still, cheaper batteries are the main reason, he said.

Tesla’s challenge is to ensure a high level of quality control in its battery pack and assembly processes as it tries to expand from supplying about 1,000 Roadsters a year to making 20,000 or more of the Model S, said Brett Smith, who specializes in alternative propulsion vehicles at the Center for Automotive Research in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

“There’s a method to their madness,” Smith said. “Tesla is using cells that, while not exactly the same as those in laptops, can be made on existing lines that already mass-produce them.”

As a result, Tesla didn’t have to spend as much for battery research and development and lithium-ion cell production, Smith said. “Especially for a small manufacturer, there’s a logic to what they’re doing,” Smith said.

Source: Bloomberg

Nissan LEAF Aero Concept to Debut @ Tokyo Auto Salon

Nissan has announced plans to debut nine vehicles at the Tokyo Auto Salon.

The Leaf Aero Style concept boasts a new front bumper, extended side skirts, and restyled mirrors. Other goodies include LED daytime driving lights and unique wheels.

To highlight dealership accessories, the Juke Sporty Package has a rear spoiler, chrome accents, and 17-inch aluminum wheels.

Minivan enthusiasts can rejoice as the Elgrand Rider Premium concept has been "specifically tuned up for a higher level of driving performance." While Nissan declined to elaborate, the concept has quilted leather seats and wood trim.

Lastly, the NISMO GT-R RC is track ready as it boasts a slick tire-compatible suspension, an FIA-compliant roll cage, and a 120-liter safety fuel tank. It will be "able to compete in various production races held around the world." Hopefully, Nissan will release photos soon.

Other vehicles on display include the March Bolero, Serena Rider, NISMO Fairlady Z (aka 370Z), NISMO Elgrand S-tune, and Motul Autech GT-R.

Source: Nissan

Honda gets attacked by cyber criminals (U.S)

Honda has contacted millions of customers after cyber criminals stolen a database enclosing names, email addresses, and VINs (the Vehicle Identification Number).

Around 2.2m Honda customers have been affected by the security breach. One theory suggests hackers sent out e-mails on behalf of Honda, tricking the end user into clicking on malicious attachments or links, thus handing over personal information.

A report by the Columbus Dispatch suggests the data was taken from a third-party company who sent out "Welcome" emails to customers who created accounts with the firm.

Honda’s luxury arm, Acura, also contacted a further 2.7m consumers after hackers stole customer e-mails addresses from a separate list.

Rising fuel prices threaten SUV sales (U.S)

Recently, sales of SUV’s and pick-up trucks have risen, but at late so have fuel prices, which may hinder sales and residual values of large SUV’s and pick-ups.

With fuel prices across the States averaging around $3 a gallon, it’s signing the highest levels observed since October 2008. An additional ¢50 may see customers purchasing smaller vehicles.

“If you see a ¢20 -¢30 price increase per gallon over the course of a couple weeks then of course people are going to panic,” Alec Gutierrez, analyst for vehicle evaluation at Kelley Blue Book, said. Nevertheless, Gutierrez noted that if prices increase steadily, it’ll give the “market a chance to react rationally.”

Some showrooms have already begun to see consumer’s down-size. A large amount of customers are ditching large SUV’s in favour for compact ones like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Mercedes GLK.

Jason Stewart, general manager of Earl Stewart Toyota of North Palm Beach in Florida said: “Our small SUVs are doing OK but the large SUVs and large trucks have definitely cooled off since the pickup in gas prices”.

He also claimed sales of the Toyota Prius have tripled at his dealership. Dealers are also reporting a decline in prices as an end result to shove consumer’s into smaller and more fuel efficient vehicles.

Solar UAV QinetiQ Zephyr records ratified

The flight in July over the US army Yuma proving ground by the Qinetiq ‘Zephyr’ has been ratified by the Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI) as a world record for the longest unbroken time spent in the air by an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). The flight lasted 10 times longer than the previous duration record held by the RQ 4A Global Hawk.

• the absolute duration record for an Unmanned Air Vehicle – being filed at 336 hrs / 22 minutes
• the duration record for a UAV (in the U/1.c / 50-500Kg category) – time as above
• the absolute altitude record for a UAV (in the above category) – being filed at 70,740ft (21,561m)

Launched by hand, the aircraft flies by day on solar power delivered by amorphous silicon solar arrays that cover the aircraft’s wings and are no thicker than sheets of paper. These are supplied by Uni-Solar, the world’s largest producer of flexible solar panels. The solar arrays are also used to recharge the lithium-sulfur batteries that are used to power the aircraft by night and supplied by Sion Power Inc, a leading developer of the next high energy rechargeable battery technology. Together they provide an extremely high power to weight ratio on a continuous day/night cycle, thereby delivering persistent on station capabilities.

Around 50% larger than the previous version, Zephyr incorporates an entirely new wing design with a total wingspan of 22.5m to accommodate more batteries that are combined with a totally new integrated power management system. The entirely new aerodynamic shape also helps to reduce drag and improve performance. Zephyr’s ultra-lightweight carbon fibre design means it weighs in at just over 50Kg.

Previous records beaten include:

• Surpassing the previous world record for the longest flight for an unmanned air system (set at 30 hours 24 minutes by Northrop Grumman’s RQ-4A Global Hawk on 22 March 2001).
• Surpassing the Rutan Voyager milestone of 9 days (216hours) 3 minutes and 44 seconds airborne – previously the longest flight by an aeroplane without refuelling and set in Dec 1986. Quadrupling its own unofficial duration record of 82 hours, 37 minutes set in 2008

Seoul Starts Operations of Battery Electric Buses

The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced that it has started commercial operation of eco-friendly full-size electric buses on the Mt. Namsan circular routes as of December 21. It is the first time in the world that battery electric buses have been put into commercial operations.

SMG has worked on the project to develop full-sized electric buses with local technology over the last one and a half years, since it signed an agreement with Hyundai Heavy Industries and Hankuk Fiber for the development of electric buses in September 2009.

Electric bus services will not only improve air conditions in the city but also lead the technology of large-sized electric vehicles in the global electric car market, the City said.

The electric coaches serving on the Mt. Namsan circular routes are 11.05 meters long and run up to 83km with a single charge. They can be fully charged in less than 30 minutes with a high-speed battery charger. The electric bus, with its maximum speed of 100 km/hr, has a low floor and a 322-horsepower engine. It adopts a high-capacity lithium-ion battery and an energy saving system that can collect and reuse energy generated from brakes when running downhill.

Its body is made of a carbon composite material, not of iron plates, which considerably reduces the vehicle's weight while reinforcing durability. The electric buses are also equipped with automatic slant boards for wheelchair users. The bus is shaped like a peanut and decorated with designs symbolizing the Namsan Tower and landscapes of Mt. Namsan.

SMG has replaced five buses on the Namsan circular routes with electric vehicles. It plans to gradually substitute all 14 buses with electric coaches to minimize any inconvenience of citizens that may be caused by the introduction of the new buses. It also plans to build two more battery chargers on Namsan by March 2011, increasing the number from two to four.

SMG expects that the electric bus service has enabled Seoul City to move one step further toward a "Green-Car, Smart City." SMG has set a goal of putting a total of 120,000 electric vehicles in use in the city by 2020, which will account to 50 percent of all public transport vehicles, 10 percent of sedans and 1 percent of trucks and vans.

Paris may ban SUVs from the city (FR)

If you’re living in France and want to take your SUV into Paris, you might want to think again. According to reports, environmental official, Denis Baupin has proposed a new set of limitations that could potentially ban old diesel car and SUV’s.

Baupin is a hardcore SUV-hater and has even suggested that current sport utility owners should “sell it and buy a vehicle that’s compatible with city life.” He then added, “I’m sorry, but having a sport utility vehicle in a city makes no sense,” when exclamation to local radio station.

Unfortunately, the proposals are legal and are backed by French law, as the Environment Ministry said that each city can independently choose what types of vehicles can be under attack, in which neighbourhoods and during what hours and/or times of the year certain vehicles could be banned.

Cadillac debuts 4-cylinder 2.0T SIDI in SLS sedan (CN)

GM has unwrapped the new SLS 2.0T SIDI at the 2010 Guangzhou motor show. While the car hasn’t changes cosmetically, it sports a new petrol engine.

A Cadillac and large executive sedan first, the 2.0 litre turbocharged petrol engine SIDI signs the first usage of a turbocharged four-cylinder in a Cadillac. This engine gives Cadillac a workable competitor into the Chinese premium large sedan market, which is dominated by 2.0 litre – 2.5 litre cars.

The 2.0T SIDI kicks out 260bhp with 358Nm (265lb-ft) of torque. The turbocharged 2.0 litre is likely to be just as powerful as the STS V6 sold in the U.S.

It is very doubtful at the engine will arrive in North America as the SLS/STS are at deaths door.

Ford GT90 Concept Car Front

Ford GT90 Concept Car Front White Car

Honda CIVIC modif with Street Racing Concept

Mitsubishi Double Shotz Concept

Mitsubishi Double Shotz Concept Car

NEC to Expand EV Li-Ion Battery Production Capacity 5x by 2012

The NEC Group announced today that the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry's (METI) "Regional Development Subsidy for Enterprises Creating Employment and Adding to a Low-Carbon Society" is supporting the Group's capital investment in reinforcing its production capacity of electrodes for rechargeable high-capacity lithium-ion batteries.


This capital investment will be carried out by NEC Energy Devices, Ltd. (NECED; Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture), a wholly owned NEC Corporation subsidiary that develops and produces rechargeable high-capacity laminated lithium-ion batteries. NECED will leverage the subsidy to increase electrode production capacity by the 2012 fiscal year.


This expansion is a major milestone towards the NEC Group achieving a capacity of 10 million kilo watt-hours (kWh) per year in the 2012 fiscal year, compared with the current capacity of 2 million kWh per year. The NEC Group aims to continue expanding its production capacity to meet customer requirement.

Going forward the NEC Group will promote its smart energy and green business centered by advanced lithium-ion battery to hold a leading global position.

Nissan Leaf Gives You CARWINGS in the Race to Efficiency

Nissan has announced it will introduce an Information and Communication Technology system (ICT) for electric vehicles (EVs). The system will be implemented with the all-new Nissan LEAF, on sale now in Japan and the U.S., and in Europe early next year. ICT will help deliver greater convenience, comfort and security for EVs, as well as provide real-world data that will be important to realizing a low-carbon society in the future.

With the ICT system, Nissan LEAF owners are connected at all times to the data and information they need to optimize their EV experience. The NISSAN CARWINGS Data Center, an information control center, communicates with the car navigation system via the onboard Telematics Communication Unit (TCU). ICT has features unique to EVs, including EV usage history and battery conditions. Remote control for battery charging and climate control also exist. The system can be accessed by a dedicated Website for EV owners, via mobile phones, smart phones and computers to manage energy usage.

Onboard EV service (while driving)

"Expected reachable area map display" function: checks how far Nissan LEAF will be able to travel … accessible by a single touch of the screen.

"Charging spot update" function: automatically updates data to display the nearest charging station.

"Timer charging" function: charges the battery anytime one wishes, e.g., late at night when the electricity rate is lower.

Offboard EV service (before and after driving)

Remote control function: checks the state of battery charging, controls battery charging, estimates time to finish charging and shows a possible driving range, maintains the battery and makes failure diagnosis.

"Remote climate control" function: sets air conditioning via remote control so it can be turned on before one enters the vehicle.

"Electricity rate simulation" function: checks how much it costs for electricity after driving. Calculation function: calculates how much CO2 emissions were reduced by driving EV (predicted rate).

"Ranking" function: Nissan LEAF owners worldwide can compete with each other in electricity consumption, traveling distance and the amount of charge produced by regenerative braking.

"Route planner" function: Creates a driving plan while checking a possible driving range and charging station locations.

Based on the consent of EV owners, the NISSAN CARWINGS Data Center will retain historical driving, charging and electricity consumption information globally. Based on this data, it will analyze EV driving and charging data to measure how much CO2 is reduced through EV use and to evaluate clean energy usage.

The ICT system for EV was developed not only to provide driving support for EV owners, but also to contribute to a sustainable zero-emission society in the future. Nissan is working to help realize a sustainable low-carbon society using the ICT system in several demonstration tests. This includes the Yokohama Smart City Project, a low-carbon city project conducted with Yokohama City, and YOKOHAMA Mobility "Project ZERO" which is focused on how to create a smart mobility city.

In preparation for wide introduction of renewable energy in the future (for example, solar electric generation at home), EVs may be utilized not only for mobility, but also for energy management, depending on surplus electricity. The EV ICT system has functions which can start charging at times when surplus electricity is most likely to be generated.

Working towards being a global zero-emission leader, the Renault-Nissan Alliance has formed partnerships with more than 80 governments, cities and other organizations around the world. Nissan will utilize the data obtained by the demonstration tests in these partner countries and cities to actively participate in the creation of a zero-emission society globally.

Japanese Giants Investing in Lithium-Ion Batteries

Anticipating steady growth in demand for pure electric and hybrid cars over the next 10 years, Japanese manufacturers of lithium-ion batteries are investing heavily in new production facilities.

Since 2009 they have spent more than $3 billion in Japan and, counting low-interest loans and grants awarded to Nissan Motor Co.’s overseas affiliates, an estimated $5 billion globally

All are hoping to compete for a global market in 2020 - depending on which forecast proves correct - of between 5 million and 15 million electric cars and hybrids.

Despite their dominance in hybrid batteries (mostly nickel-metal hydride types), claiming 95% of sales since the 1997 launch of the Toyota Motor Corp. Prius, and early lead in electric cars as lithium battery suppliers to Nissan and Mitsubishi Motor Corp. for the Leaf and i-MiEV, they anticipate strong competition from South Korea and China.

South Korea, for instance, has committed to spending $13 billion (15 trillion won) to become the world’s leading battery manufacturer by 2020. China, similarly, plans to support hybrid and electric vehicle infrastructure and sales through a 10-year investment program reported to exceed $15 billion (RMB 100).

The following is summary of recent facility investments by Japanese battery makers and their automotive customers:

NEC Corp., jointly with Nissan in June 2009, opened a $140 million (12 billion yen) line inside Nissan’s old Zama manufacturing complex west of Tokyo. When fully operational in 2011, the line will produce as many as 12 million lithium-ion cells annually, enough to make batteries for 65,000 pure electric and hybrid cars.

By late 2012, Nissan and NEC plan to expand lithium-battery production outside Japan into the U.S., U.K. and Portugal. Including planned capacity in France by Nissan’s ‘alliance’ partner Renault SA, total capacity will approach 90 million cells and batteries for nearly 500,000 cars.

To support the Zama operation, NEC Tokin Corp., an NEC subsidiary, invested an additional $129 million (11 billion yen) in a lithium-manganese electrode line at its Sagamihara plant west of Tokyo.

Also in June 2009, GS Yuasa Corp. began production at the first of two joint battery manufacturing ventures with Japanese automakers: Lithium Energy Japan. Jointly owned, jointly owned by Mitsubishi, the company currently has capacity to make 1.6 million cells on lines in Kusatsu (Gumma Prefecture) and Kyoto. A new plant in Ritto (Shiga Prefecture) is scheduled to come on stream in 2012 will add 4.4 million cells, bringing total capacity to 6 million, enough for 68,000 batteries.

Total investment in the three facilities: $608 million (51.7 billion yen).

Meanwhile, a second joint venture with Honda Motor Co. began operations this autumn inside GS Yuasa’s Osando plant near Kyoto. The venture, named Blue Energy Co., is believed to have capacity to make 2.8 million cells for around 30,000 hybrids and electric cars. Honda would not confirm planned production volumes.

Cost of the line: $294 million (25 billion yen).

Elsewhere, three of Japan’s electronic giants have also entered the market - Hitachi Ltd., Panasonic Corp. and Toshiba Corp.:

Hitachi Vehicle Energy Ltd., a Hitachi subsidiary, opened a new 3.6 million cell line in October 2009 in Hitachinaka (Ibaraki Prefecture). The new line raises capacity at the site to 4.1 million. Hitachi opened a 500,000-cell line in 2004.

Cumulative investment at the site: $176 million (15 billion yen).

To support the operation, Hitachi Maxell Ltd., another Hitachi subsidiary, invested $71 million (6 billion yen) in a new electrode line at the company’s Kyoto Works. The line began electrode production in February 2009.

Panasonic Energy Co., the battery-manufacturing division of Panasonic Corp., began lithium cell production in April 2010 at a new $1.2 billion (100 billion yen) ($1.2 billion) plant in Osaka. Initial capacity is 12 million cells. No details were provided about the automotive share.

In July 2010, Sanyo Electric Co., since December a wholly owned Panasonic subsidiary, opened a $153 million (13 billion yen) EV battery plant in Kosai (Shizuoka Prefecture) with capacity of 12 million cells. By 2016, Sanyo hopes to boost output to 120 million cells.

Toshiba will open a $294 million (25 billion yen) line at its Kashiwazaki plant in Niigata Prefecture this coming February. Initial capacity: 500,000 cells per month.

Meanwhile, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd., Japan’s largest diversified machinery manufacturer, completed construction of a plant inside its Nagasaki Shipyard and Machinery Works in November. Capacity at the plant, which will produce lithium batteries for forklifts, is 400,000 units.

Note that last January Primearth EV Energy Co., Toyota’s battery subsidiary, opened a new $353 million (30 billion yen) nickel metal hydride plant in northern Japan in Miyagi Prefecture. With the plant’s opening, the supplier has capacity to make 1 million nickel metal hydride batteries.

In 2010, it is expected to deliver more than 700,000 units, mostly to Toyota.

Paris looks to ban SUVs

Paris is planning to test restrictions on gas-guzzling vehicles, likely including sport utility vehicles, as part of attempts to curb pollution.

Denis Baupin, an environmental official in the mayor's office, said Wednesday that sport utility vehicles and old diesel cars are likely to be targeted in upcoming test restrictions.

To any Parisian who drives an SUV, Baupin's advice is: "Sell it and buy a vehicle that's compatible with city life.

"I'm sorry, but having a sport utility vehicle in a city makes no sense," Baupin told RTL radio.
Paris, Lyon, Grenoble and Aix-en-Provence are among the cities planning to try restrictions on gas-guzzlers in late 2011 or 2012.

The Environment Ministry says officials in each city are still discussing precisely how the restrictions would work -- what types of cars would be affected, in what neighborhoods, during what hours or periods of the year. Exact penalties are also an open question.

Many other European cities, including London and Berlin, already have "low emission zones," with varying restrictions on the type of vehicles targeted.

Dodge Journey to replace Fiat Ulysse (EU)

The Dodge Journey will be the first Dodge vehicle to bare the Fiat emblem. The revised Journey, dubbed Freemont will arrive in dealerships across Europe from June 2011. Historically, large Fiat models haven’t been successful in the UK, so Fiat has its work cut out.

The Freemont will obtain minor revisions inside and out, as well as receiving suspension adjustments that are better match European tastes.

Out goes Volkswagen 2.0 TDI 140PS PD diesel engine, in favour of Fiat’s sophisticated 2.0 litre 170bhp MultiJet engine.

Fiat-Chrysler forecast substantially stronger sales of the Freemont, because of Fiat’s popularity in Europe. The Freemont will also replace the Ulysse large MPV, which has just gone out of production.

Dodge Journey sales increased by 62% across Europe, at 8,395 units. Compare that to Ford, both the S-Max and Galaxy sold 42,991 units and 26,103 units in 2009.

A world debut at the Geneva motor show in March 2011 is likely.

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Toyota to Reveal Prius Wagon @ Detroit Auto Show

Toyota will stage the world premiere of the Prius family of vehicles at a press conference at the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

In addition to the current third-generation Prius and Prius Plug-in vehicle (PHV), the first all-new addition to the Prius Family will debut along with a Prius concept vehicle.

The press conference will be held on Monday, Jan. 10 at 1:05 p.m. EST in the Riverview Ballroom at Cobo Center.

A live Webcast will be available at ToyotaNewsroom.com.

TTXGP Partner With Australian FX-Superbike Championship

TTXGP expands the global footprint for the next generation of motorsports with its first national championship in Australia

The Australian FX-Superbike Championship is a national series covering 6 rounds, starting in mid March and ending in early November. In 2011 they will partner with TTXGP to include electric superbike racing for the first time creating an Australian national e-championship. Running to the TTXGP Rule book and incorporating both the TTXGP and TTX75 classes, the new eFX Championship will be an exciting addition to the TTXGP family. Australia has a very active EV community so we are sure to see thrilling racing on innovative platforms.

Commenting on the partnership Azhar Hussain, Founder and CEO of TTXGP said "we are very excited to be working with ARTRP and help launch a new national electric championship. eFXC/TTXGP will be a fantastic opportunity for anyone wishing to join the growing group of EV racers as well as sponsor a new, exciting, high profile race series. ARTRP is both pioneering and hugely successful; they make an ideal partner for TTXGP to work with and help nurture a fast growing electric race series."

Terry O'Neill the Managing Director of ARTRP (series promoter) comments "We are very excited to be part of the expanding world of TTXGP electric motorcycle racing. We have always been involved in innovative ideas to further motorcycle racing in Australia, we started by having the first motorcycle carbon neutral racing events in the southern hemisphere and now by encouraging the local EV patrons to get involved building and racing motorcycles."

"It seemed logical to be partnering with TTXGP and having spent a long time discussing with Azhar, our and his visions, the decision was simple"

The series will be nationally televised on the very popular free to air SBS Speedweek and also on the Fox cable network as well as be distributed with all TTXGP programming across the world. The TTXGP World Series will also be available in Australia.

eFXC/TTXGP winners will be invited to attend to the TTXGP World Series Final 2011 for a chance to become TTXGP Champions 2011.

eFXC/TTXGP dates for your calendar are as follows:-

2011 Australian EFXC/TTXGP-Superbike Championship
Test : Wakefield Park Raceway (NSW) 29th April - 1st May 2011 (AFXSBK Rd2)
Round 1: Eastern Creek Raceway (NSW) 1st - 3rd July 2011 (AFXSBK Rd3)
Round 2: Winton Raceway (VIC) 2nd - 4th September 2011 (AFXSBK Rd4)
Round 3: Wakefield Park Raceway (NSW), 8-9th October 2011 TBC

Related Web Link: EFXC/TTXGP

Sumitomo, Nissan, NEC sign MoU to promote EV charging service

Sumitomo Corporation, Nissan Motor and NEC Corporation have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to promote a new membership-based charging service for electric vehicle (EV) users that will be available for the first time in Japan.

As per the MoU, the three companies will conduct a joint study to develop charging facilities which can provide continuous service to EV users and maintenance of charging equipment by working with existing service providers.

The companies will also establish a business model for the charging infrastructure that will give convenience to EV users by optimally installing standard charging facilities and quick chargers at key strategic locations, including provisions of charging facilities for residents of apartment buildings and monthly parking users.

Sumitomo also launched the New Business Development & Promotion Division, which is responsible for environmental businesses and is working on developing new approaches to realizing a low-carbon, recycling-based society.

Sumitomo will also support the widespread adoption of next-generation vehicles including EV through the second-life use of lithium-ion batteries for automotive use, the development of the system that facilitates Green IT and the auto lease business by its affiliate company, Sumitomo Mitsui Auto Service Company.

Through the new service, Nissan intends to accelerate the development of infrastructure essential to promoting EV and achieve both greater convenience to users and business feasibility.

Through this new business, NEC will improve convenience for users with the establishment of a new infrastructure that takes advantage of networked charging facilities and ICT technologies to promote a whole new service that will contribute to the environment.

The first trial service is set to start within Kanagawa prefecture early 2011, in collaboration with the prefecture and its local governments.

General Motors Introduces Sail Electric Vehicle Concept

General Motors is participating in the 2010 Guangzhou Auto Show, which began today, through its Shanghai GM joint venture. Under the theme of "Drive to Green and Leading Innovation," it is showcasing 23 production and concept vehicles. Among the products on display are the Sail electric concept vehicle, which is making its global debut, and the Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle.

"GM is committed to delivering a range of advanced propulsion technologies and offering a portfolio of solutions that will allow our customers to choose the vehicle that best meets their needs," said Kevin Wale, President and Managing Director of the GM China Group. "GM's expertise in batteries, electric motors and power controls will enable us to provide the best possible choices when it comes to vehicle electrification technologies."

Sail Electric Concept Vehicle

The Sail electric concept vehicle was developed by Shanghai GM and the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC) in Shanghai. Based on the Chevrolet Sail that went on sale at the beginning of the year, it is an environmentally friendly small car that is targeted at ordinary Chinese families.

The Sail electric concept vehicle is powered by a lithium-ion battery with maximum output of 65 kW and maximum torque of 220 Nm. It has a maximum speed of 130 km/h and can go up to 150 kilometers on a single electric charge. It uses regenerative braking to produce additional energy. The Intelligent Charging Assisting System maximizes the energy conversion ratio.

Its simple contemporary design is aerodynamic. Inspiration has come from leaves, and is reflected across the exterior. The Sail electric concept vehicle features a simple yet modern interior along with a range of electronic amenities. It has adopted electric vehicle standards for safety set by SAE and ISO.

Chevrolet Volt Extended-Range Electric Vehicle

The Chevrolet Volt is the world's first extended-range electric vehicle that provides the benefits of an electric vehicle without the range limitations associated with other electric vehicles on the market. Powered by GM's revolutionary Voltec propulsion system, it provides maximum torque of 368 Nm, maximum output of 111 kW and a maximum speed of 160 km/h. It can run solely on electric power stored in its 16 kWh lithium-ion battery for up to 80 kilometers without consuming a single drop of petroleum and with zero emissions.

When the battery is depleted, its on-board engine-generator starts producing electricity to drive the Volt another 490 kilometers, giving the Volt a range of up to 570 kilometers. When launched in China in the fourth quarter of 2011, the Volt will be equipped with the OnStar system, which will offer a smart phone application co-developed by Chevrolet and OnStar. Owners will be able to control all vehicle functions and OnStar services on a 24/7 basis.

The Volt has received several awards in North America including Motor Trend 2011 Car of the Year, Automobile Magazine 2011 Car of the Year, 2011 Green Car of the Year from Green Car Journal, and Best Innovation from Popular Mechanics magazine.

"The Sail electric concept vehicle and Chevrolet Volt are examples of industry-leading solutions being developed by GM and our partners globally," said Wale. "GM is also establishing battery electric vehicle demonstration fleets around the world to better understand driving patterns, battery charging, market needs and customer acceptance of electric vehicles. At the same time, GM is investing in start-up companies with innovative ideas to accelerate next-generation electrification technologies."

A Mercedes utility van? It happened.

If you’re a tradesman, and you own a Mercedes 3C, what do you do with it? You turn it into a working car. In this case a utility van, complete with original panels. A work of art, no less, and a work of art with a real lesson for Mercedes owners. We’re not too sure how he handled the car insurance, but the job was superb.


The tale of the Mercedes

A 3C is an old Mercedes, but a good one. This was one of the last versions of the traditional Mercedes sedans, the classic model from which the modern Mercedes are derived. Finding parts for the 3Cs isn’t easy. It takes time, but being Mercedes parts, they don’t get thrown out. It’s usually possible, if you have the patience, to restore a Mercedes from about 1960 onwards.

This tradesman must have had the patience of God, or better. Even the upholstery was immaculate. It was all leather, the sort a hardworking tradesman can truly appreciate. Green leather, and good quality, heavy duty, stitched like the Mercedes grew it itself. It was absolutely immaculate in the easily recognizable front cabin. The dashboard was also fully authentic, the true classic Mercedes interior to the last detail, all in brilliant condition.
 
The notable difference, however, was an oversize radiator. It looked a little odd at first, but even the radiator was a very good effort at an authentic Mercedes radiator. A bit of investigation located the reason. Being a working car, the 3C had had its engine up-gunned. A reasonable precaution, because being a tradesman, the revamped Mercedes was carrying a tradesman’s load. The thing purred. Even the little suburban lawnmower cars around the neighborhood made more noise than it did.

What was interesting was that the car’s engine housing and the body wasn’t modified for this obviously much more powerful engine. This was our first clue to how well the conversion to a utility had been managed. The replacement was seamless. No body work, no resizing, just a new engine under the original cream yellow

The suspension was also reworked to deal with a back load. Tools, materials and heavy equipment can take a working truck apart over time, let alone a Mercedes. If you’re now getting the impression that this guy knows a bit about cars, you’d be right.

The piece de resistance, without a doubt, was the body work. The tradesman managed, somehow, to find a complete panel to join the large tray to the Mercedes body. This was a customized piece, and it was identical to the unmistakable original Mercedes body and doors. A perfect color match, too, absolutely authentic. 
The sheer visual impact of this car, sitting majestically in the car park outside a local village retirement home, where the tradesman was working, was astonishing. A Rolls Royce couldn’t have got more attention from the local car aficionados. Wherever this guy gets his car insurance quotes, he must have to talk for hours to the insurance people.