The real problem with Al Gore: Global warming, Japan and hybrid cars

Just as Al Gore is beating the drum on global warming and inciting his treehugging supporters into a frenzy, almost every government in the world is spending less money to fight global warming according to the NYTimes.

For example, U.S. spending into global warming research and development is half what it was just 25 years ago, but it isn't just the U.S.

"Internationally, government energy research trends are little different from those in the United States. Japan is the only economic power that increased research spending in recent decades, with growth focused on efficiency and solar technology, according to the International Energy Agency."

Ironically, many energy experts expect total energy use to increase by some 50 percent in less than 20 years, with most of this increase coming from China and India. If we can't get control of energy consumption now, how are we going to do better in the next 2 decades when issues such as Kyoto don't even include these countries?

This should be cause for serious concern if you believe Gore. If the world is almost past the point of no return, yet energy consumption is still rapidly increasing, isn't Gore's battle already over?

I say Mr. Gore is simply telling the wrong story. Mr. Gore is a politician at heart, rather than an activist, and in the back of his mind, I think, Gore is simply posturing for another run at the Presidency. Global warming, Gore believes, might just be his ticket back to the big white house, and I say he's right, but he's also missing the point and his opportunity.

(Full Story)

Some Toyota dealers struggling to keep up with Camry hybrid demand

Some Toyota dealers are having a hard time keeping up with demand for the Camry hybrid. Bill Penney Toyota in Huntsville, Alabama recently claimed the Camry hybrid is the most difficult vehicle for him to obtain, "I have sold five of them that I am now trying to obtain," he says.

(Source: Christian Science Monitor)

Key to hybrid success - put it in every type of vehicle?

A study by ABI research claims that as auto manufacturers "tailor hybrid-electric technology to meet the needs of the target audience," more consumers become interested in hybrid technology.

What? No way! You mean that if an auto manufacturer tries to sell hybrid cars to those consumers that are only interested in trucks, they won't be very successful? Unbelievable.

I couldn't even count the number of times I've been asked, 'When is a full hybrid truck coming out?' If you don't have hybrid trucks, minivans, crossovers, etc. those interested in those segments of vehicles aren't going to buy a hybrid.

Still, even though hybrid vehicles are gaining greater consumer interest and acceptance, ABI is still only predicting a total marketshare of "at least 6%" by 2013.

Consequently, I'll make a bold prediction. As soon as hybrid trucks, minivans, crossovers, etc hit dealerships, the sooner there will be large increases in hybrid marketshare.

Over $5 billion in 2006 to subsidize ethanol as hybrid tax credits run out

"A recent study conducted by the Swiss-based group called Global Subsidies Initiative revealed the total cost of the tax breaks and subsidies that go into U.S. production of ethanol to be in the whopping range of $5.1 to $6.8 billion for 2006." (more)

While I'd rather use my tax dollars to subsidize American industries, such as ethanol producers, rather than foreign oil companies, I'd rather subsidize hybrid cars and other clean vehicle technologies more than ethanol. Give GM and Ford $5 billion per year to perfect hybrid cars, plug-in hybrid vehicles, fuel cell hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles.

If lighter materials and smarter automobile designs were coupled with next generation batteries, fuel cells and hybrid technology, the U.S. could easily end foreign oil dependency. Sure it would be expensive, but not too expensive if we simply made better use of current tax subsidies - Not by adding new ones.

GM's I-car Campaign set to challenge Toyota on hybrid vehicles?

According to unofficial sources cited by the Detroit News, GM is ramping up to challenge Toyota's lead in hybrid vehicles. So, are they serious?

Last year, Toyota sold more than 235,000 hybrid vehicles. GM, on the other hand, has yet to sell one single full hybrid. Sure GM offers a few mild hybrids, but mild hybrids are not going to challenge Toyota's hybrid vehicle sales lead.

Still, GM might have a secret weapon, the I-car.

The I-car isn't just a hybrid vehicle, but a plug-in hybrid vehicle. If Toyota were to develop a cost-competitive plug-in hybrid vehicle before Toyota, I think it could be a game changer. While some hybrid critics have argued that plug-in hybrids are even more of a niche product than current hybrids, poll after poll has demonstrated that Americans are very intrigued by plug-in hybrid technology.

Still, it won't be easy. Toyota hasn't been particularly bullish regarding plug-in hybrids thus far because of costs and battery issues. So, does GM have a secret weapon? Is their past experience with electric vehicles going to finally pay off? Is GM demonstrating even more vision than Toyota regarding the potential of hybrids?

Simply building plug-ins won't be enough, however. If current hybrids are too expensive for most consumers, imagine adding $6000.00 to the price tag. Americans aren't going to buy. Sure, the technology will probably pay for itself over the life of the vehicle, but that isn't the way American consumers think.

Consequently, the success of the I-car program will come down to cost. Can GM convince the Feds to not only offer tax incentives for hybrid technology, but also extra incentives for plug-in technology? Obviously, the government is probably much more interested in adding new incentives that could help an American automaker, unlike the government's lack of interest in helping Toyota hybrid buyers.

Such incentives might make a plug-in hybrid cost-effective, especially an American-made plug-in hybrid. Many Americans want to do something about foreign oil dependency, but many Americans refuse to buy a hybrid from Toyota or Honda. Unlike Toyota and Honda, GM has real power to really rally this customer segment around not only supporting GM and American workers, but fighting foreign oil dependency, pollution and global warming.

Can GM play this hand correctly, or will they just fold amidst a temporary drop in gasoline prices?

Even better than GM going green, are the choices that would open up to American consumers interested in green options. A hybrid battle between GM and Toyota would force every automaker to get very serious about clean technologies, and this competition for green supremacy would make hybrid technology not only better, but cheaper.

Before the end of this year, GM is supposed to announce this new strategy. Let's hope GM isn't just serious, but ready to launch this program as soon as possible. This could change everything for GM, and for America.

Make me a believer, GM, make me a believer!

Consumers just don't care about fuel efficiency

Consumers care about horsepower and costs, they really don't care about fuel efficiency unless it means saving money, according to a group of automotive experts at today's World Oil Conference. Alternative technologies, such as hybrids or clean diesels, really don't resonate with consumers, unless they save consumers cash - or offer lots of extra horsepower. Doing the right thing, ultimately, means absolutely nothing to most, even after 9/11, Katrina and $3.00 gas. Wow!

(Source: Reuters)

Saturn Vue hybrid, mild hybrid, debut begins

Buy a Saturn Vue hybrid and you can 'Go green without going broke' according to GM.

I've long been a critic of GM's hybrid efforts and I am not terribly fond of the Vue hybrid, simply because it is a mild hybrid. Ultimately, I just cannot take GM's green efforts seriously until they offer a full hybrid vehicle.

Full hybrid vehicles, unlike mild hybrids, offer the ability to function on electric power alone at low speeds, such as stop-and-go and slow-and-go conditions. Such driving conditions produce the worst fuel economy and result in the most global warming causing emissions. Fortunately, such conditions are also the optimal conditions for full hybrid performance.

Consequently, mild hybrids just don't quite cut the mustard.

Earlier this week LA Times auto critic, Dan Neil, called the Vue hybrid "a maximally minimal venture in hybrid powertrain technology that would seem less about fuel economy and more about securing coveted hybrid badges on the doors."

But his praise of GM's hybrid efforts didn't end there. "As much as I hate to diss any hybrid, this seems a pretty desultory effort." I could go on, but I won't, but you can read it all on Dan's LA Times article.

Another reason alternative fuels are not enough? Go hybrid!

"Our whole farming system really contributes a lot to global warming, and it could be made to be much more sustainable," claims Francis Thicke, an organic dairy farmer from Fairfield, Iowa, who has a Ph.D. in soil fertility.

Thick also believes subsidies for farmers to grow corn and soybeans should end because of their global warming contribution. (more)

On the other hand, synergistic technologies, such as lithium batteries, fuel cells, and hybrid vehicles will soon create autos that might need very little fuel, regardless of whether it is oil, ethanol or hydrogen. By the end of the decade, new hybrid technology combined with next generation lithium batteries might easily achieve more than 70 mpg. Plug-in technology could be added to these hybrid vehicles and most urban drivers might rarely, if ever, need any fuel other than a little electricity. Additionally, adding small fuel cells might make such hybrids even more efficient, requiring even less fuel or electricity.

Sure it would be nice to fill these next generation hybrids with ethanol instead of gasoline, but the focus should be on as little fuel as possible. In fact, whether ethanol is every viable in America shouldn't even be a primary concern for Detroit's automakers. Making the most efficient vehicles possible, should be their only concern.

Go hybrid, Detroit, go hybrid.

Re: Direct Injection Ethanol Boosting

Yesterday, I briefly touched on a story about MIT's direct injection ethanol boosting system. I didn't cover the topic in any depth because I was annoyed by the anti-hybrid spin the article took. Anyway, if you want to check out an interesting discussion about direct injection ethanol boosting, check out Green Car Congress.

Flex-fuel? So what unless it's a flex-fuel hybrid vehicle?

"Injecting small quantities of ethanol into car engines at moments of peak demand -- such as accelerating sharply or climbing a steep hill -- could improve the fuel economy of gasoline engines by 20 percent to 30 percent, a scientist said on Wednesday." (more)

Such technology would probably cost about $1000.00 per vehicle and could be mass produced by 2011. The technology would also enable vehicles to use smaller engines.

Consequently, some are calling the technology a hybrid challenger. Why?

(Full Story)

Hybrid Interest down 10% in Q3 according to Autobytel

Overall interest in hybrid vehicles was down 10% in the 3rd quarter according to Autobytel. Still, interest in the Toyota Prius and the Camry hybrid remained relatively strong, while interest in the Highlander hybrid surged 32%. On the other hand, interest in the Ford Escape hybrid dropped a whopping 49%.

(Source: Autobytel)

Leo DiCaprio The Rare: Prius driving, commercial flying celeb

Yes, Leo DiCaprio is a true green celeb according to TMZ.com. TMZ posted an article last week about celebs who claim they are green, but guzzle gas. TMZ points out that Julia Roberts, Jennifer Lopez, George Clooney and Brad Pitt all pretend to be green because they drive clean vehicles, such as hybrid cars like the Toyota Prius, but these same stars fly all over the world in private jets that consume more fuel in one trip than most Americans ever consume driving. On the other hand, Leo DiCaprio flies commercial unless impossible. Apparently Leo just isn't quite as cool as these other stars.

Are Detroit automakers, "rigid" and "old-school"?

Thinking outside-of-the-box is, in my opinion, one of Detroit's biggest problems. Or, let me rephrase that sentence. Detroit's inability to think outside-of-the-box is Detroit's biggest problem, which is why America is last in the hybrid car game.

An article in the Automotive News sheds light on the problem. "...talented women have been leaving Ford, General Motors and the Chrysler group in numbers too large to ignore. Most have left for better opportunities outside the industry after years of frustration in rigid, old-school work cultures and lack of advancement," states Anne Doyle, president of Anne Doyle Strategies, whom was also once communications director for Ford North American Division.

Hmmm???? "Rigid, old-school work cultures." I'd say that about sums up Detroit's problems.

Big trucks and SUVs cannot forever drive Detroit's profits. Sadly, this should have been realized decades ago, not just to protect the environment, but America itself. Reliance upon foreign oil endangers not just tens of thousands of American jobs, but America's national security. This should have been clear after the problems with Iran in the 70's and 80's. It should have been crystal clear after 9/11.

While Detroit might see hybrid vehicles as an interim technology to fuel cell vehicles, hybrids are interim technology that is desperately needed right now. America can't wait another decade or two to start getting serious about oil dependence. Unfortunately, the attitude in Detroit continues to seem, "rigid" and "old-school", and that is very sad.

The Scuderi Air Hybrid Vehicle

The Scuderi Group is set to show off its air hybrid vehicle at the SAE Commercial Vehicle Engineering Congress and Exhibition Oct. 31- Nov. 2.

"The innovations in the design of the Scuderi engine reduces the cost of diesel systems by eliminating or dramatically reducing three of the most expensive and complex parts of a diesel system - turbo charging, injectors and exhaust treatment," said Sal Scuderi, president of The Scuderi Group. "Because of the inherent design advantages of the Scuderi Air-Hybrid diesel engine, we estimate that this engine can lower the cost of diesel engines by as much as 40-50 percent. We strongly believe that the Scuderi Air-Hybrid engine is the diesel engine design of the future."

The Scuderi group also believes that Air diesel hybrids are more effective than electric hybrids because of the complex technology required by electric hybrid cars. I say, perhaps in the short term, but not in the long term. Whether gasoline or diesel, the world needs to get off oil. The air hybrid is nowhere near accomplishing that goal.

(Source: Business Wire)

A brake for hybrid vehicles

Last week I read a press release regarding the by-wire braking system that Siemens plans to put into production before the end of this decade, and I wondered how such a system would work with the regenerative braking systems of hybrid vehicles.

Now Siemens isn't really developing the by-wire braking system for hybrids, but for all automobiles. In fact, Siemens has far bigger plans than revolutionary brakes. Siemens is thinking revolutionary drive trains - the drive-by-wire system.

(Full Story)

Saturn Aura Mild Hybrid Coming Soon - Anyone Care?

GM is starting production on the Saturn Aura Green Line this week, which is supposed to be around 10% more efficient than a standard Aura. Until GM offers a full hybrid to consumers, however, I just can't get very excited about a GM mild hybrid.

(Source: AutoblogGreen)

Do you want to be in a Toyota hybrid commercial

Are you so proud of your Toyota hybrid vehicle that you want to tell the world about it? If you own a Prius, Highlander hybrid or Camry hybrid then you can apply to be in one of Toyota's next hybrid commercials.

"We want to know who you are and what your reasons are for owning a hybrid vehicle. Participants will not only get the chance to be part of an important national campaign that supports a good cause but may also receive financial compensation for participation! You must own or have a Toyota hybrid vehicle in your immediate family to apply."

HOW TO APPLY:

Send an email to telluswhy@nvbb.net including:

Your name
Age
City/state of residence
A photo of yourself and anyone in your household who uses the car (ideally posed in front of your Toyota hybrid)
Your reason for purchasing a Toyota hybrid vehicle

Deadline:All applications must received no later than OCTOBER 30TH, 2006

For further questions please contact: epoteet@nvbb.net

Forget plug-in hybrid vehicles - For Now

Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today. That's the sentiment that plug-in hybrid vehicles are beginning to cause me.

Over the weekend, as I was catching up on some news I read two hybrid stories. The first by Green Car Congress discussed Hymotion, a hybrid to plug-in hybrid conversion company, and their plans to add solar panels to their conversion process. Now this is an idea I completely support and I totally support Hymotion.

So, why am I beginning to have plug-in angst? (Full Story)

Most Americans concerned about foreign oil dependency, but...

According to a new survey most Americans are concerned about foreign oil dependency, and 87% believe the government can do something about the problem. Even more interesting, 41% believe it is "realistic to expect the government to maintain a steady supply of oil at a reasonable price."

Geez. Is there really any wonder that America is so dependent upon foreign oil? Talk about taking NO responsibility!!

What exactly do Americans want the government to do? The only thing that is going to reduce foreign oil dependency is using less oil. Sure, the government could ban SUVs, raise fuel economy requirements and offer tax incentives for hybrid cars and other clean technologies and fuels.

Inevitably; however, American citizens have to take some responsibility.

We're the ones driving gas-guzzlers. We're the ones who drive a block to the store to pick up a gallon of milk. We're the ones demanding bigger, heavier and faster vehicles - all of which decrease fuel efficiency. We're the ones driving Hummers with bumper stickers that say 'No blood, for oil'.

Sure the government can do more, it can force Americans to stop acting so irresponsibly.

Do gas price fluctuations threaten hybrid future?

"The problem for the whole hybrid vehicle sector is America's evident short-lived concern over higher fuel prices. Even though there is plenty of concern among energy analysts that fuel costs could head north again before the year is out, vehicle buyers only seem to take notice of the latest prices displayed at gas stations."

"The public's short term, blinkered view of gas prices is already taking a toll on hybrids. Their sales fell last month by 11 percent compared to August. In the same period total vehicle sales slipped by just 1.9 percent, while truck sales were up by 5.4 percent." (more)

It is no big surprise that the sales of hybrid cars are dropping. Still, I doubt very much that Toyota expected sales of the Prius to ever reach the levels that they did. Ultimately, I don't think that Toyota expected the surge in gas prices that America just witnessed.

Nonetheless, when Toyota did launch the Prius hybrid car, gas prices were not that high. Toyota's hybrid vehicle development was not driven by the current energy market, but the future energy market. As I wrote earlier today, in 2008 we could see the highest gas prices we've ever seen.

In the end, gas price fluctuations might threaten the future of American-made hybrid vehicles, but I doubt very seriously that it will threaten the future of Toyota hybrid vehicles. Unlike the short term view of the average American, American auto companies MUST take a long term view, and almost every indicator is signaling much higher gasoline prices in the future.

2008: When your hybrid vehicle will really pay off?

Gas prices are dropping. I don't really need to tell you that. Already, after just a couple of months, interest in fuel efficiency is also dropping.

So, are cheap gas prices here to stay?

Probably not according to most energy analysts, and unlike past valleys and peaks in gasoline prices, the distance between each valley and peak is likely to shrink as we trend upwards.

According to some, the next big threat to American gasoline prices is Russia. If you haven't noticed the influence of Russian oil, you soon will as Russian gas stations open in your neighborhood. That's why 2008 could create the highest gas prices we've ever seen.

"And it's my memory of how traumatic those transfers of power used to be that leads me to pick 2008 for a Russian oil supply shock. That year will be filled with uncertainty and rumor, as the question of who will run the country rises to the top of the agenda for overseas investors and purchasers of Russia's oil. Even if, as I think is almost certain, power remains with Putin or someone in his circle, the uncertainty will be enough, with oil supply and demand in such precarious balance, to give the oil speculators plenty to work with." (more)

The recent rise in gas prices was driven by speculation, not George Bush. Americans must get this through their heads. Electing a Democrat as President isn't going to change foreign oil market speculation.

Imagine continued and escalated problems with Iran, Chinese oil grabs, hurricanes and turmoil in Russia all happening at the same time - the perfect storm. Oil could easily surge beyond $100 per barrel. Even worse, imagine war in the Middle East. In such an event, $100 oil would seem cheap.

The dynamics driving oil speculation aren't really improving. Sure they are now calm, but new storms are building. When those storms hit land, hybrid vehicles will really pay off.

Prius and Civic hybrid most fuel efficient vehicles for 2007 according to government

The government has released its Top Ten Most Fuel Efficient Vehicles for 2007. According to the government's report, the Toyota Prius hybrid is the most fuel efficient vehicle for 2007, followed by the Honda Civic hybrid. The Toyota Camry hybrid was third.

A total of four hybrid vehicles were in the Top Ten. The two-wheel drive Ford Escape hybrid was the most fuel efficient SUV.

(EPA)

It's our country, the Silverado hybrid vehicle!

Have you seen the new "Our country, our truck" GM Chevy ads? Images of Katrina, Vietnam and 9/11 selling the new 30 mpg Chevy Silverado hybrid, reinforcing the message that GM has finally gotten serious about foreign oil dependency. While GM has been a laggard on hybrid vehicles, the new Silverado hybrids demonstrates GM's new commitment to America's National Security.

At least, that is what the ad should have been about. Instead, GM is using images of 9/11 - an act largely produced by America's foreign oil dependency - to promote a gas guzzler and the apparent pride of foreign oil dependency.

--) Complete Story

Flex-fuel lies, foreign oil dependency and hybrid vehicle tax credits: Rate Congress

"A public advocacy group on Thursday said Ford Motor Co. has avoided as much as $135 million in fines by marketing vehicles that are supposed to run on the gas-ethanol mix E85 that don't work and accused the company of running misleading ads." (more)

Moreover, aside from the obvious, the fact is that for years the majority of flex-fuel vehicles sold by both Ford and GM have not ever filled up with E-85. Yet, each company has avoided millions and and millions in fines by selling these vehicles.

"Public Citizen and other environmental advocacy groups have long complained that automakers get credits to meet federal fuel economy regulations by building flexible-fuel vehicles that are hardly ever filled with E85, since it's available at just 900 of the country's 170,000 pumps."

So, Congress gives small business owners huge tax incentives to buy the worst gas-guzzlers, provides huge tax incentives to oil companies, enables the big three to avoid 100's of millions of dollars in fines for violating fuel economy regulations - increasing our foreign oil dependency, and limits tax credits for Toyota hybrid vehicles because they are too successful.

That sure sounds like the right path towards achieving energy independence.

Even the President says hybrids are possibly the most important way to change consumer behavior. Yet, Congress hasn't passed proposed legislation to provide small business tax incentives for buying hybrid cars or other fuel efficient vehicles, nor has Congress passed proposed legislation to extend hybrid vehicle tax credits.

Good work, ladies and gentlemen!

We live in a country that blames the President for quite a lot these days. Fair enough. Let's extend at least as much blame to the current - do nothing, partisanship is more important - Congress.

Flex fuel lies, foreign oil dependency and hybrid vehicle tax credits - Congress is failing America.

Bush believes hybrid cars one of the best paths to foreign oil independence

"I believe so strongly that this country has got to use its talent and its wealth to get us off oil," Bush said. "Probably the fastest way we can begin to change the consumer habits -- is to promote hybrid vehicles."

President Bush made that statement earlier today in response to falling gas prices.

"My worry is, however, that a low price of gasoline will ... make us complacent about our future when it comes to energy," Bush said at a government-sponsored renewable energy conference in St. Louis.

I couldn't agree more. Already one new study has demonstrated that consumer interest is dropping significantly as gas prices are dropping, while interest in gas-guzzlers is rebounding.

Bush, who has asked Congress to extend the tax credit for hybrids earlier this year, again brought up tax credits today. Unfortunately, Congress has not addressed this issue. Perhaps, hopefully, once the elections are over an extension will be enacted. Otherwise, with dropping gas prices and smaller tax credits for Toyota hybrids, interest in hybrid vehicles could drop significantly.

(Source: Reuters via Yahoo)

Toyota Camry hybrid video on SquawkBox

The Toyota Camry hybrid is now being produced in Georgetown, KY as of today. Consequently, this morning SquawkBox ran a feature about hybrid cars going mainstream focusing on the Camry hybrid. And what's not to like? 0-60 in less than 9 seconds with 187 hp while achieving a combined City/Highway 39 mpg. Not too bad for $26,000.

View the video.

Are you red, white and green?

Do you want to change America's energy paradigm? Do you believe in energy conservation? Do you want to end foreign oil dependency? Do you want to raise fuel economy standards? Do you want fight global warming? Do you want to buy a hybrid car or other fuel efficient vehicle?

You are not alone. It is estimated that 45.3 million Americans would answer yes to most of the questions above and they are not all tree-hugging hippies. In fact the majority of the Red, White and Greens are non-partisan moderates, but there are also significant numbers of liberals and conservatives - these issues are more important than party politics.

Civil Society Institute President and Founder Pam Solo said: "Red, white and green is the new patriotism for this complex era in which energy, the environment and national security are all bound up together. What we see here are a new set of values that equate love of country with energy independence and protecting the environment from global warming. These survey findings show that there is a huge group of Americans who are very clear about their strong embrace of environmental values and the elected officials who reflect those values. The existence of red, white and green voters could have huge implications for the 2006 and 2008 elections." (more)

Let's get some more red, white and green representatives in political office!

Lower gas prices reducing consumer interest in Prius?

According to Cars.com there has been less consumer interest in the Toyota Prius hybrid since gas prices started dropping. According to Cars.com consumer searches for the Prius have dropped by 37.8%. Cars.com claims this is part of a general drop in consumer interest for fuel efficient vehicles, whereas interest in gas guzzlers has increased.

I've long claimed that consumer interest in hybrid cars would be affected by gas prices. Still, gas prices, almost assuredly, will go back up and so too will interest in hybrids. Still, part of this drop in fuel efficient interest, especially for the Prius, might also have had something to do with reduced tax credits for Toyota hybrid vehicles.

Nonetheless, let's face it, the problems associated with foreign oil dependency, and oil dependence in general, aren't ever going away. Those whom choose to ignore this fact will pay the consequences. Hybrids might not make perfect sense today for everyone, but they will in a few years.

Plus, maybe a downturn in interest will create a buyers market for those interested in the Prius, especially a used Prius.

(Source: Car & Driver)

A giant bug for the hydrogen economy?

I used to believe absolutely in the hydrogen economy. I wanted it to happen as fast as possible. As a result I've read a lot regarding fuel cells, hydrogen storage, etc. Suddenly, I began to realize that the hydrogen economy probably wasn't going to come as quickly as I'd hoped.

More distressing, I read statements by some scientists whom claimed that the vapor exhaust from billions of fuel cell vehicles might have unintended, negative consequences. Not long ago, for example, CO2 emissions were deemed just as harmless.

Still, it seems hard to believe that H20 vapor emitted from fuel cell vehicles could cause any problems, right?

Well, according to a new study, if the percentage of oxygen in our atmosphere increased, so to might the size of many bugs, such as hawk-sized dragon-flies. What if this also means hawk-sized locusts, or parrot-sized mosquitoes? How would that affect crops and disease?

Perhaps there are many other downsides to increasing hydrogen and oxygen emissions into our atmosphere.

Maybe this time around we shouldn't allow huge corporations and their cronies in Washington to bet the farm on hydrogen as they once bet the farm on petroleum. The welfare of the people, not just corporate profit, has to be a major consideration.

Maybe a solar hybrid fuel cell vehicle is a better goal than a hydrogen powered fuel cell vehicle.

Escape hybrid recall

About 6,000 Ford Escape hybrids will be recalled to fix a faulty drivetrain shaft. The problem will be replaced by Ford if needed. No reports of injuries or accidents caused by the problem.

(Source: LATimes)

Have you seen Ford's Reflex hybrid vehicle ad?

I was on the DrudgeReport this morning when an ad for the Ford Reflex diesel hybrid flashed across the top of the page. I thought, wow, Ford is really serious about this awesome looking hybrid vehicle. So, I clicked through the ad. Not much there. I guess this is just part of Ford's 'Bold Moves' hoohaa. I was hoping to find out that this hybrid was going into production, but no such luck. While I realize the hybrid cars segment probably isn't yet ready for a diesel hybrid sports car because of costs, it would have been an incredibly bold move by Ford to commit to a small production nonetheless. Maybe if there is enough online buzz they will?

Mitsubishi to offer hybrid for American market?

Mitsubishi plans to sell a small electric car in America, possibly based off of the Concept-CT Miev or the next generation Colt. Though no official timeline has been provided, it probably won't be offered until around 2010. Moreover, since the vehicle will utilize lithium-ion batteries, production would be limited as supplies of such batteries are extremely low. Mitsubishi also added that it might offer a hybrid version of the vehicle as well, similar to the hybrid Mitsubishi showcased at the Detroit Auto Show.

An interesting week for hybrid cars

It was an interesting week for hybrid cars. It started with Peugeot's C-Matisse diesel hybrid vehicle. While only a concept vehicle, this hybrid demonstrates that Peugeot is preparing for the hybrid revolution. By 2010, when I predict the hybrid revolution will really getting rolling, Peugeot will be ready.

Then there was an Intellichoice award for the Mariner hybrid, the debut of the 2008 Mariner hybrid, and the debut of the 2007 Nissan Altima hybrid. Plus a number of other hybrid stories which you can review by scrolling down on this blog.

Still, my favorite piece of hybrid news this week was the Astrolab solar hybrid vehicle. This is going to be a production vehicle, not a concept car. While solar hybrids are a long way away from the mainstream, this vehicle demonstrates that the potential of hybrid technology is only just emerging. Shucks, throw in a small fuel cell and the 'hydrogen highway' might not even be needed.

Today's hybrid cars are just the beginning.

Mazda Tribute hybrid built on new hybrid technology?

"According to Nikkei Business, Mazda will be developing their own hybrid; and this perhaps without the aid of FoMoCo. It sounds like Mazda is preparing to distance themselves from troubled Ford."

So, does this mean the Mazda Tribute hybrid will not be released as planned? Originally, the hybrid Tribute was to built upon the Ford Escape hybrid platform. At one time Ford almost squashed the Tribute hybrid project, but later re-confirmed their plans to build the hybrid. So, I guess we'll just have to wait and see what happens.

(Source: Straightline)

Mariner hybrid wins inaugural Intellichoice Award

This week the Mariner hybrid won the first Motorist’s Choice Award for compact SUVs by IntelliChoice.com and AutoPacific.

“The Motorist’s Choice Award is a testament to the Mercury Mariner Hybrid’s distinctive design, SUV versatility and the hybrid technology,” says Mike Richards, general marketing manager, Lincoln Mercury. “The Mariner Hybrid offers customers an unmatched combination of economic value, environmental benefit, and emotional appeal.”

(Source: Ford Blog)

2008 Mercury Mariner hybrid to debut today

Ford will debut the 2008 Mercury Mariner hybrid today at the South Florida International Auto Show according to the Detroit News. Available in early March, the new hybrid Mariner will offer a redesigned interior and exterior, front wheel or four-wheel drive, and upgraded software for its hybrid powertrain which is said to improve performance.

Additionally, "Outside, there are major changes to the front and rear fascias, liftgate, lamps, grille and hood. Ford raised the beltline and removed the previous model's molding and body cladding to give the vehicle a cleaner and more substantial appearance."

"Inside, satin pewter finishes and chrome accents combine with two-tone dash materials to create a more stylish look, while ice blue instrument lighting has been added to give the vehicle a more techno feel at night. The Mariner's utilitarian center console controls have been replaced with a more modern set that gives it a more architectural look, and cabin noise has been reduced."

(Full Detroit News Story)

Is it un-American to buy an American-made gas guzzler

I scan a lot of blogs, and there are many in the U.S. that believe it is un-American to buy anything but an American made automobile. Somehow driving a gas-guzzler that requires oil from foreign governments that fund - directly or indirectly - terrorism against the U.S. isn't a problem. Considering that the U.S. economy is now terribly dependent upon cheap oil, that a huge military presence exists to protect America's oil interests which costs billions and billions of taxpayer dollars, and that gas guzzling funds terrorism against the U.S., isn't it un-American to buy a gas guzzler, even if it is American made? I'll take a Japanese hybrid car over an American-made gas-guzzler any day.

Clean diesel versus hybrid technology: A stupid debate

The Axis of Diesel states, "Mercedes, GM and even Honda, are betting on a new breed of green diesels. The goal? To leave hybrids in the dust."

First, let's be clear. There is no comparison between clean diesel vehicles and hybrid cars. PERIOD. It's no different than comparing apples to oranges.

Second, hybrid vehicles can also use clean diesel technology. So, however efficient a clean diesel is, a clean diesel hybrid will be 20 to 30 percent more efficient. Hybrid technology is not dependent upon fuel, which is why Ford is working on the Reflex diesel hybrid and Peugeot on the C-Matisse diesel hybrid.

Yes, even European automakers are buying into hybrid technology.

----> Finish Reading Clean Diesel Vehicles Versus Hybrid Vehicles: A stupid debate

Eaton showcasing hydraulic hybrids

The Eaton Corporation is hosting Fluid Power Technology Days to demonstrate its hydraulic hybrid propulsion system. "The UPS delivery truck on display features the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)'s patented series hybrid hydraulic powertrain technology. The truck achieves 50-70 percent better fuel efficiency in urban driving and lowers greenhouse gas emissions by roughly 40 percent compared to a conventional UPS diesel-powered delivery truck, according to EPA estimates. The EPA is also estimates that a typical fleet owner operating one of these high-efficiency hydraulic powertrains would save up to 1,000 gallons of fuel each year per truck. The vehicle was developed through a partnership between EPA, Eaton, UPS, International Truck and Engine Corporation and the U.S. Army." (Full Press Release)

Altima hybrid to debut at O.C. Auto Show

The new Nissan Altima hybrid, the first hybrid from Nissan, will make its debut at the Orange County Auto Show in Anaheim, CA. The Altima hybrid will be available for sale in early 2007. (Press Release)

Toyota hybrid technology 50% cheaper in 3 years

Toyota and Honda are in a fight not just to make their hybrid technology cheaper, but lighter. Toyota, for example, plans to reduce the weight of its hybrid powertrain by 50% in the next 3 years. Additionally, Toyota hybrid technology adds on average $4000.00 to the cost of a vehicle, within 3 years Toyota plans to reduce this price to $1900.00 according to AutoBlog.

One would assume that 50% lighter hybrid vehicles would also result in more fuel efficient vehicles, just in weight reduction alone. When better batteries and software are added to this equation, the outcome is fantastic. In 3 years Toyota and Honda hybrids will be more fuel efficient and significantly cheaper. Now that's the kind of math I like.

Hybrid Vehicles: A California Fad?

The article Red Hot in AutoWeek states, "Hybrids are still hot stuff - registrations rose 34.8 percent in the first seven months of the year to 144,377 units, according to R.L. Polk & Co. But most of the heat is generated in the Golden State."

A number of reasons are cited to explain California's interest in hybrids, such as traffic, pollution and car pool lane access. In summary, it is noted that California often leads trends that eventually reach the rest of the country; however, some of those trends burn out as fads.

So, what about hybrid vehicles - fad or trend?

I guess if high gas prices are just a fad and concern about foreign oil dependency is just a fad, as well as if concern about global warming is just a fad, then it is possible that California's love affair with hybrid cars is also just a fad.

Russia puts Western oil 'supplies at risk'? Join the hybrid revolution.

"A former government adviser has warned it is "only a matter of time" before BP or Shell faces a bid from a Russian state-owned group such as Gazprom which could threaten western oil supplies. Professor Peter Odell, an energy economist, says ExxonMobil is also vulnerable to a Chinese takeover as the large UK and American stock-listed oil groups lose their influence in global markets." (more)

If it isn't OPEC seeking a bottom cap of $55.00 per barrel, it's China and Russia and state-owned oil companies threatening the price of gasoline.

Fortunately, Congress has passed tax incentives for hybrids that protect GM and Ford, rather than incentives that seek to achieve change as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, protectionism isn't what GM needs, it needs a good kick in the ass. GM's biggest problem these days, apparently, is a lack of Hummers according to Bob Lutz, not tax incentives for hybrids.

Hummers are far more important than foreign oil dependency.

Besides, what would ending foreign oil dependency accomplish anyway? A less complicated Middle East? Putting an important part of the American economy back in the hands of Americans?

Obviously, achieving oil dependency wouldn't be easy, it would require the kind of technological revolution which would create new jobs, new industries and new markets. What a waste!

The technology behind hybrid cars offers such a revolution. Hybrid technology can make any vehicle 20 - 30 percent more fuel efficient, today, whether that vehicle is fueled by gasoline, diesel, ethanol or even hydrogen. New software and new batteries will double the fuel efficiency of today's hybrids in just a few years. Then plug-in hybrids could also increase hybrid performance while creating an ideal platform for the introduction of small fuel cells into the automobile.

Unfortunately, hybrid production doesn't result in the huge profit margins many automakers covet - hybrid vehicles only make the world a better place. And Hummers, it seems, are much cooler than making a better world.

Gasoline and oil costs might drop in the short term, but the long term is filled with too many risks not to act as quickly as possible.

Astrolab: First solar hybrid available for sale

For EUR92,000 you can purchase an Astrolab solar electric hybrid vehicle according to BusinessWeekOnline. The Venturi Astrolab can achieve a top speed of about 70 mph and its performance is "remarkably close to that of a petrol-engined vehicle". While the two-seater can be fueled completely be the power of the sun, it also functions as a plug-in hybrid, so it can also be fueled by standard electricity. Sure this solar hybrid is expensive, but it clearly demonstrates what CAN be accomplished. Maybe the 'solar economy' makes more sense than the 'hydrogen economy'.

AutoWeek: French Hybrid 'Best in Class'

Last week I made a post about Peugeot's diesel hybrid concept car, the C-Matisse. Well, I wasn't the only one impressed by this elegant hybrid. AutoWeek named the vehicle Best in Class. While the hybrid is probably doomed to the conceptual stage, let's hope the hybrid powertrain eventually finds a home in a real car. The world needs some French hybrid cars.

Camry hybrid car 'near perfect'

According to Technoride the Toyota Camry hybrid is a "nearly perfect car".

"It's an incredible combination of fuel economy, roominess, and fit and finish. About all that's missing is a sense of the automotive character found in competitors or in the sibling Prius Hybrid. But enough people seem not to mind that the Camry has been the best-selling car in America for most of the past decade."

The 2007 Camry hybrid starts $26,200.

Full tax credit for Toyota hybrids is over

Happy October. Unfortunately, October means that the full hybrid tax credit for Toyota hybrid vehicles is now expired. Now, any Toyota hybrid purchase will only qualify for half the credit. So, how will this affect Toyota hybrid sales?

If the goal of tax credits for hybrid cars was meant to change consumer behavior, why was the credit capped by manufacturer? Shouldn't getting as many hybrids on the road as quickly as possible be the main goal? Shouldn't the credit be consumer-driven, not manufacturer-driver?

I've said it before and I'll say it again, if GM was leading U.S. hybrid sales with the Prius, rather than Toyota, I doubt the legislation would have been written the same. Unfortunately, GM is still more focused on new Hummers rather than new hybrids.

Why are hybrid credits sitting idle when consumers can use them NOW? Is this free market capitalism?