The Prius Effect? Only to those with the loser effect

GM saw a joke in the Prius, Toyota saw the future

The 'Prius effect'. That's what competitors have labeled the success that hybrid cars have provided for Toyota. Boy, it's sadly comical how losers look for excuses in everything, and the Prius effect is a prime example of that 'loser effect'.

"We didn't appreciate the image value of hybrids," concedes GM's research and development chief, Larry Burns in a BusinessWeek interview. "We missed that."

That's not the only thing GM missed!

This 'Prius effect' statement has also been echoed by both GM head Rick Wagoner and by GM product guru, Bob Lutz. Even worse, Bob Lutz claimed that GM could have beat Toyota to the Prius, if they had used a fraction of their billion dollar marketing budget for this purpose. Instead, GM spent the money advertising the virtues of its foreign-oil-dependency-increasing gas-guzzlers.

Obviously, a much better investment, at least in terms of "image value" at that time. (Read more of the Prius Effect)

Are automakers dragging their feet on plug-in hybrids?

Lithium technology here, but too expensive?

Could automakers produce plug-in hybrid vehicles that hundreds of thousands of consumers would want today?

Maybe.

Of course, today's technology might offer limited electric range. More important, however, making plug-in hybrids with today's technology would probably price out most consumers.

"The technology is here today. LTC has it, and we've demonstrated it," says Dr. Klaus Brandt, executive vice president of LTC. "Price is the biggest factor holding back the production of these more environmentally friendly, fuel efficient vehicles. By committing to work together, the auto manufactures and battery companies can bring the cost down and make cars like the Volt an affordable reality for the consumer."

I don't really think automakers are dragging their feet on plug-in hybrids, but many are dragging their feet on hybrid cars (Read my post, Where are GM's dual mode hybrids). Ironically, today's hybrid cars are the best way to invest in tomorrow's plug-in hybrids.

Big 3 Keep Begging But Give Nothing

Unlike Toyota, GM and DaimlerChrysler have not sold 1 full hybrid car in America

"The opening round of congressional hearings this year on global warming and alternative fuels showed one fact is clear: The climate for automakers on Capitol Hill is becoming increasingly unforgiving," claims the DetroitNews this morning.

Good. Can automakers blame Congress?

According to GM, the Big 3 doesn't need an increase in CAFE, they need more money - much, much more money. Yet, the Big 3 have already been given billions to produce vehicles like the EV1 and hybrid cars, yet what has America received in return?

Increased foreign oil dependency. (READ MORE)

Jim Cramer calls for gas tax

O.K., I've been talking up the idea of a gas tax for a couple weeks now. Still, I know it's a crazy idea. It's so crazy I was originally against the idea, but I'm starting to feel maybe America needs to get a little crazy, especially at the consumer level. Then, as I'm flipping through TV stations, I catch Jim Cramer on Scarborough Country calling for a gas tax. "If you believe in national security, then we need oil higher not lower," Cramer told the host. Ultimately, Cramer said if natural forces don't take oil prices higher, then a gas tax is the next best path because only higher oil prices are going to force us to change.

Let's do it. I say we tax gasoline, which would make alternative fuels more competitive, and we can use the gas tax revenue to fund hybrid cars and other clean vehicle technologies.

Nissan Altima hybrid pricing and availability

Altima hybrid available in 8 states

The 2007 Nissan Altima hybrid is now available in California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont with an MSRP of $24,400.

With an EPA estimated 42 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, the Altima hybrid qualifies for a $2350.00 federal tax credit.

Hmmm?? A Camry hybrid, a Prius or an Altima hybrid, all these damn hybrid cars! Finally!

ZAP-X all electric vehicle shocks auto world

Zap and Lotus will join forces to turn the Lotus APX, or Aluminum Performance Crossover, into an electric vehicle called the ZAP-X. According to the companies the electric APX will offer a 350 mile range achieved with only a 10 minute charge, while an "auxillary power unit" will provide extra power on long trips. Additionally, the APX will achieve speeds of up to 155 mph with its 644 hps.

"Lotus Engineering's APX technology demonstrator vehicle is a perfect fit for our plans to introduce a full product portfolio of electric cars. Due to the initial design by Lotus, our cost and time to production will be significantly reduced. We believe that the ZAP-X will become the most advanced, most practical and most appealing flagship electric vehicle to date and will revolutionize the industry providing the driver with the enjoyment of a sports car and the practicality of an SUV," stated Zap CEO Steve Schneider via press release.

No word yet on costs, but I'm sure it will be expensive. Still, if achieved, the ZAP-X could steal some thunder from GM's Volt. Combined with developments of Tesla, however, not only will competition be created, but important, new technologies, such as lithium-ion batteries and lightweight materials, will be further researched and refined.

Chevy Volt's Chief Engineer Speaks - It's the cells

It's all about the lithium

AutoWeek has an interesting interview with Nick Zielinski, the Chief Engineer for the Chevy Volt hybrid project. In the interview Zielinksi highlights some of the main issues regarding how the Volt's gasoline engine and electric motor will integrate to produce GM's future series hybrids.

"At the cell level, we have performance data, and we think there are battery cells available with the energy and power level that we need. But the challenge is combining them all together. We are looking ahead into how the technology will be evolving. There are, like, 30 different chemistries out there for lithium ion batteries. There are also different techniques out there for making the cells."

To read the rest of the AutoWeek Interview, click here.

Europe ready to lead the hybrid revolution?

The EU today rejected criticism from the German auto industry that a proposed plan to significantly decrease carbon emissions from automobiles was both unrealistic and a job-killer.

"Normally jobs are not lost when you pro-actively embrace change but when you reactively resist it," replied Commission spokesman Johannes Laitenberger (more).

Earlier this month Andrew Fulbrook, powertrain analyst at CSM Worldwide's office in London, claimed that if the EU legislation passed either hybrid cars or tiny vehicles would be required. "If we go from voluntary to compulsory limits and, say, the 120g/km average for 2011-2012 is enforced, then short of going to very small three-cylinder gasoline engines, the diesel hybrid will be required" (more).

Will the U.S. be pro-active or reactive? Will American automakers be pro-active or reactive?

2008 Hybrid Escape and Mariner pricing announced

Ford debuted the 2008 Ford Escape and the 2008 Mercury Mariner today in Claycomo, MO, where the new line of small SUVs will be built. The debut also includes the hybrid versions of both vehicles as well.

According to a press release the 2008 Ford Escape hybrid will start at $25,740, which is more than $1000 cheaper than last year's hybrid Escape. The 2008 Mercury Mariner hybrid will start at $26, 430, which is $1300 less than the 2007 model.

In addition to the lower prices both hybrids will offer "redesigned interiors feature upscale appointments and innovative storage options. Both vehicles include Ford's first "top of dash" information system, a standard MP3 audio jack and a new center console that provide enough room to store a laptop. At night, new ice-blue lighting replaces green on the instrument cluster. In addition, Escape introduces sustainable new cloth seating that is the first U.S. automotive application of 100 percent recycled fabric."

Where are GM's dual mode hybrids?

Where is the Yukon hybrid?

This is a question I have been asking ever since NAIAS. Before NAIAS, I didn't really care about the GMC Yukon hybrid. I don't like large SUVs. Since NAIAS, however, I am interested in the Yukon because it will be the first GM hybrid to utilize GM's dual mode hybrid powertrain and it will be a small step towards the Volt concept.

--> Read the rest of Where are GM's dual mode hybrids

GM YouTubes Chevy Volt at NAIAS

GM has YouTubed a video of the Chevy Volt debut at NAIAS, which includes a few interesting interviews. If you don't check out GM's FastLane Blog, it's worth a look. In addition, there are some other good posts about the Volt, which has been a major focal point of the FastLane Blog since NAIAS. Hopefully, one day soon there will be this much excitement about a real GM vehicle, rather than a concept vehicle. While I love the Volt concept, it is just a concept.

Shell Chairman wants U.S. to decrease gas use by more than 20 percent

Shell's Chairman claimed Bush's proposed 20 percent reduction in U.S. gasoline consumption isn't enough. "Compared to that, Bush's proposal this week to reduce U.S. fuel consumption by a fifth was terribly feeble and a disappointment. Emissions from traffic are clearly less than half of total emissions," the newspaper quoted him as saying according to Reuters.

I'm not quite sure what the emissions statement means considering that the Chairman is not a proponent of mandatory carbon caps. Sounds like Chairman Jorma Ollila is engaging in some doublespeak?

Perhaps the Chairman would help fund a campaign for a gas tax since he cares so much, and he obviously realizes that the current cost of gas in the U.S. does not cover the environmental damage caused by gasoline consumption.

U.S. will need 50 percent more energy by 2030?

I just watched a commercial claiming that the U.S. will need 50 percent more energy by 2030. Now, this commercial was created by the gas and oil industry, so maybe the numbers were inflated a bit; however, what if they were not? Even if the real number is only 25 percent more that's still a huge number.

I think I'm starting to see the Admiral's perspective that a 20 percent drop in U.S. gasoline consumption in the next decade is nearly impossible. It seems he's right, unless we make drastic, revolutionary changes. In reality, as the Admiral stated, the U.S. will be lucky just to maintain current levels of consumption.

Consequently, I'm really starting to believe that a gas tax is absolutely necessary. Again, that's a gas tax whose revenue goes completely into tax credits for the consumers of hybrid cars and other clean energy technologies. The point is, America's energy habits HAVE to change and it will be far better for Americans if we prepare for the change, rather than wait until we have no choice but to change.

Another scary thing. If U.S. energy consumption is going to skyrocket in the next two decades, imagine what consumption in China and India is going to be like.

GE funding hybrid battery revolution?

GE has increased its stake in A123 Systems and in the development of lithium-ion batteries for plug-in hybrid vehicles. Yesterday, the company led a $40 million round of funding to the company. It would sure be nice to see an American company become the world's leader in lithium-ion for hybrid vehicles battery production.

Live near a busy road, kill your lungs

"Traffic pollution can prevent the lungs of children who live near busy roads from developing properly, making them more likely to suffer respiratory and heart problems later in life, U.S. researchers said on Friday." (more)

Girasole Electric car for only $2.2 million!?

A 41 mph electric car with 100 mile range for only $2,000,000? There's gotta be a catch to the Girasole. 100 miles per day on just one dollar. Let's see if I drive everyday for 100 years... (more)

What? You don't qualify for your hybrid tax credit?

So, you bought a Toyota Prius because you wanted to help the environment? Of course the car pool lane access and the $3150.00 in tax credits helped in your decision as well, right?

Well, hold on. According to Hybrid tax credit bait and switch, you might not qualify for your tax credit on the Prius, or any of the other hybrid cars that qualify for the hybrid tax credit.

"Few Californian families with income between $150,000 and $500,000 will qualify for a penny of the credit. And under this bizarre legislation, at lower income levels, the smaller your family, the bigger the credit allowed. Likewise, single taxpayers will mostly be OK."

Obviously, those making more than $150,000 per year can handle this news better than those making only $50,000. While I understand the writer's consternation, there were a lot of crazy things about the hybrid tax credit, such as why are U.S. automakers sitting on more than 150,000 tax credits as Toyota's tax credits expire? Isn't the point to get as many hybrids on the road as possible?

Congress!?!?

The funny politics of fuel economy

Aren't Democrats the ones making CAFE and global warming a platform?

Michigan's U.S. Rep. John Dingell, the House Energy and Commerce Committee chairmen who was irate with Nancy Pelosi and her global warming committee creation is now irked at Bush for increasing CAFE.

According to the DetroitNews "Dingell asked that key documents used to create the proposed changes to the Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards for cars and trucks be turned over by Feb. 1." Dingel wrote that he needed the White House to "provide us with all analysis and documentation prepared by the National Economic Council supporting the president's energy proposal."

Nancy Pelosi and some liberal Democrats have proposed far more dramatic CAFE changes, yet now Bush is too environmental for some ranking Democrats? Never thought I'd see the day when Bush, the oil man, was too much of an environmentalist for important Democrats.

Will environmentalists be as tough on Dingell and similar Democrats as they've been on Bush, or is partisanship more important than solutions?

Tesla to offer $30,000 electric vehicle in 2009?

Some think that my last post on Tesla was a little anti-Tesla and pro-GM. I disagree. Regardless, I have always thought that the Tesla Roadster was a phenomenal vehicle. In fact, if I could afford any $100,000 vehicle, that would be the $100,000 vehicle that I would buy - without question. Still, how serious can you take a car company that only offers a $100,000 vehicle?

Well, you might be able to take Tesla far more seriously in 2009. In that year, Tesla is hoping to offer a 5 seat sedan, called the Whitestar which is expected to list at $30,000. Now that's a car I can afford. This is a story that I will excitedly follow.

(Source: AutoblogGreen)

The Big 3's Hybrid Efforts: Hype or Reality?

The Volt was a hype machine at NAIAS

With the Big 3 bleeding red, it wasn't very surprising that each of the Big 3 automakers made important hybrid debuts and/or announcements leading up to the first 100 hours of the new Democratic Congress and before the President's State of the Union Speech. Obviously, they had to show they were taking some action on fuel economy and global warming, or at least they had to create that perception.

GM was the hype machine king, launching the Chevy Volt electric hybrid at NAIAS. I believe GM is serious about the Volt, and I believe the Volt will one day be a sale's leader for GM. Still, at this point in time, I'm more concerned about GM's dual mode hybrids, such as the soon-to-be released Yukon hybrid. Where is it?

I don't just want to hear about the hybrid cars GM is going to develop, I want to see the hybrids GM has developed saving gas at gas stations in my neighborhood.

Similar to GM, both Ford and DaimlerChrysler made big announcements as well, such as Ford's plug-in hydrogen hybrids, flex-fuel hybrids and Chrysler's testing of plug-in hybrids. These were all great announcements, but announcements are not much more than PR hype. Hopefully, these PR efforts were not just hype campaigns to influence politicians.

So "Are you ready to help beat Bin Laden"?

That's the question posed by Angus MacKenzie of MotorTrend, whom back in 2005, MacKenzie tells us, wrote that "the challenge should be to make America independent of foreign oil within 10 years." Why? Because "...an insatiable appetite for oil seems, increasingly, to end with Americans getting in harm's way in other people's countries".

Of course, MacKenzie and automakers can't do it alone. "The thing is hybrids and diesel engines are more expensive to make. New mileage standards will require cars to use more lightweight materials, more efficient transmissions, and other high-tech, low mass components that will inevitably cost more money. And you can expect higher penalty taxes on gas-guzzlers.

So when it comes to reducing America's dependence on foreign oil, here's the key question: Are you prepared to pay for it?"

Then again, how much will we pay if we don't reduce our foreign oil dependence?

The 'Admiral' calls 20 percent U.S. gas reduction impossible

Eric Bolling, known as the Admiral on CNBC's Fast Money, was on Morning Call this morning talking about oil prices. Consequently, he was asked about the President's State of the Union Speech and whether a 20 percent reduction in U.S. gasoline production was possible. He adamantly exclaimed that it was not possible, that ethanol would ultimately have little effect on gasoline consumption, and that the U.S. would be lucky if it could maintain its current gasoline consumption - rather than increase it as the U.S. seems to do year after year. Scary.

While Bolling might be correct, and based on his success he's hard to argue against, I think the U.S. must try. More important, I think it is desperately vital that the U.S. and consumers realize that alternative fuels, other than possibly hydrogen, are not going to be the answer. Fuel efficient technology, namely hybrid vehicles that can evolve into plug-in hybrid vehicles are absolutely critical.

I think it's even more evidence we need a gas-tax to clean energy tax credit policy.

DoE offers $14 million in plug-in hybrid grants

Yesterday the Department of Energy announced $14 million in grants available for the development of batteries for plug-in hybrid vehicles. While Detroit is seeking $500,000,000.00, I'll guess they will have to hope for incentives from Congress. (more)

State of the Union: Is 20 percent enough?

This Yukon hybrid is more than 20 percent more fuel efficient than a standard Yukon

So President Bush wants to decrease gas consumption by 20 percent in the next 10 years. Is it enough? Is it too much? Already the Big 3 are complaining that it's too much. Environmentalists and national security hawks are complaining that it's too little.

Toyota was supportive. Isn't that interesting?

GM now has the technology to convert any of its gas-guzzling SUVs into hybrid vehicles that are at least 25 percent more fuel efficient than non-hybrid models. GM also has flex-fuel hybrid vehicles that are production ready, and GM has a Volt concept that could achieve 150 mpg for those that drive less than 60 miles per day.

DaimlerChrysler also has GM's dual mode hybrid technology. Ford has hybrid technology.

So, the Big 3 could begin to make all vehicles 25 percent more fuel efficient right now, while investing in the technologies that could keep significantly increasing fuel efficiency with each generation of technology, such as a 100 mpg Prius that isn't a plug-in? In addition, there is flex-fuel, clean diesel and bio-diesel to help?

The Big 3 should accept 20 percent as a minimum. The technology to achieve 20 percent is available today. Instead of focusing on why it can't be done, the Big 3 should focus on how they will get it done. Make a plea for incentives. Be productive. Stop complaining. Stop making excuses.

Isn't it time to give Toyota the Big 3's hybrid tax credits?

Give the Prius some credit

In advance of the President's State of the Union speech, Big 3 automakers are using the Auto Show circuit to show Congress and the President that they can be fuel efficient. Ford announced 20 flex fuel hybrids and a $2,000,000 hydrogen plug-in hybrid. DaimlerChrysler showed off the most fuel efficient, clean diesel heavy duty Ram pickup truck, and GM debuted the Chevy Volt concept at NAIAS.

Wow, I guess Detroit gets it, huh?

Well, why then are the Big 3 sitting on more than 150,000 tax credits available for hybrid vehicles as Toyota's hybrid tax credits expire because they sold too many hybrids? Why do we punish Toyota's clean and fuel efficient success and protect Detroit's complacency? Is this really how you drive innovation? How about some good old American competition?

As I blogged earlier today, it's time to put tax incentives into the hands of the people rather than the corporations. Give the people the money to afford hybrid vehicles and other clean technologies and to reward whoever makes the hybrids consumers want.

While I desperately want the Big 3 to succeed, it's time for real world vehicles, not fancy concepts and $2 million one-offs.

Ford's E85 hybrids - Just sell 'em!

Ford is going to deliver 20 Escape flex-fuel hybrids to six states this Spring? Why not 20,000? Why not at least 2,000? I'm glad that Ford is exploring this direction, but I'm also becoming a little bothered with the Big 3's hybrid efforts. Sure, GM's Volt is a great concept, but where is the Yukon hybrid? Where is the Saab flex-fuel hybrid? The Big 3 has done a lot of talking on green concepts the last month, now its time to put a little money where their mouth is - get more of these vehicles into dealerships!

State of the Union and Energy Independence: Power to the People!

Power to the people, not the corporations!

Energy independence is supposed to be an important part of the President's State of the Union speech tonight. So, when it comes to energy independence, where should the government place its tax incentive focus? Should it be on alternative fuels such as ethanol, bio-diesel, clean diesel and hydrogen? Should it be on advanced technologies such as hybrid vehicles, lithium-ion batteries, and fuel cells?

I say forget fuel. Forget ethanol. Ethanol already receives an incredulous amount of tax subsidies and is in danger of turning into a pork-barrel legislator's dream.

I say focus on hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles and lithium-ion battery technology. Let's invest in the kinds of technologies that can practically wipe out the need for any liquid fuel in just the next decade.

Of course not everyone will agree on the approach. Consequently, I say try to give the power to the people, and let's make the people accountable for their choices.

Yesterday, I suggested a gas tax. Why not make gas more expensive while using the gas tax revenue to reward consumers whom buy more fuel efficient technologies? Also, make that tax 85% less for E85, for example - let consumers reap the benefit of buying a flex-fuel vehicle if it works for them. Why should automakers receive CAFE credits - a tax saving loophole - for selling E85 functionality that is never used by the majority of consumers? In addition, empower the flex-fuel user to save even far more with a flex-fuel hybrid vehicle.

I say give the power to the people! It's fair, it's competitive, it's responsible.

Ford to adapt HySeries hydrogen plug-in hybrid to gasoline plug-in hybrid?

My first thoughts of Ford's HySeries Drive - which debuted at NAIAS - were not great, particularly because this new plug-in platform requires hydrogen to power its fuel cell. The Chevy Volt and its E Flex Drive, on the other hand, provides a much more adaptable and flexible path to fuel cells, as does Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive (See my article on the Hybrid Synergy Drive versus the E Flex Drive). Most important, neither the E Flex Drive nor the Hybrid Synergy Drive are dependant upon either fuels cells or hydrogen - a significant advantage over the HySeries Drive.

It seems Ford is now also keenly aware of this fact. Today, Ford is going to display the Flexible Series Hybrid Edge at the Washington D.C. Auto Show. While it seems this new Edge is based upon the HySeries Drive, Ford has already made changes. "We could take the fuel cell power system out and replace it with a downsized diesel, gasoline engine or any other powertrain connected to a small electric generator to make electricity like the fuel cell does now," Gerhard Schmidt, Ford's vice president of research and advanced engineering. (more)

Was Ford influenced by the success of the Volt? Regardless, it seems the auto game is changing. Consumers aren't interested in what automakers are going to do tomorrow, they want to know what you are doing today, and that requires hybrid cars, plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles - all of which can help develop a platform for fuel cells and hydrogen.

Of course, if lithium-ion batteries reduce the cost of plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles, while also providing at least 400 mile per day range, consumers might question whether fuel cells and hydrogen are even needed.

DaimlerChrysler testing plug-in hybrid vehicles

The Dodge Sprinter is a pretty ugly vehicle, but just as with humans, sometimes it is what is inside that counts. DaimlerChrysler is now testing 20 Dodge Sprinter plug-in hybrid vehicles in the U.S., and a number of these plug-in hybrids are also being tested with lithium-ion batteries to determine "real world driving conditions about lifetime, performance and cost of batteries." Currently, the Dodge Sprinter plug-in can achieve around 20 miles of pure electric power. The Sprinter is also being developed with both diesel and gasoline engines, so it has a future in both Europe and the U.S..

"The future of plug-in hybrid technology rests on a number of improvements, the most significant being batteries," said Dr. Andreas Truckenbrodt, Executive Director, DaimlerChrysler Hybrid Programs. "The battery systems in the PHEV Sprinter continue to provide valuable data on the possibilities with lithium-ion technology."

(Source: Car&Driver)

A gas tax to fund hybrid vehicle tax incentives?

Let gas-guzzlers fund hybrid tax credits?

It is not very common to hear support for a gas tax coming out of Detroit, but that is exactly what Daniel Howes is supporting in his DetroitNews column today.

"We Americans can have the collective attention span of 4-year-olds -- we want what we want when we want it and complain loudly when we don't get it," Howes begins his commentary as he ridicules consumers and "politicians-cum-nannies" whom have tried to blame everyone but gas-guzzling consumers for high gasoline prices.

Yet, once prices hit $3.00, consumer behaviour changed rather quickly, which is exactly why, Howes argues, that a gas tax - not the vilification of oil companies via taxes, etc. - would be the "quickest, if not the wisest, way to cut fuel consumption and change behavior".

Unfortunately, that's probably political suicide, even if it is the right thing. Inevitably and ultimately politicians are far more focused on maintaining power than on doing the right thing - but that's a whole other sad story.

Automakers and oil companies deserve blame, but consumers deserve at least as much blame. I think a gas tax is a great idea - as long as every cent of the tax incentive is given back to consumers whom buy hybrid cars and other clean energy technologies.

2008 Toyota Highlander to debut in Chicago

On February 7 Toyota will debut the redesigned 2008 Highlander hybrid at the Chicago Auto Show. Not many new details regarding the Highlander other than instead of being based off of the Camry, the new Highlander will be based off of the Avalon in an effort to provide more room for a third row of seating.

(Source: KickingTires)

Volt hybrid powers buzz back to Big 3 automakers

According to media analysis obtained by the DetroitNews, the Big 3 dominated the auto coverage at the North American International Auto Show, and that coverage was topped by GM's Chevy Volt Electric concept vehicle.

It sure is ironic and very interesting that a hybrid car drove such positive buzz back to the Big 3. Hmmmm??? Is that an obvious message to the Big 3 that if Detroit leads by doing to the right thing - hybrid cars - the people will follow?

Forbes's hottest hybrids for 2007

The Forbes hottest hybrids for 2007 list was topped by the Ford Escape hybrid and the Lexus LS600h L hybrid. In addition, Forbes also picked the Saturn Aura Green Line hybrid, as well as the Saturn Vue Green Line hybrid - a little coupe for Saturn. But Forbes's hybrid buzz for GM products didn't end with Saturn. The GMC Yukon hybrid, Chevy Tahoe hybrid, and the Cadillac Escalade hybrid also made the list.

I guess the fact that neither Toyota nor Honda added any new hybrids to their lineups kept them off the list?

(Source: MSNBC)

Volt has GM fans and critics charged up

Yesterday, I covered a Tesla blog post in which the CEO of Tesla mocked the Chevy Volt Concept vehicle, as have a number of GM critics (read). While I don't agree with Tesla's point, I do understand the contempt many have for GM - I've often held the same contempt.

And it's not as if GM doesn't realize this contempt. Beth Lowery, whom I spoke with at great lengths in Detroit, wrote in the FastLane Blog, "I can understand why people are skeptical," Lowery said. "All I can tell you is that we recognize the role that electricity will play in future cars — that's why we've worked so hard to bring you the Volt."

But the Volt isn't just charging up critics of GM, it's also electrifying many fans of GM. Apparently, Volt fans have flooded the mailboxes of GM with letters full of desire for the Volt as well as ideas for making the Volt happen faster according Inside Line.

While GM did sponsor me to cover the debut of the Volt, I left Detroit firmly believing that the Volt would happen. Now, however, with all the attention the Volt has driven to GM and all the hopes it has provided to GM fans, GM has NO CHOICE but to develop the Volt. Ultimately, the Volt might just be GM's last straw; it's last chance to charge into the future.

Thus, fans should keep pushing GM, keep asking questions about the Volt and about other dual mode hybrids, such as the flex-fuel Saab hybrid. Even more important, in the very short term, GM fans should demand that GM start selling the Yukon hybrid - Let's put some rubber to the road!

Nissan Altima hybrid tax credit approved

The federal tax credit for the Nissan Altima hybrid has been determined by the IRS. The full credit for qualified consumers will be $2350. However, in order to qualify for the full tax credit, consumers will have to purchase the 2007 Nissan Altima hybrid by the end of March. Those whom buy the Altima hybrid between April and the end September will only receive half that credit, or $1175. During the last quarter of the year, the credit will be reduced to $587.50 (more).

How close is Cobasys to the Volt Lithium battery?

That was the question that AutoWeek asked Scott Lindholm, vice president for systems engineering at Cobasys. Unfortunately, Lindhold didn't have a very good answer. Still, for a little more information in what's going on with Lithium-ion battery development - at least at Cobasys - check out the article.

Tesla takes on the Volt

Back in July I wrote about the Tesla electric car, citing it as more evidence that plug-in hybrid vehicles are a real possibility. While, I love the Tesla, how excited can you really be? It's a two-seater. It costs $100,000, and while it achieves an astonishing 250 miles per charge, how much would that mileage be reduced if the vehicle was a four-passenger vehicle?

I mean, let's be real. If I want to drive up to San Francisco, I'm supposed to stop every 250 miles, wait 3 hours then start up again? Oh, yeah, and I have to put the kids in the trunk? In the real world, most Americans can only afford one or two cars; they cannot afford $100,000 two-person, occasional-use automobiles.

Then today, I read an article on AutoblogGreen noting that Tesla CEO Martin Eberhard was ripping on the Volt electric concept, automakers in general, and claiming that "Who killed the electric car" forced GM back into electric vehicles.

Please, let's get real again. (Read the rest)

EU Carbon tax for autos could be boon for diesel hybrids

The European Union is moving awfully close to adding a carbon tax to automobiles and such a tax might wipe out the extra costs of diesel hybrids in Europe according to AutoWeek.

"If we go from voluntary to compulsory limits and, say, the 120g/km average for 2011-2012 is enforced, then short of going to very small three-cylinder gasoline engines, the diesel hybrid will be required," says Andrew Fulbrook, powertrain analyst at CSM Worldwide's office in London.

At this point in time, it appears PSA/Peugeot-Citroen SA would be the leader in developing diesel hybrids in Europe. Of course, if Toyota sensed an opportunity to develop diesel hybrids for the European market, I'm sure they would quickly jump at the opportunity.

Ford might add plug-in hybrids to lineup

Ford's HySeries Drive: For Plug-in Hydrogen Vehicles

While Ford is admitting interest in plug-in hybrids, it was a bit ironic to hear Nancy Gioia, Ford's head of hybrids, also claim that lithium-ion technology is "cost, weight and package prohibitive." (more)

Of course it is. Even lithium-ion technology for cell phones and notebook computers was once "cost, weight and package prohibitive". Yet, how can Ford be 'iffy' on plug-in technology when it is the core of their future, of their HySeries Drive?

Moreover, Toyota is pushing the cost-limits of at least first generation lithium technology with its FT-HS hybrid concept. So, the industry is getting very close to real world lithium powered vehicles.

Perhaps Ford was using the podium to steal a little thunder from GM's Volt?

Is the Federal hybrid tax credit protectionist, anti-capitalistic, anti-American legislation?

Why not help Toyota produce as many hybrid cars as possible?

GM's future is now the Volt and even though GM doesn't like to admit it, the Volt is a hybrid vehicle. Consequently, the near future is ALL ABOUT hybrid vehicles - at least if you care about the environment or foreign oil dependency.

Every other automaker in the world will either have to develop hybrid cars, or something far better, or the world can to wait 20 to 30 years for the possibility of fuel cells and hydrogen.

Why? Why isn't America putting as many hybrid vehicles on the road as possible?

(Read Is the Federal hybrid tax credit protectionist, anti-capitalistic, anti-American)

100 mpg Prius versus the Volt electric: The great war of 2010?

Is the Volt a Prius killer? Will GM's plug-in hybrid leave Toyota's hybrids behind?

The Chevy Volt electric plug-in hybrid is an amazing vehicle, an amazing concept vehicle, but the Toyota Prius is an amazing production vehicle. Still, if GM were able to produce the Volt, would it be a Prius killer?

If today's Prius faced tomorrow's Volt, of course the Volt would electrocute the Prius, however, tomorrow's Volt will face tomorrow's Prius. So what do we know about these hybrids of the future?

--> Read the rest of 100 mpg Prius versus the Volt

Automotive News World Congress: Need National Energy Policy

It seems the need for a National Energy Policy was a hot topic at the Automotive News World Congress according to the DetroitNews. Unfortunately, what that energy policy should be was far from unanimous. Of course GM lobbied for biofuels, plus some help with batteries. Chrysler lobbied for hydrogen. Ford, well, Ford's reported comments surprised me the most. Nancy Gioia, director of sustainable mobility technologies and hybrid vehicle programs at Ford told the DetroitNews, "hydrogen is one of the most promising long-term solutions -- one that she said will require a national commitment comparable to the one required to put a man on the moon.

At the same time, Gioia pointed out that hydrogen is not a panacea. She said it takes a great deal of energy to extract hydrogen -- energy that might be better utilized by other technologies like plug-in hybrids."

Ford, Toyota partnership talks still brewing

Toyota is open to a partnership if Ford asks, and that partnership would almost certainly be focused on alternative technologies, such as the Mazda hybrid pictured to the left, Reuters coverage of a Nikkei story claims (more).

"Toyota President Katsuaki Watanabe told the paper that if the two auto makers formed a tie-up, it would likely focus on an alliance in technological development, but he said no talks had taken place yet."

Audi Q7 hybrid coming in 2008

Last week Audi displayed a 12-cylinder diesel vehicle at the Detroit Auto Show. I didn't care. Fortunately, Audi will tame the Q7 to a V-6 TDI version for the U.S. market, and a hybrid version according to AutoWeek. While there are few details of the hybrid that is expected to hit the American market in 2008, Audi is not excited about hybrids. "It is no secret by now that we are not that ecstatic about hybrids, it is just one of those things we have to do," stated Johan de Nysschen, executive vice president in charge of Audi.

Forget the ethanol pipeline and choose flex-fuel plug-in hybrids

Where are the flex-fuel hybrid vehicles, such as this Saab flex-fuel hybrid? Even better, how about flex-fuel plug-in hybrid vehicles? Wouldn't they be the perfect foreign oil dependency fighters? Yet, with plug-in hybrid vehicles - a technology just a couple of years away from mass-production reality -the far majority of Americans would almost never need to fill up with any liquid fuel for their daily commute. Yet, our electricity needs would increase significantly.

So, why is the ethanol industry seeking an ethanol pipeline (more)? Why not just convert ethanol into electricity? Wouldn't that be easier, even cheaper, than transporting ethanol throughout the U.S.?

Explosive growth in the incredibly highly subsidized corn-based ethanol industry only makes sense for those whom stand to reap billions in subsidized profit. Until cellulosic ethanol proves its cost-effectiveness, America should spend far more of its resources on advanced technologies, such as lithium-ion batteries, composite materials, and fuel cells - technologies that can essentially end the need for any liquid fuel for automotive transportation in the first place.

Honda to fight "Prius effect" in Super Bowl Ad

A natural gas Civic next to Phill at NAIAS

Honda will use the Super Bowl to promote the fuel economy of its vehicles according to Reuters. "Honda's U.S. sales unit said on Tuesday that it would air three Super Bowl ads, two 15-second spots for its Element SUV and a 30-second spot showing its full line of cars driving past unneeded gas pumps -- a bid to emphasize their fuel economy."

Yes, Honda is the most fuel efficient automaker. Yes, the Toyota Prius has given Toyota an amazing amount of green credentials as it also produces vehicles to challenge market leaders in the most fuel inefficient market segments. Yet, Toyota has been a technology leader, while Honda has continued to play it safe and conventional.

Ultimately, Honda's fuel efficiency isn't enough to end foreign oil dependency, next generation hybrid technology; however, could achieve that end. If Honda is seeking a "Prius effect" than its time for Honda to kick it up a notch.

Batteries: The key to the automotive Revolution? Part 1

President Bush at Johnson Controls

Just before the Detroit Auto Show, Toyota started hyping its FT-HS hybrid concept, a next-generation hybrid produced with lithium-ion batteries. As a result of these new batteries, Toyota was able to develop a hybrid sports car capable of achieving speeds of 0 -60 in less than 4 seconds, yet using the fuel of only a 4 cylinder economy car.

Likewise, GM announced the future was electric, plug-in hybrids were coming, and lithium-ion battery contracts had been awarded. Then at NAIAS GM upped the ante and debuted the Volt plug-in hybrid concept, an auto capable of achieving up to 40 miles per charge on pure electricity and up to 150 mpg if traveling 60 miles or less between charges. Additionally, the vehicle has a range of more than 600 miles.

In both cases, lithium-ion batteries enable each of these hybrid vehicles to achieve such amazing results. Consequently, batteries are beginning to emerge as one of the most important technologies behind the automotive revolution.

--> Read the complete story

Toyota wants extended tax credits, other automakers fearfully say no

Toyota wants tax credits for hybrid vehicles extended, citing a drop in the sales of its hybrid cars corresponding to the reduction in the credit. Other automakers, aren't as certain. Honda, for example, called hybrids only a bridge to another technology and would prefer tax credits for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. (more)

Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles? The same hydrogen vehicles that BMW just claimed are 30 years away from mass-production reality? What happened to Honda, the environmental leader? Yes, Honda developed its hybrids as a bridge to another technology, but their bridge is lost in the fog right now. Toyota, on the other hand, is developing its hybrid cars as an integral part of the path to fuel cell vehicles.

One battery break-through and hybrids could become twice as efficient as today. Moreover, they could be converted into plug-in hybrids for even greater fuel efficiency. In fact, with just one good battery innovation, electric vehicles - never powered by a fuel cell or hydrogen - might be the future.

Yes, extending the tax credit will further empower Toyota, but letting the credit slide will lull many automakers back into the 'maintaining the status quo' mentality that created the problems of foreign oil dependency and global warming in the first place.

Let's drive competition. Let's extend tax credits for hybrid vehicles.

Are automakers blocking plug-in hybrid vehicles, electric cars?

Did GM kill the electric car? Are plug-in hybrids a reality being ignored by the Big 3? Those are some important questions regularly being asked by those concerned with the environment and foreign oil dependency. Yet, what is the truth?

That's the focus of the article New race for automakers: Build a better battery.

"What you're seeing with GM is that they're going for broke on batteries," says Tom Gage, president of AC Propulsion, a San Dimas, Calif., company that retrofits hybrid cars. "There is a very real race going on here, but not just with General Motors and Toyota. All the car companies understand battery technology is key to electrifying the automobile."

So, are plug-in hybrids being ignored by automakers?

"Saying battery technology is ready today for plug-ins is like saying we can have the technology for a moon colony - we just need to do a little engineering," says Ann Marie Sastry, a battery expert and professor of mechanical engineering at the University of Michigan. "System integration is a big thing and there are still scientific challenges. It's not just a matter of putting parts together."

Read the full Christain Science Monitor article.

Anyone catch Living with Ed last night?

I was hoping to learn a little more about the Phoenix electric car that made an appearance on Living with Ed last night, but I didn't. The Jay Leno segment was funny - thanks to Jay, but also interesting. Seeing Jay's Baker Electric Car or his old series hybrid is a reminder that things could have been different in the world. Perhaps, gasoline vehicles were the right path at the time, but it's hard to ignore these 100 year old electric vehicles and stories of how even Ford preferred biofuels over oil. Did the best technologies win via fair competition, or did the technology with the most money and political influence destroy all the competition?

Hydrogen highway 30 years away?

"BMW says hydrogen-powered cars are 30 years off, at least in terms of being available to the masses—and yes, I know, they just introduced a hydrogen-power 7-Series model. This 30-year prediction is much more pessimistic than the already pessimistic GM's 10-year prediction." (more)

When such a time frame is realized, it seems obvious that everything that can be done today, better be done today. Hybrid cars offer huge gains in efficiency, they can utilize any of the alternative fuels being developed including hydrogen, and hybrids can help develop fuel cells. Or, we can just wait 30 years.

Forget the Camaro, the Volt was best of show at NAIAS

Many think GM took best of show at NAIAS with the new Camaro. They're wrong.

The new Camaro is going to be a hot seller for GM, but the new Camaro isn't the future for GM. Sure, the Camaro will provide a nice sales bump for GM's bottom line, but it cannot usher in the revolution in automotive technology that is now happening.

Consequently, without doubt, the Volt plug-in hybrid was best in show at NAIAS. Now GM has a path into the future, a path that can be gradually cleared by the successful launch of the Yukon hybrid and the dual mode hybrid powertrain, the same powertrain which will be converted into a plug-in hybrid powertrain. This plug-in powertrain, in turn, will help develop the lithium-ion batteries needed for the Volt concept.

Instead of one giant leap, GM's future is instead a series of flexible steps, of adaptations to emerging technologies. Now the fuel cell vehicle can no longer be an excuse not to do more today. Now the fuel cell vehicle is the reason to go hybrid crazy today because every hybrid sale helps clear the path to the Volt and to fuel cell vehicles.

Now is the time for GM to continue to shock its critics - myself included - by stepping down this path as quickly as possible. Electrify me GM. Please, electrify me!

How long before FT-HS hybrid technology finds other Toyota hybrids?

0 - 60 in 4 seconds with 4 cylinder fuel efficiency! What are we waiting for?

I've already stated that I want the FT-HS hybrid concept to become a reality, and I've also stated that the technology behind the FT-HS hybrid is more important than the vehicle itself. Obviously, this begs the question, "When is some of this new hybrid technology going to find its way into Toyota's current hybrid cars?"

Already, Toyota has contemplated a city Prius, for example. Why not put FT-HS technology into a smaller Prius - say one with only a 3 cylinder engine - that would achieve greater fuel efficiency, yet still be capable of amazing bursts of speed or power.

Also, why not a sporty version of the Camry hybrid? Couldn't this new hybrid technology provide more torque and/or towing capacity for the Highlander hybrid?

Since Toyota has claimed the FT-HS is basically a production-ready vehicle, one has to assume the third generation Hybrid Synergy Drive has to be almost production-ready as well. So, why not give consumers a little taste?

Phoenix to make appearance on HGTV's 'Living with Ed'

If you haven't heard, Ed Begley, Jr. has a new program on HGTV called Living with Ed. Well, this Sunday at 10:00 PM, the Phoenix electric vehicle will make a special appearance on the show. So, if you are intrigued by the Phoenix, check out the program for another look at this cool electric truck.

Are you ready for a 2008 Phoenix Electric Truck?

How does zero emissions, range of 120 miles, speeds of up to 95 mph with five passengers and a full payload with a 250,000/12 year battery life electric truck sound?

Well, if you are interested, you might be able to buy a 2008 model of a Phoenix Motorcar all-electric truck or SUV.

No word yet on price. Currently, Phoenix is working on its federal validation for safety, or Federal Motor Vehicle Certification.

Could a company, such as Phoenix, be exactly what the American automobile industry needs to evolve? Big auto companies need to sell far more units of a vehicle to achieve a profit than does a smaller company, giving smaller companies a better ability to develop niche products, such as electric vehicles.

Great Bob Lutz, Volt Concept Interview

In the past I've thought that GM's Bob Lutz was an out-of-touch, old-school jerk. In fact, I once even referred to him as Lutz the putz after he called hybrid cars stupid and claimed that GM could have developed a Prius-like vehicle with a fraction of one year's marketing budget.

After having seen Bob Lutz in person - in action - I've changed my mind. I was completely impressed with Lutz's candor, his almost vulgar honesty. Bob Lutz doesn't mince words, he doesn't try to soundbite every statement into the perfect marketing jargon. Lutz simply says it the way he sees it. With Lutz, what you see is what you get.

I honestly believe that Lutz is incredibly excited about the Volt electric concept vehicle - the most important concept in GM's history in my opinion. Lutz even admitted that the Volt was the most exciting project in his 40 + year career in the automotive industry at the debut of the Volt. Recently, Lutz explained his excitement to Forbes.

"It’s a radical departure for GM, and it’s exciting because it’s not a sure thing — there’s a possibility of failure here. I’d put the risk rate at 10 percent. It’ll keep me around for another three or four years, just to see how it turns out."

The whole article is an excellent read for anybody that is interested in learning more about Lutz, or anyone that is wondering whether GM is serious about the Volt.

--> Read Q&A: Bob Lutz charges up on the Volt

Is there a future for the Honda FCX?

Did Honda steal a few design cues from the Prius?

I believe Honda has the best hydrogen fuel cell concept vehicle in the world. Of course, as I was told by a Honda spokesperson, "You don't win any awards for being first to half way there."

As remarkable as the fully-functional Honda FCX Concept vehicle is, I wonder whether it really has any future. Aside from the extremely high cost of the vehicle, where is an owner going to fill up? There are not even 50 hydrogen pumps in the entire United States.

Will this force Honda to develop a new platform, similar to Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive or GM's new E-Flex Drive, which provide an adaptable, evolutionary path to fuel cells? Are plug-in hybrids the next big step to fuel cell vehicles?

Also, check out the front end of the FCX - looks eerily like the Prius.

Did Ford fail at NAIAS?

Ford didn't really surprise anyone at NAIAS this year. While it was nice to see a Mazda Tribute hybrid on the floor, there really weren't any major new developments from Ford at the Detroit Auto Show. The Airstream hydrogen plug-in hybrid vehicle was a cool way to launch the HySeries Drive platform, but the HySeries platform is still dependent upon the hydrogen highway, which means it is far from reality. Certainly Alan Mulally deserves more time to have an affect on Ford, as he has only been CEO since September. Still, it seems Ford really needs some good buzz. Hopefully, Mulally has a trick or two up his sleeve.

E flex System versus Hybrid Synergy Drive: First Thoughts

Several years ago I thought that automakers should do everything possible to develop hydrogen powered vehicles, especially fuel cell vehicles. Eventually, however, it became obvious that there were many, many technological hurdles - in addition to massive costs - to overcome and make this hydrogen future a reality. Yet, it seemed obvious, especially after 9/11, that America couldn't just wait for the hydrogen highway to deliver a road to energy security.

Fortunately, Honda launched the Insight hybrid and Toyota quickly followed with the Prius. For Honda, hybrid technology was a niche a technology, an experiment in fuel efficiency. By the second generation of the Prius, however, not only was the Prius a hit with consumers, it was the beginning of a foundation, an element of Toyota's kaizen.

The Prius had become a path to fuel cell vehicles.

--> Read the Full Story

Will Toyota produce the FT-HS concept?

While Toyota seemed more interested in promoting trucks, rather than its fantastic line of hybrid cars, the FT-HS hybrid concept was still an incredible hit at NAIAS. Still, with a name like FT-HS, can this concept be taken seriously? This amazing sports concept was built with an amazingly advanced hybrid powertrain to achieve phenomenal performance in terms of speed, power and fuel efficiency. Moreover, it is essentially production-ready. So, what's the problem? How about a better name and a launch date?

The Yukon hybrid: Get it to dealers ASAP

GM was able to electrify NAIAS this year thanks in large part to the debut of the Volt plug-in concept vehicle. While the Volt is probably at least five years away from reality, there is a progression of vehicles leading to the Volt and its E-Flex platform.

It starts with GM's dual mode hybrid powertrain, which debuted at the Los Angeles Auto Show in the Yukon hybrid vehicle. As soon as the battery technology is developed, the dual mode hybrid powertrain will evolve into a plug-in hybrid powertrain, starting in the Saturn Vue hybrid. This could happen in as few as three years.

Still, any vehicle at least 3 years away from reality is little more than fantasy today. While I am absolutely confident that both plug-in hybrids and the Volt will eventually be mass-produced vehicles, GM must take greater action today. For example, start selling the Yukon hybrid as soon as possible and roll out as many full hybrid vehicles immediately. Make the Saab flex-fuel hybrid, which also uses the dual mode hybrid powertrain, a production vehicle.

GM's green revelation would be far easier to believe with these two hybrids in dealerships throughout the country.

Ouch! The Lexus LS hybrid is hot!

I'm not a huge fan of luxury hybrids. Still, I feel I must not only cover them, but promote them. Inevitably, luxury hybrids do still invest in hybrid technology.

At the LA Auto Show I wasn't able to get close the LS, however, at NAIAS I was able to fully experience the Lexus LS 600h L hybrid. Now I want one. Fortunately, I can't afford one, so I don't have to feel too tempted to violate my ethics.

This new hybrid from Lexus is simply smoking hot. If you have to have a luxury vehicle, but you feel you must try to help the environment a little, you can't go wrong with this new Lexus hybrid.

More momentum gaining in Congress for increasing CAFE

"There is a dangerous amount of momentum" in Congress behind tougher corporate average fuel economy regulations, General Motors Corp. Vice Chairman Bob Lutz said Tuesday at the North American International Auto Show. (more)

Of course, what costs will Congress be willing to accept to achieve an increase in CAFE? Will Congress risk tens of thousands of more auto jobs in Detroit to increase CAFE? That seems like political suicide.

Regardless, I say before Congress increases CAFE, extend tax credits for hybrid vehicles. Also, make buying a hybrid part of the small business tax credit. Give American companies some R&D money to develop lithium-ion technologies - the kind of technologies that have the ability to make any proposed increase in CAFE child's play.

--> More on increasing CAFE

Toyota sees huge hybrid growth in 2007

Toyota is hoping to leave all other automakers in the rear view mirror when it comes to hybrid vehicles. According to Just-Auto, Toyota "plans to sell 250,000 to 300,000 hybrid cars in the US in 2007, up from 192,000 in 2006."

With gas prices dropping, are such sales figures a reality, especially when Toyota's reduced hybrid tax credits are considered?

I hope Toyota is correct, and I hope that Congress extends the tax credit for Toyota hybrids. Toyota's success has made all automakers take another look at hybrid technology and serious competition is brewing. Congress should help keep it brewing by ensuring that hybrid technology remains accessible to consumers - regardless of automaker and regardless of dipping gas prices.

This Toyota FT-HS hybrid concept, pictured above, demonstrates what hybrid investment can accomplish, and this is just the beginning.

Gas prices to drop below $50 per barrel

That seems to be the thought on Wall Street these days. Will Americans fall back in love with gas-guzzling? Will Americans forget about hybrid cars? Will Americans forget about foreign oil dependency?

There is no doubt we'll take a step backwards regarding hybrids, regarding foreign oil dependency, but how far will we regress?

Please listen Congress - Detroit requests gov. help on hybrid batteries

When the movie Who killed the electric car showed experts whom claimed the technology for electric cars was available in the days of NiMH batteries, I had to laugh - hysterically. Many fans of plug-in hybrids seem to believe the same idea. Yet, speak with experts at GM, hybrid leader Toyota, or fuel efficiency leader Honda and they all eventually hit the same point: maintaining the sweetspot.

Sure automakers can make plug-in hybrids today, but maintaining the sweetspot with today's lithium-ion batteries isn't easy. In fact, to do so in a cost effective way simply isn't possible. Would you a buy a car that is going to cost an extra $4000 every 4 years to replace your batteries? In reality, that's a strong possibility. In addition, even if next generation batteries exist, feasibility studies still have to be carried out, and that takes years - the insurance industry demands it.

(Full Story)

My thanks to GM

If not for GM's sponsorship, I would not have attended the North American International Auto Show, which was an absolutely outstanding experience on many different levels. Of course I was very thankful to see the debut of an incredible concept, such as the Volt electric. This is the type of car that Hybridcarblog.com and Soultek.com exist to promote, so I was happy to see GM becoming more serious and more real about such vehicles - and I believe GM is dead real about the Volt.

Just as awesome was the opportunity I was given to speak with designers and other top level GM executives regarding the Volt. Myself and a few other bloggers were even given a few exclusive moments with Bob Lutz.

Quite simply, the access to information and knowledgeable people, plus the absolutely unmatched hospitality, was a truly unforgettable experience.

---> Full Story

First Look: Ford's hydrogen electric plug-in hybrid vehicle

Ford used the Airstream Concept to display the HySeries Drive, a hydrogen electric plug-in hybrid vehicle fuel cell drivetrain. Instead of being powered by hydrogen fuel, hydrogen would instead by converted to electricity and electricity would power the Airstream and other future HySeries vehicles at all times. Consequently, the Airstream hydrogen hybrid could run solely on electric power obtained from a standard electric plug for short trips - up to 20 to 40 miles. Nonetheless, the vehicle would still require occasional fill-ups of hydrogen, so such a vehicle might not be very consumer friendly until the hydrogen highway is developed.

A composite future: Is plastic the key?

I was very excited to hear that Toyota was using carbon fiber composite materials to design its new FT-HS hybrid concept. More important, it appeared that Toyota wasn't just using composites to help with design - as many automakers do - but as a first step towards carbon-fiber composite vehicles. As carbon fiber is so light, it can provide significant improvements in fuel economy simply by reducing the weight of a vehicle without any loss in safety. Still, carbon fiber is very expensive.

Carbon fiber, however, isn't the only composite being used in automobiles.

A group of GE reps let me know about GE's plastic composites during the debut of GM's Volt electric concept vehicle. Currently, these plastic composites are far cheaper than carbon fiber composites. In addition to reducing weight, plastic composites provide car designers with a revolutionary tool to sculpt vehicle design into elegant, beautiful and extremely aerodynamic works of art and science. More important, plastic composites are already being used. Even better, GE's new plastic composites are being developed using recycled water bottles.

Is the Accord hybrid dead in 2008?

When the Honda Accord Coupe Concept was revealed at NAIAS I was in attendance hoping to hear something about an updated Accord hybrid. Unfortunately, a hybrid version of the Accord was not mentioned as part of the debut. I later asked a Honda spokesperson if the new Accord Coupe, which is set for launch as a 2008 vehicle, would include a hybrid version. To that question, I was simply told there is not yet an answer.

Considering that Honda's debut focused on Honda's efforts in fuel efficiency, it was surprising not to hear something about an Accord hybrid, which only makes me think that the Accord hybrid could be phased out.

All hybrids save money in long run?

"Across the board, we found that all 22 hybrid vehicles have a better total cost of ownership over five years or 70,000 miles than the vehicles they directly compete against," said James Bell, Intellichoice.com's publisher.

"Hybrids are proving themselves to be an excellent alternative for car buyers," Bell said. "Even when factoring in the additional upfront costs for their purchase, the long-term savings hybrids generate makes them a sensible and attractive purchase."

While tax incentives probably make this fact true, mass production of these vehicles would bring the costs down to a point that tax incentives probably wouldn't be needed. As a result as well, massive amounts of money would be pumped into research and development for making hybrid cars better. For example, hybrid battery technology has the potential, by itself, to completely revolutionize the automotive industry.

More important, as this study indicates, we can bring costs down, fund R&D, and save money while doing it! So, make your next vehicle purchase a hybrid vehicle. If your favorite automaker doesn't make a hybrid, let them know you want a hybrid.

Forget to mention the Saab Biopower 9-3

As I was clearing my memory stick for today's photos, I realized that I forgot to mention the Saab Biopower 9-3 hybrid concept yesterday.

Now, I'm not a huge fan of ethanol. I'd much rather see the future of ethanol as cellulosic ethanol power plants adding power to the electric grid, rather than being distributed for automobile fuel. Let this electricity power cars that plug-in to the grid.

As a result, flex-fuel vehicles are still on my very IFFY list. However, a vehicle like the Biopower is a flex-fuel vehicle that I can fully support. Not only can this vehicle utilize E85, it can also utilize E100. Still, that's not what I like best about this hybrid - that's what I like best about the Saab Biopower - it's a hybrid!

The Saab Biopower hybrid vehicle is essentially a production ready dual mode hybrid vehicle, that happens to offer the ability to run on ethanol. Quite possibly, this is the first 4 cylinder, convertible flex fuel hybrid vehicle anywhere near production.

I say, make it happen GM. Make it happen.

Some hybrid cars missing at NAIAS

I walked much of the floor early today at NAIAS and all of the current hybrid cars are present. Of course there was the launch of the Chevy Volt and Toyota FT-HS, which were significantly important launches. Still, when is there going to be a big hybrid announcement from a Ford or a Hyundai? Hopefully, I missed some launches today when I was tied up with GM reps, and I'll get to see a few other new hybrid concepts tomorrow.

GM shocks NAIAS

When GM offered to pay my ticket to the Detroit Auto Show, I was excited. Sure, I was interested in GM's electric concept vehicle, the Chevy Volt, but I was really interested to see the FT-HS. Unfortunately, I won't be able to see the FT-HS hybrid until tomorrow, but I don't even really care right now.

Nonetheless, the Chevy Volt electric completely blew me away, and I MEAN completely.

This beautifully designed, super aerodynamic electric-gasoline hybrid vehicle, rather than gasoline-electric hybrid, is simply astounding to behold, and GM car tsar, Bob Lutz, adamantly stated that GM is absolutely serious about producing this vehicle. In fact, Lutz called the Volt the most exciting project he's ever been involved with in his 40 plus years in the auto industry.

While this vehicle is a concept vehicle, there is a visible path to this electric auto's reality. It starts with the dual-mode hybrid powertrain, then a plug-in dual mode hybrid, then the Volt. GM is already working towards the plug-in hybrid and the technology behind plug-in hybrids will help power the advancements needed in lithium battery technology - a key to Volt success.

It's going to be a few years before this concept has any chance of hitting the real streets of America, but the Volt electric demonstrates that GM is heading in the right direction. Hopefully, they won't become too distracted along the way.

Going to check out GM's new electric vehicle concept

I'm heading over to NAIAS in a few minutes to check out the auto show and, more important, to view the new electric concept vehicle from GM, the Chevy Volt electric vehicle, which debuts today. I'll post some pictures later. If electric cars are the future, as GM has stated, then the Volt electric is a glimpse into the real future of GM. As GM sponsored me for this event, I will also get a few interviews with some GM execs working on this concept, so I'll be writing about the Volt later today and probably throughout the week.

GM Opens NAIAS in style

STYLE.

That was the name of GM’s invite-only show Saturday Night which kicked off the North American International Auto Show for GM. As I was sponsored by GM to attend the show and NAIAS, I was able to view GM’s new STYLE first hand.

With a bunch of celebrities, including Jay-Z, Vivica Fox, Carmen Electra, Mario Lopez, Christain Slater, etc. GM glamorized the future, as these stars modeled with GM's new stylish vehicles. It was a stylish and glitzy show and I'm sure it resonated well with the GM faithful in attendance. Yet, as the new Camro concept vehicle brought the Style show to the end, I was left a little dismayed.

I'm sure the Camaro will be a hot seller, but I couldn't help but feel that closing the Style show with the Camaro was a bit disappointing. How about some advanced technology? That's the future. If the Camaro is the future, then the future might not be so bright for GM.

Then again, this was just the Style show and the show succeeded in displaying GM's new, hipper style. Today, at NAIAS, I'll get to see GM's real vision of the future.

Will fuel efficiency matter at Detroit Auto Show?

So, most automotive executives believe that fuel efficiency is becoming the most important consumer concern. If so, how well will this issue be addressed at the upcoming North American International Auto Show?

All of the pre-show hype regarding hybrid cars, for example, has thus far focused on the FT-HS hybrid sports concept and a couple of clean diesels. While there are rumors that GM will debut some concept vehicles in this space, they are now just rumors. On the other hand, I've heard few hybrid or next generation fuel efficient technology rumors coming out of Ford or Honda, for example.

In my opinion, the FT-HS represents a revolution in both automotive technology and hybrid technology. Will all other automakers simply concede this space to Toyota for now? In reality, the hybrid revolution is probably 3 years away from fruition - the time when next generation batteries become mass-production reality. So, it wouldn't be surprising to see automakers idle their hybrid concepts in the short term.

On the other hand, it is as important as ever for automakers to be ready for the hybrid revolution - there really isn't that much time left to prepare. Consequently, I believe there are going to be a number of major hybrid concept launches at NAIAS by multiple automakers.

At least I hope so.

Number 1: GM versus Toyota

"We're going to fight to keep the position, and if one day we lose it, we'll fight to get it back," GM's Rick Wagoner told some reporters yesterday at GM headquarters when asked about Toyota surpassing GM as the world's largest automaker.

Interestingly, Toyota has claimed that holding the number one spot doesn't mean very much. "A perceived sales challenge for global leadership is not something we're even thinking about," said spokesman Irv Miller. Rather Toyota is focused on quality, customers and the new Toyota Tundra. (more)

Sure, it probably means more to Toyota than the company admits, but I bet it doesn't really matter much. Often times, being the best doesn't mean being the biggest.

Over the years GM and the rest of the Big 3 have significantly improved the quality of their vehicles and they have become far more efficient at producing their vehicles. Really, the only thing left is leadership in product.

The success of the Toyota Prius gave many consumers the perception that Toyota was the most advanced automaker in the world. Sometimes perception is all that matters in sales.

GM should forget about being number 1. They should focus on the best products. More important, they need to create a new perception of GM. They need to shock the world with innovation, with a product that separates GM from the rest of the auto world, as Toyota did with hybrid cars.

One thing is certain, however, GM will not do it with SUVs, unless it is a 50 mpg+ SUV. Consequently, Mr. Wagoner should forget the pep talks and put a revolutionary product where his mouth is.

Heading to NAIAS

I'm heading to NAIAS this weekend and I'll be back in LA on Monday night. I wish I could spend a little more time at the show, but I can't complain. Still, I've heard about some very interesting concept cars, such as the FT-HS hybrid concept, that I can't wait to see. Other concepts, from GM, I'm not able to discuss until Sunday night. Since GM was kind enough to sponsor my trip to the show, I must acquiesce with that request.

I'll definitely have a few things posted by late Sunday night, and I'll probably publish additional pictures and video throughout next week on Soultek.com.

GM awards hybrid battery contracts

GM has awarded contracts to Johnson Controls-Saft Advanced Power Solutions LLC and Cobasys to develop batteries for hybrid cars. In particular, according to the DetroitNews, the contracts are focused on developing batteries for plug-in hybrid vehicles. "Their challenge will be to create a battery that can recharge quickly, last long stretches of time and not overheat, while being small and cost-effective to sell on the mass market."

Fuel efficiency to become most important for consumers?

A study by KPMG cited by BBC claims that most car industry executives believe that fuel efficiency is quickly becoming the most important concern for car buyers. "The North American consumer seems to be waking up to some consciousness with regard to fuel pricing, and those designs are typically the heaviest and least fuel efficient," Motor industry analyst Mark Fulthorpe, of CSM Worldwide stated.

"Increasingly they are looking at newer, lighter designs particularly from the Japanese and Korean manufacturers. We also see that in Europe as well."

If gas prices continue their decline, it seems hard to believe that fuel economy will become the dominant issue for car buyers. Still, such beliefs should keep investments in hybrid cars and other fuel efficient technologies a top priority for automakers.

Did GM kill the electric car?

Who killed the electric car? That is the question, at least according to the movie of the same name. Yet, in reality, did anyone really kill the electric car? Is it fair to blame a company like GM, the company most associated with killing the electric car, for the death of electric cars? Are electric cars even dead?

In just a few days, GM will debut a Chevy electric concept vehicle at the North American International Auto Show. In the last several months both Bob Lutz and Rick Wagoner have claimed the automotive future to be electric.

So, how could GM have killed the electric car if the automotive future is electric?

Perhaps, GM simply killed one version of an electric vehicle, one bad adaptation of an electric vehicle in the evolution of electric vehicles.

Lest we forget, even Toyota had a hard time finding enough batteries to produce 100,000 Toyota Prius hybrid cars just a year or two ago. Since electric vehicles require even greater battery capacity than hybrid cars, should we really be surprised electric vehicles didn't take America by storm?

Even Toyota, a company consumed by efficiency, has claimed that plug-in hybrid vehicles are not yet ready for mass-production. Plug-in hybrids offer very near electric car performance, but with the option of using conventional fuel when needed - significantly increasing the appeal of 'electric' vehicles.

Thus, is Toyota killing the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle?

Even today, hybrid vehicles could fade away for a number of years, particularly if gas costs decline for a couple of years. Yet, the dangers of foreign oil dependency won't go away because gas becomes cheaper. On the contrary, the dangers of foreign oil dependency will probably increase.

Inevitably, the only way hybrid cars, plug-in hybrids or electric vehicles are going to go mainstream in the next decade is with significant political help, as well as consumer help. Consumers have to be willing to share some risk - to pay now and save fuel later. Politicians have to help consumers afford to buy these foreign oil dependency fighting vehicles.

Will consumers and politicians rise to the challenge, or will we again be blinded by temporarily cheaper gas?

Woolsey Plugs Hybrid Plug-Ins Again

R. James Woolsey, a director of the CIA during the Clinton Administration, has been a huge advocate for plug-in hybrid vehicles, and he has a featured article on the Wall Street Journal, Gentleman, Start your Plug-Ins. "Subsidizing expensive substitutes for petroleum, ignoring the massive infrastructure costs needed to fuel family cars with hydrogen, searching for a single elegant solution--none of this has worked, nor will it. Instead we should encourage a portfolio of inexpensive fuels, including electricity, that requires very little infrastructure change and let its components work together: A 50 mpg hybrid, once it becomes a plug-in, will likely get solidly over 100 mpg of gasoline (call it "mpgg"); if it is also a flexible fuel vehicle using 85% ethanol, E-85, its mpgg rises to around 500, " states Woolsey.

So keep buying those hybrid cars, it invests in the future of hybrid technology. Also, make sure your representative in Congress understands that tax incentives for today's hybrid vehicles and tomorrow's plug-in hybrids is an investment in the future.

Join our campaign for increased tax credits for hybrid cars.

Is the FT-HS a "pipe dream"

When I saw the headline Pipe Dream? on AutoWeek regarding Toyota's newest hybrid concept, I couldn't wait to read the article. What possible negative arguments could AutoWeek have about one of the most interesting concept vehicles in years, I wondered. Whether Toyota builds the FT-HS hybrid or not isn't really very relevant. It's the technology. It's the fact that the FT-HS uses carbon fiber and an advanced hybrid powertrain. It's the fact that the FT-HS can go 0-60 in 4 seconds with 4 cylinder economy car fuel efficiency. Most important, it's the fact that the FT-HS was built upon a real production platform.

Then, of course, I read the article and realized there wasn't any negativity. Then again I guess I hope the FT-HS isn't a pipe dream. Then again, however, it isn't really about the FT-HS, it's about the technology producing the FT-HS.

Ford CEO named Aviation Week's Person of Year

Thus far I have been a big fan of Ford's new CEO and President, Alan Mulally. True, Mr. Mulally has only been CEO of Ford since September, but I say he's off to a great start. Moreover, if the past is any indication of the future, then Ford is poised for big things. Because of Mr. Mulally's past success at Boeing, he was named Person of the Year by Aviation Week & Space Technology. As CEO of Boeing Mulally "was responsible for all of the company's commercial airplane programs and related services, which in 2005 generated record orders for new business and sales of more than $22.6 billion." (more)

Last week I suggested that Ford stock might be a buy based on discussions Mulally, a disciple of efficiency, had with Toyota. Consequently, I think good things can be expected from Ford in the near future, in both automotive production efficiency and fuel efficiency. Sure, it will take a couple of years to see any real results, but if anyone can achieve results, Mulally seems to be the person. Moreover, I'll bet there will be some bold move announcements coming from Ford in the next couple of months regarding hybrid cars and other fuel efficient technologies.

Malibu hybrid not until late 2008

At one time it was rumored that the Chevy Malibu hybrid would be available for sale in 2007, though probably as a 2008 model. Lately, however, there are whispers that the Malibu hybrid probably won't see a sale's room floor until at least 2008. Since the Malibu is being redesigned for 2008, it isn't necessarily surprising that the hybrid version of the Malibu could see a delay or two. Still, is the hybrid version becoming less important to GM? Have any of GM's hybrid plans changed? Now that GM sees an electric future, a future which should produce more GM hybrids, is GM's hybrid powertrain adapting to this new future?