A good time to buy a hybrid?

The 2008 hybrids are coming

Are you in the market for a new hybrid vehicle? Then now might be a great time to do some hybrid shopping, as dealers prepare to unload 2007 models to make room for 2008 models.

The 2008 Toyota Camry hybrid is already available at some dealerships, and the price of the hybrid Camry is $1000.00 less than last year. Thus, buyers can only assume that dealers are ready to bargain.

The 2008 Toyota Highlander hybrid has been totally revamped, although only small changes were made to the hybrid powertrain. Still, many are calling the new Highlander the best ever, which might create some deals on the 2007 Highlander hybrid.

Unfortunately, Toyota's other hybrid, that quirky little Prius, continues to be a hot seller, so deals on this popular hybrid might not be common. Still, the 2008 Prius will offer a cheaper base version.

The 2008 Nissan Altima hybrid is also set to launch, so again, dealers might be prepared to discount the 2007 model to make room for the 2008s.

Overall, this is a good time of the year to buy an automobile, so get out there and check out your favorite hybrid vehicles. You just might find a deal you can't refuse.

2011: Plug-in Prius, Chevy Volt or Nissan Mixim

Plug-in parallel hybrid, plug-in series hybrid, or just electric?

In the next few years, the automotive landscape will resemble a drive from the wheat fields of Kansas into the Rockies of Colorado, dramatic change.

Hybrid vehicles will probably convert into plug-in hybrid vehicles, such as a Prius plug-in or a Chevy Volt, that will enable most commuters to go to work and back on electric power alone, with the ability to use gasoline, diesel, or a biofuel as a backup source of energy.

Others might seek a purely electric car to be used only for commuting, thus deleting the need for any backup fuel. The Nissan Mixim hopes to fulfill that need, possibly by 2011.

Car&Driver report, " The Mixim is a tiny electric car that uses lithium-ion batteries to power twin motors—one in the front, and one at the back—giving the car all-wheel drive. Regenerative braking will help keep the batteries charged while driving.

Like plenty of other European concepts, the Mixim is small. It weighs in at a scant 2100 pounds and is only 145 inches end to end, making it a full two feet shorter than a Chevrolet Aveo hatchback. Still, that low weight should help keep performance and energy efficiency high."

Unique: Prius helps Toyota cut average emissions

Holy greenhouse gas cutter

"Five of the six largest sellers of automobiles in the United States increased average vehicle emissions over a 15-year-period, largely because of the dramatic increase in SUV sales, a new study has found."

"Nissan Motor Co. had the biggest jump in per-vehicle carbon dioxide emissions, up 9.2 percent. In contrast, Toyota saw its average emissions drop by 3 percent, in part because of the gasoline-electric hybrid Prius."

Ohhhh that quirky Prius and those silly hybrids.

Can Honda build a Prius-contender?

One possible new hybrid from Honda

Honda is the undisputed greenest major automaker, yet when one thinks of green automobiles, hybrid cars automatically come to mind.

When it comes to hybrids, Honda is far behind Toyota. How did that happen?

For starters, the first generation Honda Civic hybrid, for example, was almost more of a mild hybrid than a full hybrid. Even today's Civic hybrid doesn't offer as powerful of a hybrid powertrain as does the Toyota Prius. Quite simply, the Prius is the superior hybrid, especially for urban drivers.

That doesn't mean the Civic hybrid isn't a great car, it is. Finish: Can Honda build a Prius-contender?

Foreign oil dependency equals freedom? Is Chrysler un-American?

Yes, Edwards is a SUV-driving hypocrite, still...

"Last time I checked, America is about choice," wrote Jason Vines, Chrysler Group's vice president of communications, on the company's TheFirehouse.biz blog regarding the statement made by John Edwards for Americans to give up SUVs. "This kind of reminds me of book burnings of the past. Shouldn't a president try to preserve freedoms? So let's lay off any suggestions of vehicle choice by government committee. Trabant, anyone?"

What a joke. Book burnings? Preserving freedom?

Let's be honest, Chrysler doesn't care about freedom, it cares about profit margins. Chrysler has helped sell out America for decades, so let's leave the Patriotism out of it.

Besides, how does foreign oil dependency increase freedom? Finish: Foreign oil dependency equals freedom? Is Chrysler un-American?

Hybrids to help buoy Toyota through subprime mortgage crisis?

Toyota not worried about slumping housing market?

A number of automakers and analysts have already cautioned that the subprime mortgage mess threatens to greatly disrupt the economy and, therefore, people's decisions to purchase automobiles.

Toyota, on the other hand, isn't worried according to both Reuters and the AFP. "We now expect the US car market to shrink slightly this year compared with the previous year, while Toyota continues to strive to meet its initial target," Toyota Motor president Katsuaki Watanabe told reporters.

"Toyota has been outperforming the market by a modest margin," he said.

And, Toyota has reason to be confident. July was a rough month for automakers, yet it was a stellar month for the Toyota Prius. Hybrid cars, it appears, might just help propel Toyota past all competition.

Ohh, that quirky little Prius.

GM's hybrids: The wrong start?

Large SUVs will become GM's first hybrids

When the first full hybrid vehicles from GM hit the streets this Fall, they will come in the form of full size SUVs. And, why should anyone be surprised that GM would start with large SUVs, such as the Yukon hybrid or the Tahoe hybrid?

If large trucks are GM's bread, then large SUVs are GM's butter.

Of course, GM's bread and butter isn't as tasty to consumers as it was a decade ago. Sure, more fuel efficient hybrid versions of these gas-guzzlers might help stem the public's growing disinterest in such vehicles, but will they provide any new marketshare?

--> Finish: GM's hybrids: The wrong start?

The credit crunch and hybrid sales

Can the Prius continue its hot streak into Fall?

The Toyota Prius was hot in July, really hot, but how will the Prius and other hybrid cars sell if consumer credit continues to be crunched? Will the credit crunch affect hybrids more than conventional vehicles?

Part of the success of the Prius has been high energy costs. Still, the Prius isn't an economy car, and while many economy cars might not achieve the fuel efficiency of the Prius, they cost a good bit less. As home prices fall, economy cars might start looking like a better solution for some hybrid buyers trying to deal with energy costs

Of course, weak car sales could lead to incentives - including hybrid incentives, especially as dealers try to unload their 2007 models to make room for 2008 models. Consequently, it might be a good time to buy a hybrid - if you have any equity left.

Foreign oil dependency: Can America change?

Fine here, but not on the highway?

A while back President Bush told U.S. automakers to start making more relevant vehicles, much to the chagrin of the auto industry. Then Barack Obama echoed much of that same sentiment, and now John Edwards has called on Americans to give up their SUVs.

Are Americans ready for such a change?

While hybrid cars, clean diesel vehicles and biofuels offer the future much cleaner vehicles, it will take years before such new technologies can cost-effectively replace conventional vehicles - at least in the short term thinking of American consumers.

Downsizing could have a much more immediate impact. And, coupled with new technologies, downsizing might just put the end of foreign oil dependency in America's sights.

Still, can such talk lead to the White House or does it doom a campaign?

New hybrids at LA auto show?

Will a hybrid steal the show?

Last year's Los Angeles Auto Show offered some interesting hybrid announcements from GM, such as one regarding a plug-in Saturn Vue and hints of the Chevy Volt.

On the other hand, hybrid car king Toyota offered a great display area for its hybrid vehicles, but the automaker seemed far more focused on pickup trucks than hybrids.

Still, Southern California has become the largest hybrid market, and the importance of green vehicles is becoming a major theme for the LA Show - an auto show growing greatly in importance in the auto show circuit.

Currently, there are 12 major world premiers scheduled. One of them has to be a hybrid, and I'm betting one will be a new Prius-derivative, such as a smaller Prius or a crossover Prius. In addition, I'm expecting Honda's new hybrid to also show, and I would love to see a Ford Fusion hybrid, or a dual mode Chevy Malibu hybrid.

Regardless, I'm expecting hybrids to make a strong showing in LA. I can't wait.

Small changes for 2008 Altima hybrid

Starting at $25,695

The 2008 Nissan Altima hybrid will see a small price increase compared to this year's model, but a base Altima hybrid will still be slightly less than a 2008 Toyota Camry hybrid. In addition, the new Altima hybrid will include a few new options such as "splash guards and a Diversity antenna."

"Options on the '08 Altima Hybrid include a $6,400 technology package, an $850 power moonroof and a $1,300 convenience package," according to Edmunds.com.

Honda optimizes Civic hybrid for UK

Interest in hybrids gains in Europe

Honda has added a satellite navigation system to the Civic Hybrid for the UK market. The voice activated Sat Nav system will become standard equipment on all Civic hybrids sold in the UK.

"It's the first time a Hybrid has featured factory-fitted Sat Nav as standard equipment, meeting a growing demand in the sector, particularly from corporate customers wanting high-spec, low emission cars." (more)

Global Insight Analyst without a clue on hybrids

Toyota Camry hybrid on track to sell 60,000 units

"Owning a hybrid is all about saying 'Look at what I'm doing for the world'," says auto analyst John Wolkonowicz of Global Insight. "If you can't say that, the whole purchase is a waste of time."

So, why are so many buying the Camry hybrid? How many more would be buying the Camry hybrid if the full hybrid tax credit was available?

Just because Wolkonowicz has a small-minded personality that equates success with materialism doesn't mean all people do. John might not get it, but some people buy non-Prius hybrid vehicles because they believe in the technology and want to support it, not because they are trying to preach to the world.

When Camry hybrid, Highlander hybrid, Escape hybrid, Altima hybrid and Civic hybrid customers are combined, they make up a pretty significant percentage of hybrid buyers, around 50 percent in fact. So, half of all hybrid buyers are just 'wasting time'?

Maybe it's John's superficial insights into hybrid buyers that are the waste of time.

When it comes to the Prius, it's more fuel efficient than any other hybrid. It's cheaper than any other Toyota hybrid. Its design offers a huge amount of cargo space for a small car, especially when the back seats can be put down. More important, you can't compare its cost-effectiveness against its conventional counterpart - a non-hybrid Prius doesn't exist.

None of that matters to Prius buyers? Such an assumption is just plain clueless.

Different Prius models key to Toyota's hybrid future?

Hybrids: All about the Prius?

I think the Toyota Camry hybrid is an awesome car, and I don't really care if no one notices that it is a hybrid. Still, for many other hybrid buyers, telling the world they drive hybrid cars is important.

Thus, Toyota has been floating the idea of Prius-derivatives for some time. According to Newsweek, Toyota is now committed at least 3 versions of the Prius - a smaller Prius, a family Prius and a crossover Prius.

And, who can argue against this move? When it comes to hybrids, people trust the Prius brand, so let them buy a Prius that best fits their needs. More important, however, the more Prius hybrids Toyota can sell, the more cost-effective hybrid technology becomes.

As Toyota hybrid technology becomes more cost-effective, the sooner more car buyers will buy hybrid versions of every other Toyota automobile, and that's the real future of hybrid technology.

Volt, hybrids, are GM's future?

Chevy Tahoe hybrid: The future of things to come from GM?

"We know that our success in the future is contingent on delivering technology that is meaningful to society," said Larry Nitz, executive director of GM's hybrid technology, who was among the team of engineers at GM's Milford Proving Grounds Friday to showcase the automaker's new powertrain technologies. "The whole spirit of the company is driven to do this."

I have had the pleasure of hanging out with many GM employees, including top executives, and I have to agree that I do believe the "spirit" of GM is changing - has changed.

Already GM is finalizing the launch of its first full hybrid vehicles, such as the Tahoe hybrid and the Yukon hybrid, and many more hybrids are due to hit the road in the next few years, including a dual mode plug-in hybrid, the Saturn Vue.

Still, what really gets many GM employees excited is the Chevy Volt plug-in hybrid. Despite the claims of naysayers, this vehicle is not just a hype machine, although it has played that role well since its debut. For GM employees, I believe, the Volt is the nail in the coffin of GM-haters - a role I have taken in the past. The Volt is final proof that GM has not only changed, but that GM can bring the best automotive technology to the world - even in terms of fuel economy or emissions.

While success isn't guaranteed, where there is a will, there is a way, and I absolutely believe that GM has the will. May the force be with them.

Kingsley RVs going hybrid

And solar?

The Kingsley K-3 might soon come in a gasoline-electric hybrid version that could save owners as much as 35 percent on fuel costs. In addition, Kingsley might also add solar power to the model.

"We have started discussions with several manufacturing companies about the concept of a hybrid RV and are excited about the possibilities," stated Allan Smethers, CEO. "With the current high cost of fuels, it clearly makes sense for us to explore the possibilities of a hybrid technology. Preliminary research indicates that fuel savings can amount to 35 percent on electric hybrids and 15 percent on hydrogen injection systems," added Smethers.

Cayenne Hybrid: A step in the right direction for Porsche

Hybrids+ might be Porsche's only way forward, such as this Porsche Cayenne hybrid

So, Greenpeace doesn't like Porsche, even if they do convert some of their vehicles into hybrid vehicles, such as the Cayenne hybrid. Who cares? Greenpeace doesn't believe that hybrids are a solution to global warming either. Apparently, the world's transportation economy is just supposed to stop.

I prefer to deal with realism. Finish: Cayenne Hybrid: A step in the right direction for Porsche

Surprise, Surprise Prius is most researched and read about hybrid

Prius dominates NADA research

The Toyota Prius is the most researched and most read about hybrid at NADAGuides.com.

Wow. Isn't that a big surprise?

About the only interesting fact is that the Honda Civic hybrid and the Nissan Altima hybrid are more researched than the Toyota Camry hybrid, but more people read reviews of the Camry hybrid compared to either the Civic or Altima hybrids.

I guess when consumers consider hybrid cars, they research Civic and Altima hybrids for comparison before, ultimately, buying the Prius - in most cases. Not as many consumers, however, are researching the Altima or Civic hybrids as seriously as the Camry hybrid, it appears.

Again, that's not really surprising either. While the Prius is the undisputed king of hybrid sales, the Camry hybrid is also blowing away any competition. 60,000 Camry hybrid sales for its first full calendar year is pretty good for a car that offers barely any tax credit.

Lithium powered mild hybrids - Are they worthy?

Lithium powered full hybrid concept, Toyota's FT-HS

Everyone knows the future of hybrid cars and electric cars seems absolutely dependent upon cost-effective, reliable and safe lithium-ion batteries. Without such batteries, forget the Chevy Volt, forget a 100 mpg Prius, forget plug-in hybrid vehicles.

Obviously, however, if li-on batteries are successful, the entire automotive world will be turned upside down and change forever.

Nonetheless, even if lithium achieves reliability and safety, it might take a bit longer to achieve cost-effectiveness. Yet, small lithium-ion batteries are cost-effectively successful in power tools, phones and, usually, notebook computers.

Thus, might not small lithium battery packs be the next best step for hybrid vehicles? For example, might - dare I say it - lithium be perfect for mild hybrid vehicles? Additionally, small battery packs for mild hybrids might, initially, be safer and more reliable because mild hybrids aren't as battery-dependant as full hybrids.

Consequently, couldn't such mild hybrids significantly help increase the mass production of lithium batteries enough to help scale down the cost of such batteries for all hybrid and electric vehicles?

GM to offer small hybrid car - for Europe?

A hybrid concept from GM's Opel brand

GM's Opel brand will debut a Corsa hybrid concept vehicle at the Frankfurt Auto Show according to reports from InsideLine.

"The Corsa Hybrid uses the 75-horsepower Corsa 1.3 CDTI and GM's next-generation belt-alternator starter technology, which makes its debut on the concept. It also uses a lithium-ion battery. Opel says the concept 'requires just 3.75 liters of diesel per 100 km and emits only 99 grams of CO2 per kilometer.'"

Sure, the Opel Corsa Hybrid will probably only qualify as a mild hybrid, but within such a small car, the mild hybrid technology might offer a significant improvement in fuel economy. And, why not offer such technology in smaller cars?

Often times, the buyers of small cars aren't just buying small automobiles because they are cheap, if at all for that matter, but for better fuel economy - so make them as fuel efficient as possible!

Oh yeah, bring'em to the states.

Why not a 2008 Highlander hybrid two-wheel drive?

Only 4WD versions?

Say you're a soccer mom or dad. You need seating for six, but you don't need to do any off-roading, and you want to be as green as possible, as fuel efficient as possible. In fact, you're really interested in hybrid vehicles, and you are interested in buying a hybrid station wagon, mini-van or SUV - any hybrid - it just has to be a fuel efficiency-focused 6-seater.

Well, forget about a two-wheel drive version of the 2008 Toyota Highlander hybrid. Instead, soccer moms and dads will have to fork over extra money for unnecessary 4WD technology. Even though Toyota started out with a 2WD Highlander hybrid, it appears Toyota has given up on this segment.

With better marketing, I think Toyota might have achieved relatively more sales success with the 2WD version of the Highlander hybrid if they had focused on fuel economy-focused minivan orientated consumers.

But, I guess we'll never know.

Citroen's 'UrbanHybrid' to debut in Frankfort

Citroen has debuted diesel hybrids in the past

Citroen plans to debut its new C5 Airscape Concept, dubbed the 'UrbanHybrid' at September's Frankfurt Auto Show, although Citroen's 'UrbanHybrid' technology might be extended to other vehicles as well.

'UrbanHybrid' technology will include a number of tools to aid fuel economy, according to Gizmag via BW.

"This includes a reversible alternator-starter and super capacitors and allows onboard equipment, such as the air conditioning or audio system, to be powered by energy recovered during braking and deceleration, while engine torque can be temporarily boosted when required."

"The 'UrbanHybrid' system, which helps reduce CO2 emissions by 24g/km on the combined cycle, also switches off the engine when the vehicle is at standstill, before starting it again instantly once the accelerator is pressed. The fitting of a refined, bio-diesel compliant 208bhp 2.7HDi V6 engine, complete with particulate filter, further minimises any impact on the environment."

Just more proof that hybrid vehicles are the future, even in diesel powered countries.

H.C.C.I. + hybrid technology = gasoline hybrid perfection?

An H.C.C.I. hybrid - as efficient as a diesel hybrid?

GM hasn't been the biggest fan of clean diesel technology.

O.K., not long ago, GM wasn't much of a fan of hybrid technology either, but that has changed. So, it isn't necessarily surprising that GM might not rush into clean diesel, right?

Or, maybe was there an alternative reason that GM hasn't been going diesel crazy?

If there is a reason, it might be the Homogenous-Charge Compression-Ignition engine, or H.C.C.I. --- Finish: H.C.C.I. + hybrid technology = Gasoline Hybrid Perfection

Volvo to announce hybrid plans at Frankfurt Auto Show

How about a hybrid version of the C-30

At the Frankfurt Auto Show, Volvo will debut a C-30 efficiency model that achieves an amazing 52 mpg combined. The 104-horsepower 1.6 liter turbodiesel, unfortunately, might never see a U.S. road, however.

Time for a change in diesel laws?

In addition to the green C-30, Volvo will also announce its plans for hybrid vehicles at Frankfurt.

Vans, trucks and buses: The first phase of the plug-in revolution?

Dodge and Johnson Controls ready to test plug-in hybrid vehicles

When it comes to plug-in hybrid vehicles, it all comes down to the battery. Unfortunately, the lithium-ion batteries used in plug-in hybrid vehicles can be quite large - taking up valuable trunk space, etc.

Johnson Controls think they have a good near term solution for functional plug-in hybrid vehicles on which to test their lithium batteries. According to Johnson Controls, the Dodge Sprinter van is "an ideal vehicle to carry a large battery pack and still have ample room readily accessible for use as a delivery vehicle."

"Advanced battery technology is the single most important enabler in making all types of electric vehicles practical," says Mary Ann Wright, who leads the JCS joint venture and is vice president and general manager of Johnson Controls' hybrid battery business.. "Plug-in hybrids, conventional hybrids, electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will benefit from Lithium-ion technology. Johnson Controls-Saft is determined to deliver state-of-the-art batteries to power advanced, environmentally friendly vehicles."

Testing lithium technology on such vehicles provides not only a great testing environment for a plethora of real world driving conditions, it should also help perfect lithium chemistry until it can be squeezed into even the smallest hybrid cars and electric vehicles.

Sounds like a perfect fit for the U.S. Postal Service, Federal Express, school buses and on and on, let's hope the technology finds its way into these fleets as soon as possible.

Highlander hybrid pricing announced

Base hybrid slightly cheaper, loaded - ouch!

The base Toyota Highlander hybrid will see a small price reduction of less than one percent, starting at $33,700 for the 4WD-i vehicle. The loaded Limited Highlander hybrid will see a large price increase of more than 9 percent to $39,950.

The new Highlander hybrid will ride on a new chassis that is almost 4 inches longer and 3 inches wider, significantly increasing the roominess of the Toyota's hybrid SUV. In addition, the Highlander hybrid will offer new tools to manage fuel economy, adding EV Mode, ECON Mode and a Hybrid System Indicator.

Expect the new Highlander hybrids to hit showrooms in October.

Time for Change? July kills Detroit

No hope until the Volt?

For decades the winds of change have blown across the automotive landscape of America, spreading the seeds of compact car interest, fuel economy, etc. Nurtured by the ever-growing dangers of foreign oil dependency, pollution, and global warming, the seeds of change have flourished.

Consequently, as "unexpectedly weak" July auto sales is forcing Detroit's automakers to expect "vehicle sales to end the year at a nine-year low," the Toyota Prius - the poster child of change - has become the top selling vehicle for the same month.

Not long ago, the Prius was labeled with terms like joke or publicity stunt, even a stupid idea. Yet, not only do Prius sales continue to strengthen, they continue to power Toyota and its hybrid cars . And, make no mistake, selling 60,000 Camry hybrids this year is no less of a joke than the 1st generation Prius - the future is not just the Prius.

America is ready for change now more than ever. Unfortunately, any real change coming out of Detroit, such as the Chevy Volt, is still, minimally, a few years from reality.

As labor unions and executives begin to hammer out the future, let us hope the winds of change are not only realized, but harnessed. Change is the only way forward.

Toyota Prius sales hotter than ever in July

The Prius may not have stole the show at NAIAS, but it is changing the way America drives

"If you thought the move toward hybrids and fuel-efficient sub-compacts was a trend that had perhaps slowed down, think again. This week J.D. Power and Associates released its list of the fastest selling cars and trucks in July and the hottest rides are gas sippers. The Prius was the fastest selling model in the country, followed by the Honda Fit and Scion xB. Call it the trifecta of small but popular cars. What's most intriguing with this list is the fact the Prius remain red hot." (CNBC)

Actually, I don't find it intriguing at all. Even those not seeking to hypermile their Prius drives are achieving low 40 mpg, even in some of the worst driving conditions in the Nation. Others are achieving more than 50 mpg.

Ultimately, the Prius is a great car. More important, as more and more Americans become more concerned about foreign oil dependency, global warming, and high gas prices, Prius power will only grow.

Ford Fusion hybrid closer to reality?

Available in late 2008?

Car&Driver was able to spy the upcoming Fusion hybrid, which should be offered as part of the redesigned 2009 model. Finally, an American automaker will offer a full hybrid sedan?

Early reports indicate that the Fusion hybrid will utilize the same hybrid powertrain as Ford's other hybrid vehicles, such as the Escape hybrid.

Hopefully, GM and Chrsyler will take note. Many hybrid buyers are simply not interested in SUVs, and making hybrid sedans is an important part of the hybrid mix.

Hybrid buyers: Prepare to deal with quirks?

The Quirkiest hybrid?

I came across the article, Learning to live with hybrids a while back, but was turned off by the title and a busy schedule - sometimes hybrid critics are just boring. Of course, assumptions are often even worse than boring critics.

Thus, when I came across this article again today, I decided to read it, which has proven my assumption statement. Assumptions make assess.

While the article is a bit anti-hybrid, or at least hybrid suspicious in nature, it's a good article for anyone whom is thinking about a hybrid purchase, especially a Toyota Prius, the quirkiest of all hybrids. Hybrids are different and buyers should be prepared. It doesn't mean hybrids are bad, just different, and for some, difference - or change - is hard.

Additionally, the article causes me to give a small amount of props to GM. One of the hybrid quirks covered in the referenced article is the hybrid display of many hybrid cars - it can be dangerous when drivers are more focused on the screen to maximize fuel efficiency than on the road.

GM, on the other hand, will offer a nice solution - a small hybrid efficiency gauge that makes maximizing hybrid efficiency as easy as watching your speed (Read more about GM's hybrid technology in The devil drives a Tahoe hybrid). Kudos.

Still, for potential hybrid buyers, Learning to Live with hybrids is worth the read.

Siemens shows off hybrid sports car

A modified hybrid Mercedes C-Class by Siemens

Hybrid sports cars don't make sense, right? People buy hybrid vehicles for fuel economy, not performance, so why would Siemens modify a Mercedes C-Class Sports Coupe into a hybrid?

For starters, the hybrid offers incredible sport's car performance, along with incredible fuel economy for such performance. Moreover, it allows Siemens to debut its new prototype lithium hybrid technology, as well as its lithium battery cooling system - possibly the key to lithium power.

Still, isn't such a vehicle a waste of hybrid technology? Didn't the Honda Accord hybrid prove that performance hybrids don't sell?

Until a new battery is developed, hybrid technology is still just an emerging technology. NiMH batteries are not the future of the automotive revolution. Lithium batteries, or something similar, will power the real hybrid revolution. More important, economies of scale will make lithium-powered vehicles cost-effective compared to conventional vehicles, even expensive sports coupes.

Ultimately, cost-effective lithium technology isn't only about fuel economy, it's about better automobiles, even sports coupes.

--> Read more about the Siemens hybrid in the DetroitNews.

Ford struggling with Escape hybrid demand

Something fishy going on at Ford?

Shopping for a Ford Escape hybrid isn't easy. You just can't find them. Sure, you can add your name to a list and race everyone down to the dealership when one comes in, or you can place a down payment on the next available Escape hybrid.

Still, what's the problem?

According to some reports, Ford says the problem has nothing to do with the production system.

That's a pretty sad answer from the automaker. It's not as if the hybrid Escape is just debuting. The vehicle has been around for years now, shouldn't Ford have a better grasp on demand and on meeting that demand?

If the automakers isn't committed to selling its hybrid vehicles, perhaps it should stop selling them.

The Chevy Malibu hybrid: GM's Big Mistake?

GM plans massive marketing blitz to challenge Camry

The Chevy Malibu is of critical importance to GM, thus the automaker will use a six-speed transmission with a four-cylinder engine to increase fuel economy. In addition, GM will spend more than $100 million marketing the Malibu in an effort to challenge the Toyota Camry.

That's great, but how much buzz would a full hybrid version of the Malibu have brought to GM dealers?

GM's Bob Lutz has essentially called the Toyota Prius a marketing coup. It's not that the Prius is breaking sale's records for any category outside of hybrid cars, rather it's the fact that the Prius is a PR machine. Even if the Prius isn't selling, it's still driving buyers into Toyota.

Moreover, while the Toyota Camry hybrid might only sell a little more than 50,000 units this year, I'll bet the Camry hybrid has also helped drive more buyers into Toyota.

So, why not a dual mode Malibu hybrid? GM's dual mode technology is ready to roll. Selling 50,000 Malibu hybrids in 2008 wouldn't just make GM the second best hybrid vehicle seller and validate GM's hybrids, it would drive incredible buzz to GM.

What's the deal? Can't GM compete?

Grassroots CAFE rallies?

Obama will be a focus of the UAW in Chicago this weekend

This weekend automakers and their unions will hold rallies in Chicago and St. Louis in an attempt to gain support for a "balanced CAFE approach like Hill-Terry" writes the DetroitNews. That approach would require a 35 mpg mandate for cars and 32 mpg for light trucks by 2022 versus 35 mpg for all vehicles by 2020.

Sadly, even 35 mpg by 2020 will do nothing to reduce foreign oil dependency when consumption increases by a few percent every year. Ultimately, the entire current CAFE debate is an absolute joke and a complete waste of time.

Hot on the heals of my Chevy Tahoe hybrid test drive, I am empathetic to GM's concerns, for example. 35 mpg could kill not just the Tahoe, but the Tahoe hybrid, the Yukon hybrid, the Escalade hybrid and on and on.

Still, if GM is able to develop lithium batteries for the Chevy Volt and for the plug-in Saturn Vue hybrid, then GM can turn the Tahoe hybrid into either a lithium powered Tahoe, or a plug-in Tahoe hybrid. Such a vehicle, I'm confident, could hit 35 mpg by 2020 - probably pretty easily.

If not, which is more important, the ability to buy a Tahoe hybrid or the end of foreign oil dependency?

Still, when studies suggest that as much as 70 percent of the real cost of gasoline is hidden, some of that hidden money needs to be redirected to help automakers. Inevitably, while cheap oil and gasoline has helped automakers via highly-profitable gas-guzzlers, it has also helped the government hide, literally, trillions in military spending - that should also be addressed.

Don't like CAFE? Fine. Let's create a gas tax. Buy any vehicle you want, but start paying more of your share of the real cost of gasoline.

Finally, if automakers want to educate the public on the costs of 35 mpg, then I say SHUT UP when it comes to CAFE rallies. If U.S. automakers want to educate the public, then educate them on the dangers of foreign oil dependency and the realities of what it would take to end foreign oil dependency.

The devil drives a Tahoe hybrid

GM's new hybrid face

Temptation.

That's the best way to describe my Chevy Tahoe hybrid test drive yesterday. Pure and simple temptation.

I mean large, gas-guzzling SUVs are destroying the world, right? Besides, when I was invited to test drive one of GM's first dual mode hybrid vehicles, I did it to test the technology, not to see if I liked the vehicle. I hate these SUVs, right?

So, why am I again tempted? Finish: The devil drives a Tahoe hybrid

GM dual mode hybrid test drive

My first GM full hybrid test drive

In just a few hours I'll be taking my first test drive of one of GM's dual mode hybrid vehicles. Hopefully, I can get some confirmation on the base MSRP of both the GMC Yukon hybrid and the Chevy Tahoe hybrid.

Check back later tonight or tomorrow for more details.

Buying a hybrid: The car salesperson

Auto dealers, hybrids and bad customer service

Recently, Jim Lentz, executive vice president for Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., told an audience at the annual Management Briefing Seminars that customer service at auto dealerships was a serious problem. Citing a recent Gallup poll, Lutz claimed, "We have to improve, streamline and put the fun back into buying a car," he said, adding that the image problem created by disgruntled car buyers extends beyond lost sales.

"If we're not being seen as considerate to our own customers," he said. "Why should we receive consideration as an industry?"

Hybrid cars further demonstrate just how bad customer service is at many dealerships. Finish: Buying a hybrid: The car salesperson

Chrysler's advanced powertrain moves

Is the Aspen hybrid good for Chrysler's future?

Last week Chrysler released a press release announcing how advanced powertrains would play an "essential role" in the new Chrysler's ability to meet customer expectations for "quality, performance, and fuel economy".

Flex fuel, clean diesel, and hybrid vehicles were touted, which is good. Yet, all of these new powertrains are almost exclusively focused upon Chrysler's biggest vehicles, such as 5.7 liter Hemis.

Amidst the mortgage meltdown and high energy prices coupled with increasing Middle East turmoil, can the future for Chrysler really be so successful it if so focused on its largest vehicles? Certainly, hybrid technology, or clean diesel technology, can make these gas-guzzlers more fuel efficient, but at a greater expense when consumers have less to spend on automobiles.

Obviously, gas-guzzlers are Chrysler's bread and butter, and the automaker must continue to make such vehicles in order to survive, particularly in the short term. Nonetheless, isn't it time for Chrysler to make a dramatic push in a completely new direction?

Can Hemis really be the foundation of Chrysler's future success?

Toyota "bemused" by hybrid delay rumors

Third generation Prius still on track?

"We've been very interested to note stories in The Wall Street Journal over the past couple of days purporting that the introduction of a next-generation Prius has been delayed because of the slow pace of development of lithium-ion batteries," writes Irv Miller, Group Vice President, Toyota Corporate Communications, according to Car&Driver.

"For that matter, we've not shared much information about a next-generation Prius, since--like most companies operating in a highly competitive market--we don't talk explicitly about future product. And we've not discussed the type of battery that any hypothetical next-generation version of Hybrid Synergy Drive might use."

HMMMM!???? That isn't exactly true. Toyota CEO Katsuaki Watanbe, claimed that lithium batteries were ready for the third generation Hybrid Synergy Drive, at least according to Business Week. Watanbe's statement was not a rumor from a reliable, but unconfirmed source, it was a direct quote.

Nonetheless, Miller's press release does seem to conclusively confirm that lithium batteries are not yet ready for primetime in Toyota hybrid vehicles - at least not until Toyota can guarantee those batteries for 150,000 miles. Thus, the real question is, can Toyota achieve that kind of battery guarantee by late 2008 or early 2009 - the rumored launch of the third generation Prius?

Then again, was the speculated 2009 launch date ever more than a rumor?

Real cost of gasoline today is $10.00?

What's the real cost of gas-guzzling?

Why is achieving energy independence so hard? According to the Milken Institute it "is the discrepancy between the price we pay and the costs society incurs for various energy sources," notes Technologue.

In reality, the real cost of gasoline is more like $10.00 per gallon when "military intervention to secure supply lines, environmental harm, asthma-inducing particulates, etc." is added into the equation.

Toyota doesn't like plug-in hybrids?

A Hybrids-Plus plug-in hybrid

"A number of serious hurdles stand between current technology and the reality of getting plug-ins on the road, Justin Ward, an engineer with Toyota's Advanced Technology Vehicles, said to an industry gathering at the annual Management Briefing Seminars. Even if the vehicles do make it to market, he said, data shows a battery-powered plug-in may be no more efficient in reducing carbon dioxide emissions than the gas-electric hybrids on the road today."(more)

Is Toyota correct? Are plug-in hybrids problematic because of safety, expense and real-world environmental effectiveness? Or, is GM's plug-in technology, such as the Chevy Volt plug-in hybrid, more sophisticated and better suited to electrification? Thus, Toyota realizes that GM has a competitive advantage if plug-ins are developed?

Additionally, if lithium batteries can be added to hybrid vehicles, could regenerative breaking and/or regenerative breaking + a tiny fuel cell be capable of producing many of the same plug-in benefits without plugging in the hybrid?

Delayed: Another rumor regarding Toyota's lithium Prius, hybrids

No 100 mpg Prius anytime soon?

Waiting for the third generation Toyota Prius? Well, rumors of its delay keep hitting the press.

"Toyota has decided to delay by one to two years the launches of new high-mileage hybrids with lithium-ion battery technology because of potential safety problems, the Wall Street Journal reported," according to Car&Driver.

"Toyota was preparing to roll out a dozen new and redesigned hybrids using new lithium-ion battery technology in the U.S. between 2008 and 2010. This rollout schedule is on hold, according to Toyota executives knowledgeable about the company's hybrid-product plans for the U.S. market, the WSJ said."

Still, its not all bad news regarding hybrid cars and the 2008 Toyota Prius. For those whom have felt the Prius was a little too expensive, the base 2008 Prius will be priced lower, at $20,950.

Indian automakers chasing green

Tata Motors: Tomorrow's green leader?

"Indian vehicle makers are joining the global race to make less-polluting greener vehicles, teaming up with international firms and pouring money into research that could result in commercially viable technologies quickly," Reuters claims this morning.

Bio-fuels, hybrid cars, fuel cells and more. India's emerging automakers are thinking big, and they are thinking green.

American automakers, pay attention. Years of declining U.S. marketshare have been balanced by Europe, Asia and emerging markets. Even worse, the future for U.S. automakers seems pinned to China and India - markets where local automakers are fiercely trying to catch up to the big boys of the auto world.

Once, the Big 3 laughed off the challenge of Japanese automakers and compact cars. Will U.S. automakers make the same mistake again regarding hybrid cars and other fuel efficient and green technologies?

Volt road ready this Spring?

Still, a long way to go

GM's Bob Lutz is a spin-master.

“I think that our No. 1 competitor has some problems with their technology, and I do think that it very definitely opens a window of opportunity for us to be first to market with a genuine plug-in hybrid,” Bob Lutz said at an automotive industry conference in Traverse City where the battery deal was announced.

While I believe that GM might offer the first "genuine plug-in hybrid", GM is also facing serious problems. For example, the Chevy Volt is still just a concept. It won't be road-ready - for testing - until the Spring of 2008, at the earliest. Additionally, if GM does produce the Volt by the end of 2010, as planned, the costs are expected to be very high. Thus, GM is considering a plan to sell Chevy Volts with optional battery leases to help make the cars a little more cost-effective.

But, back to Toyota's problems. Finish Volt road ready by this Spring

Hybrids carry their weight better

Wouldn't a small car still be better?

A new study demonstrates that hybrid vehicles carry their weight better than conventional autos because of regenerative breaking.

"Specifically, when normal ICEVs scale up 1,000 pounds in size, they require on average an extra 1.3 gallons of gas to go 100 miles. For HEVs, the same weight gain would correspond to an extra 0.7 gallons per 100 miles."

Ford chief suggests gas tax for energy security

Hybrids not enough

"The United States should consider imposing a European-style gasoline tax if it hopes to improve energy security and tackle global warming," the head of Ford Motor Co. said Wednesday according to the AFP.

GM solidifies Volt battery partnerships

Agreement to speed up development?

The key to GM's future success will almost certainly be driven by the E-Flex platform - the powertrain that will power the Chevy Volt, for example.

They key to the Volt and the E-Flex platform is lithium batteries. Consequently, GM has solidified its partnerships with lithium-ion battery makers A123Systems and LG Chem.

"Breakthrough battery technology will drive future automotive propulsion, and the company that aligns with the best strategic partners will win. That's what is so important about this deal," said Bob Lutz, GM vice chairman of Global Product Development. "Whether you're talking about the Chevy Volt, a fuel cell or even a plug-in hybrid such as our planned Saturn Vue, we need to understand the fundamental battery cell performance."

Edmunds takes a closer look at the Porsche hybrid

The Cayenne hybrid will be coming soon?

Is the Porsche Cayenne hybrid really going to be built? When? How much will it cost?

While the answers to the last two questions are not clear, Porsche is absolutely going to build the Cayenne hybrid and other other hybrid vehicles, according to Edmunds.

"Porsche is not ready to give us answers to our "When?" and "How much?" questions. It would only say that the Cayenne Hybrid will hit the market "before the end of the decade," adding that the "USA has the highest hybrid sales potential."

More important, it appears that Porsche is not only, like most automakers, experimenting with lithium, the automaker and its partners are also adding a new, unique perspective to hybrid technology - helping to advance the potential of hybrid technology.

That's great news for hybrid fans.

Read more of First Look: Porsche Cayenne Hybrid

BW - Altima and Camry hybrids are 5 star vehicles

"best looking, best priced hybrid sedan"

Both the Toyota Camry hybrid and the Nissan Altima hybrid were given 5 stars by a recent Business Week article, but the Altima hybrid was, ultimately, favored.

"The Camry and Altima are "full" hybrids that can operate on their electric motors alone at times. I gave both of them our top five-star rating. But when you factor in the Altima's low price and the $2,350 federal tax credit many consumers will earn for buying one, it's a far better bargain than the Camry Hybrid right now."

My Take

Recent road tests of these hybrid vehicles have demonstrated that the Camry hybrid is more fuel efficient than the Altima hybrid. So, the Camry hybrid will save more money over time. Of course, the Altima hybrid is more sporty - in performance and handling. So, give'em both a drive if you are seeking a hybrid sedan, if you can find an Altima hybrid - it's still only available in just a handful of states.

Driving a plug-in Prius to work

Plugged in: The real world

"I drove to work one day last week in a prototype car that is either a harbinger of a far more fuel-efficient future, or another in a long line of technological insurgencies that will fail in the end to crack the auto industry's century-old status quo," writes a reporter for today's Wall Street Journal.

Is a vehicle like the Hymotion Plug-in Prius the future for hybrid cars? Is it the future of all cars? One thing is for certain, the hype around plug-in hybrids keeps building. Will the reality of plug-ins match the expectations?

Read more in the WSJ.

How have you customized your hybrid vehicle?

A Toyota Prius customized with multiple video screens

Have your customized your hybrid vehicle? What have you altered or added? Video screens, wider tires, other customizations?

Have you seen any radically customized hybrid cars? Tell us about it. Have pictures? Send them to soultek@soultek.com.

Hybrid vehicles are not defined by the Prius

The hybrid revolution has not even begun

I am so bored by tired studies regarding hybrid vehicles, such as those often done by J.D. Power. Blah, blah, blah.

If you believe J.D. Power, interest in hybrids is waning, only the Toyota Prius can sell - blah, blah, blah.

Hybrids are the future. End of story.

Yes, hybrids will probably morph into plug-in hybrids, while helping to develop full electric vehicles, but the internal combustion engine - as the lone source of automotive power - is already dead. The longer any automotive-related company tries to deny this inevitability, the less chance they have of future success.

Hybrid hype? Yeah, whatever!

How long did it take the automobile to overtake the horse and buggy as the primary mode of transportation in America? Give me a break!

While it won't take hybrids and electric vehicles as long to replace the internal combustion engine in America as it took horsepower to replace horses, it will take time. Ultimately, the electrification of the automobile's drivetrain is ABSOLUTELY inevitable. Inevitable!

Clean diesel isn't going to change that. Nor is biodiesel or ethanol. Not even hydrogen.

The hybrid revolution is inevitable. Deal with it!

The biggest problem to plug-in hybrids?

Plug-in conversion for Prius wooed crowds at HybridFest

What's the biggest problem for plug-in hybrid vehicles?

Is it batteries? Is it the electric grid? Is it cost?

Nope it's convincing consumers that plug-ins are a good idea, according to J.D. Power (more).

No way, I say.

If you could buy a 100 mpg plug-in Prius today for $30,000, Toyota wouldn't be able to meet consumer demand. Likewise, I think an 80 mpg Saturn Vue hybrid for $35,000 would do the same for GM.

Build affordable plug-ins, and they will come!

No slowing Prius sales

Camry on pace for more than 50,000 sales in first year

For July, while car U.S. car sales slumped, the Toyota Prius continued to be a hot seller, recording over 16,000 units sold.

The Camry hybrid continues to be a strong seller for Toyota as well, achieving over 4,300 units sold. Ultimately, for 2007, Toyota's hybrid Camry will probably outsell the combined sales of all other hybrid vehicles, minus the Prius.

A skeptic's view of GM's hybrids

No Prius-fighter for years?

When it comes to hybrid cars, Toyota is king. Of course, when 2 members of the Big 3 aren't even selling full hybrids, it's easy to be king. So, will that change when GM starts selling its first full hybrids?

There is no doubt that GM's first dual mode hybrid vehicles, the Yukon hybrid and the Tahoe hybrid, will have an advantage over Toyota's hybrid trucks and SUVs. In particular, GM's dual mode hybrids can tow big loads and achieve impressive highway fuel economy for such large vehicles.

On the other hand, GM's hybrids might cost over $10,000 more than their conventional counterparts. Thus, while some can claim GM's hybrids are more technologically sophisticated than Toyota's, they also appear to be more expensive. Will the rewards justify the costs?

--> Finish: A skeptic's view of GM's hybrids