2010: The big questions

The rubber finally hits the road

2010. Here we come.

While 2010 isn't going to be quite as significant for the hybrid market as I would have expected a few years ago, there are a few interesting stories developing:

1.) Will any hybrid, aside from the Prius, sell 50,000 units in one year?
2.) Can the Honda CR-Z hybrid reinvigorate Honda's hybrid sales?
3.) Will the Hyundai Sonata hybrid make it to America, and how will the Sonata hybrid compare to the Toyota Camry hybrid and the Ford Fusion hybrid in terms of price and fuel economy?
4.) What will be Toyota's next dedicated hybrid, and how many other hybrids will Toyota announce, debut, etc?
5.) Finally, after years of hype the Chevy Volt will go on sale. How many units will GM produce in 2010? Will there be any delays? Final pricing, options?

Toyota: How to take on the CR-Z hybrid

Bring back the MR2, as a hybrid?

Thanks to tax incentives, hybrid cars are hot in Japan. For the past several months, the 2010 Toyota Prius has been the best selling car in Japan, with the Honda Insight not far behind.

And, new survey data shows there is great Japanese interest now in hybrid sports cars, particularly the Honda CR-Z hybrid, which goes on sale in February in Japan.

For several years, Toyota has also been working on the concept of sporty hybrids, and the latest rumors suggest that Toyota might resurrect the MR2 for its new sports hybrid.

While the Prius Coupe also remains an option, something like the MR2 would give Toyota license to completely step away from any comparison to the Prius, particularly its relatively unique body styling. And what better way to overcome those boring Toyota perceptions than with an exciting, sleekly styled sporty hybrid with sprinter speed, yet fantastic fuel economy?

Long term consequences: The need for hybridization now?

Still on the road 20 years from now?

America learned many things from the recent Cash for Clunker program, yet one of the biggest takeaways should be the lasting impact of today's technology upon tomorrow's environment. In a fleet of hundreds of millions, old gas-guzzlers from decades ago still impact today's world significantly.

Unfortunately, neither upgraded CAFE requirements nor President Obama's initiative of 1 million plug-in vehicles by 2015 will be able to offset the impact of the many tens of millions of gas-guzzlers that will be produced over the next decade upon America's future. Consequently, the legacy of these vehicles ensures that America will still be very dependent upon petroleum - mostly foreign - for decades to come.

Felix Kramer, founder of the CalCarsInitiative and long time plug-in hybrid driver and advocate, recently told the LATimes that the only way for the US to make any serious, timely dent in oil consumption requires the retrofitting of existing gas-guzzlers into hybrid vehicles.

Moreover, such vehicles could be further converted to plug-in hybrids as the technology becomes cost-effective.

Quite simply, however, mass plug-in vehicle adoption is at least a couple of decades away. Even then, the legacy effects of 100s of millions of gas-guzzlers will still live on for decades longer.

Whether the answer is hybridization or not, based on the last 30 years of US oil consumption, can America really afford several more decades of foreign oil dependence?

Honda Insight sales slump: There can be only one?

Forever just a niche, forever the king?

Why doesn't the Honda Insight hybrid sell nearly as well as the Toyota Prius, even though it costs less?

What does a lack of Insight sales mean for the future of the hybrid market?

Some have suggested that most hybrid buyers aren't looking for bargains. Instead, they are seeking to send a green message.

Yet, is the Insight really that much of a bargain compared to a Prius? Ultimately, isn't it cheaper because it comes with less features, such as ever important safety features? Also, isn't it cheaper because it isn't as fuel efficient as the Prius, especially in city traffic?

Certainly, today, hybrid cars are not a "budget purchase", but aren't there plenty of budget shoppers that would gladly buy cheaper, non-Prius hybrids if equally equipped and fuel efficient?

Time running out on some hybrid car deals

Great time to lease?

Car shopping. It's never fun. Prices and deals often vary by region and dealership. Of course, most often, the best deals usually exclude hybrid cars.

Still, there are a few interesting hybrid offerings available now.

The Toyota Prius can be leased at $249/month for 36 months, with $2,589 due at signing; and the Honda Insight can be leased at $199/month for 36 months, with $2,199 due a signing. Both deals, however, end on the 4th of January.

Likewise, the Honda Insight also qualifies for 1.9% APR for 36 months, or 2.9% APR for 60 months. These financing options also end on the 4th.

Is the EPA just shy of useless?

But what about in the real world?

When the EPA revised its methodology for determining fuel economy a few years ago, it was realized that the EPA was off by as much as 50 percent. While revisions made the EPA's methodology a little more accurate, many driving conditions still make the EPA's numbers mostly useless.

Even worse, automakers can essentially manipulate the EPA's methodology to make some of their vehicles appear more fuel efficient - at least in the lab - than in reality.

The EPA's 'City' estimates are so ridiculous that Mazda decided against using start-stop technology in many of its vehicles because there was no value - at least no perceived value. Even though science can prove that such technology can pay for itself and increase vehicle fuel economy, EPA testing doesn't calculate any benefit for start-stop technology.

When the government makes real world fuel economy a joke with inaccurate stickers and methodologies, how can automakers be expected to take fuel economy seriously?

Ferrari hybrids to the rescue

Does it make any sense?

A Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano hybrid concept is said to be ready for a Geneva Auto Show appearance.

Offering an impressive 35 percent improvement in fuel economy, the Fiorano hybrid almost seems to make sense. Still, overall fuel economy would be less than 14 miles per gallon, and far worse in pure city driving.

Lipstick just can't change a pig. A Ferrari is what it is and no amount of hybrid technology can change that.

Toyota Prius braking problems?

Another problem for Toyota?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Office of Defects Investigation has received a few dozen reports of braking problems with the 2010 Toyota Prius. According to IL some of the complaints describe the problem as a "disturbing lag" or "jerky brakes".

Thus far the NHTSA has not opened an official investigation into the problems.

Car of the decade

Now that was easy

I've been reading through some of the Best of 2000 car articles in various auto magazines, so I decided to do my own version.

Except, when it comes to hybrid cars, the Toyota Prius so dominates the list that its not really worth pretending that there is any serious competition.

I would have liked to fit the Ford Fusion hybrid and the Honda Insight into this piece as serious contenders to the Car of the Decade, but how could I? In terms of sales, neither competes with the Prius - not even close.

So, picking the Car of the Decade was easy this decade. Fortunately, next decade should be a far more interesting story.

Still, will any other hybrid, including plug-in hybrids, outsell the Prius in the next decade?

A look inside the Honda CR-Z

Inside the CR-Z

With Honda's CR-Z hybrid moving closer to reality, new leaked pictures of the car are becoming more common. Check out more here.

Lithium-ion: Only a bridge technology

A couple of Chevy Volt lithium-ion battery packs

So, can lithium-ion batteries make plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles as common as your conventional gas-powered vehicle anytime soon?

Probably not. In fact, lithium-ion batteries are just a bridge technology to real EV penetration according to Argonne Laboratories, a source of much lithium-ion research. To make plug-in vehicles cost-effective enough for the masses, Argonne is focusing on next generation lithium-air batteries.

Still, lithium-air batteries are yet dependent upon numerous technological breakthroughs before becoming a possible reality. Even then, according to Argonne Director Eric Isaacs, it will be ten or twenty years before this technology can be commercially adopted.

Drill, drill, drill: The path to a stronger America

Let's drill our way to greatness!

In the 1970's the US imported 24 percent of its oil. Today those imports have increased to 65 percent.

So, let's drill, drill, drill. Certainly, we can find enough oil here in the US to replace our current consumption, right?

OK. Maybe that's not realistic, but we can find enough oil to reduce pressure at the margins and bring down prices, right?

Maybe. In fact, let's say that's true. But, would that really help America?

About a year ago, Congress 'invested' more than $80 billion in the US auto industry. Why? Because it's a key segment in the US economy, right? Yet, if cheap oil is so good for America, why has the US auto industry been on the decline for decades?

Likewise, why hasn't cheap oil led to greater innovation and manufacturing success in the US if energy was so cheap?

Of course, that isn't totally fair. US foreign oil consumption has led to many amazing innovations in the military sector. Of course, have all the costs been worth this great military strength? Has America really become safer?

Perhaps more drilling could lead to some temporary, marginal improvement in pump prices. Inevitably, however, more drilling - and cheaper gas - would assuredly lead to the same technological complacency and national security risks that cheap oil has nurtured for the last few decades.

If America is to be anything more than a military state in the next couple of decades, isn't our potential greatness inextricably linked to ending our petroleum addiction?

Toyota's hybrid vision leads the auto industry

The king of hybrid cars

For years now GM has been on the verge of toppling Toyota's hybrid cars according to GM's Bob Lutz. The dual mode hybrid powertrain was to be more sophisticated. The BAS mild hybrid was to be cheaper.

Neither has been competitive.

Might all that change when the Chevy Volt beats Toyota to market with a plug-in hybrid vehicle?

How is that even possible, some might ask? How could GM beat the king of hybrid cars to the plug-in hybrid market?

To answer that question, one needs to step back in time several years.

Finish: Toyota's hybrid vision leads the auto industry

Only 17 percent of consumers might pay extra to plug-in

Forever a niche vehicle at best?

Haven't had time to fully read the latest plug-in hybrid report by Pike Research, but I just finished CNET's review. Overall, the report suggests that only 17 percent of US consumers might be willing to pay a premium for plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles.

And, if plug-ins do 'take off', they will probably be short range plug-in hybrids, such as the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid rather than the Chevy Volt, or short range pure EVs, as plug-in vehicles with smaller battery packs will be more cost-viable for the majority of consumers.

As I blogged early this week in Great hybrid hoax: Adding a plug to hybrid cars?, this report seems to also suggest that conventional hybrid cars will make a more appealing buying case to the majority of US consumers for at least the next few decades.

Along those lines, since full hybrids such as the Toyota Prius can so easily be converted into plug-in hybrids, wouldn't such vehicles more immediately tackle global warming and foreign oil dependency today, while providing a 'cash for plug-in conversion' option tomorrow?

Can Congress fight foreign oil dependence and save Detroit?

Is foreign oil dependence a meaningless buzz phrase?

So, Nancy Pelosi is going to lead a Congressional caucus to the North American International Auto Show to see how Detroit's new automotive products are shaping up and to listen to ideas from Michigan's elected leaders.

Considering that Congress has invested at least $81 billion in the US auto industry, such a trip seems necessary.

And, without doubt, there will certinaly be photo ops with various plug-in vehicles, such as the Chevy Volt, and sound bites of how such vehicles are going to save Michigan and America, despite the fact that numerous studies claim such vehicles will have little impact on foreign oil dependency or CO2 emissions for decades. Nonetheless, I'm sure the trip will make for great PR.

Moreover, I'm sure there will be some references to new CAFE rules and how they've led to a plethora of new American small cars. Shoot, by 2020 the US auto industry's fleet fuel economy might even match our competitor's fleet fuel economy - well, at least what their fleet fuel economy is today.

Inevitably, however, America will still be heavily dependent upon foreign oil. In fact, based on most data available, the US will be heavily dependent upon dirty foreign oil for several more decades, minimally, barring any new, aggressive change in Congressional policy.

Thus, I must ask, can Congress aggressively and swiftly fight foreign oil dependence and save the US auto industry, while not bankrupting the US economy nor increasing CO2 emissions? Is such a task simply impossible, or is it Congress that is the problem?

Ford Fusion hybrid up for North American Car of Year

The Best American Hybrid

The Ford Fusion hybrid is a contender for the 2010 North American Car of the Year.

The Fusion hybrid could be the fourth hybrid to ever win the award, which will be announced at January's North American International Auto Show in Detroit, and Ford's second hybrid winner.

Amongst hybrid cars the Toyota Prius, the Honda Civic hybrid, and the Ford Escape hybrid have won the award in previous years.

Civic hybrid MPG suit still not fully settled

What's the real mileage?

In 2007 a class action lawsuit was brought against Honda for a number of advertisements and commercials that inflated the real world mileage of the Civic hybrid.

Consequently, owners of Civic hybrids from 2003 - 2008 will receive a DVD for improving fuel economy, $100 cash or a $1000 rebate on their next Honda.

26 states, however, have objected to this settlement, largely because the rebate does not apply to new Civic hybrids, the Insight hybrid, Fit or CRZ. Plus, a number of state attorney generals have objected to the fact that the attorneys filing this class action lawsuit are set to receive almost $3 million in legal fees.

What if small car buzz fizzles?

America's next best seller?

This year's LA Auto Show featured several small cars that US automakers hope will drive big buzz - and sales - as automakers move towards new CAFE rules.

But what happens if they don't sell?

According to research from AutoPacific, these new small cars are facing an uphill battle. “People want technology to solve the problem of fuel economy," notes one AutoPacific analyst. They don't, however, want to be forced to downsize.

That means lighter materials, clean diesel, and hybrid technology. Yet, so far US automakers haven't been able to use these technologies to match the efficiency of the competition. Consequently, the average fleet fuel economy of each of the Big 3 isn't just far behind their Asian competitors, but even BMW has better fleet fuel economy than the any of the Big 3.

Can the Big 3 truly compete if fuel economy becomes the key driver of the US auto industry?

Hybrid market share to top 3 percent in 2010

Can the Fusion hybrid keep pace?

According to Edmunds.com, hybrid cars will achieve a 3.2 percent market share in 2010 compared to about 2.7 percent share today.

Unfortunately, Edmunds doesn't go into much detail as to how their hybrid numbers were derived, but one can imagine that a slightly less recessed economy is probably the key ingredient. Hybrid sales were hammered in early 2009 before picking up the pace a bit in the 2nd half of the year.

Currently, the Ford Fusion hybrid and the Toyota Prius are the two best selling hybrids in America, with the Prius accounting for about 50 percent of hybrid sales. That scenario will probably remain unchanged.

The great hybrid hoax: Adding a plug?

Better without the plug?

Depending upon the poll or survey, between 70 and 80 percent of Americans are interested in buying a hybrid car today. Many of them are interested because they are worried about pollution and global warming. Most, however, are interested in hybrid cars because they help reduce foreign oil consumption.

Unfortunately, hybrids are still too expensive, according to these same polls, for most Americans to act upon these various convictions. Most Americans are only willing to pay a little more to 'do the right thing'. Many, perhaps even a majority, are unwilling to pay anything extra for a hybrid, or any other foreign-oil dependency-fighting product.

So, what's the solution? More expensive plug-in hybrid cars and electric vehicles, of course, at least judging by the actions of today's politicians and US automakers.

Finish: The great hybrid hoax: Adding a plug?

Study: Plug-in hybrid impact minimal for decades

Not for the masses

A new study by the US National Research Council finds that plug-in hybrid costs are likely to remain high for decades, therefore, PHEV impact on foreign oil dependency and CO2 emissions is likely to remain low until after 2030.

By 2030, the council expects about 13, but up to 40, million plug-in hybrid cars to be on US roads, dependent upon numerous factors. However, in a fleet of 300 million vehicles, impact upon reducing CO2 emissions and foreign oil dependency before 2030 will be minor. Even to achieve the 13 million mark, 10s of billions in subsidies, minimally, will be required. To hit the higher mark, hundreds of billions will probably be needed.

Overall, the council expects production costs of plug-in hybrid vehicles - mostly in relation to battery technologies - to decrease by about 1/3 over the next decade. Thereafter, cost-savings will probably slow. Thus, it will take decades of cheap electricity to recover the upfront costs of plug-in hybrids compared to gasoline vehicles according to the Council - which will severely impact plug-in hybrid adoption.

Audi exec continues hybrid and EV slam

Still not viable even after a $7500 tax credit?

Yesterday, Audi of America President Johan de Nysschen, continued his attack on the political love affair between D.C. politicians, including President Obama, and electric cars, claiming that plug-ins were probably two decades away from widespread use.

"The 50 percent or so price increase that the Volt represents over a similar gasoline car cannot be offset through the savings from reduced fuel compensation," de Nysschen said. "The only way to offset the extreme premium is through taxpayer-funded subsidies," and that according to de Nysschen, "is not sustainable."

Instead, de Nysschen claims the free market should determine the winners, and according to de Nysschen, clean diesel would be a winner that would significantly reduce foreign oil consumption.

New Toyota hybrid concept debuting at NAIAS (updated)

Toyota's new ultra-cheap hybrid?

Toyota has announced that it will debut a new hybrid concept at the Detroit Auto Show that is expected to go into production within the next two years. Unfortunately, few other details are available, but this is supposedly a teaser shot of the new dedicated hybrid.

For years now Toyota has considered a number of Prius-based derivatives, including both smaller and larger versions. Likewise, since Honda announced its CR-Z sports hybrid, Toyota has also indicated that it has plans for a sporty hybrid as well.

If this picture is accurate, however, then it appears that Toyota will offer its smallest hybrid yet, which could potentially push pricing well under $20,000.

While there is a lot of hype in the press today about Toyota's plug-in hybrid plans, this vehicle might offer significantly more sales potential. Ultimately, if Toyota is going to achieve its goal of 30 percent hybrid sales by 2020, cheaper hybrid cars will be critical.

Plug-in Prius in about 2 years

Still basically on track

Toyota will sell a plug-in version of the Toyota Prius in about 2 years. According to Toyota, the plug-in version will be affordable, and the automaker hopes to sell several tens of thousands of these plug-in hybrids.

The new plug-in Prius will offer about 12 - 14 miles of EV range, dependent upon road conditions before needing to utilize its gasoline engine. In contrast, GM's Chevy Volt will offer about 40 miles of EV range, dependent upon driving conditions.

However, the Prius will come with a cheaper price tag than the Volt. Still, initially, the Volt will qualify for a larger federal tax credit - at least the first 200,000 Volts - so pricing might be closer than real world costs thanks to the credits.

Toyota to postpone plug-in Prius?

Not until 2014?

On Monday, Toyota is going to provide an update on when it plans to begin selling plug-in hybrid vehicles.

In previous, official plug-in conversations, Toyota has indicated that its launch date would be 2012, however, there are now rumors that the launch date is going to be moved back to 2014.

I can't believe Toyota would be that stupid. Today, plug-ins aren't about sales, they are about marketing and public relations. If Toyota can't keep pace with the rest of the pack on plug-ins, the PR nightmare than will ensue will be far worse than the losses on producing 10,000 or 20,000 plug-in hybrids per year.

If Toyota hopes to maintain their green mojo, they better bring a plug-in to market by 2011.

10,000 Camry hybrids per year for Australia

Being built down under

Toyota is now producing the Camry hybrid in Australia. To start, Toyota hopes to produce and sell about 10,000 Camry hybrids in the Australian market.

And the Hybrid Synergy Drives just keeps on scaling.

Nissan's super hybrid sports car

600 hp?

According to rumors Nissan is working on a new GT-R that will utilize a hybrid powertrian. With a 440-hp gasoline engine mated to a 160 hp electric motor, the GT-R would offer a total of 600 hp.

However, the rumor also indicates that Nissan might try to scale down the size of the GT-R to increase fuel efficiency and improve performance.

Toyota Prius a top used car buy

Go ahead and buy that old Prius

Since 2001 the Toyota Prius has consistently earned "much better than average" reliability ratings according to Kelly Blue Book. Thus, the average Prius retains 40 percent of its value after 5 years compared to the average car, which only retains 20 to 25 percent of its value.

That makes the Prius a 'best used car buy' according to Forbes.

Several hybrids on Intellichoice 'Best Deals'

Hybrids still offer value with lower gas prices

According to Intellichoice, the “Best Deals of the Month” rankings for December 2009 "illustrate the power of hybrid and diesel vehicles in delivering value for consumers, even with gas prices relatively flat."

For the month of December the Toyota Prius, Saturn Vue hybrid, GMC Sierra hybrid, and Chevy Silverado hybrid were Best Deals.

Likewise, the Prius, the Mercury Mariner hybrid, and the GMC Sierra hybrid are also 'Best Overall Values' regardless of month.

New cobalt mine hints at increased hybrid production

Hybrids good for Idaho

Canada's Formation Metals Inc is set to begin operations that should lead to a major cobalt mine in Idaho.

Currently, 27 percent of Cobalt is used in battery technologies, including hybrid cars and some plug-in hybrids.

In the past environmental issues have prevented much new cobalt mining in the US. However, by working with environmental groups in the area and guaranteeing money for pollution mitigation and watershed protection, Formation Metals was able to secure approval from these groups.

Fusion hybrid, Prius: Two of the best engines of 2010

It's not just about the battery

According to Wards, two hybrid cars offered the best engines for 2010. The 2.5L DOHC Inline-4 Hybrid, found in the Ford Fusion hybrid was 4th. The 1.8L DOHC Inline-4 Hybrid found in the Toyota Prius was 9th.

Hyundai planning diesel hybrids

Blue Drive or a mild hybrid powertrain?

Sometime in 2011 Hyundai plans to produce a small number of electric cars, but the automaker believes it will be at least another 5 or 6 years after before EVs are produced in any meaningful numbers. Thus, Hyundai plans on adding diesel hybrid vehicles to its hybrid portfolio, in addition to gasoline and liquefied petroleum gas hybrids.

Currently, the only officially planned hybrid for the US market is the Sonata hybrid.

Suzuki hybrids based on VW technology?

Better off with GM technology?

Not long ago it seemed as if Suzuki hybrids based upon GM hybrid technology was a done deal. Of course, with GM shedding brands and executives like a furry dog heading into summer, technology partnerships might have been too much of a distraction for both companies. Likewise, GM still needs to prove that any of its hybrid technology can be cost-effectively viable.

Hence, it's not much of surprise that Suzuki would look for other technology partnerships. Nonetheless, it does seem a bit of a surprise that Suzuki and VW would hook up on hybrid vehicles considering that VW has yet to sell a hybrid in the US. Hence VW's technology might just be as ineffective as was GM's BAS hybrid powertrain.

Of course, perhaps Suzuki needed any partner. Or, even better, perhaps Suzuki received an inside look at VW's hybrid technology and liked what they saw. Hopefully, it's the later, as a little more serious hybrid competition is certainly in order.

A few new details on the Honda CR-Z hybrid

The production version of the CR-Z hybrid?

A Japanese Honda CR-Z hybrid brochure has apparently leaked onto the Internet. According to the brochure, the CR-Z hybrid will go from 0 - 62 in about 9.7 seconds.

Additionally, MotorTrend speculates that the CR-Z hybrid will be slightly less fuel efficient than the Honda Insight due to "a little more displacement".

California cities battle to lure Tesla

And the EV wars are on, kind of

Just when it seemed the city of Downey, CA was a shoe-in to become the next electric vehicle assembly plant for Tesla, Long Beach stepped up the stakes.

A few weeks ago, Tesla and Downey appeared to agree on a $8.9 million deal to set up an assembly plant.

Yesterday, however, the city of Long Beach approved a plan to offer Tesla $28 million to build an assembly plant in that city.

Will it all come down to the Benjamins?

Ford seeks tax credits to begin EV battery production

The Ford Focus EV

If Ford can acquire about $120 million in state funding from Michigan, the automaker will invest up to $500 million to develop batteries for its EVs in the state while hiring up to 1,000 workers.

If the future of the automobile is the battery, it seems Michigan has no choice but to acquiesce to Ford's demands if keeping Ford in Michigan is job one.

Fusion hybrid, Prius: Consumer Reports Buy Again Vehicles

Would you buy your car again?

Every year Consumer Reports asks its subscribers if they would buy their car again.

Pretty much every year, the Toyota Prius is one of the top 'buy again' vehicles, as it was again this year, coming in at number 5. But the Prius wasn't the top hybrid on this year's list.

Coming in at number 2 was the Ford Fusion hybrid.

Perhaps that helps explain why the Prius and the Fusion hybrid are the top two selling hybrid cars in the US?

VW UP electric car coming to US market

The UP Lite at the LA Auto Show

There aren't many details, but it has been reported that an EV version of the UP, based closely on the UP Lite concept version pictured in this post, is coming to the US market. Early word suggests the new EV will be called the Space UP! Blue.

US hybrid sales can't top 3 percent market share

Fusion hybrid sales up 73 percent

Compared to last year, this year's November hybrid vehicle auto sales were up 21 percent. Still, total new car market share was only 2.7 percent for hybrid cars.

Almost half of all hybrids sold were Toyota Prius hybrids, and almost three-quarters of all hybrids sold were made by Toyota.

The only real bright spot outside of Toyota was the Ford Fusion hybrid with 2,361 total units sold. For comparison the similarly-sized Toyota Camry hybrid sold 1,465 units. However, the Prius sold 9,617 units.

15 percent of Americans support gas tax increase

For most Americans an increased gas tax is a bridge to nowhere

Congress has plans to spend some $500 billion in road, bridge and transit projects. Unfortunately, current gas taxes are insufficient to fund these projects according to Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. So, he and others have floated around the idea of an increase in gasoline taxes to fund these projects.

Hence, Rasmussen Reports conducted a national telephone survey to determine if there was support for such a tax increase. 15 percent of Americans said yes. Instead of raising the tax, most respondents would prefer that the government cut back on its transportation projects.

Toyota Prius still tops Japanese auto sales

7th Month in a Row

The Toyota Prius is again the best selling vehicle in Japan, as it has been for the last 7 months. In fact, one of every ten vehicles sold in Japan is a Prius. Overall, Toyota sold 26,815 Prius hybrids in November.

The Honda Insight came in at 5th at 9,413 units.

In the last year or so there have been some studies regarding the inability of tax credits to help move hybrid cars. Perhaps that's the case in Canada, but it certainly isn't the case in Japan.

8,000 to 60,000 Volts per year

Are you feeling lucky?

Today, as expected, GM announced its investment of $336 million to upgrade its Detroit-Hamtramck assembly plant for production of the Chevy Volt, bringing GM's total Volt investment to $700 million.

While greats news for Volt fans, you'll have to be pretty lucky if you want to buy a Volt when it goes on sale in late 2010. According to the DetroitNews, GM will produce 8,000 Volts in 2011 and eventually increase production to as many as 60,000 Volts per year.

EPA: Greenhouses gases must be regulated

CO2 a danger to human health

The EPA is set to an provide an endangerment finding on CO2 and other greenhouse gas emissions. With an endangerment finding President Obama can set targets for greenhouse gas reductions without the approval of Congress. Thus, as the President heads into Copenhagen for a world wide conference on global warming he'll be able to assert that he has the authority to achieve drastic cuts in global warming emissions.

When did Toyota pull the plug on plug-in hybrids?

Toyota the plug-in naysayer?

During a period of more than 3 years Toyota tested about 150 lithium-powered plug-in Prius hybrids - a fleet still larger than GM's current Chevy Volt fleet - logging more than 1 million real world miles in almost every type of driving condition imaginable. The lithium batteries used proved safe and reliable, but still cost-ineffective.

Next month, Toyota will produce another 350 plug-in hybrids, followed by another 150 early next year, for further testing. This time however, the goal isn't based on safety and reliability. Instead, Toyota's new goal is to provide the most cost-effective plug-in hybrid package based on real world driving needs and conditions.

Over the last few years Toyota has claimed that they would produce plug-in hybrids as soon as the technology was ready, and for Toyota 'ready' means cost-effective in addition to safe and reliable. Coincidentally, Toyota knows a little something about the cost-effectiveness of new technologies.

Today, about 70 - 80 percent of new car customers are interested in purchasing hybrid cars, a segment dominated by Toyota. With such high interest, why is market share still only about 3 percent? According to consumer surveys it all boils down to costs, and consumer surveys on plug-in hybrids tell a similar story.

So, why is Toyota bashed for stating the obvious?

Finish: When did Toyota pull the plug on plug-in hybrids?

Fisker beginning to look like the real deal

Its not really about the Karma

Initial production of the Karma plug-in hybrid is sold out. So, if you desire a Karma or Sunset hybrid, you'll have to wait until 2011, when Fisker will begin producing 15,000 of these plug-in hybrid vehicles per year.

But that isn't really what Fisker is about.

By mid-2012, Fisker intends to use all of its Karma to begin production on Project Nina. Sure, that wouldn't be very big news if Fisker was only planning on producing just 15-20,000 Nina hybrids per year.

But, again, that isn't what Fisker is about. Instead, Fisker plans on producing 100,000 Nina plug-in hybrid vehicles.

100,000 vehicles with 50 miles of EV range and another 250 miles of hybrid range?! Are you kidding me? If Fisker can achieve that by mid-2012, it might just become the greatest automotive story ever.

Subaru Tourer Hybrid confirmed for 2012

Boxer hybrids are inevitable

Not really breaking news, but still nice to hear that the Subaru Tourer Hybrid concept will be developed into a production vehicle.

Obviously the futuristic styling will probably be toned down a bit - I'm sure the winged doors won't last. Still, this vehicle is about one thing: mating the Subaru Boxer engine with a hybrid drive.

Too bad we have to wait until 2012 for this reality. Nonetheless, Subaru hybrid vehicles are coming.

I think I love the Converj

Volt's bigger, better little brother

Not much green action so far today. Ran into Adam Carolla checking out the new Cadillac Converj, GM's luxury version of the Chevy Volt. For all you KROQ'ers, I gave a shout out to Mr.Bertram!

Anyway, I know the Converj isn't a car for the masses. It never will be, regardless of how well Voltec costs scale. Still, this is an impressive package.

I can't help but want one. I think I'll start saving my pennies now, or better yet, my lunch money. Shoot, I might even give up my beer money.

Sure, the Volt has more long term potential, but in the short term I can't find any reason why the Converj couldn't completely dominate the luxury plug in market.

Green Car of the Year

Hybrids shut out again

A clean diesel vehicle has again taken the LA Auto Show's Green Car of the Year Award. This year the award went to the Audi A3 TDI.

PX-MiEV Plug-in hybrid concept

A whole new take on the MiEV, the PX-MiEV plug-in hybrid concept

Mitsubishi's first electric vehicles will hit the American market in 2011. Hopefully, that will include the very interesting PX-MiEV plug-in hybrid.

The PX is a plug-in series hybrid, or a plug-in parallel hybrid; a two-wheel drive hybrid or a four-wheel drive hybrid. It's all about your current driving conditions. Smart, very smart.

Now, can it be cost-effective?

Audi e-tron

Cool car that most can't afford

What can you say? Luxury vehicles aren't for most of us, regardless of their powertrain. Still, any automaker's green efforts should be embraced to some extent, right?

Honda cracks open the p-nut concept

Honda's urban vision

The Honda P-NUT concept is one of those concepts that seems both ahead of its time, and just in time.

The P-NUT is an urban commuting vehicle with an usual seating configuration - a perfect vehicle for those regular single person commutes, but with the ability to transport three.

Ready for a conventional powertrain, a hybrid drive, or an all battery configuration, the P-NUT seems a pretty crazy idea. But if gas prices keep rising and cities become even more congested, it just my work.

Hyundai Sonata hybrid confirmed

Still on track

Despite a few rumors to the contrary, the Sonata hybrid is still proceeding according to plans from Hyundai at the LA Auto Show.

Is Toyota hybrid complacent?

All about the Sienna today

Well, the new Sienna minivan will offer a fuel efficient 4-cylinder version next year. That's good news, but how about some new hybrid hype?

Rumors of new Prius-based hybrids, for instance, have been floating around for years. Why not step it up? This the LA Auto Show, the green showcase, for crying out loud.

Early next year Toyota will put 500 plug in Prius hybrids on the road, months before GM begins production. That's not news?

Is Toyota afraid? Embarrassed? Why so hybrid complacent?

Can GM take it to the next level?

Unprecedented green movement

GM showed off, of course, the Chevy Volt and the Chevy Cruze today. Not a lot of new, groundbreaking info regarding the Volt, although yesterday I learned that the Volt is more aerodynamic than both the Toyota Prius and the Honda Insight.

The Chevy Cruze looks like a real winner.

Overall GM's big message was its commitment to green technologies. Sounds great in theory, but can GM turn this theory into reality? For instance, can GM become a fleet fuel economy leader, rather than pulling up the rear as it does today?

VW Up Lite clean diesel hybrid

70 mpg

Pretty hot looking diesel hybrid concept from VW. Unfortunately, if this hybrid goes into production, it won't be until at least 2012.

I cannot help but ask, what is VW waiting for?

The need for global performance based standards

And the LA Auto Show opens

Pretty interesting opening remarks by the Auto Alliance and GM's Bob Lutz.

While claiming that no US industry is doing more than the auto industry on global warming, a performance-based global standard is now required that is not technologically-based as technology is too unpredictable.

Like the new CAFE standards, this sounds smart, but will the standard be robust enough? Or is this need for a global standard more of a delay tactic?

Small, Toyota Prius-fighting GM hybrids still a possibility

GM's hybrid story still developing

Sure, the Chevy Volt is the poster child for GM's clean and green efforts. And, even though GM doesn't like to call the Volt a hybrid, the Volt is also GM's marquee hybrid. But that doesn't mean GM's hybrid story is anywhere near the end.

Yesterday, I learned that GM isn't just redeveloping its upcoming lithium-powered BAS hybrid drive, nor just downsizing its dual mode hybrid powertrain for small SUVs, such as the phased out Saturn Vue. In fact, according to sources inside the General, GM is also working on a new hybrid drive derived from the dual mode drive, but redeveloped for small vehicles, including 4 cylinder cars.

Of course, it's possible that such a hybrid drive will never hit the market. Still, the possibility of small GM hybrid cars that could directly compete with the Toyota Prius is a positive sign. Always good to have your eggs in a few different baskets.

Chevy Volt EV range and fuel economy updated, Part II

38 mpg in the city?

Earlier this week Edmunds.com suggested a few new things about the Chevy Volt that I covered in Chevy Volt EV range and fuel economy updated. First, Edmunds claimed that the Chevy Volt, once EV range expires, would only achieve about 38 mpg. Second, Edmunds claimed that for the average driver - 15,000 miles per year - the Volt would cost about the same as a 59 mpg vehicle to fuel per year.

Earlier today I was at a GM sponsored media event and I brought these issues up to some GM reps. I was told that the numbers put forth by Edmunds are pure speculation.

Of course, that doesn't mean that Edmunds isn't necessarily speculating up the right tree. Only reality will tell. Anyway, this is an angle I'm hoping to further pursue in the next couple of days at the LA Auto Show.

Chevy Volt, Cruze update

I'm getting ready for a Chevy Volt update.

No one is here.

Either I've been moved to the B group, or things have really changed at GM when it comes to marketing outreach.

Anyway, pretty angry at how my new Droid phone is working since it will be my main publishing tool at the LA Auto Show

Chevy Volt for California only in 2010

Can it shock the the Golden State?

The Chevy Volt should meet its late 2010 production date, however, the Volt will only be available for sale in California until sometime in 2011.

Overall, seems like a fairly smart move. California is the by far leading state for the purchase of hybrid cars.

Hybrid Leadership: Why not from BMW?

BMW's Efficient Dynamics Vision plug-in hybrid

On the eve of press days for the LA Auto Show, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger used a press conference to push his - and California's - vision of a new, cleaner and greener future.

And what better vision forward than the BMW Vision plug-in hybrid? 31 miles of EV range coupled with a total range of 431 miles sounds like a smart vision forward for BMW.

Obviously, the Vision is not a car for the masses. BMWs aren't cars far the masses. In fact, the Vision will probably never become a reality, however, its plug-in hybrid architecture sure could.

Still, it's BMW, right? What do they care about fuel economy?

Well, surprisingly, BMW's fleet is actually significantly more fuel efficient than any Big 3 fleet.

Besides, plug-in vehicles are going to be expensive to start, so BMW plug-in hybrids seem like a perfect fit. In fact, any BMW hybrid seem a very smart move. Inevitably, if people are going to spend a lot of money buying BMW vehicles over the next decade, what's wrong with making as many of those sales as possible hybrid sales?

Small car blitz at LA Show: Too little too late?

The Chevy Cruze

Tomorrow I'll be attending press days at the LA Auto Show, and the big theme at this year's show is once again 'green'. This year, however, things are a bit different than past years. Instead of hybrid cars or clean diesel vehicles, the path to green is small cars, particularly a number of new offerings from the Big 3.

While this is great news, I cannot help but wonder, is this too little, too late?

Toyota and Honda have always done a pretty good job selling small cars in the US, and they will probably continue to do well. However, both automakers have hinted that smaller, cheaper hybrids will be critical to their future small car plans.

For now certainly the Chevy Cruze, for instance, will sell. Still, a semi-loaded automatic version of the Cruze will probably list for $18,000 - $20,000. But, what happens if Toyota can sell a slightly smaller Prius for around the same price, or if Honda can sell an even cheaper Honda Fit hybrid?

Without question, the Big 3 should proceed with their small car plans. Nonetheless, are the Big 3 avoiding small hybrids today much the same way they avoided small cars in general for the last few decades? Ultimately, aren't the Big 3 simply chasing the small car US segment when they instead should be showing some real leadership and vision in this segment?

Fusion hybrid: A Car and Driver 10 Best for 2010

Safe, fun and efficient

The Ford Fusion hybrid continues to impress, becoming just the second hybrid to make Car and Drivers 2010 Ten Best Cars list.

"CAR and DRIVER is always looking for those cars that are most engaging to drive, and in our experience the Ford Fusion Hybrid is the first hybrid vehicle that really delivers a fun driving experience," said Eddie Alterman, editor-in-chief, CAR and DRIVER.