What will Ford's second generation hybrid powertrain offer?

While Ford has scaled back some hybrid vehicle plans, at least in the short term, the company is not ending its hybrid technology investment. In fact, Ford will be displaying its second generation hybrid powertrain at the Los Angeles Auto Show this week. The new powertrain will be displayed in a 2008 Ford Escape hybrid.

Toyota made huge gains in efficiency and power with its second generation hybrid drive compared to its first generation drive. As a result the Toyota Prius sent a notice to every automaker - the hybrids are coming, the hybrids are coming.

Could the second generation Ford hybrid powertrain provide a similar lift to the Escape hybrid or another Ford hybrid?

Perhaps.

Still, the next major revolution in hybrid technology might be dependant upon batteries, and those batteries - almost certainly lithium-ion batteries - might still be 3 to 4 years away from mass production viability. Even then, however, there might still be significant production limitations.

It will be interesting to see how Ford plays this angle. Will the second generation hybrid powertrain be optimized for both the current NiMH batteries and lithium-ion batteries? Is a plug-in option a possibility?

We'll soon find out.

Big 3 CEOs and President conclude meeting

The meeting between the President and the CEO's of the Big Three has ended. I watched a short post-meeting interview the Big 3 CEO's gave, which focused on three issues: ethanol, trade policy and healthcare. Overall currency issues dominated the question and answer session, followed by healthcare; however, GM's Rick Wagoner opened the interview with the statement that the Big 3 were ready to offer 50% of their vehicles as flex-fuel vehicles by 2012. It seemed obvious that Wagoner was trying to hammer home the point that the Big was doing their part (Of course you have to believe that E85 alone is a game changer for the industry) to counter the President's previous 'build relevant vehicles' statement.

All three CEO's said the meeting went extremely well. While Wagoner admitted that the President didn't agree with every point made by the Big 3, Ford's CEO Alan Mulally added that he was very impressed with President's knowledge of the issues and the quality of the dialogue while also noting that he felt the Bush administration was a "very supportive administration" - almost countering the pre-meeting politicking by Michigan Democrats.

Although Wagoner hogged the mic., I was very impressed with Mulally's optimism when he did speak. Mulally concluded the interview by answering a question that the auto industry did not expect a government bailout, and that the industry needed to do a lot more to build more fuel efficient vehicles that consumers want.

Ford to focus on fuel efficiency

Ford is set to focus on fuel efficiency.

Yeah, we've heard this before. Ford is going to lead the environmental revolution in the automotive world! One month Ford is going to produce 250,000 hybrids by 2010, the next month they've already given up.

Still, Ford's new CEO, Alan Mulally is worth believing - for now.

In his job at Boeing, Mulally was a follower of the Toyota Production System. Moreover, Mulally believes that higher fuel prices and global oil demand are the most important dynamics facing the automotive field heading into the future. Consequently, Mulally told the Automotive News that "So clearly, designing and building cars that people really like and that are going to be useful for their lives but also continue to improve (fuel) efficiency is what I think is going to be the most important thing."

While it seems obvious that fuel efficiency is becoming significantly more important, the ability to compete and profit as we enter into this new automotive world is easier said, than done. Hopefully, Mulally can find the right path.

Speaking of the right path.

It would be nice if the Big 3 were a little more focused on how to be more fuel efficient when they meet with the President on Tuesday, rather than focusing on health care and trade issues. It's sort of ironic that Ford's CEO is showing up in a Ford Escape hybrid and GM's CEO in a Saturn Vue hybrid, yet both automakers are getting their asses kicked in the hybrid vehicle segment.

It wasn't but just a couple of years ago when GM execs regularly ridiculed hybrids. Perhaps, if the Big 3 had been more focused on automaking the last few decades, rather than on financing and lobbying, they wouldn't be facing such hard times. Neither health care nor trade issues caused the hybrid lag in Detroit - that was pure corporate incompetence.

Toyota's huge hybrid vehicle mistake?

When it comes to hybrid vehicles, Toyota is the undisputed king. The Toyota Prius is by far the world's best selling hybrid, and Toyota offers the largest lineup of hybrids of any automaker.

Still, I think Toyota might have played its hybrid hand a bit better, or maybe there is a kink in Toyota's hybrid vehicle chain?

With low gas prices, sales of pick-up trucks are picking up, and GM and Ford are leading the way. This is one vehicle segment that American automakers understand well, and it is the most important vehicle segment for American automakers.

Consequently, Toyota's recent advertising campaign for its trucks has really surprised me, but not in a good way. Apparently, Toyota trucks are so tough that neither the Loch Ness Monster nor even a meteorite could damage one.

Please! Is Toyota serious? Is this how Toyota is going to challenge Ford and GM trucks?

Toyota, I believe, has to take a completely different approach, and I think a hybrid truck would have been the perfect buzz creator. For instance, imagine how easy it would be to attack the Chevy Silverado hybrid with a Toyota full hybrid truck - the emissions and fuel economy comparisons would be a joke.

Sure, hybrid trucks aren't going to outsell conventional trucks. Still, focusing on Toyota's hybrid trucks could bring a lot of buzz to all Toyota trucks, just as the Prius has driven much positive PR to all Toyota vehicles.

So, why isn't Toyota acting? Instead of a hybrid truck, Toyota has resorted to cheezy commercials?

Is Toyota's hybrid powertrain insufficient for some truck duties, such as towing a boat or camper? Is this a kink in Toyota's hybrid powertrain? Will GM's dual mode hybrid powertrain handle these tasks better?

Many might believe that truck drivers are nothing but a bunch of good ole boys - don't believe in global warming, don't tell them what to drive. While some might fit this profile, I bet a bunch of 'em fully believe in the dangers of foreign oil dependency and would be very open to hybrid trucks.

Toyota could have framed a new debate around hybrid trucks, Americanism and foreign oil dependency. Moreover, I'd bet they could have sold as many hybrid trucks as hybrid Highlanders, and considering the importance of the truck segment, wouldn't a hybrid truck have been worth a try?

Civic and Escape hybrid sales up big in October

Sales of the Honda Civic hybrid were up 890% in October compared to October 2005, reaching 2,288 units sold. The Ford Escape hybrid and the Mariner hybrid hit 1,602 units combined, up 30.6% compared to October 2005. The sales of all other hybrid vehicles were down in October 2006 compared to October 2005.

So what is the story? Why are sales of the Toyota Prius, for example, down while the Civic hybrid is up? Or why are sales of the Highlander hybrid down, while sales of the Escape hybrid are up?

Well, I'd bet it all comes down to tax incentives. October was the first month that tax incentives for Toyota hybrids were cut in half.

While Prius sales were down about 12%, Toyota still sold 8,733 of the hybrid vehicles - far more than Honda's Civic hybrid. Nonetheless, it will be interesting to see what happens over the next couple of months. If gas prices begin to again go up, I think Prius sales will be fine despite the lower tax incentive. If gas prices remain stable, this downward trend might continue.

(Source: Green Car Congress)

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

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

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

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

Hybrid Interest down 10% in Q3 according to Autobytel

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

(Source: Autobytel)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(EPA)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good work, ladies and gentlemen!

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

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

Escape hybrid recall

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

(Source: LATimes)

Have you seen Ford's Reflex hybrid vehicle ad?

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

Mazda Tribute hybrid built on new hybrid technology?

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

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

(Source: Straightline)

Mariner hybrid wins inaugural Intellichoice Award

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

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

(Source: Ford Blog)

2008 Mercury Mariner hybrid to debut today

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

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

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

(Full Detroit News Story)

Clean diesel versus hybrid technology: A stupid debate

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

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

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

Yes, even European automakers are buying into hybrid technology.

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

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

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

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

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

Hummers are far more important than foreign oil dependency.

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

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

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

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

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

Hybrids are "basis" for fuel cells

"The hybrid is the basis," said Robert Stempel, chairman and CEO of Energy Conversion Devices Inc., which develops batteries used in hybrid cars. "It gets the electric drive on the vehicle. Once you have the electric drive there, then you really don't care if you have the gasoline engine or diesel or fuel cells. The key is that electric drive." (more)

So, why haven't American automakers been more bullish on hybrid vehicles? If hybrids help create the necessary powertrain for fuel cell vehicles, doesn't hybrid production ultimately help reduce the costs for fuel cell production? Moreover, other fuel cell makers have argued that plug-in fuel cell hybrid vehicles could also speed fuel cell development by enabling smaller - thus cheaper - fuel cells to help power the vehicle.

Are American automakers really going to compete in the world auto market by focusing on alternative fuels?

I say technology is the only answer, and it seems American automakers are already missing the boat. C'mon GM and Ford, it's OUR future! Give us foreign-oil dependency, fuel cell investing American-made hybrid vehicles and ask those jackasses in Washington to help foot the bill.

Cheaper gas and the death of hybrid cars?

Will cheaper gas lead to the death of hybrid cars?

Currently, gas prices are down some 30 cents and could even reach $2.00 by Thanksgiving. Additionally, the Toyota Prius hybrid, the best-selling hybrid vehicle by far, will soon only qualify for half its current tax deduction.

Of course the reduced tax deduction won't just affect the Prius, but all Toyota hybrids. So, how will this affect Toyota hybrid vehicle sales?

Obviously, cheaper gas and less incentives probably aren't going to lead to greater Toyota hybrid sales.

Still, I think hybrid sales will march on, but without tax incentives Toyota sales will almost certainly take a hit. Then again, I don't think Toyota expected such interest in hybrids in the first place - at least not this soon.

Nonetheless, considering the billions given to oil companies, farmers and ethanol producers, its a shame more tax credits aren't available for Toyota hybrids. If GM or Ford were the leading hybrid producer, would tax credits still be running out?

Hybrids only 9% more efficient than regular vehicles?

Are hybrid vehicles only 9% more fuel efficient than conventional vehicles? That's what J.D. Power claims, according to the Detroit News. While noting that interest in hybrids is growing, J.D. claims that hybrid buyers have unrealistic expectations in terms of performance.

While I agree that some buyers have unrealistic expectations, I have to question the 9% figure. Other studies have claimed the same, but those studies were done using track testing. For the majority of drivers, track testing is about as accurate for gauging real world fuel economy as are EPA estimates of hybrids.

Moreover, saying 'hybrids' are only 9% more efficient than conventional models is completely deceptive. For example, some hybrids were not produced to achieve the highest fuel efficiency possible. The Honda Accord hybrid, for example, is really a performance hybrid, though it achieves excellent fuel mileage for that performance. The same is largely true of both the Lexus RX400h and the Toyota Highlander hybrid, though these vehicles are - for their class - more fuel efficient than the Accord hybrid.

In terms of fuel efficiency, both the Ford Escape hybrid and the Toyota Prius hybrid, are the two hybrids most designed for fuel economy. While the Civic hybrid is a very fuel efficient vehicle as well, so to is the standard Civic. Additionally, the Civic hybrid doesn't offer as much electric assist as the hybrid Escape or Prius.

Consequently, comparing some hybrids is about as accurate as comparing apples to oranges. Thus, averaging their fuel economy is completely useless.

Even worse, if the Silverado hybrid was also included in the 'hybrid class' by J.D., then the results are completely skewed against hybrid fuel efficiency. The Silverado hybrid isn't even a mild hybrid in my book. In fact, its not even a hybrid in my book.

Consequently, the class of current hybrid vehicles are actually a very diverse group of vehicles. To average their fuel economy is misleading at best and, ultimately, deceptive. Studies by both Consumer Reports and Edmunds very much call into question the number, 9%.

Some hybrids are more fuel efficient than other hybrids. Some hybrids offer more power than other hybrids. Some hybrids perform better on highways compared to other hybrids, and some hybrids perform better in urban slow-and-go or stop-and-go traffic than other hybrids. Inevitably, hybrid fuel efficiency can ONLY be assessed vehicle by vehicle. Even then, two different drivers of the same hybrid can still achieve vastly different outcomes.

So, don't take this 9% very seriously. It might be true for some hybrids, but it certainly isn't true for all hybrids. If you want to read more about real world fuel economy from real world hybrid drivers, check out these hybrid testimonials.

The Ford Escape hybrid versus the Saturn Vue mild hybrid

Over the last couple of months several people have challenged my view that the Ford Escape hybrid is a better hybrid than GM's Saturn Vue mild hybrid. In particular they claim the Escape hybrid's more expensive hybrid technology isn't justified by its real world gas mileage. Just this morning I responded to such a blog entry.

Escape hybrid versus Saturn Vue hybrid

Isn't it ironic? GOP tells Detroit 'Drop Dead'

I like Daniel Howes of the Detroit News, but I think he wrote an absolutely ridiculous article, Top GOP leaders sending message to Big 3: Drop dead.

"But meet with Detroit's automakers? Nah, why should the president care whether U.S.-owned automakers, burdened by fierce foreign competition and cumulative decisions that threaten to swamp them, are fighting for their collective lives? Instead, key Republicans and the White House are reprising President Ford's message to New York back in the mid-'70s: "Drop dead."

Wow! So, was it Democrats that have protected Detroit's fuel inefficiency for decades? Was it Democrats that forever blocked increased fuel economy standards? Was it Democrats that protected SUVs for decades?

Give me a break, Daniel. If not for Republicans preventing the Carter administration from ending the SUV craze, before it even started, Detroit would already be a very different place.

Detroit should have realized that cheap gas couldn't last forever - that warning bell has been ringing, quite loudly, for decades. Sure the auto industry is important for America, but not at the expense of our National Security. America is literally spending trillions of dollars to maintain cheap oil.

Screw the unions, screw trade barriers. It all comes down to product. Ultimately, GM and Ford blew it. The first hybrid cars should have been American, without question. No country has more to gain by increasing fuel efficiency. More important, if fuel cells are the holy grail for Detroit, then hybrids make fuel cells happen sooner.

I say Detroit should drop dead until it starts acting like an American company - you know - a company that fights for freedom, not increased foreign oil dependency.

Prius, Escape hybrid break even in 3 years

According to a study by Edmunds.com, many hybrid cars now pay for themselves over time. For example, both the Toyota Prius and the Ford Escape hybrid can pay for themselves in just 3 years when gas is $3.00 and you drive at least 15,000 miles per year. Additionally, the Saturn Vue, Camry hybrid and Civic hybrid will pay for themselves in 6 years.

Of course, good things never last. Because tax credits for hybrid cars are capped at 60,000 vehicles per manufacturer, the full tax credit for the Prius and other Toyota hybrids, will only be available until Sept. 30. After that time, Toyota hybrid buyers will only qualify for half the tax credit.

As for the other hybrid vehicles, you still have plenty of time.

The Best Hybrid Vehicle

So, you think the Toyota Prius is the best hybrid vehicle, or maybe you like the styling of the Honda Civic hybrid?

Maybe you only like SUVs and so you believe the Ford Escape hybrid is the best hybrid available?

Well, unfortunately, the best hybrid vehicle simply isn't being produced.

So, what would it take to create the best hybrid? In a word, a plug. (Finished in Comments)

E85 versus hybrid cars, AGAIN!

I have not been a big fan of E85 or Flex-fuel vehicles. If you are a consumer that has such a vehicle, and regularly fills up with E85, I applaud you. However, I DO NOT applaud either GM or Ford for flex fuel technology. For many years this technology was simply used to violate CAFE, and I seriously doubt that a line of Flex Fuel Hummers or Tahoes is really going to help the world.

If GM was installing this inexpensive technology in all vehicles, especially their small cars, I'd be a little more supportive. Nonetheless, the potential of ethanol driven from cellulose is definitely worth further investigation.

Still, I do not believe ethanol offers anywhere near a complete solution to America's oil and/or fuel problems.

For decades, the idea of a war for clean water has been gaining steam and even the Pentagon has alluded to such a possibility. Further, a new report by the WWF environmental organization, for example, warns that many First World cities are already facing serious water shortages and the problem is only expected to get worse -much worse - and significant blame belongs to agriculture. (more)

In the very near future, clean water could be worth more than oil, yet vast amounts of water will be required to irrigate and process our ethanol crops. And, what about the pollution from chemical fertilizers and other pesticides that will run off into our ever more important aquifers, lakes and rivers? Is it really worth it?

Certainly, ethanol is an interesting resource to explore, but if automotive companies only focus on fuel, rather than significantly better designed and significantly more fuel efficient vehicles, such as hybrid cars, ethanol addiction could easily lead to as many problems as foreign oil dependency.

NY Times gives props to Escape hybrid

"The most pleasant and unexpected surprise was my mileage. I didn’t baby the Escape or try to coax high mileage from it, yet I had no trouble achieving — even exceeding — the E.P.A. estimates."

That was just part of the praise that Jerry Garrett gave to the Ford Escape hybrid in a recent NY Times article. While Garrett hasn't been a huge proponent of hybrid cars, he definitely gives the Escape hybrid a nice review. (More)

Reliability of hybrid cars: Check out the fleets

According to CNN Money, hybrid cars in fleet use, such as the Ford Escape Hybrid and the Toyota Prius Hybrid have now gone "hundreds of thousands" of miles without any battery problems. (More)

Ford's hybrid vehicle plans still very alive, 70 mpg Focus

Ford is planning to invest almost $2 billion dollars to develop hybrid cars in Britain. According to reports, Ford hopes to build a 70 mpg Focus hybrid at the new hybrid production plant.

Surprise, Surprise? Ford Breaks Hybrid Promises

Not long ago Ford stated that hybrid cars were an important technology for the company and that 250,000 Ford hybrids would be produced by 2010. While, Toyota has already far surpassed that number, less than a year after that historic and bold announcement, Ford has already given up on the plan.

Instead of hybrids, Ford is now promising 500,000 flex fuel vehicles by 2010. "What I didn't foresee at the time was how rapidly other technologies would evolve," he wrote. "Now, I am convinced that the objective we had set earlier to build capacity for 250,000 hybrids at the end of the decade is too narrow to achieve our larger goals of substantially improving fuel economy and CO2 performance." (MORE)

Is the end of Ford near? I say it is. By 2010 Toyota will probably be close to selling more than 1 million hybrid cars per year, more than twice the number of significantly cheaper flex-fuel vehicles that Ford will produce. Quite simply Ford can't compete.

Ford Expedition hybrid, with leased GM hybrid technology?

Ford has announced that is working on a hybrid version of the Ford Expedition, apparently, in an attempt to compete against GM's Tahoe hybrid, Yukon hybrid, and Chrysler's Durango hybrid. In fact, there is some speculation that Ford might even lease GM's Dual Mode hybrid powertrain (more).

While I understand that there are a number of Americans that essentially demand large trucks and SUVs, where are the Big 3's hybrid cars? The Big 3 simply aren't going to survive in the future if Detroit can't build top selling fuel efficient cars in addition to huge SUVs. It is hard to take Detroit's hybrid efforts seriously until they come up with a hybrid to challenge the Toyota Prius.

Hybrid Vehicle Technology Spawning Innovation, Competition

Back in the 90's the Big 3 were given a billion tax dollars to develop the next generation of fuel efficient technologies. They developed hybrid cars and electric cars, but Detroit quickly decided that such vehicles just weren't profitable enough.

Japan, on the other hand, showed a bit more vision and determination, eventually producing the Honda Insight hybrid, followed by the Toyota Prius hybrid. Still, things didn't really get going until the 2nd Generation Prius, which quickly became a hot seller and put hybrids on America's radar.

Now Detroit is finally taking the hybrid game seriously - at least a little bit.

While Ford has stated that it firmly believes in the future of hybrid cars, GM has continued to state that hybrid vehicles are little more than a public relations effort. Nonetheless, GM and Chrysler are developing hybrids - of course their hybrid technology is, ultimately, better for trucks and highway driving, rather than the congestion that is predicted to be a major problem in the next couple of decades.

Moreover, the Army recently announced a program converting Ford Escape hybrids into hydrogen hybrids, and there are also Prii running on hydrogen. Suddenly, the 'hydrogen highway' might not require fuel cells at all, rather just current hybrid vehicle technology. Besides, if fuel cells do become cost-effective, most engineers believe that fuel cell automobiles will be fuel cell hybrid vehicles.

But back to today's technology.

Even far different hybrid technology, such as a hydraulic hybrid, is being developed and tested right now. For example, UPS is testing a diesel hydraulic hybrid this year. Hydraulic hybrids offer significant fuel economy improvements without the high costs of electric motors, hybrid batteries and software.

Single mode hybrids, dual mode hybrids, hydrogen hybrids, hydraulic hybrids - suddenly, oil dependence seems more manageable.

Recently, I read the article, Energy policy without the fear factor that states, "We cannot continue to go the way we've been going. It is not a matter of "car guys'' versus "tree huggers,'' liberals versus conservatives, truck lovers versus truck haters. It is an acknowledgment that, if we as a global community fail to examine and answer "What if?'' and refuse to accept or implement the changes required by the answers, the question may answer itself.....And the answer could be one none of us could live with."

Today's hybrids are not just the beginning of an automotive revolution, but a technological evolution. When we believe we can do more, a funny thing happens, we find out we can. Suddenly, utopian dreams aren't so utopian when the power of technology is used to benefit people, rather than just profit from people.

"What if" we dare to dream is a great question. 'Why not dare to dream', I think, is an even better one with today's technology.

New York City adding MORE hybrid taxis

Can hybrid cars save money, many ask. Yes, especially if you are a New York taxi driver. Many hybrid vehicles, such as the Ford Escape hybrid or the Toyota Prius hybrid, often achieve far better results in the WORST driving conditions. Consequently, in New York City, hybrid taxis can "get double the gas mileage of traditional cabs and generate less pollution" (more). Since congestion is the norm for most American drivers and congestion is predicted to increase significantly in the next few decades, shouldn't the fuel economy standard be focused on city driving, not highway driving?

Army: Forget fuel cells for now, hydrogen hybrids are better

Because of the cost barriers around fuel cells, the U.S. Army is working with Quantum Technologies to convert today's hybrid cars into hydrogen hybrid cars. Currently, the project is using the Ford Escape hybrid platform. Since most engineers believe fuel cell vehicles will be hybrid vehicles, I wonder if Bob Lutz still thinks that hybrids don't make business sense?(More)

Hybrid cars moving into "fast lane"?

"Hybrid vehicles will continue to move into the Fast lane, especially in the U.S. and Japan. European manuFacturers must prepare For hybrid technology, which will compete with diesel engines within the next few years. Companies who want to maintain or improve their market position will have to ensure that their technology management can deal with the challenges of the future." That's the word from Automotive Design & Production in an analysis of diesel and hybrid vehicles. Click here for the full story.

Is GM heading down the wrong hybrid path?

When the 2008 GM Chevy Tahoe hybrid hits the streets it will add a new page to the technology behind hybrid cars, the Two Mode Hybrid Powertrain. GM's two mode powertrain gives GM hybrid vehicles the ability to optimize performance based on driving conditions - highway versus city.

Toyota's Single Mode hybrid powertrain, on the other hand, is more optimized for city driving. Essentially, Toyota and Ford hybrids utilize larger electric motors and hybrid batteries than will GM hybrids.

So, which is better?

There is no doubt that GM hybrids will have an advantage when it comes to power tasks, such as towing compared to Ford or Toyota hybrids. Additionally, GM hybrids will compete with Toyota and Ford hybrids on the highway.

In the city, in the congestion that is predicted to become significantly worse and more common in the future; however, Toyota and Ford hybrids will dominate. Thus, it is not surprising to hear rumors that GM is intensely studying the Toyota hybrid powertrain.

Inevitably, the real potential of hybrid vehicles lies completely around electric motors and, more importantly, hybrid batteries. It now seems inevitable that lithium-ion batteries will soon replace the current NiMH batteries that power hybrids. This will produce lighter hybrids with significantly greater storage capacity resulting in better performance, cheaper costs and significantly improved fuel economy.

If NiMH batteries are replaced by lithium-ion batteries, hybrids such as the Toyota Prius and the Ford Escape hybrid could achieve massive gains in fuel economy, while costing less. Additionally, these hybrids could accommodate plug-in capabilities as well, resulting in even far greater fuel economy - we're talking 100 mpg +.

GM's dual mode hybrid technology can also utilize lithium-ion battery technology, but not nearly to the extent that Toyota and Ford hybrids can. This could really give Ford and Toyota a huge advantage over GM - at least with consumers that drive in any type of congestion. Since congestion will be the future for most Americans, GM's current hybrid path could be headed into the wrong direction.

What would be the ultimate hybrid vehicle?

In the last year there have been some very interesting hybrid concept vehicles. Two of my favorites are the Ford Reflex hybrid and the Mazda Senku hybrid.

The Reflex is a diesel hybrid 'muscle' car that looks cool, but is an even hotter performer. How hot? How about 0 to 60 in under 7 seconds while achieving 65 mpg? Sure this hybrid requires next generation lithium-ion batteries - the same batteries which could power the Toyota Prius to almost 100 mpg - but if you are going to dream, why not dream big?

That's why I like REALLY like the Senku hybrid. Yes, the styling of this vehicle is incredibly futuristic and some people don't like that, but I do, boy, do I. But the thing that really makes this hybrid special for me is the use of solar technology. By embedding solar cells into the roof, this hybrid vehicle could actually act like a solar-powered plug-in hybrid vehicle. That means that the next-gen 100 mpg Prius could perhaps become a 140 mpg Prius with solar power.

In Southern California - where I live - the constant sunshine could provide a huge source of clean electric energy - making trips to the gas station much less frequent. In the future, make it a solar-powered fuel cell hybrid vehicle and hydrogen gas stations might not even be needed.

The technology behind hybrid cars makes such dreams seem possible.

What would be your ultimate hybrid vehicle?

2010: Year of the hybrid?

Today, critics often question the value of hybrid cars. Only a few can save money over the long term at today's gas prices they state and reliability is still an issue.

Yet, hybrid technology is only just emerging and the future of hybrid vehicles won't really be understood until at least 2010. By then Toyota will offer 14 different hybrid models. Even Detroit will offer numerous hybrid vehicles. Plus, Nissan, Hyundai, Porsche - even Suzuki - will be in the hybrid game.

Then it won't just be the Toyota Camry hybrid that challenges the Prius for total sales, but many new hybrid models.

More important, there will be several different types of hybrid technology on the market and many more hybrid parts suppliers. This competition will give consumers real choices. Should I get the Chevy Tahoe hybrid, Ford Escape hybrid or Toyota Highlander hybrid? That will really begin to depend on your needs, such as towing, and that is just the beginning.

Moreover, Toyota has indicated that its hybrids in 2010 will not only be significantly more fuel efficient, but the cost differential between hybrid cars and conventional cars could be cut in half. Other automakers will have to do the same if they want to compete.

Competition, better technology, cheaper costs - by 2010 the question won't be why would you want a hybrid, it will be why would you want anything less than a hybrid.

Chicago using Escape hybrids as taxis

Chicago has become the third city to use the Ford Escape hybrid as a taxi, as part of Ford's campaign to promote its hybrid vehicles. (More)

AutoWeek gushes over the Vue hybrid

AutoWeek recently test drove the Saturn Vue Greenline hybrid and they apparently loved GM's new hybrid. Now, I have not driven the Vue hybrid and it might be an excellent vehicle, but I'm also very skeptical of AutoWeek. Sometimes it seems that AutoWeek is more of a puppet of GM, concerned more with maintaining a slice of GM's monstrous advertising budget than with objective GM reporting. Additionally, the article tries to compare Ford Escape hybrid fuel economy to Vue fuel economy based on "track" testing. This is silly. Tracks determine mostly highway fuel economy. If you drive in congestion, then the Vue is going to offer far worse fuel economy compared to the hybrid Escape. If you drive mostly on the open highway, then the Vue hybrid is definitely worth your consideration compared to the Escape hybrid. (AutoWeek Review)

Ethanol isn't enough, but ethanol hybrids could be just right

Over the last several months there has been a tremendous amount of hype around ethanol. In fact, GM's GoYellow campaign seems to imply that every American could drive a flex-fuel Hummer and America could still end foreign oil dependency. Yet, scientists don't agree, and they say corn-based ethanol will have little effect on foreign oil consumption.

Of course, ethanol supporters suggest other forms of biomass, such as cellulosic ethanol - which still requires undeveloped technologies - could possibly achieve a 30% drop in gasoline consumption by 2030. "There are many people who believe that biomass has the power to replace our appetite for gasoline," said Kimberly Gray, professor of civil and environmental engineering at Northwestern University. "But that will only occur with significant improvements in energy efficiency and smart growth." (more)

In reality, despite GM's marketing deception, corn offers very little hope for America's fuel needs, especially if GM only produces Tahoes and Hummers. America needs smaller vehicles, and it needs millions and millions of hybrid cars. While smaller flex-fuel hybrid cars won't end gasoline consumption anytime soon, they could end foreign oil dependency - something flex-fuel gas guzzlers will NEVER accomplish.

Honda Will Share Hybrid Technology

Honda announced that it would share its hybrid technology if other auto companies were interested, joining at least Toyota and GM/Chrysler/BMW. Already Nissan is going to lease Toyota hybrid technology for the upcoming Altima hybrid, and Ford leases some Toyota software. Perhaps, Honda is making a play for Hyundai, whom recently announced the delay of any hybrid cars until 2009? (More)

Japan versus Detroit: Who acts more American?

Automobiles versus fuel?

When automakers have faced Congress over the last week, there has been a striking contrast in style. Toyota, for example, has focused on incentives for building more fuel efficient automobiles, such as hybrid cars. Detroit, on the other hand, has focused on new fuels, such as ethanol, for their gas-guzzlers.

While ethanol holds great promise as an alternative fuel, the automotive technology to utilize ethanol is already complete. What isn't complete are new vehicles, such as flex-fuel hybrids, for example, which could make inefficient burning ethanol much more efficient. Fortunately, Ford has at least proposed such a vehicle.

Still, shouldn't GM focus on being a better automaker? If they want to be an energy company, maybe its time to sell the auto business? For decades GM has used fuel cell vehicles as an excuse not to compete with Japanese efficiency, now they are using ethanol. At a time when foreign oil dependency is causing so many problems for America, why is it that Japanese companies are doing so much more to alleviate the problem? You make cars, Detroit, not energy. (Sources: AutomotiveNews)

Ford Committed to Hybrid Vehicles

"I believe very strongly that hybrid technology will be one of the technologies going forward. It is helping us learn so much about other things as well," stated Nancy Gioia, Director of Ford's hybrid vehicles, recently. Despite numerous rumors that Ford might pull the plug on the Mazda Tribute Hybrid, Mrs. Gioia did also confirm that the hybrid Tribute should be available some time next year. Still, Ford hopes to produce 250,000 hybrid cars by 2010, whereas Toyota will top that number this year alone. Is Ford committed enough?

Saturn Vue hybrid pricing announced

The Saturn Vue Hybrid, known as the Green Line, will begin at $22,995. While this price will make it the cheapest hybrid SUV, it will also be less fuel efficient than its closest competitor, the Ford Escape hybrid. The Vue Green Line is expected to hit dealerships towards the end of summer.

More than a Honda Fit hybrid?

Sure the Honda Insight is dead, but it will result in a brighter future for hybrid vehicles. In the past, Honda has been unsure about the future of hybrids, but the announcement that Toyota is going to produce a new 4 door hybrid that is more fuel efficient than the Insight and cheaper than the Civic hybrid is great news for hybrid consumers. While the new car might be similar to the current Fit, I think that Honda has realized that they need more than a Fit hybrid to challenge the Toyota Prius. Thus, I expect Honda's new hybrid to be a unique vehicle - a move Ford and GM need to heed.

How will the next Ford Escape hybrid be different?

Recently, Nancy Gioia told AutoWeek that while the new Ford Escape hybrid design wouldn't remind anybody of some crazy science experiment, it would be different. Gioia said, "there is going to be some differentiation. People who drive hybrids want to make a statement that they are driving a hybrid." Hmmm, a shot at the Prius, Mrs. Gioia? Perhaps taking sly swings at your competition is a good marketing tool, but sales are really all that matter, right? By that standard it is the Escape hybrid which seems ugly - at least according to buyers. Nonetheless, I like the hybrid Escape and hope the new design helps sales. More important, Mrs. Gioia, make it a flex-fuel hybrid.

Ford Considering Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle

Yesterday, when Bill Ford was getting hammered by Ford shareholders, he announced that Ford was exploring a plug-in hybrid vehicle. Would plug-in technology have a significant effect on Ford's sales of hybrid cars, or was Ford just looking for a little positive buzz?

Level Field Institute isn't Level Headed

Starting today the Level Field Institute, founded by American automakers, retired automakers, and dealers are going to attack claims that foreign automakers provide American jobs.

I say stop complaining about foreign cars and start lobbying Detroit to build cars that foreign car buyers want. Not everyone in America wants a gas-guzzler or a truck and many are offended by how little effort and concern, over the decades, that Detroit has put into fuel efficiency.

Fuel cell, blah, blah, blah.

Moreover, it's terribly ironic and hypocritical for the American auto industry to expect Americans to protect American jobs when it also means increasing foreign oil dependency.

I have long believed that American companies, not Japanese, should have marketed the first hybrid cars. I can hear Bob Lutz now, "Hybrids don't make business sense!"

Well, then, why are you now building them, Mr. Lutz? Not to mention that Americans provided $1 billion tax dollars for the Big 3 to build them in the 90s. For Mr. Lutz, it makes much more sense to spend billions every year marketing the American virtues of guzzling foreign oil rather than investing in fuel efficiency. Now that's American leadership!

The Big 3 should have one cause today, ending foreign oil dependency. Yet, today, GM and Ford success, even survivability, is still hinged upon the success of today's worst gas guzzlers.

Stop blaming Americans for buying foreign cars and start making America a safer and cleaner country. If GM and Ford had cars that equaled the capabilities of the Prius, they would sell better than the Prius.

I know, I know, they just aren't profitable, foreign oil dependency is so much more cost effective.

GM and Ford Claim Hybrid Car Pool Lane Discrimination

Sometimes I think it is best just to keep quiet. This is one of those situations for Ford and GM. "Ford Motor Co. and General Motors Corp., seeking to boost sales, want the federal government to force New York and California to let solo drivers of their hybrid vehicles join those of Honda and Toyota cars in highway carpool lanes." (JSONLINE)

While I like the Ford Escape hybrid, it doesn't achieve the kind of mileage that the Honda Civic hybrid or the Toyota Prius hybrid achieves. More important, the Toyota Highlander hybrid also doesn't not qualify for HOV lane access in these states - so there is no discrimination. The point of New York and California HOV legislation was to promote the very best fuel efficiency.

Both of these American companies should be leading the fight against foreign oil dependency, instead they survive only by increasing America's dependency.

Gas guzzling: Tax incentives versus CAFE

Gas guzzling kills

I love discussing the connection between gas-guzzling, wars in Iraq, 9/11 and other forms of terrorism.

"There is no connection between Iraq, 9/11 and gas guzzling," so many often say.

Really? So, why do we care so much about the Middle East, but not other areas of the world? Why did we stop Saddam in the first Persian Gulf War? Was it about human rights? If so, why didn't - and why don't we - care about the slaughter of millions in Sudan, or Rwanda?

Do we really care that much about people from Qatar?

One only need listen to Bin Laden's own words to understand that there is a clear connection between America's need, or greed, for foreign oil and 9/11.

But back to the point. Whether it is the cost of gasoline, fear of foreign oil dependency, or a desire to protect the environment, many realize that America's oil addiction cannot continue.

So, which is a better tool to fight this dependency, CAFE or tax incentives?

I say put the power in the hands of the people. Congress and corporations have had decades to make a difference and the only thing they've accomplished is perpetually increased foreign oil dependency.

I say let Ford and GM do whatever they want. Put the power in the hands of the people!!

Instead of increasing CAFE, take that high CAFE number and give a huge tax incentive to EVERY customer that buys a vehicle that meets that CAFE number. That's the best way to promote technologies, such as hybrid cars.

Increase CAFE and automakers will just find some kind of loophole to do nothing.

If you want to buy a gas guzzler, no problem, but you'll pay high gas prices and receive no tax credit. Buy a Prius, buy an Escape hybrid, even a Tahoe hybrid and you get a HUGE tax credit - as long as it meets that high CAFE number - plus you'll you use less gas.

Tax incentives for Hummers? Please!!!!!! This must end, as must any other corporate welfare and loopholes for automakers, as must tax incentives for oil companies.

Give this money to the people and let the corporations fight for customers. By, of and for the PEOPLE, not the corporations!!!!

Is Silicon Valley the Next Detroit, but Cleaner and Greener?

Sometimes I just don't think that Ford and GM are going to find the light at the end of the tunnel. They simply seem to be lost in the past and unable to find a new vision for the future.

While I hope that changes, as the technology behind automobiles evolves from motors and gasoline into computers and batteries, perhaps Silicon Valley is better positioned for the future than is Detroit. That's the point of the article, A car that could save the planet—fast.

This movement, "a growing cluster of engineers, startups, and investors, most of them based in Silicon Valley, that believe they can do what major automakers have failed at for decades: Think beyond the golf cart and deliver an electric vehicle (EV) to the mass market."

"Beyond that, startups are forming to equip new "plug-in" hybrids that run almost entirely on their electric motors. And around the country, a handful of other exotic EVs are showing up on the road -- including George Clooney's new ride, a $108,000 commuter coupe that's just 3 feet wide."

Hybrid cars, such as the Prius, have demonstrated that automakers can do better, much better. If Detroit can't be the place for this automotive revolution, let's hope that Silicon Valley can.

Ford's Slow Hybrid Sales Surge 50% in April

Last week I read at least 4 articles talking about the slow sales of hybrid vehicles. MotorTrend, for example, carried the article Hybrid Sales Running On Empty.

Then, today, I read that Ford increased its sales of hybrid vehicles by 50% in April - some slump(Reuters).

While it is true that incentives played a role in the sales increase of the Ford Escape hybrid, I bet rising gas prices also didn't hurt. Still, the whole "hybrids losing momentum" sentiment was really annoying.

Sales of the Toyota Prius weren't slow, nor were the sales of the Honda Civic hybrid. These two vehicles account for the far majority of hybrid vehicle sales, yet because the Honda Accord hybrid isn't selling well - a performance hybrid - hybrid sales are slumping?

Hybrid cars are an emerging technology and not every hybrid is going to sell well - there will be winners and losers. Additionally, costs and the price of gas are extremely important. Still, with no end in sight for high gasoline prices, I expect a lot more slow sales from hybrid cars.

Nonetheless, I don't get it. Why does it seem so many want to see hybrids fail?

Saturn Vue Hybrid: The Right Kind of Hybrid?

The Saturn Vue Hybrid is almost set to go on sale, and at $23,000, the Vue Hybrid will be significantly cheaper than other hybrid SUVs.

However, unlike the Ford Escape hybrid and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, the Vue hybrid will offer less hybrid technology, which is why the price is cheaper.

"But the Vue Green Line's electric motor can't actually drive the vehicle on its own at low speeds, the way, for example, a Ford Escape Hybrid's can." Additionally, "the Ford Escape Hybrid can go up to 25 miles per hour without starting its gasoline engine at all. In the Vue Green Line, however, the gasoline engine starts running the moment the driver's foot lifts off the brake pedal." (Money)

If you are a highway driver, the Vue hybrid might be a good buy. If you drive in an urban area, however, the Vue hybrid probably isn't your best choice.

The hybrid vehicle revolution is dead?

The Wall Street Journal reported that sales of some hybrid cars are slowing, according to Car and Driver. That magazine cited such evidence as interest free loans for the Ford Escape hybrid, as well as new financing deals for the Toyota Highlander hybrid, and cuts in production on both the Highlander hybrid and the Honda Accord hybrid.

Of course, the Toyota Prius hybrid car is burning off the lot, and the Honda Civic hybrid is also seeing strong sales.

So, what's the problem? Cost effectiveness.

Ultimately, I believe there two main types of hybrid consumers: those driven by the environment and foreign oil dependency and those driven by saving money on gas.

The Prius and the Civic hybrid fit the demands of both of these consumer segments. The rest of the hybrids don't fit the majority of consumers in either one of these segments very well.

Still, the best of hybrid technology is yet to come and even large hybrid SUVs will eventually see lower prices and higher fuel economy.

Hybrid vehicles are far from dead.

Energy Secretary Disses Hybrids?

U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel W. Bodman called on Americans to embrace ethanol, but did little to promote hybrid cars or clean diesel at the SAE conference in Detroit.

"It should be our common goal that E85 become a nationwide fueling option," Bodman said. "In the coming days, I will be asking that we do more to make consumers aware of the flex-fuel option both when they are considering a new car purchase and for existing owners of flex-fuel vehicles."(DetroitNews)

Additionally, the Secretary plugged electric cars and hydrogen fuel cells as the 'answer' to America's energy problems.

It's ironic that since GM, Ford and Toyota fuel cell vehicles will be hybrid vehicles, that the Secretary didn't promote hybrids, minimally, as a bridge to not just fuel cell vehicles, but electric vehicles as well. Plug-in hybrid vehicles, for example, can function as electric cars, while also providing gasoline, diesel, ethanol, biodiesel or even hydrogen as a supplementary or primary fuel source.

On the other hand, there is a good chance that if someone buys a flex-fuel vehicle, especially if they live on either coast - they will never fill it up with E85, since they won't be able to find any gas stations that carry ethanol.

In fact, if you are worried about the environment, or foreign oil dependency, many flex fuel vehicles cause much more harm than good. Since many flex fuel vehicles are large trucks and SUVs, flex fuel capabilities were only added to avoid penalties for missing CAFE requirements. Consequently, flex-fuel technology is often only serving as a loop hole that increases foreign oil dependency and pollution.

And the government is good at loopholes. According to some, Bush's new CAFE requirements - intended to make more fuel efficient trucks and SUVs - might lead to bigger, more fuel inefficient trucks and SUVs thanks to another loophole. (AutoWeek)

Why should we be surprised since the government already gives unlimited, $25,000 tax deductions for small business owners to buy the most pollution and foreign oil dependency causing vehicles, yet gives much smaller, capped tax incentives for hybrids?

It seems the government and the Energy Secretary are either ignorant, incompetent, or too focused on protectionist legislation designed to protect American corporations, rather than to actually make America a safer place. Apparently, only gigantic, inefficient corporations can save America.

Yes, ethanol is important, but so to is clean diesel, biodiesel, and even clean gasoline. More important, hybrid technology can make any of these fuels much more efficient, while clearing the path to fully electric cars and/or fuel cell hybrid vehicles.

Let's put the power in the hands of the people, not the corporations. Join the campaign for hybrid vehicle tax incentives.

Ford expands interest-free hybrid vehicle loans

A few weeks ago Ford began offering interest free loans on the Ford Escape hybrid and the Mercury Mariner hybrid, but only in Washington D.C. and California. Starting Monday and through July 5, Ford will extend this program to the entire nation.

In the first quarter of this year, sales of Ford hybrid cars are up 7% compared to a year ago (CNN).

Compact cars versus hybrid cars

If you build them, will they come?

There is no doubt that America should move away from gas guzzlers, and one good way to reduce gas guzzling is simply to make vehicles smaller.

While hybrid cars, such as the Toyota Prius or the Ford Escape hybrid, can significantly reduce fuel consumption, they do so at a cost - higher prices.

On the other hand, the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, or Kia Rio, for example, can offer very good fuel economy for less than $15,000. (Full Story)

Army converting Escape hybrid into hydrogen hybrid

The Army is going to convert the Ford Escape hybrid from a gasoline electric hybrid vehicle into a hydrogen electric hybrid vehicle. "The idea is to start using hydrogen with internal combustion engines because the alternative, fuel cells, is still cost prohibitive."

Speaking of hydrogen hybrids, Toyota also has a fleet of Prius hydrogen hybrids. Just more proof of the potential of hybrid cars.(MSNBC)

Accord hybrid versus the Camry hybrid

Hybrid Competition Heats Up, A little

Slowly, albeit very slowly, competition amongst hybrid cars is building.

Already we have the Toyota Highlander hybrid versus the Ford Escape hybrid versus the Lexus RX 400h, as well the Toyota Prius versus the Honda Civic hybrid, and soon we'll have the Toyota Camry hybrid versus the Honda Accord hybrid.

Both the Accord and the Camry are already top selling cars in America. So, how will the hybrid battle between these two champions play out?

Unfortunately, it probably won't be much of a battle.

The Accord hybrid is a performance hybrid, offering some of the best performance of any Accord. For the power offered, the Accord hybrid offers good fuel efficiency. Ultimately, however, the hybrid Accord was built to perform on the highway, not to set fuel efficiency records.

The Camry hybrid, on the other hand, will offer significant gains in both fuel economy and pollution reductions compared to a standard Camry. While the hybrid Camry will still perform well, it wasn't designed for 0 to 60 supremacy, however the hybrid Camry should offer exceptional fuel efficiency.

Ironically, the real competition in the hybrid vehicle wars will probably be between the Camry hybrid and the Prius.

Can automakers do the right thing? Join the hybrid revolution

Talking 'bout a revolution

Recently, IBM held a think tank calling on business leaders to lead the green revolution, before the government forces them to do it with messy and expensive regulations.

Automakers need to heed this call.

Let's face it, can we really afford to wait much longer before taking oil dependency seriously? Political tensions in Iran, Venezuela, Nigeria, the War in Iraq, bomb attacks on Saudi oil refineries and increased hurricane activity over the next decade are already great reasons to act, but they are only the beginning.

New evidence suggests that global warming is picking up fast. In less than 100 years, Miami could be a memory as oceans rise as much as 20 feet (NewScientist).

Additionally, yesterday I blogged about the potential of a billion new drivers from Asia and asked, "Where will the oil come from?"

Today, even China is beginning to tax SUVs and other gas guzzlers in an attempt to spur the sales and development of efficient automobiles.

Yet in America, we can only propose new fuel efficiency standards on large SUVs, but not on trucks - a huge source of gas-guzzling - because we wouldn't want to upset the American consumer or the American auto industry. (MORE)

We must do more, much more.

Even Flex fuel cars, hybrid cars, and plug-in hybrid cars are not enough. We need even better cars. We need to make automobiles smaller, and we need to make them flex fuel, plug-in hybrid vehicles. We need the best technology that the entire auto industry has to offer and we need it to be affordable. Most important, we need it NOW!

Yet, AutoWeek questions, "Do consumers even want plug-in hybrids?"

Since when did consumerism become more important than health or national security? So, what about smoking? What about seat belts? What about the Dubai port deal?

Ultimately, consumers will mostly do what is in their best interest, however, national security takes priority over consumer choice - ALWAYS. Still, if consumers know they can reduce fuel costs by 50%, they will gladly plug-in their vehicles.

Imagine the competition that could be created by flex-fuel plug-in hybrids for fuel choices. Ethanol, diesel, bio-diesel, gasoline, hydrogen, clean coal-powered electric, solar-powered electric, wind-powered electric, etc. all could play an important part in the new energy revolution that can fundamentally change the world. Ultimately, the green revolution and energy independence are not about protecting America, it's about liberating the people of the world.

The green revolution can be driven with the automobile. If the auto industry cannot focus on creating green choices for the world, then eventually the government will have to, and that won't be good for either consumers or businesses. Starting now might already be too late, but waiting any longer is simply suicidal.

Let's Revolt!

Congress doesn't need to build the green revolution, they need to inspire the green revolution with intelligent tax incentives. Let's keep the pressure on Congress and Business to do the right thing. Join the Hybrid Car Revolution Campaign.

Are automakers destroying hybrid technology?

Yesterday, Business Week printed the article, Are hybrid sales running out of gas, which argues that other than the Toyota Prius hybrid, the sales of most other hybrid cars are slowing.

Unfortunately, I basically agree with Business Week that the costs of hybrids are an issue that is slowing hybrid sales. Hybrid vehicles do save gas, but they do not always save enough gas to justify the higher costs, especially hybrid SUVs.

Thus, only those with the wallet and the passion to fight foreign oil dependency or for the environment, can afford these vehicles.

A much larger customer segment; however, can afford vehicles such as the Prius or the Honda Civic hybrid. Still, the conventional Civic isn't a gas-guzzler, so you inevitably start comparing the Civic hybrid to the conventional Civic. For most consumers, up-front costs will eventually dominate.

The Prius, on the other hand, is unique. It is the hybrid vehicle, not a conventional vehicle with hybrid technology.

If someone wants to buy a sports car, they wouldn't typically want to buy a souped-up Chevy Malibu, they would want to buy a Corvette. Simply putting a badge on a Chevy Malibu that states 'Corvette Powered' doesn't make the Malibu a Corvette, even if they both have the same engine and performance.

Vehicles, such as the Ford Escape hybrid or the Toyota Highlander hybrid, will always have an audience, but they will never meet the sales demand of the Prius. If there were a unique hybrid SUV; however, it would dominate hybrid SUV sales.

Nonetheless, in the next year gas prices are going to go up significantly as refineries go from MTBE to ethanol additives. Additionally, in the next couple of years we will probably see multiple, significant spikes in the price of gasoline. All of these events will renew interest in ALL hybrid vehicles.

Additionally, hybrid technology is and will continue to advance. These advancements, and the potential small business tax credit for hybrid vehicles, could make hybrids, such as the Escape and Highlander, very cost-effective - perhaps even long term bargains.

Still, the only way hybrid technology will ever take off is when a number of unique hybrid vehicles are competing against each other. If automakers don't take this approach, the potential of hybrids will never be reached.

Intellichoice Best Overall Values of 2006: A lot of hybrids

In the last 2 weeks, hybrid cars have picked up some great press.

Consumer Reports picked two hybrid vehicles, the Toyota Prius and the Toyota Highlander hybrid, for it's Top 10 Best Values in automobile's issue. The Prius hybrid was also found to be the most satisfying to owners, with 95% of those owners interested in buying another Prius.

Then Edmunds/CNN released a report that the Prius, Ford Escape hybrid and the Lexus RX400h hybrid were among the 10 hottest cars in America because these vehicles fly off the sale's lot.

Intellichoice also picked a number of hybrids as the Best Overall Values for 2006. The Toyota Prius, the Ford Escape hybrid, and the Toyota Highlander hybrid were included in the 8 Overall Best Values. The Honda Civic hybrid and the Honda Insight also picked up awards in Best Values in their Class. (more)

Hottest Cars In America List includes 3 hybrids

Hybrids are hot

Edmunds.com helped CNN.com determine the 10 hottest cars in America.

"To find the 10 hottest cars in America for CNNMoney.com, Edmunds.com, a partner providing data and content for CNN Web sites, looked for three things: Actual selling prices closest to the vehicle's full sticker price; lowest amounts in rebates or other sales incentives; shortest times spent on dealer lots before being snapped up by buyers." (more)

Surprise, surprise, the Toyota Prius hybrid is the hottest car in America. Also, 3 of the top 10 hottest cars in America are hybrid cars. Joining the Prius are the Ford Escape hybrid and the Lexus RX400h.

With gas prices destined to rise significantly this year, and with the possibility of gas spikes - either due to terrorism or hurricanes - these hybrids will only get hotter.

Interest-free financing for Escape hybrid, for some

Ford will be offering interest-free financing on the Escape hybrid in California and Washington, D.C. - the two hottest markets for both the hybrid Escape and hybrid cars. You cannot; however, take advantage of the $1000.00 rebate that Ford is also offering on the Escape hybrid if you choose interest-free financing. Those that do not live in California or Washington, D.C. can still qualify for the $1000.00 rebate.

Consumer Reports and Hybrid Cars: What you need to know

What's the word on hybrids?

Consumer Report's Annual Auto Issue is one of the most important sources for unbiased ratings and reviews of automobiles. So, what can we learn from Consumer Reports when it comes to hybrid cars.?

First, we learned that the Toyota Highlander hybrid is the best SUV over $30,000 and that the Toyota Prius hybrid is the Best Green Vehicle.

Second, we learned that the Prius is the Most Satisfying vehicle according to owners. A whopping 95% of Prius owners would buy another Prius (more).

Third, we learned that hybrid vehicles have thus far proven to be extremely reliable. In fact, the Prius and the Honda Civic hybrid topped CR's rankings of Most reliable, with just 4% of owners reporting problems. In addition, the Highlander hybrid, Lexus RX400h hybrid and the Accord hybrid also did very well in reliability.

Of course, the long term reliability of hybrids is still a question, a question that can only be answered once enough hybrids have been on the road for more than a decade. Ultimately, the reliability of hybrids is extremely important as it is the factor in determining the overall value of hybrids, which brings us to our final point.

Fourth, are hybrid vehicles worth the cost?

According to Consumer Reports, only two hybrids can save you money after the first five years: the Prius and the Civic hybrid. Of course, once the capped tax credits for hybrids expire, these vehicles will then cost more than their conventional counterparts, well, maybe.

The article, Hybrids: Save gas, lose money, notes that "six hybrid gasoline/electric vehicles, will lose 2 percent to 3 percent more in value over five years of ownership than otherwise identical non-hybrid vehicles." While the Prius can save $406 after 5 years and the Civic hybrid saves $317, the rest of the hybrids lose money after five years: Ford Escape Hybrid ($1,883), Honda Accord Hybrid ($4,263), Lexus RX400h ($4,171) and Toyota Highlander Hybrid ($5,508).

Of course, as in life, few things are ever black and white.

To start, there is no "identical non-hybrid vehicle" to compare to the Prius. If the Prius were simply a hybrid Corolla, it would be called the Corolla hybrid. Quite simply, the Prius is a unique vehicle and when you consider performance, reliability and customer satisfaction, the Prius is a unique, awesome vehicle.

As for the rest of the hybrid vehicle segment, it is true that cost is an important concern. Still, for those that care, can you really put a cost on foreign oil dependency or a cleaner environment? Sometimes doing the right thing is neither the cheapest nor easiest thing to do.

Furthermore, the Consumer Reports study makes several important assumptions. For example, it assumes that your auto insurance will cost more. Overtime; however, this might not be true, especially when you consider that some insurance providers have already offered discounts to hybrid drivers.

CR also assumes extra financing costs for hybrids. Already, Ford has begun to offer incentives and better financing deals on its hybrid vehicles, so this 'cost' might not remain an extra cost.

The most important assumption affecting the costs of hybrids; however, is extra depreciation, which CR claims could range from $2,900 to 6,300 after 5 years. These are huge numbers that cannot, at this point in time, be backed by fact.

For example, if hybrid batteries generally last the life of these vehicles, which Toyota engineers claim is quite possible, then these numbers will be horribly wrong. Additionally, as more hybrids are built, hybrid battery costs will come down.

Moreover, it could turn out that replacing the battery packs of older hybrids could make hybrids twice as fuel efficient as before with new battery technology, such as lithium batteries. Not only would this reverse depreciation costs, but it would double fuel savings costs.

In 10 years, it could turn out that replacing the hybrid battery pack on an old hybrid actually results in a better hybrid than when new. Imagine the effect this would have on resale value.

Additionally, "Hybrid supporter and Prius owner James Bell, publisher of the automotive guide IntelliChoice, recently sold his two-year-old Prius for just $4,000 less than he originally paid for it -- a remarkably low rate of depreciation." (more)

So, hybrid depreciation is a complete wild card.

Furthermore, "We really like hybrids in terms of their overall performance" and environmental benefits, says Doug Love, a spokesman for Consumers Union.

In conclusion, the CR study does demonstrates that hybrid vehicles do pose some risk when it comes to long term value; however, the CR study largely assumes the worst case scenario. If hybrid batteries are very reliable and/or new battery technology could cost-effectively make old hybrids twice as fuel efficient, then hybrids could end up as long term bargains.

The evolution of the Ford Reflex hybrid vehicle

The new American muscle car

I say forget the Mustang and the Charger. American automakers don't need to look to the past to regain marketshare, but to the future.

Hybrid vehicles and other advanced technologies are the future and American automakers should be leading the way. Vehicles, such as the Ford Reflex hybrid vehicle, scream American automotive leadership. Mustangs and Chargers, on the other hand, scream we're afraid of the future.

Let's do it Ford!

If you're interested in the evolution of the Reflex hybrid vehicle, check out this cool article on MSNBC.

Slow hybrid sales push Ford incentives

Ford's hybrid slump isn't a surprise

So far this year Ford has sold about 1000 hybrid vehicles, as sales for both the Ford Escape hybrid and the Mercury Mariner hybrid have slowed. Ironically, as Ford has increased hybrid marketing, sales have simply not kept pace and this has resulted in incentives as high as $1000.00 for Ford's hybrids (more).

Why?

I remember my first Escape hybrid test drive, which left me very unimpressed. It wasn't that I didn't appreciate the vehicle - I did - I just thought the cost was simply far too expensive.

I felt the same away about the Toyota Highlander hybrid, which I also love, but the price difference between the Highlander hybrid and a conventional Highlander, is the definition of sticker shock.

That doesn't mean I wouldn't buy either of these vehicles, I would, if I had to drive SUVs, but I'm not an SUV driver. This highlights the main problem of hybrid SUVs: Who are the customers?

Fans of hybrids are driven mostly by two factors: the environment and foreign oil dependency. Most, but not all, of this customer segment is not interested in hybrid SUVs (I'm not saying hybrid SUV drivers aren't just as committed!!). While there are many others that are concerned about these same issues, they are not driven by these causes, and these people are inevitably going to be driven by cost when it comes to buying a hybrid versus a conventional vehicle.

Many of these hybrid buyers will buy a Prius without thinking about it because there isn't a conventional comparison -I don't buy the Corolla comparison. Every other hybrid, other than the Honda Insight, forces this compare and contrast mentality.

Consequently, until hybrid vehicle costs are more competitive, only unique hybrids such as the Toyota Prius will be hot sellers. There could be exceptions, such as the Toyota Camry hybrid, but that won't be the norm until hybrid battery technology advances.

Of course, all of this could change if the 3 ton SUV small business tax deduction were applied to hybrid vehicles. Let's hope the momentum for this in Congress keeps rolling.

Why gas-guzzling is great!

What's better than a gas-guzzling SUV that can go offroad?

A more powerful, even greater guzzling SUV that can't go offroad. It's pure guzzling pleasure, a message to the world that the price of gasoline means nothing, nor does common sense.

Now that's saying something!

As for global warming and foreign oil dependency, those are just treehugging conspiracies - every real American knows that.

That's why I can't wait for the new muscle cars from Ford and GM, so I can fly by those granola-eating Prius and Civic hybrid drivers. They act like they are saving the world. Give me a break, they aren't making a dent in foreign oil dependency. That's why I buy GM products, they understand America. Just look at Bob Lutz.

"There's enormous good will for the glory days of American cars, when they really were American and didn't try to be Japanese or German," says GM car czar Bob Lutz.

Gas guzzling is the essence of America. Since we're the best in the world, we can do whatever we want. Besides, if I wasn't using so much gas, those people in the Middle East wouldn't have any money and that would breed real terrorism. The truth is gas-guzzling helps fight terrorism. The richer we make those people the less they'll want to kill us.

I'm the real American. America is about choice, even if it is a stupid choice, such as buying a hybrid car.

Be a real American, buy the biggest gas-guzzler you can find! Together we can change the world!

I'd like to thank all the 8 mpg SUV drivers!

A bunch of states are appealing to the government to get the EPA to start regulating greenhouse gas emissions. Unfortunately, I don't believe they will be successful simply because GM couldn't survive if the EPA actually started to regulate these emissions, and you know the EPA is biased.

While the critics of hybrid cars shout out that hybrids don't achieve their EPA fuel economy, they fail to mention that conventional vehicles also fail to meet their EPA fuel economy ratings. Thus, the EPA is going to start using more accurate methods to determine ratings; however, they aren't going to use these more accurate ratings to determine CAFE. For if they did, millions of Ford and GM vehicles wouldn't pass CAFE and these automakers would have to pay large fines.

Ironically, these vehicles that are essentially violating the law are some of Detroit's most profitable automobiles.

Of course, automakers are against the move, because it "would make cars smaller, lighter and less powerful, which they say, would strip cars of attributes consumers demand."(MSNBC)

So consumer demand is more important than public safety? I don't believe that is the main issue, I'd say it's money that is more important than public safety. Still, I'd like to thank all the 8 mpg SUV drivers out there. You're my hero!

Interested in a hybrid vehicle? Now might be the best time

So, you're thinking about buying a hybrid vehicle, but you just aren't ready? Well, now might be your best opportunity.

In the last several weeks gas prices have dropped, yet last week's suicide attack on a Saudi oil refinery could have pushed the price of gasoline up far more than Katrina. Almost certainly, we are in the calm before the oil price storm and gas prices will eventually spike this year. When that happens, as it did after Katrina, interest in hybrid cars will also spike.

Even without a spike, tax credits for Toyota hybrids will expire before the end of the year. So, if you are interested in a Prius or Highlander hybrid you should act now, if the credit is important. Interest in the Prius is always high, but if gas prices skyrocket again, finding a Prius could prove almost impossible.

While tax credits for the Honda Civic hybrid or the Ford Escape hybrid, for example, will probably last through the year, finding one of these vehicles might also prove nearly impossible following another surge in energy prices.

So, if you want to buy a hybrid this year, now could be the best time. Of course, if you are waiting for the Camry hybrid, there isn't much you can do until at least May.

Why I like the flex-fuel Ford Escape hybrid

Lately, there has been a lot of buzz around ethanol, and suddenly GM has gone green by going yellow. Yet, a closer look at the numbers highlights some serious issues.

There are 168,987 gasoline pumps in the United States and only 608 of them offer ethanol (AutoWeek). In a previous post, Help us Detroit, I called GM's ethanol campaign pure smoke and mirrors.

If GM has put millions of ethanol vehicles on the road, where are they filling up? Also, why are the far majority of ethanol vehicles large SUVs and trucks? Isn't it ironic that most buying this technology aren't using ethanol, yet GM still receives CAFE credits for using the technology? If GM cares so much about ethanol, why isn't the technology in all vehicles, rather than just vehicles near failing CAFE?

Yes, ethanol offers great potential as a fuel, but not today. In fact, some analysts suggest that it could take 15 years before ethanol could really start making a difference, which is why I like the flex-fuel Ford Escape hybrid.

The Escape hybrid is already a great vehicle, reducing the conventional Escape's fuel consumption by between 20 and 30 percent, while also significantly reducing pollution. The flex-fuel Escape hybrid vehicle offers these same gains, plus the ability to use ethanol.

In 10 years, both ethanol and the technology behind hybrid cars will advance, but neither will offer a real solution to oil dependence. In 10 years; however, a plug-in flex-fuel hybrid vehicle could easily and economically function without oil - not just foreign oil - while continuing to push the bar for fuel economy.

I like ethanol and I like hybrid vehicles, but I really like flex-fuel hybrids. And if plug-in technology is added to those flex-fuel hybrids we add even greater fuel economy, while sparking greater competition and variety in fuel choices.

Shouldn't something as important as energy be about choice, especially in today's world?

Update on Toyota Prius hybrid patent lawsuit

I watched a special on CNBC's Squawk Box regarding the patent lawsuit that has been filed against Toyota and its hybrid vehicles. There is a bit more to this lawsuit than I originally thought. Nonetheless, Toyota is and has been well aware of this patent and contends that they are not violating the patent. Still, even if Toyota loses this suit, it shouldn't mean the end of the Toyota Prius and the Highlander hybrid in America. If Solomon Technologies wins this patent dispute, they are seeking damages, not sales prevention. Still, I can't help but wonder why wasn't Ford, which uses technology similar to Toyota, also named?

A new plug-in conversion kit announced today, another coming soon.

Hymotion released a press release today announcing their new plug-in kit for hybrid cars.

At this time, Hymotion is offering the plug-in conversion kit for the Toyota Prius, but will soon offer one for the Ford Escape hybrid as well.

According to the release, the Hymotion Plug-in battery will "double" the fuel economy of the Prius.

Anthony Wei, Vice-President Business Development explains: "The secret ingredient to the 100 plus miles per gallon performance is the Lithium Ion Polymer technology in our PHEV battery. It's smaller, lighter, and more powerful than the NiMH batteries currently use in all Hybrid vehicle. This is the future."

For a single system the cost is $9,500. For those interested in starting a Prius conversion operation or for fleets, the Hymotion system is $6500.00 for orders of 1000 or more.

E-Drive, another plug-in provider offers systems that cost between $10,000 and $12,000, in comparison.

Additionally, I was contacted this weekend regarding the upcoming launch of another plug-in kit of sorts. Soon, a solar roof will be available for the Toyota Prius. This roof has been molded to perfectly fit the roof of the Prius and uses the sun to charge the hybrid batteries.

A formal announcement is due in a few weeks, so stay tuned.

More on plug-in hybrid cars.

Help us, Detroit....

Yesterday, I read an article that bothered me a bit. Daniel Howes, an auto reporter for the Detroit News, wrote an article, Help us, Mr. President, that really got under my collar.

Now, I like Howes as a reporter because I think he's pretty fair, especially compared to some of the other auto writers at the same paper. Still, you can't blame Howes for trying to save Detroit. What other choice does he have? In many ways, his job is probably dependent on the success of Detroit automakers.

What really angers me, I've realized, is Detroit automakers, especially GM.

Mr. Howes notes the legacy healthcare and pension costs of GM and Ford, while also complaining that Asian automakers have enjoyed unfair trade barriers. While I have sympathy for these issues, it isn't much.

Then, Howes states, "Nearly 20 GM models deliver 30 mpg or more; the first gas-electric hybrid SUV is a Ford; and Chrysler's Jeep Liberty is the U.S. industry's first diesel-powered SUV."

"Did Toyota and Honda set the standard in hybrids? Absolutely, and more models are coming. Same with Ford, GM and Chrysler. And GM and Ford have millions of ethanol-capable vehicles on the road today, a precursor to the ethanol-powered fleet that you say would free us from Oil Sheikdom."

Smoke and Mirrors

These statements are pure Detroit - deception and lies and the art of advertising.

First, in real world driving, GM doesn't have 20 models that achieve 30 mpg. Sure hybrid cars don't achieve EPA estimated fuel economy, but in reality almost every car misses their EPA numbers. In fact, the Jeep Liberty Howes mentions actually achieves 50% less than what the EPA estimates in city driving according to Consumer Reports.

Second, these faulty EPA numbers are used by GM and Ford to deceive CAFE. Consequently, many Ford and GM SUVs would not pass their CAFE requirements, if not for the EPA's inefficiency. Since this fact is well known by the government and industry alike, I'd call that U.S. protectionism - especially since SUVs have been Detroit's savior the last few decades.

Third, America's ethanol fleet, please! This one is the one that really sets me off, especially since I've seen at least 20 ads promoting how green GM now is because it has more than a million ethanol vehicles on the road.

Go Yellow? Go to hell GM! It has been a long running joke that almost everyone who drives a flex-fuel vehicle - one that can run on ethanol - doesn't even know it.

Why?

Ethanol is expensive most places it's offered, and ethanol isn't offered in very many places. Thus, a flex fuel vehicle really isn't much of a benefit to most, except Detroit automakers.

Adding flex-fuel capabilities to a large SUV only costs a few hundred dollars, but it enables vehicles that wouldn't pass CAFE to pass CAFE - EVEN THOUGH NO ONE IS USING THE FUEL. Thus, GM spends a few extra hundred deceiving the government - whom enables this deception - on vehicles it makes thousands of extra dollars in profits.

Who wouldn't take that deal? Here, you give me $500.00 and I'll give you $5000.00.

Thus, I'm supposed to be proud of GM for lies and deceit? Lies and deceit that don't reduce foreign oil consumption at all, but instead increase foreign oil consumption - this is something GM is spending millions bragging about?

Disgraceful.

How many more loopholes does the government need to give Detroit? I mean there is already a $25,000 tax deduction for the most offensive, gas-guzzling and polluting SUVs - which was only just reduced and doesn't even include depreciation deductions.

How much more does Detroit need?

Ford used to anger me as much as GM, but at least Ford has admitted the error in its ways and has taken a step in the right direction. Still, Ford needs to do much more, but I'm a huge advocate of the Escape hybrid.

If GM, on the other hand, wants my sympathy or wants my money, then GM needs to come clean. Since 9/11 GM has continued to promote it's most fuel inefficient vehicles as its marquee product. This is irresponsible and un-American.

Get with the program GM. Take some real responsibility. Admit some mistakes and talk to the people about the effort it will take to change. Tahoes, Escalades and Chargers aren't the answer. Help America - lead America - towards ending not just foreign oil dependency, but oil dependency and global warming emissions - not in some mystical future world of fuel cells, but today!

Let's Dare to Dream!

When GM shows some vision and some real leadership - first by accepting its failures and then with new products - I'll be the first in line to buy a GM.

Ultimately, GM has no one to blame but themselves, and forgiveness cannot begin without first accepting responsibility. Until then, I'll hope for bankruptcy.

Ford to redesign Escape and Mariner hybrids

Ford to update its current hybrid vehicles.

By the end of 2007 Ford plans to redesign both the Ford Escape hybrid and the Mercury Mariner hybrid for the 2008 model year. Ford is going to redesign it's smaller SUVs to give them a bolder design. The move also; however, probably spells the end for the proposed Mazda Tribute hybrid.

Lithium: Why hybrid vehicles will dominate auto sales by 2020

Hybrid cars will dominate new car sales by at least 2020.

When stories such as how the Greenland ice cap is melting twice as fast as was thought just a few years ago hit the press, those of us that worry about global warming get anxious and even angry. Still, I believe that in the next decade, the evidence of global will become so clear, that the majority of the world will demand action.

Such demand could justify the extra costs of hybrid vehicles, even if those costs can't be made up solely by saving money on fuel.

While hybrid critics might claim that such demand could benefit clean diesel instead of hybrid cars, those critics simply have no vision.

Why?

New research being done at Sandia National Laboratories, for example, demonstrates that a new generation of lithium-ion batteries will be ready to take over the hybrid battery market before 2010.

Once this transition takes place, lithium-ion batteries will be cheaper, lighter and far more efficient than the current NiMH batteries used in today's hybrids. This means cheaper hybrid vehicles that further reduce pollution while offering greater fuel efficiency and better performance than today's hybrid vehicles.

If this hybrid battery transition occurs by 2010, imagine the technological advances that will occur in this technology by 2020. If you are having problems with this visualization, think about the advancement of notebook computers from 1995 to 2005 and remember that software, computers, semiconductors and lithium batteries dominate the technology behind both hybrids and notebook computers.

By 2020, conventional vehicles simply won't be able to cost-effectively compete with hybrid cars.

Maybe, you say, but won't fuel cell vehicles be ready by then?

Maybe. Since the same batteries used by gasoline hybrid vehicles will probably be used by fuel cell vehicles, fuel cell vehicles could also gain from these advancements. Still, since Ford, GM, and Toyota, for example, believe that fuel cell vehicles will be fuel cell hybrid vehicles, hybrid vehicles will still dominate auto sales either way.

Today's hybrid cars won't save America, or the world, from global warming or oil dependency, but tomorrow's hybrids could. The more we invest in hybrids today, the sooner we'll have real tools to fight oil dependency and global warming, not just in America - the world's biggest global warming culprit - but in the entire world.

The potential of hybrids simply must be tapped. Sure, conservation, clean diesel, ethanol and bio-fuel can help, especially in the short term. Moreover, clean diesel, ethanol and bio-fuel can also be utilized by hybrid vehicles and should be used by hybrids.

Dare to dream that the world can end oil dependence and that the world can fight global warming because it can. Let's make it happen.

Diesel versus ethanol versus hybrid: Why not Dare to Dream?

"Advocates for diesel -- a less refined fuel than gasoline that burns more completely in the engine, delivering more power -- say it can cut oil use, perhaps more quickly and cost effectively than alternatives such as hybrids and ethanol." (CNNMoney)

Wow, diesel can cut oil use. Holy cow, somebody call up the Nobel committee!! We're ready to end foreign oil dependence!!

O.K., maybe not. While clean diesel is an excellent technology, it will never go far enough.

Diesel advocate Dieter Zetsche, CEO of DaimlerChrysler, "estimated that if 30 per cent of the vehicle fleet were powered by diesels, the United States could reduce fuel consumption enough to cut oil imports by the equivalent of what it buys each year from Saudi Arabia." (MotorTrend)

But what about Iran, Nigeria, and Venezuela, etc.? Why are we so content with such insignificant results and small goals?

Additionally, I disagree with the fuel efficiency of diesels. Advocates claim that clean diesel is 30% more fuel efficient - on the highway at least.

Yet new studies claim, "The worst traffic in the U.S. is getting even worse. It pollutes as the vehicles idle. It wastes the time of trucks and passenger cars. The annual delay per driver is in excess of 47 hours per year. It creates delayed shipments. It wastes more than 2.3 billion gallons of fuel each year." (Fortune)

In reality, diesel gas is going to have little effect on reducing fuel consumption in these conditions. Since census data suggests that the far majority of Americans are going to live around just a few large cities in the future, shouldn't congestion be the new standard for testing fuel efficiency?

In congestion - or the driving conditions of the future - full hybrid technology, such as that powering Toyota and Ford hybrid cars, is the best.

Then there is the cost of diesel fuel, and even if those costs are eventually reduced, Americans will simply drive more and then we'll need that Saudi Arabian oil anyway. So, where is the gain?

Dare to Dream

Why are we so afraid to shoot for the moon? Why do we accept such complacency from governments, oil barons, and automotive corporations? Why don't we demand the best, most innovative fuel efficient technology available? Why don't we demand choice?

For example, instead of diesel, why not diesel hybrids? Even better, flex-fuel diesel plug-in hybrids or flex-fuel gasoline plug-in hybrids blow every competitor away.

The only technology that can compare to or surpass flex plug-in hybrid technology is fuel cell technology, but the costs are just to high at this time, and fuel cell vehicles will probably be hybrid vehicles anyway.. Flex-fuel plug-in hybrids, on the other hand, can already achieve well over 100 mpg, while offering numerous fuel choices, such bio-diesel, diesel, gasoline, ethanol, electricity, solar-electricity, wind-electricity, etc.

More important, as hybrid battery technology advances, the fuel efficiency of hybrid batteries will increase significantly while reducing costs - think notebook computers and their batteries.

Besides isn't capitalism supposed to be about competition? Where is the competition in today's energy paradigm?

Don't question the lack of competition because energy is cheap?

How many trillions will oil politics and oil-driven pollution end up costing the world? Has cheap oil really been such a bargain?

Obviously, cheap oil has been great for oil companies. Entire countries are driven by oil profits alone, and oil conglomerates set unbelievable records for profits, yet continually ask for tax incentives as if they have somehow lost money over the history of oil.

We the People

Ultimately, most American simply haven't demanded more. Instead we complain about high gas prices, about Bush's oil connections, about Haliburton, about Iraq, about Iran, and then we go buy a gas-guzzler.

Americans should Dare to Dream for energy independence just as we dared to dream for the moon. If America could become energy independent, then any country could become energy independent, and what would be so wrong with that? Bankrupt oil companies?

I say let's start judging our politicians, corporations, and other capitalists by their ability make our dreams reality, not by their ability to maintain the status quo.

Let's DARE TO DREAM!!!

Stop selling the Toyota Prius and Toyota Highlander hybrids?

Solomon Technologies, Inc. has filed a lawsuit against Toyota for patent infringement that seeks to stop Toyota from selling the Toyota Prius hybrid and the Toyota Highlander hybrid in the United States.

Thus far, for legal reasons, Toyota is not commenting on the case.

Still, it is kind of interesting that Solomon Technologies, Inc. didn't file a lawsuit against Toyota until September of 2005. They didn't realize their patent was being illegally used until then? Moreover, the Solomon site claims that its technology is used not only in Toyota hybrids, but also in the Ford Escape hybrid and the Honda Accord hybrid.

Is Honda or Ford paying Solomon?

Since Ford and Toyota negotiated on hybrid patents, it seems odd that Solomon's 'proprietary' patent could have been missed if Solomon and Ford have a relationship. If they don't have a relationship, why does the lawsuit only name Toyota?

On the face of it, this case seems derived to drive publicity to Solomon, but that is only my gut feeling. When I researched this company's stock and some other corporate information, I noticed that all questions were referred to the President of the company, which made me wonder if there are any other corporate officers in this company.

If an investor thought that Solomon had a case and that Solomon would eventually obtain a bucket of cash from Toyota, maybe a small stock purchase would be worthwhile? Is that Solomon's game? Again, I am just speculating.

Of course, on the contrary, Solomon could have a case, and what would happen to hybrid cars if Solomon wins?

Re: Buy a Hybrid, and Save a Guzzler

Dear Mr. Leonhardt,

Regarding your article "Buy a hybrid, and save a guzzler".

Wow, I didn't realize that because of CAFE buying a hybrid gives auto manufacturers the right to sell more gas guzzlers. Thus, "The hybrid, then, is just about the perfect example of what's wrong with our energy policy."

Why didn't I realize that?

Oh, is it because hybrids aren't really enabling that many more gas-guzzlers, at least not Toyota hybrids - but they could? Is that your point?

Boy, I love talking about hypothetical situations, but let's talk about facts for a second.

Toyota is by far the hybrid sales leader. Honda doesn't really sell gas-guzzlers, and GM doesn't even have any hybrids. Thus, I guess you're talking about Ford's 20,000 hybrid sales?

But wait a minute, aren't Escape hybrid buyers buying a hybrid SUV instead of a gas-guzzling SUV? So, where is this extra gas-guzzler demand coming from?

Just out of curiosity, how many gas-guzzlers have passed CAFE because of flex-fuel in the last decade, Mr. Leonard? Hundreds of thousands? Millions? Yet, you're focused on 20,000 hybrids?

How many SUVs actually achieve CAFE's 21.6 miles per gallon in real world driving? According to Consumer Reports, not too many.

So, how many millions of gas-guzzlers have benefited from inaccurate EPA numbers? Yet, the problem with the EPA is inaccurate hybrid fuel economy?

Is that why the new EPA fuel efficiency estimates are not going to be used to update CAFE?

But, let's get back to the problem, 20,000 hybrid SUVs.

So your answer is, "A substantial gas tax would be the simplest, with other taxes being cut to keep down the overall burden. Car buyers could drive whatever they wanted, as long as they were paying the full cost of their gas, and automakers would respond with creative products. If we're not capable of having a serious discussion about new taxes, the second-best option would be lavish incentives for companies to sell a fuel-efficient fleet."

Hybrids aren't fuel efficient?

Regarding your tax plan, which other taxes are going to be cut? Are we just going to leave that to the bureaucrats? I'm sure there won't be any loopholes created in that overhaul, and reducing enough taxes to offset the real cost of gasoline will be a very easy task.

Consequently, you are basically suggesting that until we can significantly change the American tax code, doing nothing is better than buying hybrid cars?

Better yet, you don't blame the EPA, automakers or the government for decades of inaction, you ridicule and belittle the buyers of hybrid cars instead?

Very few hybrid buyers think they are saving the world, Mr. Leonhardt, how dare you generalize their motives with your biased statements. Most hybrid buyers think they are sending a message that foreign oil dependency and/or pollution are important concerns, that's it.

That message isn't worth sending Mr. Leonhardt? Oh forgive us.

Anyway, hybrid car batteries could easily achieve the same kind of growth in performance and cost as what my laptop battery has achieved in the last decade. A hybrid battery that achieves twice the fuel efficiency at the same cost as today's hybrid batteries is definitely a stupid investment, huh?

Yeah, gas-guzzling until we overhaul America's tax code, that's the ticket.

3 Hybrid Vehicles are Best Values

According to Intellichoice.com three hybrid cars are "Best Overall Values".

The Toyota Prius, Toyota Highlander hybrid, and Ford Escape hybrid each won 2006 "Best Overall Value of the Year" awards.

Interestingly, contrary to hybrid critic opinion, hybrids were cited for low maintenance costs and high resale value. "These cars are proving to be a great economic bonus and not just in terms of fuel efficiency, "said IntelliChoice publisher James Bell.

The Super Bowl and Hybrid Cars

Well, the game is over. Other than NFL Super Bowl officiating, the ads are still the buzz.

On Friday I wrote that I wasn't sure about Ford's plan to use Kermit the Frog as a "spokesfrog" for its Ford Escape hybrid. After seeing the full commercial, I'm still not sure what I think.

I definitely thought Toyota's hybrid commercial hit the mark, but maybe even more important, I thought GM's ads were pathetic.

I guess Ford is going after the American family with its Kermit ad and I think it works for that audience, however, that is also why I liked the Toyota Camry hybrid ad. I live in Southern California where Spanish is as common, if not more common, than English. Thus, I believe Toyota did an excellent job of speaking to this 'new' American family with a hybrid that could be a hit with Latinos.

On the other hand, who was GM speaking to? Rich people? People who like to spend more on their car note, than their rent - which is common in California? I'm sorry, but if the Cadillac Escalade and the Hummer are the best GM has to offer to America - amidst high energy costs, uncertainty in Iran, and the loss of 10's of thousands of auto-manufacturing jobs - then GM desperately needs new leadership.

I didn't expect GM to plug hybrid cars to America, but two extreme gas-guzzlers? What planet does GM corporate live on?

Is Kermit a good "spokesfrog" for the Ford Escape hybrid?

I like the Ford Escape hybrid. In fact, if you are concerned purely about fuel efficiency, but also need an SUV, then I think the Escape hybrid is Best of Breed.

So, is Kermit the Frog a good "spokesfrog" for the hybrid Escape?

I thought I'd wait and see before making any comments, but I saw a clip of the ad yesterday on CNBC. Now, it wasn't the whole commercial, but what I saw......, well, it just didn't impress.

Granted, Ford doesn't really need to advertise the Escape hybrid to sell the vehicle. Thus, this is a P.R. move and that's O.K.. Still, will Kermit the Frog bring good P.R.?

Maybe. Of course the entire commercial might be much better than the clip. Overall, however, I haven't been impressed with the marketing of hybrid cars.

Are strong political statements just too bold? Perhaps appealing to the family - which is why you would use Kermit - is a good idea.

DaimlerChrysler's Bold Hybrid Prediction

Dieter Zetsche, DaimlerChrysler CEO, predicted that diesel-powered vehicles would beat out hybrids in the US market in five to ten years. Wow! What a prediction from a company that essentially has no plans for hybrids. What else could Daimler say? "We think hybrid cars will dominate the automarket within 10 years, that's why we haven't built one."

If Ford or Toyota made such a statement it would mean something, but Daimler? That's like expecting Mike Holmgren, of the Seattle Seahawks, to pick the Steelers to win the Super Bowl. It just doesn't make sense.

GM putting its hybrid vehicle program into gear

GM announced yesterday that it would spend $118 million at a Maryland plant to begin mass-producing its dual mode hybrid vehicle transmission. "We believe the two-mode system will become the industry standard," Rick Wagoner said to workers at a presentation at GM's Baltimore transmission facility, where GM already builds a hybrid transmission for a small fleet of heavy-duty trucks and buses. (DetroitNews)

GM also added a new member to their 2008 lineup of hybrid vehicles. In addition to the Chevy Tahoe hybrid and GMC Yukon hybrid, GM will also offer a hybrid version of the Cadillac Escalade. All vehicles should hit the road in late 2007. (AutoWeek)

According to GM, its dual mode hybrid system will increase overall fuel efficiency by 25 percent. So, it seems odd that Wagoner would boldly state that the two-mode system will become the "industry standard".

Already, Toyota, Ford and Nissan beg to differ and so to will Volkswagen and Hyundai soon - with each automaker not using a dual mode hybrid system. Moreover, Toyota and Ford hybrids offer around the same fuel efficiency improvements as GM's dual mode system. So, Wagoner is being exceedingly optimistic, especially when Toyota will soon launch its third generation hybrid synergy drive, which is expected to increase fuel efficiency and performance, yet cut hybrid costs in half.

GM's hybrid system might have an advantage in the large SUV market, however, especially if towing is required. Still, I don't think that will be enough to make it the "industry standard".

Time to give Ford a little green credit?

I am typically pretty critical of Ford, but I think Ford might be heading in the right direction. Others; however, are not so impressed with Ford's new green movement. The Chicago Tribune stated, "Ford Long On Hype, Short on Detail" finding very little excitement in Ford's hybrid vehicles, even the flex-fuel Escape hybrid and the Reflex diesel hybrid.

While it is true that Ford's hybrid vehicles are more hype than reality in terms of pure business, don't they deserve a little hype? The Ford Escape hybrid is an excellent hybrid SUV, which is why it's going to be hyped during the SuperBowl.

Where are GM's hybrids?

If automakers are now in the golden age of automaking, as Toyota believes, then Ford has taken some solid steps toward the future. Yes, those steps might be small, but if they are just the beginning, then Ford could turn its fortunes around.

I think Ford deserves a little green credit - they've taken real action.

I wish I could say the same for GM.

Flex-Fuel Ford Escape hybrid vehicle coming soon.

Soon the Ford Escape hybrid will run on gasoline or on any gasoline and E-85 combination. Ford is currently testing the Flex-Fuel Escape hybrid and plans to offer the technology in future models. According to Ford the technology only costs a few hundred dollars (Detroit News).

"Hybrids, small cars, jazzy designs": Will it work for Ford?

It's hard to make out out Ford's "way forward" plan.

"To stand out in a world awash in car manufacturers, Ford's brands and products have to be clear, relevant and distinct," said Ford Americas President Mark Fields.

According to the DetroitNews that means hybrids, crossovers and small cars, such as the Mercury Mariner hybrid, the Ford Edge and possibly the Reflex hybrid, an insanely hot concept car.

Ford's plan of 250,000 hybrid vehicles by 2010 is a nice step that could position Ford towards success well into the future. Additionally, Ford will enjoy some good P.R. with this move.

Still, let's face it, when it comes to hybrids, it's all about the Toyota Prius. Only the Camry hybrid seems like it could de-throne the Prius, but I wouldn't bet on it.

The Prius dominates because it is a model that is "clear, relevant and distinct."

Only the Honda Insight is as "clear, relevant and distinct", but it is simply too small. A two-seater will forever be a niche vehicle, regardless of whether it is a hybrid or not.

While I like the Ford Escape hybrid, or the Toyota Highlander hybrid, the price difference between a conventional vehicle and its hybrid twin is just too glaring. While I believe these hybrids are worth the price difference, especially in the long run, this math simply will not sell for the average buyer.

To what; however, do you compare the Reflex diesel hybrid?

In the short term, the move to a 'hybrid option' is a bad move for most automakers if they don't have at least one unique hybrid. If you want to be a future leader you can't keep one foot in the past and one foot in the future - it's all or nothing.

If Ford hybrid technology works in the Ford Escape hybrid, then it will work in a "clear, relevant, and distinct" hybrid vehicle as well. If Ford is too afraid to take its own advice regarding future models, then it's already over for Ford.

A Ford hybrid model that could move 100,000 units would be far more important than a hybrid option on 10 different models that will only move 20,000 units per vehicle. A combination of the two could immediately turn things around for Ford via P.R. alone.

It doesn't have to be the Reflex hybrid, but it should be just as "clear, relevant and distinct". If Ford simply follows its own advice it will move forward.

Forget the Mustang, check out the Reflex hybrid vehicle

The Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang, I say so what? Why do you need all that power? Where can you use it?

Yet, Ford tries to build buzz with these kinds of vehicles.

Forget the muscle cars. I say that if Ford could start selling the Reflex hybrid vehicle, right now, at a competitive price, they would have their biggest seller in years.

"J Mays, Ford’s group vice president of design and chief creative officer, described the Ford Reflex concept as the latest exploration of the American small car. Interior seating includes two front seats and an innovative rear seat that can fit two children, one adult, or a baby within an attachable integrated baby seat." (more)

But that isn't really the impressive part. How about 0 to 60 in under 7 seconds while getting about 65 mpg? How? The Ford Reflex Diesel hybrid vehicle is powered by next generation lithium-ion batteries. Sure these new lithium-ion batteries will probably add to the performance of the Escape hybrid and the Mariner hybrid as well, but Ford needs some cool hybrid cars.

Tell me this wouldn't give the Toyota Prius hybrid a run for the money?

How much cooler could the Reflex Diesel hybrid be, literally? The Reflex will use a solar powered roof to run fans that will keep the interior of the vehicle cool when parked in the sun. Additionally, solar panels in the headlights and taillights will help recharge the hybrid batteries.

That's innovation and if Ford did more of that they wouldn't have to announce the lay-offs of thousands of employees next week.

Hybrid cars are breeding much needed innovation

Yesterday, I went off on the over-used statement, hybrid hype. Aside from what I discussed yesterday, hybrid vehicles are breeding much needed innovation in the automotive world.

Recently I've blogged that Ford has announced the Reflex diesel hybrid vehicle and Mitsubishi has promoted the In-wheel Electric Vehicle (MIEV) hybrid powertrain (more).

In the past I've discussed experimental hybrids such as the Engima hybrid vehicle, an 80 mpg hybrid that goes from 0 to 60 in 4.3 seconds.

Hybrid cars have spawned massive exploration and innovation all across the automotive world. Every major automobile manufacturer is developing hybrid technologies, but so too are many smaller companies.

Yesterday, I came across another hybrid startup, Accelerated Composites, which is developing a 3-wheel parallel hybrid designed to achieve 330 mpg and cost under $20,000 (more).

In reality, technology, such as hybrid vehicles, demonstrates that automotive technology has so many more possibilities than what Detroit has explored. In fact, the complete lack of innovation coming out of Detroit is an embarrassment to the idea of American innovation.

Let's face it. Detroit has not been focused on innovation, but only on profit. Of course capitalistic corporations need to make money, but they need to make that money by creating products that make the world a better place, not products that simply maintain the status quo at a profit.

Not only are hybrid cars no longer hype, but their development will forever change the automotive world. Isn't it about time?

I have had enough "hybrid hype"

I am so tired of the phrase "hybrid hype".

Today, I read the article, Amid Hybrid Hype, a Lonely Advocate of Fuel Cells, that finally pushed me over the limit.

"It matters not that, in the automobile industry, hybrids generally are regarded as an interim step toward cleaner, more fuel-efficient technologies, such as hydrogen fuel cells."

"Gas-electric and diesel-electric hybrids are of the moment. The news media love them. Toyota Motor Corp., the biggest purveyor of hybrids, gets lots of greener-than-thou credit for promoting them. There's a buzz; and where there's buzz, there are politicians; and when you mix buzz and politics together, you get policies, which beget certain permutations in business."

Wow, not long ago, GM's Bob Lutz also called hybrids a poor business case, which he now admits was a mistake. Ironically, GM has also admitted that its fuel cell vehicles will inevitably be fuel cell HYBRID VEHICLES.

If hybrid technology is an integral piece of fuel cell vehicle technology how can you call hybrids an "interim step"? If GM and Toyota, the two biggest automobile companies, are going to develop fuel cell hybrids, then hybrid technology cannot be labeled "interim".

Of course, there is a buzz around hybrids. Why shouldn't there be?

9/11, Katrina, global warming, and high gasoline prices have made many people decide the time for action is now and hybrids provide that action today. It isn't just about what the Toyota Prius hybrid or the Ford Escape hybrid can achieve today, but what they could achieve tomorrow.

Plug-in hybrids can achieve 80 mpg and other experimental hybrids, with advanced lithium-ion batteries, have achieved more than 250 mpg. If we invest in today's hybrid vehicles, this can be the future for tomorrow's hybrid vehicles.

And, speaking of hype, where are the real world fuel cells vehicles? They aren't even a reality yet. Today, the average fuel cell vehicle costs $1,000,000.00 and there are still technology barriers, not to mention fueling obstacles. Yet, GM has lobbied the government since the Nixon administration not to raise national fuel economy regulations because fuel cells were just around the corner.

Let's face it, it isn't implausible to suggest that it might be 2 more decades before cost-effective fuel cell vehicles are available - if ever. If hybrids are hype, then fuel cell vehicles are pure fantasy.

So,we should wait two decades before taking foreign oil dependency or global warming seriously because fuel cells will save the world in two decades? Nothing like putting all your eggs in one basket.

Still, even if you want fuel cell vehicles to develop as quickly as possible, short term investing in hybrid vehicles might just be the best way to make that happen, unless of course GM and Toyota aren't going to be part of the fuel cell revolution.

Perhaps gasoline and diesel hybrids are a bridge to fuel cells, but to call them an "interim technology" simply doesn't make sense.

Inevitably, hybrid technology will also help power fuel cell vehicles, and it might just turn out that advancements made in gasoline and diesel hybrids help make fuel cell hybrids a reality much sooner than expected.

Ford to increase hybrid vehicle advertising

Ford will "put more marketing muscle behind our hybrid" in an effort to increase its appeal among buyers and boost the corporation's green image. (more)

Sure it's great that Ford is going to increase advertising around its hybrid vehicles, the Escape hybrid and the Mariner hybrid, but I imagine this move is more geared towards driving positive buzz around Ford than sales.

Let's face it, Ford isn't selling many hybrids. Still, according to Ford Corporate they could sell more hybrids if they could make more, but they are limited by the lack of availability of hybrid parts. If that's true, then the advertising isn't really needed to drive sales and becomes just a P.R. move.

Hopefully, they will at least create better hybrid commercials than Toyota. I love Toyota's hybrid cars, but their commercials are lacking in the 'cool' factor.

Re: AutoWeek's Newest Diesel versus Hybrid Vehicle article

"Heavy-duty diesel pickups have proved popular here, but hybrid-powered vehicles dominate the market for fuel-efficient cars, in part because they generate better environmental buzz. Consumers are willing to pay a premium for the gasoline-electric Toyota Prius and Ford Escape Hybrid." AutoWeek

Sometimes it's very hard to take AutoWeek seriously, especially when they write things that don't make sense.

First, I'm willing to admit that clean diesel achieves 20 percent better fuel efficiency than conventional gasoline engines, but the technology does cost more.

Second, in Los Angeles, where I live, the price of diesel is almost a dollar more than standard unleaded. So, how exactly is a clean diesel going to save me any money, even if it is 20% more efficient?

Third, in Los Angeles, almost all of my driving is stop and go driving. In such conditions, a hybrid vehicle like the Toyota Prius will perform much better than a Jetta Diesel.

Fourth, the Big 3 are focusing almost exclusively on diesel trucks, not cars. So I have to wait a decade before I have a selection of diesel cars to compare to the Civic hybrid, Prius hybrid, Camry hybrid and Malibu hybrid, etc?

So in my case, in real world driving, selection and costs, how does a diesel compare to a hybrid vehicle? The facts demonstrate that it just doesn't. So, it isn't about environmental buzz, as AutoWeek states, it's just basic facts.

Granted if more petroleum were refined into diesel, the costs would go down, but that's a 'what if'.

If AutoWeek wants to play 'what if' games, let me counter with a 'what if' game.

What if new hybrid batteries become 100% more powerful at the same weight and cost as today's hybrid batteries? Such technology is completely possible within the next decade - which is the same period of time that AutoWeek speculates it would take diesels to really take off in the U.S. in a way that would drive diesel fuel prices lower.

If such hybrid technology were available, then diesels - even with cheaper diesel fuel prices - simply wouldn't compare with the capabilities of hybrid cars. The potential of hybrids has barely been tapped. In the coming decades, hybrids will become significantly more powerful, fuel efficient, and clean.

Diesel technology, on the other hand, has largely reached its potential. Yes, clean diesel technology is a good thing, which can compete with hybrids in the short term, but only in the short term. Inevitably, the best utilization of a diesel engine will be to put it in a hybrid vehicle.

Clean diesel hybrid vehicles are an excellent push into the future. To quit at clean diesel is just far too short-sighted, and a silly argument against hybrids.

Once again I just don't get AutoWeek. Why are they so afraid of hybrid cars?

The price of gasoline could get ugly in 2006

In 2005, before Katrina, the price of gasoline had already been on the rise. According to experts unexpectedly higher demand for oil from China disrupted the delicate balance of world wide oil supply and demand. Consequently, when Katrina hit the Gulf, disrupting the even more delicate balance of U.S. refining capacity, gas prices skyrocketed.

If a cold winter followed, energy analysts warned, things would not only get scary regarding natural gas and other heating oils, but the gasoline problem could also worsen.

So, was America lucky we've had a mild winter? That depends.

According to weather forecasters, the same weather patterns that have kept our winter warm, are the same weather patterns that breed hurricanes.

With gas prices already up more than 50 cents compared to last year, what happens if Chinese demand again exceeds expectations, or another hurricane wipes out a number of Gulf refineries?

As if that were not enough, Nigerian 'rebels' are attacking oil platforms in that country, the fifth largest exporter of U.S. oil (more).

But that's an insignificant problem compared to Iran.

Last week, Manouchehr Takin, of the Centre for Global Energy Studies, argued that crude prices could hit $100 a barrel if Iran stopped exporting. "Supply and demand are very tightly balanced," he said.

When it comes to energy, America is now playing Russian Roulette, and chances are America is going to get burned.

Unfortunately, it won't be just high energy costs affecting drivers and slowing the economy if all these events unfold. Sustained $100.00 oil could have devastating consequences for both Ford and GM. Even today, several years since 9/11, the success of these two auto companies is still intrinsically tied to the sale of gas guzzlers.

Sure Ford has the Mercury Mariner hybrid and the Ford Escape hybrid, but GM has yet to put a full hybrid on the road, thus, they can put out about 25,000 hybrids combined.

How many warning signs does it take to realize the world has changed and gas guzzling is no longer acceptable?

In the 90's Congress perceived this problem, that's why they gave the Big 3 a billion dollars of TAXPAYER money to develop fuel efficient vehicles. The Big 3 even developed hybrid cars, but decided they had no future. I guess when you're making $10,000 in profit per gas-guzzler sold you don't think much about the future.

Ironically, even today, both companies are still pushing muscle cars in an attempt to generate new buzz around their companies.

Are the Big 3 still that blind?

How many more times can they pull the trigger before their luck runs out, and will Americans be willing to stop the bleeding if gas hits $4.00 or $5.00 per gallon. Will it be too late then?

When it comes to gasoline, 2006 could get real ugly.

What happens when the Prius loses its tax deduction?

Since the new Clean Vehicle Tax Credit was approved last year, I've complained that the credit was biased against Toyota. By capping the tax credits by manufacturer at just 60,000 hybrids, it's obvious that Toyota will quickly run out of deductions because of demand for the Toyota Prius.

In recent days Secretary Snow has essentially admitted that the credits were partially written to help out domestic automakers, and maybe - in hindsight - that wasn't such a bad idea.

Thus, the story of 2006, when it comes to hybrid cars, will continue to be the Toyota Prius hybrid. Because not every Toyota hybrid sold is going to qualify for a tax deduction, will this have an affect on the Prius and Toyota hybrid sales?

Will this simply even the playing field between Toyota and other automakers for the hybrid market? Will Toyota counter with some kind of discount? Will sales on the Honda Civic hybrid and Ford Escape hybrid explode? Will hybrid sales, overall, decline?

While the Clean Vehicle Tax Credit might offer a deduction of $3400.00 to buyers, how much will that affect most people's taxes? Sure, the tax credit could be worth several hundred dollars for the average buyer, but is that really the clinching factor for most Prius buyers?

I guess we'll see.

Of course, if gasoline prices continue to rise, the lack of tax credits for the Prius might not even matter. I think next year the U.S. will see sustained gasoline prices near $3.00, minimally. In California, $4.00 per gallon gasoline is going to be fairly common, and it won't just be a spike, such as after Katrina.

Speaking of hurricanes, if another Katrina hits next year, the predictions above will be blown away.

Anyway, that's hybrid story for 2006.

Re: Snow details tax breaks for hybrid cars

Were the hybrid vehicle tax credits designed to benefit domestic automakers?

"Development and use of hybrid vehicles is a key step toward reducing gasoline consumption, emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions," U.S. Treasury Secretary John Snow, said in a statement earlier today.

According to Reuters, Detroit was picked for this announcement because Mr. Snow "is aiming to boost the ailing domestic auto industry and encourage conservation, " with the "tax breaks for people who buy gasoline-electric vehicles."

Was it right to cap the hybrid car tax credit by manufacturer?

Showing off hybrid vehicles in Detroit.

In Invasion of the Hybrids, BusinessWeek states that "The auto giants are putting the spotlight on their eco-offerings at this year's North American International Auto Show in Detroit."

"Hybrid vehicles are proliferating, and not just because gas prices spiked to above $3 per gallon last year. Auto makers showing off new hybrid vehicles and plans at this week's North American International Auto Show in Detroit realize that having a hybrid vehicle lineup is valuable public relations for their images."

While this might be true, it is very interesting to note that there are some very unique and radical ideas in many of these new hybrids. For example, GM will be releasing a dual mode hybrid powertrain, while Mitsubishi is showing off its In-wheel Electric Vehicle (MIEV) hybrid powertrain, and Ford is displaying the Reflex diesel hybrid vehicle.

The autoshow isn't just about hybrid vehicles, its about new hybrid technology, and it is also about new hybrid parts suppliers. To simply call this PR is an understatement.

So what hybrids are just around the corner?

Ford will add the Mercury Milan hybrid and the Ford Fusion to their hybrid lineup by 2008, along with their current hybrids, the Escape hybrid and the Mariner hybrid.

GM will offer its mild hybrid, the Saturn Vue Greenline Hybrid, next year which will be followed by the Chevrolet Tahoe hybrid, Chevy Equinox hybrid, the Chevy Malibu hybrid, and the Cadillac Escalade hybrid.

Honda will add the Ridgeline hybrid and Pilot hybrid.

Nissan has already announced the Altima hybrid, but the Sentra and Murano hybrids won't be far behind.

Hyundai, Volkswagen, BMW, Chrsyler, Puegeot, Subaru and even Porsche have all announced they will also offer hybrids.

Obviously, Toyota, which launched the Camry hybrid in Detroit, will continue to push full steam ahead into hybrids. "I think everything will be a hybrid, eventually. It will either be a gas hybrid, a diesel hybrid or a fuel-cell hybrid," Jim Press, Toyota's North American president and chief operating officer said.

Hybrid cars aren't just critical for the public realtions of auto corporations, hybrid technology is critical for their very survival.

New EPA Fuel Mileage, Hybrid Cars and the Future

Boy, oh, boy some critics of hybrid cars couldn't wait to talk about how the new EPA estimates for fuel economy might affect hybrids.

The Detroit News just couldn't contain themselves in the article, Fuel test overhaul may dent hybrids, as you can tell from the title.

No, No, Detroit News, tell me how you really feel.

Anyway, the article states, "The Environmental Protection Agency announced an overhaul in the way it estimates fuel economy Tuesday, a move that could shake up showroom transactions, especially in the booming hybrid segment."

Under the new methods, the city fuel mileage estimates for most vehicles would drop 10 to 20 percent from today's estimates, depending on the vehicle. The highway mileage estimates would generally drop 5 percent to 15 percent, the EPA has stated.

The DetroitNews and others have noted that for hybrid vehicles; however, city driving numbers will drop 20 to 30 percent.

What I find most amusing about this whole discussion is how much hybrid critics like to discuss the shortcomings of hybrids. Critics constantly note that hybrids are only 1% of total sales and will never achieve more than 5% of U.S sales, therefore, they are insignificant.

Fine, if that's your belief, why do hybrid critics care so much about hybrids?

But let's get back to the EPA numbers.

When Consumer Reports did their fuel economy tests last year, it found that the biggest offenders in terms of real world city mileage were conventional vehicles, in contrast to the EPA. In fact, 9 out the 10 of the biggest offenders WERE NOT hybrids and those vehicles missed their EPA estimates by 35% on average. The worst offender, the Jeep Liberty diesel, missed its EPA estimates by 50%!

Another offender, according to CR, the Chrysler 300C, is supposed to achieve 17 mpg in the city, but actually only achieved 10 mpg. Yet, the DetroitNews and other hybrid critics are complaining about hybrids? In my mind, 10 mpg is simply unacceptable in today's world and that should be the real issue regarding American fuel economy.

Yet, the EPA numbers don't demonstrate CR's findings. Why?

While I don't know the answer, my guess is that because other cars don't fare as poorly, this raises the overall average for all vehicles in a particular class. In any regard, it demonstrates that the new EPA numbers are still very unreliable.

Also since these new numbers could affect the way CAFE is determined, one has to wonder if some politics aren't involved in the mix. If it were demonstrated that conventional vehicles were vastly less fuel efficient than the EPA has stated, then CAFE might have to be refigured. Such a move would probably immediately bankrupt both Ford and GM.

Since there aren't many hybrids available, on the other hand, one hybrid with poor city mileage can skew the whole hybrid fleet. Honda hybrids, for example, haven't performed as well in the city as Toyota hybrids, are the results of these hybrids averaged? If so, is that fair?

Ultimately, the testing methods of the EPA are still in question. Ironically, "Officials at the Alliance for Automobile Manufacturers, the auto industry's Washington lobbying group, cautioned that real-world mileage still varies from driver to driver."

Do hybrids save money.

OK, let's say the Toyota Prius hybrid car only achieves 45 mpg in the city. CR found that the Ford Fusion only achieves 17 mpg in the city. While the new EPA estimates favor the fusion, the Prius is still THREE times more fuel efficient than the Fusion in the city.

Now, if you drive on the highway all the time and never drive in congestion, the Prius won't offer near the savings, but it will still offer significantly better fuel economy than the Fusion. On the other hand, if you live in any major urban area in the U.S., the Prius could save you around $1000.00 per year compared to similarly sized conventional vehicles. That makes the Prius a pretty awesome deal.

Perhaps you're somewhere in the middle, so in 5 years you've only saved $2500. That at least covers the base MSRP price difference between the Prius and the Fusion. Keep the Prius a couple more years and you've done well, and if gas prices spike in the next 7 years, then you've done really well.

With the situation in Iran brewing, spikes in gasoline prices are becoming almost inevitable. The real question regarding gas costs isn't will gasoline prices go higher, but how much higher will gasoline prices go?

In the end, hybrid vehicle buyers, not hybrid critics, will have the last laugh, despite the EPA's new numbers.

Hybrids, the Cobra, the Camero and the Detroit Auto Show

I've been watching CNBC's coverage of the Detroit Auto Show all day long, and I've been struck by one thing: the past versus the future.

Today, Toyota's buzz has revolved around one thing, the future and hybrid cars. This morning the Lexus LS460 hybrid was unveiled, but the real hype, the real excitement is around the launch of the new Toyota Camry hybrid. Now, not to be too biased, the launch of the new conventional Camry is also big news, but the hype around the future for Toyota is still hybrids.

On the other hand, much of the buzz for Ford and GM seems to revolve around the past, particularly around the Cobra and Camero muscle cars.

Now I know that Ford has the Escape hybrid and the Mariner hybrid, and GM will soon be launching its own hybrids, but the Detroit Show again demonstrates just how far ahead Toyota is pulling into the future.

And, regarding GM hybrids, some are even questioning 'how hybrid' GM hybrids are really going to be. "What GM is talking about in my book are not hybrids," said David Healy, an auto analyst with Burnham Securities. "These are trucks with humongous starter motors." (more)

What also struck me, unfortunately, was how much horsepower drives America, which clarifies why not only Ford and GM are hyping the Cobra and Camero, but why Toyota is hyping the Lexus LS460 hybrid.

Horsepower is even driving Toyota hybrids.

Phil Lebeau of CNBC noted how hybrids have become focused on horsepower as much as fuel efficiency. Therefore, the Toyota Highlander hybrid gives you V6 performance with V4 fuel efficiency, but the focus is not purely on fuel efficiency. In fact Mr. Lebeau noted that new hybrid batteries, combined with new micro-processors and software, offer hybrid vehicles the ability to be even more fuel efficient, but that efficiency would come at the expense of horsepower.

So, fuel efficiency isn't even the pure driver of hybrids, yet. If gas prices spike in the coming years, that might change; however, if a breakthrough in hybrid batteries occurs, it might not even matter. Such a breakthrough would afford hybrids the ability to offer significant horsepower coupled with unbelievable fuel efficiency.

While gasoline electric hybrids might not dominate the future before fuel cell electric hybrid vehicles, I wouldn't bet against them if I were an automaker. Since computer technology has essentially become the driver of hybrid success, betting against hybrids is like betting that computers don't have any room for improvement.

Hybrid car testimonials: Read others and add your own

Do you own a hybrid vehicle?

Have you added your experiences to our hybrid cars testimonials? What kind of gas mileage are you achieving with your hybrid? What else would you tell others that are interested in buying a hybrid?

Click on one of the links below to add your hybrid experiences.

Ford Escape Hybrid Testimonials
Honda Accord Hybrid Testimonials
Honda Civic Hybrid Testimonials
Honda Insight Hybrid Testimonials
Lexus RX 400h Hybrid Testimonials
Toyota Prius Testimonials
Toyota Highlander Hybrid Testimonials

PSA Puegeot Citroen going hybrid too!

In the past there has been a lot of indifference coming from Europe regarding hybrid vehicles, but that sentiment seems to be changing. According to Reuters, "France's second-biggest carmaker said on Thursday it would show off a Peugeot 307 and a Citroen C4 demonstration car with a hybrid diesel system on January 31."

"The announcement coincides with a call by French President Jacques Chirac to develop such cars within 10 years."

Both GM and Ford have both developed diesel hybrids and Toyota has announced numerous times that their hybrid vehicles can function with gasoline engines, diesel engines, or even hydrogen engines.

If hybrid technology is just hype, why is automaker after automaker investing more and more into hybrid development?

I think it has become obvious that hybrids are not hype, as hybrid technology will also be important for fuel cell vehicles. Hybrids are more than just an interim step to fuel cells. In fact, hybrids are even more than a bridge to fuel cells, for hybrid technology is an integral piece of fuel cell vehicle technology. At this point in time, fuel cell vehicles WILL also be hybrid vehicles.

Those automakers calling hybrids hype are simply trying to buy time as they recover from their lack of leadership and vision. The days of hybrid hype are over.