Diesel share declines in Western Europe

VW diesel vehicle

I've never been a big fan of the diesel versus hybrid debate. As hybrid technology is fuel independent, the whole debate seems rather illogical to me.

That certainly doesn't mean there isn't a greater role for clean diesel vehicles to play in the US, especially in the short term. Still, it seems too late to try to chase European levels of diesel adoption this late in the game. With a host of new technologies making gasoline engines much more efficient, a big rush to diesel seems unnecessary.

Ironically, even in Western Europe diesel technology appears to be losing share. In 2009, as small cars gained share in Europe, diesel vehicles lost about 7 percent share.

What if small car buzz fizzles?

America's next best seller?

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

But what happens if they don't sell?

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

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

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

Audi exec continues hybrid and EV slam

Still not viable even after a $7500 tax credit?

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

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

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

Toyota halts diesel plans. Banking on gas hybrids

Diesel only for Europeans?

Despite an uptick in recent US diesel vehicle sales, probably thanks to a significant drop in diesel fuel prices, Honda, Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Nissan and Toyota have "halted diesel programs because of spiraling costs and other problems," according to AutoWeek.

Toyota followed up this news with the comment that they are "banking heavily" on gasoline-powered hybrid vehicles.

Diesel v hybrids at an EPA glance

The EPA's top pick for 2009

I've been ill the last several days, so when I saw the EPA's Top 10 Most Fuel Efficient Vehicles List last week, I just wasn't very surprised or excited. Hybrids still dominate, especially in the city. Since, however, I've read a few articles noting the significance of the first diesel making the list.

A manual VW Jetta TDI is rated 30 mpg in the city, 41 on the highway. The Toyota Prius is 48 and 45, respectively.

Many diesel fans regularly chide the whole hybrid cars segment as a fad, but when it comes to city driving it's clear, hybrids are easily superior.

In order the list goes: Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid, Nissan Altima hybrid, Ford Escape hybrid (and Mercury Mariner hybrid, Mazda Tribute hybrid), Smart ForTwo, Toyota Camry hybrid, VW Jetta Diesel Manual, VW Jetta Diesel Automatic, Toyota Yaris Manual, and the Toyota Yaris Automatic.

Audi A3 1.9TDIe: Who needs a Prius asks Angus?

A Prius killer?

Angus of MotorTrend has been driving an Audi A3 1.9TDIe for the last few days, a nice new diesel vehicle that is making Angus ask why anyone needs a Toyota Prius. Ultimately, according to Angus, the Audi is more fuel efficient than the Prius, except in extreme traffic, and the Audi performs better, so maybe there is no need for hybrid cars? Finish reading.....

Why hybrids are more important than diesel

The hot Mercedes diesel hybrid at the LA Auto Show

I just finished posting a comment to the Kicking Tires story regarding the Rand study which calls hybrids and clean diesel more beneficial than ethanol. Kicking Tires, however, focused on an element of the Rand study (earlier post) which, according to Wired Magazine, suggests diesel vehicles are better than hybrid cars.

Whether the world likes it or not, the world will eventually move beyond oil. As both diesel and gasoline require oil, both diesel and gasoline are dying fuels. So, how can diesel be a solution for the future? Are we going to start using tar sands that will make today's pollution seem like the good old days (1980s) of clean air? Please. (Finish)

Gov. Schwarzenegger asks automakers to go green

Governor outside the LA Auto Show

Hydrogen vehicles, plug-in hybrids, hybrid cars, and clean diesel vehicles are the kinds of automobiles that the Governor wants so see being made for the California market.

“It is fantastic to see that the world’s automakers are developing the technology to help us meet our goals in California . These cars come in every size and shape and they prove that we can give consumers the choices they want and still protect the environment,” said Governor Schwarzenegger. “This is exactly the kind of innovation we need. Working together, we will ensure that California remains a leader in clean and alternative fuel vehicles and we will ensure a healthy and prosperous future for our nation.

“Imagine what we can accomplish if we improve efficiency and put more alternatives on the road, whether it is biofuels, electric cars, hydrogen or hybrids. This will also help our families with fuel prices because it’s all about supply and demand. By providing more alternatives, we can drive down oil prices from the $100 a barrel everyone is expecting.”

VW going all-hybrid?

Every VW will come in a hybrid option?

There has been a persistent rumor floating around on the Internet that VW will offer a hybrid option on all of its vehicles. Rumors. Rumors. Rumors.

Maybe a year or so ago, VW announced a line of hybrid vehicles only to significantly reduce those plans shortly thereafter. In the next few years, I think VW is far more focused on clean diesel rather than hybrids.

Thus, I don't think VW has any specific hybrid plans, other than for the Touareg.

Nonetheless, by 2010, both Peugeot and Mercedes will start rolling out diesel hybrids, such as the 308 HDI diesel hybrid or the E300 BlueTec diesel hybrid, and it appears that Mercedes is becoming very serious about diesel hybrids.

So, VW is paying attention.

And, who can blame them? With the greenhouse gas legislation being proposed by the EU, diesel hybrids might be the only way forward for European automakers.

Lucky Europe: Clean diesel hybrids

The E300 BlueTec diesel hybrid

Diesels versus hybrids? Nonsense! The best diesel vehicles will be clean diesel hybrid vehicles, and by 2010 a number of them will be hitting the streets, well, at least in Europe.

While the Ford Reflex diesel hybrid was probably the first diesel hybrid to really get me excited about such vehicles, a number of other players have recently entered the hybrid fray.

At the Frankfurt Auto Show, Peugeot announced that it would begin production on diesel hybrids, such as the Peugeot 308 HDI diesel hybrid, in 2010, but it is the diesel hybrids from Mercedes that really have my attention, such as the Mercedes E300 BlueTec diesel hybrid.

A 46 mpg luxury hybrid? Are you kidding me?

Clean diesel hybrids are coming, ladies and gentlemen, let's just hope they find their way into America!

Volvo hybrid concept: If only lithium were reality

Lithium powered hybrids rock, but they are not yet ready for primetime

Wow! Seriously, could the Frankfort Auto Show become any more focused on green issues, at least in terms of concepts? It's hybrid cars galore - in addition to clean diesel and biofueles. Unfortunately, so many of the concepts, such as the Volvo Recharge Hybrid, are dependent upon technologies that are just not ready for reality.

Imagine 62 mpg on electric power only. That's what the Recharge hybrid promises.

Starting to sound like GM's Chevy Volt?

InsideLine notes that the 4 electric motors in each wheel combined with 1.6 liter flex-fuel engine could achieve a whopping 120+ mpg for trips less than 90 miles. In trips over 100 mpg, the Volvo hybrid would eventually average out at 45 mpg.

Still, much like the Volt, the Volvo hybrid can meet most commuter's daily needs with just electric power. Unfortunately, just as with the Volt or other plug-in hybrids, the technology is completely dependent upon lithium-ion batteries.

Ultimately, it is isn't automakers which control the future, its energy storage/providers - whether lithium, ultracapacitors, or hydrogen.

Automakers: Fuel efficiency pretenders?

Green hotdoggin' at the Frankfurt AutoShow?

The hype around the Frankfurt Auto Show has almost exclusively been focused on green vehicles, such as hybrid cars, clean diesel vehicles, and bio-fueled vehicles. Obviously, it's great that automakers are focusing on green issues, but are they just posing?

With the EU possibly on the verge of very strict emissions requirements, automakers have to be prepared. Nonetheless, if the EU doesn't act, will automakers continue with their green efforts?

Transport and Environment, a Brussels-based environmental lobby group, is not impressed with Frankfurt-attending-automakers according to Reuters. Essentially, automakers are just throwing out a few token green cars, rather than making real changes, the group claims.

"It's not good enough to have one or two cars," said Transport and Environment spokesman Dudley Curtis. "What we need is emission reduction across the board."

Do automakers really care about the environment or energy security, or is profit all that matters?

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

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

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

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

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

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

BW: The problem with hybrids is diesel?

Death of the hybrid Accord a setback to hybrids?

"Of course, the setbacks don't suggest it's the end of the road for hybrids—it certainly isn't for hybrid pioneers like Toyota and Honda. But it's clear that the difficulties that automakers face in marketing their hybrid engines are still vast, despite the growing awareness of environmental issues."

Wow. I doubt very much Honda ever thought it would sell more than several thousand Accord hybrid vehicles per year. In fact, when the Accord hybrid was developed, Honda didn't believe that such vehicles would EVER replace conventional vehicles. While Honda stepped up their hybrid game with the new Civic hybrid, Honda still isn't nearly as committed to hybrids as Toyota.

In addition to setbacks, such as the Accord, the BW article also claims that clean diesel is set to challenge the future of hybrids.

U.K. hybrid sales taking off

Hybrid sales growing

According to Just-Auto.com, hybrid sales in the U.K. continue to increase year-after-year, even doubling from one year to the next. Despite the widespread use of small diesels, hybrid cars continue to gain consumer acceptance, proving the first cost-effective diesel hybrid has a rosy future in Europe.

Diesels to outgrow hybrids?

A Mercedes clean diesel vehicle

"Ricardo forecasts that combined diesel and hybrid gasoline will represent 15 percent of the U.S. light vehicle market by 2012, with sales of diesels outstripping gasoline hybrids by 1.5 million units versus 1.2 million. UBS highlights that European automakers and a number of global suppliers look set to benefit from the diesel trend."

I like a good clean diesel vehicle, but they are still no hybrid. Yes, in terms of costs, diesels are competitive to hybrids - at least with today's hybrid technology. Will that still be the case when lithium enters the hybrid powertrain? Inevitably, each new generation of hybrid vehicles will continue to become more fuel efficient and cheaper, and if plug-in hybrids are developed, can diesel really compete?

In the short term, clean diesel is a fine choice. Ultimately, however, the best future for diesel is as a diesel hybrid.

Half of America supports a gas tax?

A fuel tax to fund alternative fuel research?

According to a survey released by the Civil Society Institute "more than half of Americans would support higher gasoline taxes if the money went to research into alternative fuels." (CNN)

I say, what a silly study.

While I favor a gasoline tax, I think the revenues derived from the tax should go only to consumers whom purchase hybrid cars, electric cars, plug-in hybrid cars, clean diesel vehicles, etc. Instead of using a gasoline tax to fund research, simply leave alternative fuels exempt from the tax. Thus, alternative fuels become more price competitive.

Giving tax revenue to fund research sounds too much like pork to me. Give it to 'the people', not to the people whom are owed political favors.

Ford's Mulally wants to fight global warming

Let's get this sucka on the road then!

I think Ford CEO Alan Mulally has the potential to turn Ford around. First, Mulally is an efficiency aficionado. Second, he has proven himself at Boeing. Third, he wants to fight global warming, even telling reporters that he believes humans are responsible for the "vast majority" of global warming.

Whether he's correct or not regarding global warming, Mulally at least appears cognizant of the fact the fuel efficiency is going to determine the success of automakers selling vehicles in the U.S. - foreign oil dependency isn't going anywhere even if science proves the sun is causing global warming. Perhaps, some U.S. auto manufacturers might choose to focus on selling sub-$5000.00 cars in China and India, but it appears that Ford is prepared to try to sell fuel efficient vehicles in the U.S..

So, c'mon Mr. Mulally, let's see a few new hybrid vehicles, such as the Ford Reflex hybrid pictured above. Enough talking, time for a little walking. Show the world and the rest of Detroit that Ford ain't dead yet. Besides America could truly use some real leadership coming out of Michigan - apart from the Pistons and Red Wings.

A diesel hybrid from Mercedes within 2 years?

A Mercedes Blutec Diesel at NAIAS

There are rumors in the blogoshpere that Mercedes might offer a Blutec Diesel hybrid vehicle within two years. However, it appears these rumors are purely speculation, or an educated guess. Nonetheless, a mild hybrid diesel seems to fit quite well with Mercedes' plans for diesel and hybrid technology.

DaimlerChrsyler explands plug-in hybrid concept program

A plug-in diesel hybrid to be included

DaimlerChrysler will include the 2007 Dodge Sprinter in its recently announced plug-in hybrid test program in the U.S. In addition to the new platform, the concept program will also include diesel plug-in hybrids. Currently, the Sprinter plug-in can achieve around 20 miles on electric power only using next generation lithium-ion batteries.

While its nice to see this plug-in program evolving, how about some hybrid vehicles today?

Build your own plug-in hybrid vehicle kit

Can't wait for a plug-in hybrid? Build it yourself

Robert Q. Riley Enterprises plans to sell plans and kits for a do-it-yourself plug-in hybrid vehicle, and the company will debut the XR-3 hybrid in June of this year. According to the company, this plug-in hybrid will be a three-wheeled, two-seater capable of 225 miles per gallon when in hybrid mode. The plug-in can also be powered only by its 3-cylinder diesel engine, or it can be powered by pure electric power, however, it achieves its greatest efficiency as a plug-in hybrid.

The XR-3 has been in the press for a few years now. Hopefully, this time it's for real. Unfortunately, pricing has not yet been set.

BMW, Daimler to produce mild hybrids

Going hybrid

BMW and DaimlerChrsyler will co-develop a mild hybrid transmission for rear-wheel-drive cars which will be available within three years, according to Reuters.

Additionally, the two companies will continue their partnership with GM to develop dual mode hybrid vehicles - full hybrid vehicles.

GM is planning to launch the Yukon hybrid and the Escalade hybrid later this year, while DaimlerChrysler is hoping to launch the Durango hybrid and a Mercedes-Benz hybrid soon after GM's hybrid launch.

You are No hybrid, sir. Are clean diesel vehicles a waste of time?

Sure, a clean diesel is nice, but a clean diesel hybrid is revolutionary

I was watching CNBC's coverage of the recent North American International Auto Show yesterday, a show where European automakers really tried to raise the image value of clean diesel vehicles, such as the VW Tiguan concept pictured here.

And what is not to like? Clean and powerful, plus a 25 percent increase in fuel efficiency over gasoline sounds pretty good.

Yet, if America converted its an entire fleet to clean diesel, instead of gasoline, it would take more than a decade. In that same time, it is predicted that America's energy consumption will probably increase by some 20 percent or more. So, what will have been gained? At best, America would be just as dependent as today on foreign oil by making this conversion.

Clean diesel hybrids, or clean diesel plug-in hybrids, however, could have revolutionary effects on foreign oil dependency. Why not invest in this future? Won't the costs pay for themselves in the long run?

More on clean diesel vehicles versus hybrid vehicles.

Why isn't ending foreign oil dependency more important?

America hasn't learned anything from the 70's gas lines, the Iranian hostage crisis or even 9/11

Recently, President Bush suggested the idea of reducing gasoline dependence by 20 percent in the next decade. America's Big 3 automakers responded that ending foreign oil dependency just isn't profitable.

On the other hand, Honda welcomed the idea, and Toyota was far less opposed than American automakers. So, which automakers are better for America?

Yet, foreign oil dependency has already cost Americans more than a trillion dollars, and it is certain to cause even far more money and problems in the next few decades if we can't even reduce dependence by 20 percent. Ironically, however, such a sum could easily fund the technology to end foreign oil dependency using today's technology such as hybrid cars, clean diesels, lightweight composite materials and bio-fuels.

So why don't Americans take foreign oil dependency more seriously? (Read More)

Europe ready to lead the hybrid revolution?

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

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

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

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

State of the Union: Is 20 percent enough?

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

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

Toyota was supportive. Isn't that interesting?

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

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

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

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

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

Give the Prius some credit

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

Wow, I guess Detroit gets it, huh?

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

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

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

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

Power to the people, not the corporations!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DaimlerChrysler testing plug-in hybrid vehicles

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

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

(Source: Car&Driver)

German vehicles to diesel into America

German automakers are hoping to leave hybrid cars in the dust and convert Americans into clean diesel guzzlers, rather than gasoline guzzlers. "That is the bet European automobile manufacturers are making as they talk the talk of gas-electric hybrid engines to show they care for the environment, but walk the walk down the diesel trail." (more)

Why is that hybrid vehicles are only seen as environment savers? Obviously the environment is a huge reason that many Americans buy hybrids, but just as many buy hybrids because of foreign oil dependency. Clean diesel technology simply isn't going to end foreign oil dependency, however, plug-in hybrid technology could.

NO. Hybrid vehicles are not losing their appeal

Today, Roland Jones of MSNBC asked the question, Are hybrid vehicles losing their appeal?

No, Roland, they are not. Also, Roland, how can you utilize the Honda Accord hybrid to discuss hybrid vehicle economics? First, the Accord hybrid isn't a hot-selling hybrid, it's possibly the worst selling hybrid. Second, it's a performance hybrid, and was not produced purely to achieve fuel efficiency.

Sure, the sales of hybrid cars are down. Automobile sales overall are down and expected to be down into 2007. Yes, hybrids are down more, but that fact has nothing to deal with appeal, Roland. Obviously, the fact that Toyota's hybrid tax credits have been cut in half is a key issue since the Prius is by far the best selling hybrid, as is the drop in gasoline prices.

But there is also a bigger, non-hybrid issue. Why are automobile sales down and expected to be down next year? Are automobiles losing their appeal? Or, do consumers have a little less financial power? If economic times are tight, it isn't surprising fewer consumers can justify paying more for a hybrid when the tax credit has been cut in half and when gas prices are down.

Nonetheless, consumers are very interested in hybrid cars, especially the hybrids of the future. Consumers are not stupid, and they know the best of hybrid vehicles is yet to come. Currently, the public appears to be particularly fascinated with the idea of plug-in hybrid vehicles. So, since consumers have less cash and gas prices are low, many are waiting for next generation hybrid technology.

And no, Roland, diesel is not an alternative. Diesel might compete with hybrids today in some driving conditions, but reliance upon diesel instead of gasoline will NEVER end foreign oil dependency. Next generation hybrid technology, however, certainly has the capability to end foreign oil dependency.

Automakers turning green? Poppycock

There has been a lot of buzz in the media about how automakers are going green and the Los Angeles Auto Show has been cited as an example. I say poppycock.

Sure GM debuted the Saturn Aura hybrid and the GMC Yukon hybrid in LA, but GM's real green buzz was really generated by GM's plug-in hybrid development announcement - even though the company gave no timeline for an arrival. Is it 3 years, five years, 10 years?

Anyway, at the LA Auto Show, GM put far more effort into marketing their massive lineup of huge Flex-fuel trucks and SUVs - not their hybrids. Saturn hybrids, for crying-out-loud, were practically hidden at the show.

While I would applaud flex-fuel hybrids, or very fuel efficient flex-fuel compact vehicles, I cannot call GM's flex fuel trucks and SUVs a huge green move. Flex-fuel guzzlers are little better than gas-guzzlers. Even worse, flex-fuel guzzlers seem too much like another excuse for GM not to focus on real fuel economy.

Aside from GM, Nissan did debut the Altima hybrid, and Ford displayed the newly designed 2008 Mercury Mariner hybrid and the 2008 Ford Escape hybrid, but Ford's real buzz was generated by the new Mustang more than anything. In reality hybrids were minor drivers for both Ford and Nissan at the LA Show.

Then there was a lot of talk about clean diesel and hydrogen. Blah, blah, blah.

Even Toyota, world leader in hybrid cars, was far more focused on promoting the Toyota Tundra, not its Hybrid Synergy Drive. Still, Toyota hybrids did drive significant buzz in LA and it was obvious many were checking out Toyota's hybrids as potential buyers, not just gawkers.

Ultimately, automakers have realized that Americans are interested in green issues, however, the keyword is interested. Most Americans are still unwilling to help fund the green revolution, and I think automakers are keenly aware of this fact. At this point in time, green marketing is possibly more important than green automobiles.

Americans might be interested in hearing and talking about the green revolution and energy independence, but they are definitely not yet willing to revolt against energy dependence by joining the green revolution.

Detroit must "think anew"

Last week I questioned an editorial by the Detroit News regarding fuel economy because of its complacency, and it's inability to foresee and realize that change must be realized by American automakers. Today, however, Daniel Howes of the Detroit News is singing my tune, telling politicians to give up the blame game while also telling Michigan and the Big 3 that it's time to change.

"The only questions are how and how quickly. Not, why us? Nor who's to blame for tampering with what U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow likes to call "our way of life" -- as if Detroit's automakers, their unions and others are immune to the laws of supply and demand. They aren't, no matter how freely some politicians may be willing to manipulate reality to suggest otherwise."

"Apologies to Sen. Stabenow, but "our way of life" is strangling Michigan because it was never designed to adapt to a changing world, much less accept that the economy and competition would change."

Evolution is often driven by small constant changes. Toyota, for example, is driven by small constant changes focused on increasing efficiency. This process, or Kaizen, led Toyota to hybrid cars - a new platform to increase efficiency. Inevitably the efficiency potential of hybrids has barely been tapped. Moreover, hybrids are adaptable to flex-fuel, hydrogen, gasoline, diesel, biodiesel, or even electricity, and they can lead to advanced batteries and fuel cell development.

Ultimately, hybrids exude change and flexibility. Today's hybrids are gasoline-electric, but tomorrow's might be flex-fuel plug-in hybrids and not long after that they might by hydrogen hybrids, or plug-in fuel cell hybrid vehicles. Hybrid technology is changing rapidly, adapting to the future.

Today, Democrats and the Big 3 appear very close to becoming fixated upon ethanol, a fuel which requires little change for the Big 3. Ultimately, ethanol won't really make the Big 3 any more adaptable, and it just might lead to another decade of complacency. Alternative fuels can help America, but not enough. Only significantly more fuel efficient automobiles can lead to real change.

Detroit must "think anew", and ethanol just isn't new enough.

Stop the Madness: Hybrid Vehicles Not E85!!!!!!!

Last year ethanol producers received subsidies and tax incentives worth more than $5 billion dollars, and those subsidies will probably be much higher next year. Yet, even with those subsidies ethanol isn't cost effective unless gas prices are close to $3.00 per gallon.

So, is ethanol worth the price?

Supporters of ethanol claim that all this investment in ethanol for automobiles will eventually lead to better ways of producing ethanol, such as cellulosic ethanol.

I say it will simply lead to more flex-fuel Hummers and little decrease in foreign oil dependency. I say E85 is a feel-good way of accomplishing nothing, something both Democrats and Republicans love - talk, talk, talk, but do nothing.

Without raising the fuel efficiency of America's automobiles - significantly - America's demand for energy will continue to grow exponentially and it will outpace any reduction in foreign oil dependency produced by ethanol.

More important, even GM is now realizing the that the future of automobiles is probably electric. If this is true, then E85 simply becomes a distraction, even a boondoggle to those ends, at least for American automakers and the American economy.

Today, hybrid cars can increase fuel efficiency by 20 to 30 percent, which is a good start. Add advanced gasoline engines or clean diesel engines and fuel efficiency could be doubled - that's with just TODAY's technology.

But the real advantage of hybrids will be lithium batteries, and the ability to utilize electric power. Within 5 years it is quite possible that you could buy a $30,000 hybrid vehicle that might never have to be filled with fuel if you drive less than 40 miles per day, all it would need is a small electric charge at night.

Within 10 years a small fuel cell stack could be added to these plug-in hybrids and the majority of drivers might never need any other fuel than just a little occasional electricity. More important, all of this could happen much quicker if more incentives were provided for hybrid technology and lithium-ion technology.

Why not give those ethanol subsidies to consumers to purchase these vehicles? Ultimately, a change in consumer behavior is the quickest path to foreign oil dependence and a cleaner environment.

Yet, ethanol is the favored buzzword, the favored recipient of tax incentives and government subsidies.

In the past Honda has already claimed it believes electric cars are integral to the future, and Toyota's hybrid efforts make them a player in electric cars as well. Even GM says the future is electric. Consequently, it is imperative that American automakers lead the way into this automotive revolution, rather than sticking to flex-fuel Hummers and Mustangs.

America's focus should be that in 10 years every American vehicle produced is either fuel-free or that fuel is simply a backup. The technology will be there within 10 years. The Japanese will be there. Will America?

Still, I'm all for ethanol, cellulosic ethanol, as a fuel to produce electricity, just not as an automobile fuel. Ultimately, transporting ethanol simply makes no sense in a liquid form, but in an electric form it makes great sense.

Consequently, E85 could become a distraction, even a boondoggle if it takes the clean energy and foreign oil dependency spotlight, and early talk from many Democrats seems headed in that direction.

The future is now. If we don't dare to dream, we just might wake up to a nightmare. New automotive technology, not alternative fuels, should be the priority for America, and the majority of our tax incentives and subsidies should be given to consumers to buy this new technology.

GM set to go hybrid, then all electric?

So, GM is canceling their hydrogen fuel cell program? Well, not exactly, but it appears GM is finally beginning to understand that the world doesn't have to wait for hydrogen fuel cells before getting serious about fuel economy and pollution.

"What started as a fuel cell project is now an electric vehicle project," GM's Bob Lutz told the Automotive News recently.

"A series hybrid could run primarily on electricity from lithium-ion batteries, with an engine as backup to replenish batteries, Lutz says. The backup engine could be a diesel or gasoline internal combustion engine. Backup energy also could come from a fuel cell."

Of course, Toyota has claimed this same idea for a number of years, although their approach is a bit different. Even fuel cell makers have been calling for plug-in hybrid vehicles because they make a smaller, cheaper fuel cell stack much more cost effective to add to a vehicle.

Still, the costs of the batteries, fuel cell stacks, etc for either an all-electric fuel cell vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid fuel cell vehicle, will probably be very high for several years and maybe even a decade or longer. Which is why current hybrid technology is so important.

If not for current hybrids, GM wouldn't even be having this conversation. If not for current hybrids, plug-in hybrids wouldn't even be a buzzword in the auto industry. If not for current hybrids, there wouldn't be enough upside to develop lithium-ion batteries for automobiles.

Today's hybrid vehicles, with today's hybrid technology, are an investment in lithium ion batteries and in fuel cells, in addition to being a way to begin to reduce foreign oil dependency and global warming emissions. With today's hybrid vehicles we can begin changing the world TODAY.

It's about time GM has gotten with the program. Let's just hope this revelation isn't just hot air! America, the world, needs GM to do the right thing now more than ever.

European carmakers "firmly" opposed to CO2 emissions law

According to the Association of European Automobile Manufacturers (ACEA), consumers are at fault for automakers failing to meet CO2 emission reductions.

"This is due to a strong customer demand for larger and safer vehicles and disappointing consumer acceptance of extremely fuel-efficient cars."

Great. Now Europeans want to act as foolishly as Americans?

Still, perhaps consumers do want these larger vehicles. Fine, then make them hybrid vehicles, or clean diesel hybrid vehicles, and let consumers cover the costs of meeting CO2 emissions by paying for these technologies. Or, they can simply buy a smaller vehicle.

When you make it easy for consumers to make poor choices, they will. Make them responsible for their poor decisions and they'll make better choices in the future.

Foreign oil dependency makes America stronger!

Do you think foreign oil dependency makes America stronger? In today's world, isn't that a stupid question?

Yet, it seems many Americans either believe that cheap foreign oil is good for America or that it poses little threat to America's National Security. Otherwise, how can the continued purchasing of gas-guzzlers be justified? How can the lack of hybrid vehicles from 2 out of 3 of Detroit's automakers be explained?

I often criticize GM for its lack of leadership in fighting foreign oil dependency. Does my criticism stem from my perpetual hate of anything GM? Absolutely not. It stems from the immense power GM has to take a leadership role in fighting oil dependency coupled with GM's refusal to do so.

Ultimately, I would gladly buy a GM hybrid vehicle - as long as it was a full hybrid vehicle. Unfortunately, GM just doesn't have any full hybrid vehicles available yet.

Why?

Well, just a few years ago important GM executives, such as Bob Lutz, publicly ridiculed hybrid vehicles and those automakers investing in them, which is particularly offensive since billions of taxpayer dollars were given to Detroit to develop similar vehicles back in the 90s.

Sure, GM has been claiming the future will be fuel cell vehicles, but they've been saying this for decades and they might be saying it a few more decades before it is a reality. Still, everything that can be done to fight oil dependency today, needs to be done today.

Quite simply, today, the hybrid vehicle is the best course of action in the war on oil dependency. The hybrid powertrain by itself is already efficient and will become even far more efficient. More important, however, the hybrid powertrain enables the integration of clean diesel, flex-fuel, electricity, hydrogen and fuel cells into the same powertrain.

Today's technology, such as a clean diesel hybrid, could produce vehicles that are 50 percent more efficient than today's vehicles. What are we waiting for? Too expensive? No way! There are enough subsidies already being wasted on big oil and other pork barrel legislation to provide the tax incentives needed for consumers to make clean diesel hybrids cost effective.

But, clean diesel hybrids are just one slice of the potential hybrid pie. In areas where ethanol makes sense, flex-fuel hybrids could be built. Add plug-in technology to both diesel hybrids and flex-fuel hybrids and you might only have to fill up on trips greater than 40 miles.

Imagine only filling your vehicle up a couple of times per year.

In the Southwest, such plug-in hybrids could make solar power far more cost-effective, enabling homeowners the ability to power their homes and their automobiles. Imagine never paying an electricity bill nor to fuel your automobiles. How's that for fighting global warming?

Of course these vehicles could also eventually develop into hydrogen powered hybrid vehicles, or fuel cell hybrid vehicles, but foreign oil dependency could be ended without either of these innovations. We don't have to wait for the holy grail, fuel cells. We just have to start demanding action right now.

To be fair, it's not as if GM is evil and Toyota is a saint. Neither automaker is doing enough. Nonetheless, considering the trends of the last few decades, such as previous oil embargoes, Katrina, global warming, and 9/11 isn't it finally time to say enough is enough?

And I say, it's especially time for GM, the most important automaker in America and one of the most important American companies, not to just act, but to take the lead. GM has the kind of loyal following to buy these war-effort vehicles and the political power to force the government to assist with subsidies and tax incentives for these war-effort vehicles.

Instead of using that billion dollar GM marketing budget to market gas-guzzlers, market the fight against the war on foreign oil dependency and global warming. It's our GM hybrid vehicle, it's our national security.

I don't think there is a company that could do more for America than GM if GM began to look at foreign oil dependency and global warming as a war, a war that GM was leading the battle against at ALL costs - even bankruptcy. That is simply a battle that GM would not and could not lose today.

Bob Lutz has admitted that GM could have taken a FRACTION of their YEARLY marketing budget to develop a hybrid to rival the Toyota Prius. Yet, they willfully continue to chose to spend that money marketing gas-guzzling - even AFTER 9/11. Stop!

Before 9/11 most Americans had their heads buried in the sand regarding the consequences of America's addiction to oil. Sometimes when something is so good, it's just better not to ask questions. After 9/11, however, there is no excuse not to act. Now America needs GM to do the right thing more than ever.

If 9/11, Katrina, Iraq and all the threats about global warming are not enough to get America to realize it is time to change, what will it take? Would the deaths of 10,000 or 100,000 citizens be enough? Do we need a third world war, or the loss of a major city, such as New York? Would that finally be enough?

Then again foreign oil dependency has nothing to do with 9/11, Iraq or global warming, right? Foreign oil dependency makes America stronger!

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?

An interesting week for hybrid cars

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

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

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

Today's hybrid cars are just the beginning.

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.

AutoWeek: French Hybrid 'Best in Class'

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

Peugeot's diesel hybrid in 2010?

In the last year or two, executives from Peugeot have made very positive statements regarding the future of hybrid vehicles, essentially claiming that hybrids ARE the future. The idea being that Europe's diesel vehicles will become diesel hybrid vehicles and, eventually, fuel cell hybrid vehicles. Today, the costs of such a vehicle are probably too expensive for most consumers, as evidenced by Toyota's recent statements on diesel hybrids. However, as more suppliers provide the technology for clean diesels and hybrids, costs will reduce. Consequently, Peugeot is showing off its C-Métisse diesel hybrid vehicle at the Paris Auto Show, which could hit the streets by 2010 according to MSNBC.

Toyota diesel hybrids coming soon? Not

"Already the diesel [price] premium is quite high, then you'd have to pay a hybrid premium, so we're not seeing that there's a market," Toyota Motor Europe chief executive Tadashi Arashima told BBC News. The response came when Mr. Arashima was asked about Peugeot's plans to make diesel hybrid vehicles.

Some fans of hybrid cars have hoped for a line of clean diesel hybrids, which would offer even better fuel efficiency than current gasoline hybrids. Perhaps when Peugeot and other European automakers begin to produce their own diesel hybrid vehicles, Toyota will change its plans.

Government loans to help Big 3 develop hybrid vehicles, etc.

"The Big Three automakers could get up to $20 billion in federally backed loan guarantees to speed the development of "green technologies," including hybrid electric engines, flexible fuels and clean diesel under a bill to be introduced this week in Congress." (More)

Will the Big 3 even care? It's not free money - they will have to pay it back. Besides, with gas prices falling, will the Big 3 just return to business as usual - hoping that SUV sales will again pick up?

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.

Hybrids, Flex-fuel guzzling and biodiesel

Well, who knows if we'll need hybrid cars for much longer. Since Chevron has apparently discovered a huge oil reserve, maybe we can go back to $1.00 gas! Of course, then we'll simply increase our demand, and eventually end up back in the same place.

Besides, I say technology can revolutionize the American auto industry, which is only going to survive if we take the automobile into the next generation, and that means the end of gasoline.

But the revolution extends beyond the auto industry.

One of my primary interests in plug-in hybrid vehicles is not just the end of foreign oil dependency, or cleaner energy, but the effect that plug-in technology could have on the solar industry. Imagine clean and green solar energy powering your house and vehicles, while paying for itself in less than 20 years? In the interim, monthly energy expenses will still probably be less than without solar power.

Now that's revolutionary. Besides, alternative fuels have limited potential.

"Even if all of the corn and soy being grown in the U.S. right now were used to make biodiesel in its 100% vegetable oil form, it would only satisfy about 15% of the current demand for diesel fuel," says Geeta Agashe, director of the Petroleum and Energy practice for Kline's research division. (more)

Anyway, don't we have better uses for food crops and all the water we'd need to make these fuels?

Let's face it, a 10 mpg flex fuel vehicle really isn't really going green by going yellow.

Ultimately, technology is the only way forward for America. That means hybrid vehicles and solar power.

$2.00 Gas: The Calm Before the Storm?

There is a very good chance that by Thanksgiving, gas prices could land near $2.50. If things go real well, we might even see $2.00 gas. (more)

Is this a good thing? Ironically, I say it's a better thing for oil companies, than for consumers - at least in the long run.

Over the last several decades, whenever gas prices recede, gas consumption increases. Will this time be any different? As gas prices drop, so to will interest in hybrid cars, in ethanol, in clean diesel, etc. - so to will America's interest in ending foreign oil dependency.

Let's face it, most Americans are living paycheck-to-paycheck. Can we really blame them for taking the cheaper path?

Of course, is it really cheaper? Even cheap gasoline prices in America still lead to huge profits in the hands of governments that not only HATE America, but that fund terrorism against America. Then there is the cost of enforcement. How much does our military presence in the Gulf cost - even when we aren't fighting wars in Iraq? Wouldn't a foreign-oil dependency-ending technological revolution be cheaper than this enforcement?

Of course, there is nothing like the status quo!

Thus, will Detroit finally step up to the plate and, regardless of gasoline prices, strive for the end of foreign oil dependency?

Unfortunately, I doubt it. Like many Americans, Detroit is going to do whatever is most profitable - at least in the short term.

Still, $2.00 gas won't last. There will be hurricanes in the Gulf again - maybe not this year, maybe not next year, but soon. China and India will keep exponentially increasing their oil demand, and Middle East tensions will get much worse before they truly improve.

The world now believes that oil is one of America's biggest Achille's Heals. While alternative fuels such as ethanol can help, only advanced automotive technologies can save America in the long run.

Will America have the wisdom and the vision to prepare for the future, or will we fall into our fat, lazy, apathetic and complacent ways? The next surge in gasoline prices might not just destroy the American auto industry, but the American economy as well.

As consumers, as citizens, we must make sure that we keep pressure on automakers and on government officials. Inevitably, few issues in our lives will have greater impact on our lives than foreign oil dependency. We can either let this addiction turn into a bigger crisis, or we can turn it into a revolutionary opportunity.

Which side are you on?

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.

UPS hydraulic hybrid truck making your next delivery?

The EPA and UPS will begin testing a hydraulic diesel hybrid truck this year. Early tests indicate that the "patented hydraulic hybrid diesel technology achieved a 60 to 70 percent improvement in fuel economy and more than a 40 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, compared to a conventional UPS vehicle" (more). Wow, is all I can say if those numbers hold up in real world tests. If so, I guess you have to thank Toyota. If not for the Prius and Toyota's obstinate push into hybrid cars, technologies, such as hydraulic diesels, probably wouldn't have been taken seriously.

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.

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?

Foreign Oil Dependency: It all comes down to clean vehicle tax incentives

High gasoline prices are only the most obvious, negative result of America's foreign oil dependency. The worldwide geopolitical crisis that America is facing in an effort to maintain its dependency on oil is the real, but less visible, problem.

Now that CAFE is essentially dead, or at least rendered useless, the only thing that can make a difference are tax incentives. Congress must give consumers strong tax incentives to buy hybrid cars or to use bio-diesel, for example.

If automakers don't want to develop such technologies - they don't have to - but let consumers reward those that can and will.

It is simply ridiculous that vehicles, such as the Hummer, can receive a $25,000 small business tax deduction - a tax incentive far greater than any hybrid receives. When the Hummer achieves 35 mpg, then it might deserve such a deduction.

It's time for Americans to make a stand and demand that we stop giving so many incentives to oil companies and the likes, and that we give those incentives to consumers that reduce their oil use, or that move beyond oil.

American automakers have thus far failed America, oil companies have failed America, and if Congress doesn't pass a strong set of tax incentives for consumers, not corporations, to buy clean technologies, they will continue their failure of America.

Let's not let it happen. (More)

Congress and CAFE: Two Peas in a Pod

Not long ago I referenced a story that ridiculed Congress and its conservationist policies. On a day members of Congress went to a gas station about a block from their offices to speak about high gas prices, almost every member was driven, spoke as their vehicles idled, and then was driven back one block to their offices. Even worse, most members were in gas-guzzlers. As if that were not enough, most members regularly drive gas-guzzlers.

This is Congressional leadership? Reminds me of what my old football coach used to say, "Anybody can talk the talk, but only champions walk the walk.

Apparently, there aren't many champions in either Congress or the White House these days, maybe there hasn't been in a long time. In today's world LEADERS would be driving hybrid cars, bio-diesel cars, or maybe flex-fuel vehicles fueled with E85, not Tahoes, Escalades, and BMW 760's. Maybe a REAL leader would even - dare I say - walk!?

Today, Congress is focused on CAFE, something they didn't act on just a year ago, but it's good politics now that Americans are angry about high gas prices. It seems success in Congress is driven by doing little and blaming someone else for the problem.

While I am an advocate for increasing CAFE, the plan is really going nowhere. The boldest move that has reasonable support - although probably not enough support - is to raise CAFE by 10 mpg in 10 years. In 10 years, with millions more Americans driving longer commutes while in more congestion, 10 mpg will basically accomplish, well, nothing.

The best case scenario for this plan is that we'll only be importing as much oil in the future as today. Whooohooo!

Nothing short of an automotive revolution is going to change America's oil addiction, and 10 mpg is far from a revolution. Unfortunately, only dire catastrophe will wake Americans up to such a realization, and without REAL leadership coming from Congress and the White House, such a catastrophe appears inevitable.

Bosch Ready to Start Filling Hybrid Parts Void

The makers of hybrid cars have had one major problem, lack of hybrid parts. Slowly, that is beginning to change. Bosch recently told AutoWeek that "We have concluded the prototype, and we have concluded it very successfully. We are now in the business-development phase and are in contact with customers about contracts."

"At this point, we are offering the electric motor, the power electronics, engine controls - meaning adapted engine controls - and, depending on the requirements, brake technology in the form of brake-by-wire."

Aside from gasoline electric hybrid cars, Bosch is also focusing its hybrid efforts on diesel hybrids as well.

Fickle consumers underscore need for hybrid technology

Most Consumers Still Demand Performance and/or Size

Hybrid technology is just emerging and still evolving, but already there are mild hybrids, full hybrids, one-mode hybrids, two-mode hybrids, gasoline hybrids, diesel hybrids, hydrogen hybrids, plug-in hybrids, flex-fuel hybrids, etc.

Another class of hybrids, performance hybrids, have often been the source of much media ridicule because they are as much about performance as fuel efficiency. Such hybrids include the Lexus RX400h and the Honda Accord hybrid. Additionally, other hybrids, such as the Toyota Highlander hybrid, could have been made to be more fuel efficient, but Toyota figured Highlander drivers, and many SUV drivers, still favored a certain level of performance more than fuel efficiency. Much evidence seems to show that Toyota is right.

According to a CNN/Kelly Blue Book study, almost 25% of consumers are willing to give up performance and size for better fuel economy; however, 25% refuse to give up anything for better fuel economy. The other 50% will give up a little size, or a little performance, etc.

Along those same lines, an AutoWeek article notes, Loyalists won't quit big SUVs; hauling power, improved fuel economy help move vehicles . "Arguably, Americans insist on SUVs. It's unique to their lifestyle and utility."

Additionally, while Congress is going to finally address CAFE, it now appears that the new regulations will still protect Detroit's SUV domain. It is just too obvious in Congress that Detroit probably cannot survive if CAFE is pushed too high.

Unfortunately, performance and size are simply more important to most Americans than is fuel efficiency. Nonetheless, ever rising oil prices, ever more realizations of the connection between foreign oil, terrorism and American hate, will slowly force more and more Americans to take fuel efficiency seriously.

The technology behind hybrid cars enables automakers to continue to provide performance and size to Americans, while also significantly reducing foreign oil dependency. This isn't something that should be done, it is something that must be done. While Congress will probably be weak on CAFE, they should be overly aggressive in offering tax incentives to promote hybrid technology.

Join our Campaign to Make Congress Act On Hybrid Tax Incentives.

Time to Declare War on Foreign Oil Dependency?

I think America is at War, a war that most Americans refuse to acknowledge, and the fight for independence from foreign oil dependency is shaping up to be the most important war America has ever fought.

Former CIA Director R. James Woolsey has become a huge advocate for ending America's foreign oil dependency, and he is very outspoken about the dangers of America's oil addiction.

"If you want to see who's paying for all that [extremism and terrorism], next time you pull in to fill up, turn the rearview mirror a little bit so you can look at yourself for a minute as you get out with your credit card," Woolsey said during a meeting with reporters and editors of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

Yet, Americans don't really think about that - to our direct connection to extremism and terrorism - instead we think about how expensive is $3.00 oil. Sadly, $3.00 oil is nothing compared to what could happen.

Aside from the problems in Iran, Nigeria, Venezuela, aside from hurricanes, aside from rapidly growing oil demand in China and India, an attack on Saudi oil refineries could have an even greater impact on gasoline prices.

How bad?

Today oil is at $70.00 per barrel, but if Saudi oil refineries were damaged - not destroyed - oil could easily climb to over $150.00 per barrel. Add intensified problems with Iran, or another major hurricane and who knows how high oil prices could climb.

What would a year of $7.00 gasoline do for the American economy? How high would $7.00 gas push the cost of groceries and other commodities? How would $7.00 gas help your commute?

What We Can Do

Fighting this war isn't a battle between ethanol versus biodiesel, or clean diesel cars versus hybrid cars. All of these technologies and alternative fuels MUST be utilized. Conservation MUST be utilized.

While politicians can blame one another, and citizens can blame politicians, automakers and the drivers of gas-guzzlers, blame will not win the war. While many in Congress blame other members, or the President, how many members regularly drive a hybrid car, fill up with ethanol or biodiesel, or maybe even walk a little more? Not very many according to recent reports. What about citizens?

Ultimately, little can be done in the short term to fix gas prices or to reduce foreign oil dependency. Today, average citizens must try to conserve, buy hybrid cars, use ethanol where available, or give bio-diesel a try. Moreover, we have to think about the future. We must make Congress and the President create more tax incentives for clean automobiles and clean fuels, not for Hummers and for oil companies.

Finally, we need to let automakers and politicians know that if they can't, or won't, help us fight this war, we'll find alternatives to them.

Join our campaign to make Congress Act.

Gas-guzzling Congress Drives ONE Block to Protest Gas Prices!

Congressional Hypocrisy?

When members of Congress went ONE block to a gas-station news conference to sound off on high gas prices, almost all of them drove, and the majority of them drove gas-guzzlers.

One Senator did drive a Prius hybrid car and John McCain actually made the extremely difficult, one block journey, on foot - an amazing feat!!!

"Since George Bush and Dick Cheney took over as president and vice president, gas prices have doubled!" charged Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.), standing at an Exxon station on Capitol Hill where regular unleaded hit $3.10. "They are too cozy with the oil industry."

"She then hopped in a waiting Chrysler LHS (18 mpg) -- even though her Senate office was only a block away." (Washington Post)

So, Mrs. Boxer's plan is to drive one block, stop and wastefully idle, and then drive one more block? Now that's the way to fight high gas prices!

The actions of both Democrats and Republicans demonstrate why gas prizes are too high: Americans drive gas guzzlers and they are lazy.

At least these politicians could have driven some more hybrid cars, biodiesel or ethanol cars on this huge 2 block journey to help promote the kinds of technologies that can fight these high gas prices.

Apparently, most in Washington just talk about making a difference, instead of actually making a difference. It's people like Mrs. Boxer that are causing high oil prices. She who live in a glass house should not throw stones.

With such leadership, is the current state of America really that surprising?

Bush asks Congress to limit cap on tax credits for hybrid vehicles

Tax incentives for clean vehicles, such as hybrid cars, are great legislation. Unfortunately, tax credits for hybrids are capped. Consequently, before the end of this year, Toyota hybrids will not qualify for the full tax credit.

At least for this year, that could change.

"The easiest way to promote fuel efficiency is to encourage drivers to purchase highly efficient hybrid or clean diesel vehicles," President Bush said in an address to the Renewable Fuels Association summit in Washington.

"If the automakers sell more than their limit, new purchasers are not eligible for the full tax credit.

"And so here's an idea that can get more of these vehicles on the road, and that is to have Congress make all hybrid and clean diesel vehicles sold this year eligible for federal tax credits," he said. (DetroitNews)

Congress shouldn't stop with the clean vehicle credit. Congress should also add hybrids to the $25,000 small business tax deduction, which currently only applies to the worst gas guzzlers.

Jetta TDI versus the Prius: AutoWeek MPG King

AutoWeek has crowned the Volkswagen Jetta TDI - when fueled by biodiesel - as the high mileage king of the road. The Toyota Prius came in second.

Read the Full AutoWeek Story

Biodiesel versus hybrid

Anyone that regularly reads AutoWeek knows that the magazine is smitten towards performance vehicles and that many of their editorial staff have much angst towards hybrid cars. So, how reliable is AutoWeek?

In terms of testing the vehicles, there are some interesting notes.

Regarding the Prius, AW reports, "Part of the shortfall [mpg] was due to the pace we maintained. At a more hybrid-friendly 55 to 65 mph, the dazzling dashboard display showed numbers closer to 50 mpg". Thus, it appears the drivers wanted to play with the capabilities of the hybrid technology and were not seeking purely the best fuel economy.

On the other hand, regarding the TDI, "As it was, we just drove gently, stayed with the caravan and employed the manual mode on the six-speed automatic transmission when it seemed useful." Unlike the Prius, it seems the focus of the TDI test was purely to achieve the best fuel economy.

More important; however, is the whole premise of the test.

The '60's are over and cruising on the highway is no longer the American norm. According to every modern transportation study, congestion hasn't only become the norm, congestion is consistently becoming, well, more congested. In today's world and the world of tomorrow, highway driving simply isn't the standard. Even worse, highway fuel economy estimates offer the perception that America's fuel consumption isn't as bad as reality.

Other reviews of the TDI Diesel report mileage drops of well below 40 mpg when just a little urban driving is added to mostly highway miles. So what does it achieve in daily congestion? In these conditions - the conditions of the future - the Prius is the king without any question.

Nonetheless, with today's technology and limited 'green' choices, both the TDI and the Prius are excellent vehicles, especially if you can fuel the TDI with biodiesel. Moreover, if you drive mostly highway miles, then a biodiesel TDI might be your best option.

On the other hand, if you live in an urban area, then the Prius is your best choice.

Ultimately, AutoWeek does make one great point. "Imagine a Prius-like hybrid that ran on biodiesel instead of gasoline. We may not be there yet, and adapting diesels to use the cylinder-cutoff technology found in the Jeep and Honda might be a tough task, but look how far we've come already."

Still, considering America's foreign oil dependency, look how far we have yet to go.

First small riceburners, then hybrid cars

Hybrids will prove America wrong, again

I remember my parents picking me up from grade school one afternoon in the late '70's. Across the street from school, my father noticed my teacher's new Honda Civic. He laughed and said, "Who would ever want to drive a small riceburner like that? Honda is a motorcycle company, not a car company."

Well, needless to say, the rest is history. Not only did Honda do well selling cars no one "would ever want to drive", but so too did Toyota and Nissan. Just a few decades later, these 'riceburners' have knocked the American auto industry against the ropes and a TKO is very possible.

My father was a Union machinist and back in the '70's buying such a vehicle, regardless of how reliable it was or much gas it saved, was simply un-American. And it wasn't just my father, but most of America that felt that way.

Many Americans still feel that way today, which is why I think so many Americans are SO against hybrid cars. If hybrids take over much the same way riceburners did, it might just spell doom for American automakers.

According a Detroit News poll, the majority of Detroit-area readers don't believe hybrid vehicles will be around long. (See the Poll)

I say, get your head out of the sand. Don't make the same mistake twice.

The days of cheap oil appear to be over, and there probably isn't a windfall tax that can do anything to change that. A windfall tax can't stop problems in Iran or Nigeria. A windfall tax can't stop a billion new drivers from China and India.

The world has changed. Fuel efficiency and pollution will be the key drivers of not just automotive technology, but of all technology. In fact, clean and green technology is not only possible, as the Toyota Prius hybrid car so beautifully demonstrates, but it is destined to improve greatly, while getting significantly cheaper.

$3.00 gas is only the beginning, the beginning of the hybrid car revolution. Flex fuel hybrids, diesel hybrids, gasoline hybrids, hydrogen hybrids, and fuel cell hybrids - hybrids are THE future.

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.

Hybrid cars: Why Toyota is the Most Important Automaker in the World

I was reading an article this morning, Honda sees hybrid owners buying fuel cell cars, and it struck me how Toyota has become the most important automaker in the world.

It turns out Honda is looking to the drivers of its hybrid cars to drive Honda Fuel Cell Vehicles.

"Honda has a rough idea of who its first fuel-cell customers will be, people trading in their gasoline-electric hybrid cars," states this AP article.

"We already hear of people saying, 'gee I like my hybrid but what's next. I want to go beyond gasoline'," says Steve Ellis, manager of fuel-cell marketing for American Honda Motor Co.

Yet, Ellis also notes that, "fuel-cell cars will make up only a fraction of the auto market for two or more decades."

While it's great that Honda is looking beyond hybrid vehicles, is the status quo of the world's fleet of automobiles good enough for the next two or three decades?

What happens when millions and millions of new drivers from China and India demand more oil in the next decade? What happens if Iran cuts oil production to the West? What happens if 10 years of increased, severe hurricane activity batters oil refineries in the Gulf of Mexico? What happens if global warming is actually much more serious than believed?

Even worse, what happens if the 'hydrogen economy' is found to result in some unintended consequence that actually makes gasoline still a better a solution?

How Green is Green Enough?

Sure Honda is the greenest automaker in the world, but none of the world's automakers are green enough, and that's why Toyota is so important.

Toyota's aggressive push into hybrid cars has made the public realize that much better automobiles - in terms of fuel economy and pollution - are available now, not in decades.

Yet, the best thing about hybrids is that hybrid technology offers much more potential than is currently offered. For example, hybrid technology could be added to flex-fuel vehicles, to diesel vehicles, to bio-diesel vehicles, to hydrogen vehicles, etc. Moreover, more and more research will lead to significantly better hybrid batteries. Consequently, 100 mpg hybrid vehicles could easily be less than a decade away.

100 mpg vehicles aren't worth striving for along the way to fuel cell vehicles in today's world? The status quo is simply good enough for another few decades?

Inevitably, when America experiences sustained gas prices of more than $3.00 per gallon combined with the constant threat of gas spikes of more than $5.00 per gallon, automakers won't - at least those that want to survive - have any choice but to build as many hybrids as possible.

Thanks to Toyota, Americans and the world will know, automakers can do better, much better.

French diesel hybrids coming soon?

Peugeot hopes to sell the Peugeot 307 and Citroen C4 hybrids by 2010

Yesterday, I blogged that I was tired of reporters whom claim that clean diesel is an alternative to hybrid cars, especially since diesel vehicles can also be hybrid vehicles.

Case in Point

"Imagine a car that gets 82 miles a gallon -- doubling the average fuel efficiency of the green-automotive market leader Toyota Prius. French auto maker PSA Peugeot-Citroen believes it can deliver such a car by 2010 with hybrid diesel engines that will join two fuel-efficient technologies. "That's the future. It combines the best of both worlds," says Thomas Sedran, partner at Munich consultancy Roland Berger." (BusinessWeek)

Whether the fuel is diesel, gasoline, hydrogen, ethanol, bio-diesel, or electricity, hybrid technology makes each of these fuels, and the vehicles powered by them, cleaner and more fuel efficient.

Join the Hybrid Car Revolution!

Diesel technology is not a hybrid vehicle alternative

Quite often when new clean diesel technology is talked about, it is referenced as an alternative to hybrid cars. For example the article Audi race victory helps put diesel on the map states, "The cause of diesel powertrains, seen by certain automakers and suppliers as a strong alternative to hybrids in the U.S., just received a significant boost."

I say diesel technology is an alternative to gasoline technology, but not to hybrid technology. Quite simply hybrid vehicles can be diesel vehicles. Hybrid technology doesn't just make gasoline vehicles more fuel efficient, it makes clean diesel vehicles more fuel efficient.

While diesel technology can compete with current hybrid technology in some fuel efficiency comparisons, it still isn't as clean. More important, however, the technology powering hybrid vehicles will become more powerful, more fuel efficient, lighter and cheaper in the next decade.

Ultimately, comparing hybrid technology to diesel technology is about one thing: complacency. In today's world good products just aren't good enough. In the future, only great products will survive, especially in the auto industry.

Sure, clean diesel vehicles are a good technology, but clean diesel hybrid vehicles are a great technology.

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.

Bio-diesel hybrid coming soon?

Last week I made a post about the Land Rover e Concept hybrid vehicle that I didn't give much attention. Since; however, I've read a feature that MSN published on this hybrid. MSN states, "The Land_e is one of the most unusual concept presentations in the show, but potentially one of the most significant."

Not only will the Land Rover hybrid offer 30 percent gains in fuel efficiency, it's innovative hybrid technology will enable this hybrid to function off-road with the same performance for which it is known. In fact the hybrid Land Rover might actually perform better than a conventional Land Rover in off-road conditions, as well as on the highway.

And to top it off, the Land Rover e Concept will be able to utilize bio-diesel.

Just another example of how the technology behind hybrid cars is just emerging and that there is far more potential to be tapped.

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.

A Land Rover hybrid?

Land Rover is planning a new line of gasoline/diesel hybrid vehicles, dubbed the Land_e Concept, that the automaker believes can achieve 30 percent better fuel efficiency than conventional Land Rovers.(more)

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?

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.

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!!!

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.

Don't like hybrids? Don't fricken buy one.

Are you a critic of hybrids cars?

What is your damn point? Are hybrid cars causing too much pollution? Are hybrid cars causing an increase in foreign oil dependency?

Are you worried that I'm spending too much on my hybrid? It's O.K. to over spend on horsepower that I can't legally use, but god forbid I spend extra money to reduce foreign oil dependency or reduce pollution?

Is that really your point?

Are there better technologies? Please, name one. The potential of hybrid cars has barely been tapped. Only in the short term can clean diesel, etc. compete with hybrids. Even so, why not go for the best fuel efficiency and least amount of pollution, such as a clean diesel hybrid? Oh, I'm sorry, are corporate profits more important than doing the right thing?

Even hybrid critics, such as John McCormick of the DetroitNews, states "Of course, most hybrids will still offer lower overall fuel consumption rates than conventional-vehicles and their tailpipe emissions will be much lower. But the striking appeal of their once high mpg figures will be muted." (more)

Exactly, I'm investing in lower fuel consumption and lower emissions. Have a problem with that?

So, you can sit in your foreign oil, terrorist-supporting gas-guzzler and question my investment in a hybrid car? No you can't. How can you put a cost on reducing foreign oil dependency, cleaning the environment and sending a message to automakers that these issue drive my automobile purchases? How dare you!?

If you don't like hybrids, don't buy one. Better yet, buy a gas-guzzler and keep giving your money to Osama and bury your head back in the sand.

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.

Hemp and hybrid cars: A perfect marriage?

Tired of record oil profits, let's change America!

Tonight, when the President gives his State of the Union address, one of his main topics is expected to be energy. Oil and gasoline prices are rising and will continue to rise. Some have speculated that oil could even rise to $262 per barrel (more).

Thus many, such as Fortune, are speculating that the President is going to plug alternative fuels and energy, especially ethanol.

I've written about ethanol, diesel and biodiesel many times. I don't see them as the answer. I do; however, see them as an important part of the solution.

My solution, on the other hand, is flex-fuel plug-in hybrid vehicles. The technology already exists today and will only become significantly better. Moreover, it is far cheaper than hydrogen. Additionally, such technology gives consumers the widest array of clean and efficient fueling choices - we don't want to put all of our eggs in one basket.

But, back to ethanol. If ethanol makes gasoline cheaper, then demand will simply increase, and much more ethanol will be needed. Where will all this ethanol come from? How many pesticides and fertilizers will be needed? What happens if there is a drought?

Couldn't hemp address many of these issues?

Hemp is not marijuana and the government has legalized hemp in the past to help fight wars. Why not legalize it again?

Hemp grows like a weed, doesn't need fertilizers, is drought resistant and helps enrich the soil. Thus, it could very efficiently provide a massive amount of material to convert into ethanol, while protecting the environment.

Ethanol and hybrid cars provide the tools to drastically change America in just a couple of decades to the benefit of everyone and America can start right now.

Will America care? Unfortunately, I doubt it, there just isn't enough bling in it.

Diesel, biodiesel, and ethanol not enough

Even hybrid cars, or plug-in hybrid vehicles do not push the envelope of auto technology far enough


Flex-fuel plug-in diesel/gasoline hybrid vehicles can completely change America's national energy paradigm - long before fuel cell vehicles become either cost-effective or technologically feasible.

Such vehicles could easily achieve well over 100 miles per gallon, utilizing gasoline, diesel, ethanol, biodiesel, or combinations, while completely ending foreign oil dependency. (more)

"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.

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?

Is clean diesel better than hybrid vehicles?

DaimlerChrylser is nowhere to be seen in the segment of hybrid cars. Why? They say clean diesel is better (more)

So is hybrid technology less important than clean diesel technology?

An interesting place to find an answer to that question is Europe. Europe is all about diesel, and in France, diesel is seen as the short term answer, but diesel hybrid vehicles are seen as the next step before fuel cells. (more)

Why? Because diesel hybrids would still be 20 - 30 percent more fuel efficient than clean diesel engines, and that is just with today's technology.

What the critics of hybrids are missing - in a huge way - is that experimental hybrids already demonstrate that is quite possible to achieve more than 200 mpg. When lithium-ion batteries take over NiMH batteries for use in hybrid cars, everything will change.

To assume that won't happen would be like assuming computers wouldn't overtake calculators.

The fact is, hybrid technology is just emerging, and the potential of hybrid technology has barely been tapped.

In reality, in the next decade, a diesel hybrid that achieves more than 200 mpg is completely feasible and cost effective. Within this same period, a completely feasible fuel cell vehicle will still cost more than $100,000.00.

In a decade, the potential of clean diesel technology simply won't be in the same league as hybrid technology.

Still, even if clean diesel is 20 or 30 percent more efficient than standard gasoline engines, diesel still costs almost a $1.00 more per gallon in California.

How cost effective is that?

Hybrid cars versus biodiesel

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.

Diesel, then diesel hybrids, then fuel cells states PSA Peugeot Citroen

Recently PSA Peugeot Citroen announced it will begin developing hybrid cars in connection with a call to do so by French President Jacques Chirac (more). Yesterday, Puegeot announced that it has also made significant gains in its fuel cells, yet the company still believes that fuel cell vehicles are still a long way from commercial reality.

"SA Chairman Jean-Martin Folz told a news conference that the best way to save on fuel consumption of cars in the short term was by boosting the use of diesel and by adding bio-fuel to diesel."

"For the medium term, hybrid diesel engines would offer further reduction in consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, while fuel cells, which release energy from the reaction of hydrogen and oxygen with a catalyst, were for a later stage, he said." (more)

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.

GM, Daimler and BMW to showcase hybrids at Detroit Show

GM, DaimlerChrysler and BMW will launch GM's dual mode hybrid technology in their respective gasoline-electric hybrid powertrains at this year's North American International Auto Show.

The three automakers formed an alliance in an attempt to catch up with Toyota, the leading seller of hybrid cars. The dual mode hybrids offered by these companies will offer very different performance compared to Toyota's hybrids.

GM's dual mode hybrid technology should be cheaper; however, it won't be as efficient at Toyota's technology, especially in urban driving. GM's technology, on the other hand, could offer advantages in certain areas of performance, such as towing.

Still, Toyota has some huge advantages regarding hybrids. Already Toyota believes that it can cut its hybrid costs in half when it releases its third generation hybrid drive in just a couple of years. If this is true, it will wipe out GM's cost advantage, while also offering significantly better fuel efficiency

Nonetheless, the competition that is developing in the hybrid segment will be good for all consumers. While Toyota and Ford hybrids utilize very similar technology, Honda has succeeded with its own technology, and now comes GM's hybrid technology. Additionally, both Volkswagen and Hyundai shouldn't be far behind with their hybrids.

This competition will increase hybrid supplies, which will make all hybrid vehicles cheaper. Moreover, the competition between hybrid technologies will, inevitably, lead to affordable, extremely fuel efficient vehicles.

Additionally, this competition is leading to other hybrid experiments. Ford isn't just going to offer gasoline electric hybrids, such as the Ford Escape hybrid. At Detroit's Auto Show, they will showcase the Reflex diesel hybrid vehicle, according to the DetroitNews.

While the Toyota Prius hybrid continues to dominate hybrid sales, the second generation Honda Civic hybrid has also been a hot seller, and with all this new development into technology, a true Prius topper could be just around the corner.

Germans continue push into hybrid vehicles

According to a new article, Germans are continuing to invest in technology for hybrid cars because of U.S. demand. By the end of this decade, VW, Porsche, Mercedes and BMW all will offer hybrids in the U.S.. There is also a good chance that diesel hybrids might be in the hybrid mix coming from Europe.

Sick of narrow-minded hybrid car critics

I was reading some AutoWeek forum entries this morning about hybrid cars when I realized that most hybrid critics are not only narrow-minded, but they have a complete lack of vision.

How does the quote go, "There is only one constant in the universe, change." I guess the Buddhists call it impermanence, or the idea that in 100 years, everyone that exists today will be gone, yet the world will go on, it will just be different because change is constant.

If hybrid critics were leading the world for the last 100 years, the world would still be riding horse and buggy. Fortunately, change is inevitable.

But back to the point. The two main criticisms of hybrids are 1.) They aren't as fuel efficient as the EPA rates them, and 2.) They don't save money.

It is true that hybrid vehicles aren't as efficient as the EPA rates them. All vehicles aren't as efficient as the EPA rates them. So what's the point?

Additionally, individual driving habits have a HUGE affect on fuel efficiency - in both hybrids and conventional vehicles. Even a standard Toyota Highlander can achieve better than average fuel efficiency by adjusting driving habits. Nonetheless, the Highlander hybrid or Escape hybrid can achieve much larger increases in fuel efficiency by adjusting driving habits compared to their conventional versions.

Shouldn't hybrids just be more fuel efficient?

Well, they are. For the average driver, hybrid technology will achieve better fuel efficiency than a standard vehicle, especially in city driving. And if you adjust your driving habits, you can significantly increase a hybrid's fuel efficiency performance.

Since most drivers of hybrids are concerned with saving fuel, hybrid technology offers an excellent tool for them to meet their goals.

Testers from AutoWeek, etc., aren't concerned with the fuel efficiency capabilities of hybrids, they are concerned with proving that hybrids don't achieve EPA predictions.

If you don't care about fuel efficiency, well, then a hybrid isn't for you. If you aren't going to use a tool correctly, then it probably is best not to use it. If you want to put a screw in the wall, a hammer can do the job, but it won't do it as well as a screwdriver because the screwdriver is a better tool for the job.

For those drivers seeking to achieve the greatest fuel efficiency, many hybrid vehicles are by far the best tools available, but you still have to use the tool correctly to achieve maximum performance.

Why is that so hard for critics to get? Not everyone has to stroke their ego by driving the biggest or the fastest vehicle.

Additionally, why are critics so concerned with hybrid performance anyway? If they are so concerned with fuel efficiency, why are they worried that a Prius might achieve 45 mpg, rather than 60 mpg? Shouldn't they be more concerned with why a Dodge Durango is only getting 10 mpg instead of 14 mpg? I mean, lets get real.

Regarding the costs of hybrid technology, critics have a point, but so what?

People pay more for the right gas-guzzle obscene amounts of foreign oil but somehow that's cost effective in the eyes of these critics - that's worth the extra money?

Yet, choosing to spend extra money to help reduce foreign oil dependency and to help save the environment isn't justified. Please!

Well, America better wake up. Global warming is real - whether it is caused by man or by nature - and the majority of the world is beginning to take this threat quite seriously. Well, except for America, and the world is becoming much angrier with America for this position. We can continue to pretend like the opinions of the rest of the world don't matter in our ever-more-interconnected world, but we'll do so at our peril, but I digress.

Ultimately, many hybrid owners can recover the costs of their vehicle with intelligent driving. And if not, how do you put a cost on clean air and a cleaner environment?

If you don't care about clean air and a healthy environment, then quite frankly, you are the problem, not the driver of a hybrid car. Any help is still help and changing direction always requires leaders.

Still, many hybrid vehicle drivers aren't just buying a hybrid to save money, or just to reduce foreign oil dependency, or just to clean the environment. Many are making an investment in the future.

While many hybrid vehicle drivers could drive any vehicle they want, they choose to buy a hybrid to help fund the development of new, cheaper generations of hybrids.

Already, experimental hybrid vehicles demonstrate that the potential of hybrid technology is barely being tapped. Plug-in Prius hybrids can easily achieve more than 80 mpg, the Enigma diesel hybrid achieves 80 mpg, yet can go from 0 to 60 in 4.3 seconds, and other experimental hybrids have achieved more than 100 - even 200 - miles per gallon.

Today's hybrid buyers are helping to make tomorrow's hybrid technology more fuel efficient, more powerful, and cheaper.

Perhaps another technology will come along and hybrid technology won't be needed. Or, perhaps it will be hybrid technology that finally makes fuel cell vehicles realistic. Rather than waiting and continuing to gas-guzzle, however, hybrid buyers are taking action because they believe a better tomorrow starts today.

Apparently, hybrid critics would rather just keep talking and hammering screws into the wall as they wait for tomorrow.

Fuel cell vehicles: Toyota versus GM

The AutoWeek article, GM's r&d guru says 'cooperation would make sense' in drive to create hydrogen-powered vehicles really bothered me when I read it this weekend. In fact, it made me research Crain Communications to see if they were somehow corporately connected to GM.

O.K., I couldn't find any connection. Nonetheless, AutoWeek is just one piece of Crain Communications and it is obvious that Crain Communications is about one thing - advertising. While there isn't a corporate connection between Crain and GM, there is certainly a huge relationship - advertising budgets.

But all automakers spend advertising dollars, why would Crain care the most about GM, you ask? Well, in the past several years, GM has spent about twice as much as any other automaker per year, and we're talking billions.

So, what was it that bothered me so much about the GM article?

I love the idea of fuel cells and I've read hundreds of articles about fuel cells and fuel cell vehicles. Ultimately, however, there are many issues regarding the functionality of fuel cells, especially in the near term - which is decades long. Just because GM has been promising fuel cells since the Nixon administration doesn't mean their fuel cell technology is the best.

Perhaps, as the article suggests, there should be cooperation between automakers regarding fuel cell vehicles, but any implication that GM is the fuel cell leader is a huge stretch at this point in time.

I'd say that GM, in fact, isn't the leader.

Toyota's approach to fuel cells is a good bit different than GM because Toyota fuel cell vehicles are hybrid vehicles. The fact that Toyota's gasoline electric hybrids can adapt into diesel electric hybrids, hydrogen electric hybrids, and -finally - fuel cell electric hybrids, offers something that GM doesn't offer - flexibility.

A recent press release from a Technical Insights Group at Frost & Sullivan notes, "Stricter emission standards are forcing companies to manufacture environment-friendly automobiles, with the resultant explosion in interest in hybrids and fuel cell vehicles. Automotive safety is another major concern, as advances in electronics and sensor technologies seek to make driving safer."

"Though Japanese companies such as Toyota and Honda have taken the lead in hybrid vehicle development, the growing concern over automotive pollution has led to a flurry of interest in this arena. Development is underway at all major automotive R&D houses to produce more fuel-efficient cars -- hybrid, fuel cell, or a cross between the two," notes Rajesh Kannan.

I repeat, "or a cross between the two".

Many autowriters have called hybrids just a step towards fuel cells, others have called them a bridge to fuel cell vehicles. Ultimately, however, today's hybrids can evolve into fuel cell hybrids. Today's gasoline electric Prius could be tomorrow's fuel cell electric Prius. Thus, some essential fuel cell developments are already taking place today in these hybrids and the future is that much closer.

Hybrids just might prove that billions of dollars for hydrogen fueling stations are not even needed. There could be a better way than GM's fuel cell vehicle path, perhaps even an easier, less expensive path.

AutoWeek writers work for Crain Communications and far too often AutoWeek has shown an unobjective bias against hybrids and for GM. The focus of Crain Communications doesn't appear to be an objective view of the automotive future, but rather a subjective grab for today's advertising dollars.

Another example of hybrid vehicle potential

I was reading the article New wave of hybrids offer more mean, less green this morning when I came across the Engima. The Enigma is a diesel hybrid performance vehicle that was created by University of San Diego Engineering Professor Jim Burns. While it achieves 80 mpg, the $60,000 hybrid vehicle also goes from 0 to 60 in a blazingly fast 4.3 seconds (Mr. Burns is willing to sell the vehicles for $60,000.00, if he could obtain 1000 orders).

This is another example of what hybrid cars could do, so why doesn't the mainstream autoworld get its act together? Perhaps a company like ZAP will get involved - keep your fingers crossed.

Click here for an interview in EVWorld with Mr. Burns.

Hybrid vehicles: The end of the automotive industry as we know it.

Back in the 1990's Congress gave a billion tax dollars to Detroit to create America's next generation of clean and efficient vehicles.

They failed.

Though they developed electric and hybrid prototypes, Detroit refused to push the edge of technology forward, citing numerous excuses for not better utilizing the billion dollars we taxpayers gave them.

Toyota and Honda; however, built on an industry always striving for efficiency, took a different take on the same technology and proceeded with their hybrid programs to the ridicule and scorn of Detroit.

Fast forward to today and no one in Detroit is laughing any more. Delphi and GM are facing bankruptcy, as shares of GM have dropped to the lowest levels in 18 years. Ford takes two steps backwards with each step forward. American automaking just isn't going in the right direction.

Toyota, on the other hand, is on the verge of becoming the world's largest automaker as it sits on a pile of massive profits.

Sure, Detroit has been in this kind of predicament before, and it survived. This time; however, it is different.

In the 70's and 80's, when high energy prices pushed many Americans into Japan's economy cars, there was one main difference compared to today: Japan's vehicles were fundamentally no different than America's vehicles. Sure, they were smaller and built better than expected, but they functioned just like any other automobile. This converted many Americans into Toyota and Honda owners, but SUV popularity gave Detroit a product that Japan just didn't have.

Today; however, things are far different. This time there will be no SUV to save Detroit. Even worse, hybrid vehicles have come full circle to haunt Detroit's arrogance and incompetence. I mean, Detroit had a billion tax dollars and what did they do with it? Nothing!

Many analysts, such as J.D. Power, believe that by 2012, hybrid sales will achieve around 600,000 total units. I'm here to tell you that sales will easily surpass twice that number by 2012. Toyota will sell 600,000 hybrids per year - by itself - starting around 2008, but that's just the beginning of the bad news for Detroit.

Around that same time, when Toyota starts to make J.D. Power analysts look silly, Toyota will be utilizing its third generation Hybrid Drive, a move that is going to make hybrids more fuel efficient, more powerful, and CHEAPER, possibly cutting hybrid costs in half or more.

As Toyota achieves this level of production, Ford hopes to ramp up development of its hybrid program to 250,000 vehicles per year. That's good news for Ford, but will Ford hybrids compete with Toyota hybrids then? If Ford is using the same hybrid drive at the same costs in 2008 as they are today, how will they compete with cheaper, more fuel efficient, and better performing Toyota hybrids?

Then there is GM. GM is still a bit of a wild card in the hybrid game because, well, they don't yet have any full hybrids. GM's hybrid technology is going to vary significantly from the technology of both Ford and Toyota - yet early reports seem to indicate that the core of GM's hybrid technology will achieve its greatest improvements in highway driving.

Twenty years ago, Americans did do the majority of their driving on open roads and highways, but we no longer live in that world. Not only do the majority of Americans live in urban areas, they drive in significantly more congestion than 20 years ago - even those that live in suburban and rural areas. Stop signs and street lights have turned even the small town commute into stop-and-go traffic during the morning and evening commutes. According to transportation studies by government and university alike, the problem isn't only going to get worse, it's going to get significantly worse.

City driving, not highway driving, MUST become the standard by which fuel efficiency is determined. In such driving, conventional vehicles and even clean diesel vehicles simply cannot compare with hybrid vehicles, and hybrid technology is just emerging. For example, second generation hybrid technology turned the first generation Prius into a second generation superstar. Toyota's third generation hybrid drive will make the Prius, and all other Toyota hybrids, even faster, more powerful, more fuel efficient, and cheaper than current Toyota hybrids.

By the fourth generation such gains will again be achieved. By that time hybrid vehicle costs might equal conventional vehicle costs. At that point, it becomes very hard to justify the costs of conventional technology, not hybrid technology.

Yet, GM might barely be on the map by then. Ford, with its similarities to Toyota - in terms of its hybrid drive - might be able to capitalize on Toyota's success via better supply channels, but could they ramp up production quickly enough to match Toyota? Maybe.

Regardless, the automotive world as we know it, is over. GM and Ford might compete in this new world, but without developing their own Prius, it's not going to be easy.

Ford, Brazil & Europe: A few of today's hybrid tidbits

She speaks! Finally, Mrs. Nancy Gioia, the new head of Ford's hybrid cars program speaks.

"Hybrids are no longer a side project," she said. "I say, make it prime time." Beyond her enthusiasm, Mrs. Gioia didn't offer much new information in this DetroitNews article regarding Ford's hybrids. However, Mrs. Gioia did mention that she would like to make hybrids stand out more. "I'd like it to visually look a little different so that you know you're looking at a hybrid," she said.

I say forget about making it look different. If you want a different looking hybrid, design a unique hybrid, such as the Toyota Prius. The average buyer - the future of hybrid success - cares about value more than looking different.

Speaking of the Prius, Toyota will offer a slightly different Prius for Japan and Europe - where Toyota is expecting sell 15,000 units this year, according to Motortrend. While some have questioned the success of hybrids in Europe, European Prius sales aren't far off that of U.S. Ford Escape hybrid sales - not too bad.

As a final hybrid tidbit, PSA Peugeot Citroën is going to develop a diesel hybrid prototype that will be unveiled in 2006 (more).

On a side note, I am scheduled to take a Toyota Highlander hybrid test drive this afternoon, which I'll be writing about tomorrow.

A major American failure: The hybrid vehicle

I was reading the article The Hot Hybrids published by E: The Environmental Magazine that was reposted by MotorTrend.

The article opens, "With $1 billion in taxpayer money poured into the Partnership for a New Generation of Vehicles in the 1990s, Detroit's Big Three developed a trio of hybrid vehicles (with both gasoline and electric drivetrains for maximum fuel economy). The resulting prototypes were shown off at auto shows, but the domestic automakers were steadfast in their refusal to actually produce these consumersubsidized eco-cars."

Always good to see tax-payer dollars hard at work! So, it took a billion tax payer dollars for Detroit to decide there was, "No market for them," and they were, "too expensive to build"? That's just great!

Well, a decade later, U.S. monthly Toyota Prius sales can surpass Audi, Volvo or Saab monthly sales, and the sales potential of the Prius still hasn't fully been tapped. Currently, supply simply cannot keep up with demand.

So what, the critics of hybrid cars say, it's just all the treehuggers and that market will soon run dry. It's just marketing hype they claim.

Fine, maybe it is hype, but couldn't GM use a little marketing hype?

The DetroitNews published an article this weekend called Black October: How one month changed the course of the auto industry. "It was the pivotal event in the month that may be remembered as the industry's Black October, when the vulnerabilities of Detroit's automakers were laid bare in dramatic fashion."

The American auto industry is in serious trouble and that trouble will resonate - has resonated - throughout the American economy, and the worst is yet to come.

Hybrid cars might not be the dominant vehicle of the future; however, in light of the connection between terrorism and foreign oil, global warming, hurricanes, and high gas prices, average Americans have become interested in hybrids. This interest takes them to Toyota and Honda dealerships because consumers are starting to feel like maybe they do have a choice. Maybe there is a difference.

Ultimately, hybrid technology might be expensive, but it is expensive because it requires some of the most advanced automotive technology - it demands invention and innovation. Since the potential of technology, quite simply, has few limits - technology can and will advance.

Hybrid cars utilize this kind of technology that can and will advance. Sure diesel, or biodiesel might compare fairly well with hybrids today, but hybrids are only an emerging technology. Experimental hybrids prove that the potential of hybrid vehicles has barely been tapped. Additionally, hybrid technology can also utilize the advancements made in diesel, biodiesel, hydrogen, or even fuel cells - in addition to hybrid advancements.

In today's world the potential of technology must be chased, and it must be chased ALL the time. For too long the American auto industry has succeeded at maintaining the status quo, rather than driving the technology of the future.

Some might say GM is a fuel cell leader - they are pushing the future, the real future. Maybe, but GM has been promoting this fuel cell future since the Nixon administration. When are real results required? The future cannot always be an excuse for doing nothing today.

When it comes to technology there is always a better, more efficient way to do things. If always finding a better way to do things isn't driving the core of a business, then that business might use technology, but it isn't a technological leader.

For too long, Detroit has used technology to maintain the status quo, not to innovate automaking. The success of the Toyota Prius has changed everything, and the bar has been raised. There is no status quo, there is only innovation.

GM's Bob Lutz once said that GM could have developed a competitor to the Prius by simply diverting a fraction of ONE year's marketing budget to such development. Actually, GM should have just used it's share of the billion dollars of tax payer money with which it was paid to do this.

If hybrids are just hype, why will EVERY major automaker be offering a selection of hybrids within just the next few years? That's a pretty expensive exercise in futility if they are just chasing hype.

Inevitably, hybrids demonstrate the complete failure of the American auto industry. Let's hope they can change, they OWE it to us.

NY Joins California to curb greenhouse gases from autos

According to Reuters New York is joining California to require that, "Cars sold or registered in New York state must cut carbon dioxide emissions beginning in 2009."

Of course the Alliance of Automakers is balking, as they did when California announced its legislation. "Automakers need a consistent national policy for fuel economy, and national fuel economy standards cannot be written by any single state or group of states," said Gloria Bergquist, spokeswoman in Washington for the Alliance of Automobile Manufactures, which filed suit in California to block regulation there.

I guess you can't blame the automakers for wanting to continue their complacency, but it is time, especially for American automakers, to move forward. Hybrid cars, bio-diesel vehicles, etc. prove that technology exists to change America now.

It's time to stop making excuses and time to start doing the right thing. Instead of spending 10's of millions on lawsuits and 100's of millions on marketing to prevent change, invest in real innovation.

Fuel cells: Another reason why hybrids rule

Already, Toyota is claiming that its hybrid cars will eventually become fuel cell cars. In essence, hybrid vehicles are providing the foundation for fuel cell automobiles. A recent article demonstrates that Ford is also starting to follow this path. "The FCV [Ford Fusion FCV] is a hybrid car that uses a fuel cell powertrain supplied by Ballard Power Systems Inc. as well as a nickel metal-hydride battery pack and a brake-by-wire electrohydraulic regenerative braking system."

If this is true, what is the foundation of most hybrid critics?

Hybrids, such as the Prius or the Escape hybrid, can achieve amazing fuel efficiency and clean emissions today, but the potential of such hybrids is barely being tapped. Better hybrid batteries, diesel hybrids or bio-diesel hybrids, demonstrate that we can change the world - in terms of foreign oil dependency and clean air - and we don't have to wait for fuel cells.

Nonetheless, as fuel cell breakthroughs do occur, we can convert hybrids into fuel cell hybrid vehicles.

Is it just because GM isn't leading the way that hybrids are so criticized? I know they have an amazingly huge marketing budget, but is that enough reason for critics to wear such blinders?

Do creationists hate hybrid cars?

I make this post with a little tongue-in-cheek. Nonetheless, I read an interesting article the other day called, Is US becoming hostile to science? Ultimately, the article focuses on creationism versus evolution and it asserts that a significant percentage of Americans don't believe in evolution, nor the big bang, and many have become quite hostile towards science.

Similarly, an interesting video on CNN Video titled, America's Negative Numbers, notes that the U.S. has dropped to 28th in math compared to other countries and 22nd in science.

Is it any wonder China and Russia are sending men into space as America watches?

While I don't want to get into the debate between creationism and evolution, I have to admit that I believe in the power of science, but I also believe in god. To me science is simply the reproducible understanding of nature, and reviewing just the last 100 years it is hard to argue against what science has accomplished.

Some creationists that I know not only dismiss evolution, but also global warming and the dangers of oil dependency. Since hybrid cars are utilized by many as a solution to both global warming and oil dependency, then hybrids are equally dismissed as unnecessary.

Many bright bloggers and writers might argue that the dismissal of hybrids isn't due to a dislike of science, but is about simple facts. They argue that clean diesel or bio-diesel is a more affordable solution.

While I agree that both clean diesel and bio-diesel are significantly better options than our current path, I do not agree that either, by themselves, go far enough nor match the potential of hybrid technology. Additionally, the hybrid powertrain can accommodate both clean diesel and bio-diesel engines. Moreover, experimental hybrid technology demonstrates that even conventional vehicles can be converted into hybrids that can achieve well over 100 mpg. Consequently, it becomes obvious that the potential of hybrids has barely been tapped.

Neither bio-diesel nor clean diesel have demonstrated anywhere near such potential. Thus, while bio-diesel and clean diesel are important technologies, hybrid bio-diesels and clean diesel hybrids are even far more important technologies.

Is it a realization gap, rather than religion?

Is the problem that science and technology, much like evolution, isn't always visible via huge steps, but rather small incremental steps? For example, I have been using laptops for more than 10 years. Year after year, the performance of memory, speed, and battery power increases. From year to year the gains don't seem terribly significant, but comparing today's laptops to the laptops of 10 years ago, demonstrates that we've made amazing strides.

In my opinion, especially based on available, experimental technology, hybrids offer that same kind of potential, at a cost that is significantly less than fuel cells. That doesn't mean fuel cells won't replace hybrids, it just means that hybrid technology is important enough for investment until the many obstacles surrounding fuel cell vehicles can be resolved. In actuality, it might just be hybrid technology that resolves many fuel cell problems.

Yet, if America neither embraces nor believes in science and technology, what is the future for hybrids, for fuel cells, and for America?

The American auto industry might be an example of the path that America is taking. Decades of materialistically driven engineering and marketing have left GM on the verge of bankruptcy, as Ford continually becomes less and less significant. Appearance and useless power, not technological innovation, have been the drivers of the American automarket.

Likewise, if you work in technology, then you know of the void that exists in America when it comes to filling technical jobs - we have to import our programmers, engineers, and scientists. In America too much attention has been put on law and entertainment. We'd rather sue, act or be a professional athlete, rather than a scientist, engineer, or astronaut.

This has to change. As the population of the world booms in the next hundred years only pandemics or science can keep us moving forward. The world's demand for resources is growing so rapidly that only the death of billions and billions of us will allow us to move forward, or we can use science.

Somehow, America and the world must resolve our religious and scientific differences. Both god and science can co-exist. Our religious beliefs and values shouldn't hold science back, rather they should be used to ensure that we use science to benefit humankind, rather than to just control and profit from humankind.

Still, America's scientific problems aren't just about religion, as there are plenty of godless Americans that do not value science.

Ultimately, however, I believe that it is the religious Americans that will be the difference. If god is the ultimate creator, than science is nothing but an expression of god, an expression that should be embraced for good, not denied out of fear.

In recent years I've noticed a number of bumper stickers on the backs of luxury vehicles and SUVs that say, "Jesus was a liberal." While that might be true, Jesus would today drive neither a luxury vehicle, nor a gas-guzzler, Jesus would drive a hybrid.