Toyota's powerful DC friends? Are you kidding me?

Can you say John Dingell?

Boy the media's coverage of Toyota-gate has become almost laughable at times. Lately, the new angle is Toyota's political friends in Washington.

"Some members of Congress have been such cheerleaders for Toyota that the public may wonder how they can act objectively as government watchdogs for auto safety and oversight."

LOL! Wow. John Dingell anyone?

Has Michigan Congressman John Dingell ever acted objectively when it has come to the Big 3, especially when Dingell was the fricken Chairmen of the HUGELY important House Energy and Commerce Committee? Is the media kidding? I mean talk about subjective cheerleaders!

Those of us that have followed CAFE for the last several years, for instance, can only chuckle at the idea that somehow Toyota has more political friends in Washington than does Detroit. For decades DC power-brokers, such as Dingell, have ensured that Big 3 SUV profits were safe from CAFE regulations, despite an average of 10,000 deaths per year because of defective and inadequate designs, despite 9/11, and despite growing evidence that foreign oil dependence was becoming an ever greater threat to American national security.

I know, Toyota-gate has also caused almost 10,000 deaths in the last year. OK, at least a couple of deaths.

Toyota deserves a lot of criticism these days, but if the media really wants to make America safer, isn't it time to start focusing on some real issues?

Toyota hybrids still for sale, but does that matter?

Can't save Toyota's image now

What can you say but, WOW? Now that Toyota has suspended production on many important models, one wonders just how low Toyota's reputation will go. Down. Down. Down.

At least, for once, it's a good time to be a US automaker.

For fans of hybrid cars, however, this is terrible news. Despite the fact that Toyota is still selling all of its hybrid vehicles, there is no doubt that this recall and suspension is going to have an effect on the sale of all Toyota vehicles by association, including hybrids.

Next year, Toyota planned to double its hybrid production to one million hybrids per year. Will these plans survive? Can they?

More important, if Toyota has to scale down its hybrid plans due this suspension and this inevitable image hit, will another automaker fill the hybrid void? Unfortunately, I doubt it.

Time for Honda to embrace full hybrids?

The Honda CR-Z hybrid

About a decade ago, when both Toyota and Honda were producing their first hybrid cars, each had very different visions for the future of hybrids.

For Honda, hybrids like the original Insight were simply an interim technology until fuel cell vehicles could replace them. Thus, until recently, Honda had no serious hybrid production plans.

For Toyota, on the other hand, hybrids were intricately linked to advanced technologies and to Toyota's future. Finish Reading: Time for Honda to embrace full hybrid vehicles?

Toyota powertrain exec admires Chevy Volt

A sensible approach to plug-ins?

In a recent interview with CNN, Bill Reinert, Toyota's head of advanced powertrain research, explains that Toyota is not going to rush into pure electric cars. A combination of costs and technological limitations ensure, according to Reinert, that EVs are still far from mass consumer adoption.

Therefore, underwhelming EV consumers with expensive technology that falls short of expectations could slow EV penetration long term, according to Reinert.

However, in the interview Reinert does single out the Chevy Volt as a more sensible approach to pure EVs because it provides a realistic solution to range anxiety.

Toyota strikes major lithium deal

All plug-in ducks in a row

Toyota, via one of its partners, has joined forces with Orocobre Ltd to mine lithium in Argentina according to reports.

Aside from securing a supply of lithium, Toyota is now positioned for greater profit potential in the sale of plug-in vehicles. As it did with its current hybrid cars, Toyota is now laying the foundation for its own supply chain of essential materials for battery-powered vehicles. By keeping a significant percent of its supply chains and battery development in-house, Toyota has been able to foresee profits in battery-powered vehicles where others have not.

Now the hybrid king appears on a path to also become the plug-in hybrid king.

2011: 1 million hybrids per year for Toyota

Expanding the Prius family

This year Toyota produced about 500,000 hybrid cars worldwide.

In 2011, Toyota plans to lift its annual production to 1 million hybrids per year.

To achieve this new output, Toyota is currently expanding its production into other countries, such as China and Australia. Likewise, at least one new dedicated hybrid is expected to enter production by 2011, along the path to at least 8 new hybrids over the next three years.

New Toyota hybrid concept debuting at NAIAS (updated)

Toyota's new ultra-cheap hybrid?

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

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

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

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

Toyota to postpone plug-in Prius?

Not until 2014?

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

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

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

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

Toyota challenged again, at least legally, on hybrid technology

Built with the patents of others?

For years now Toyota's relative success with hybrid cars has been met with little challenge from other automakers. Toyota is simply the king of hybrids.

However, the hybrid king has been challenged a number of times in court over the years for violating patents used in elements of the Hybrid Synergy Drive.

Today, US trade officials announced they will open an investigation into whether Toyota violated patents owned by Paice LLC.

According to an AP article Toyota has responded that it "has many patents on the hybrid technology and believes that it has strong defenses against all of Paice's claims and that it will prevail in the ITC proceeding."

Toyota: Fuel cell hybrids ARE the best hybrids

A fuel cell version by 2015?

What's the future of the automobile? Hybrids, plug-ins or fuel cell vehicles?

All of the above according to Toyota.

Obviously, Toyota already sells a number of hybrid cars, and Toyota will begin rolling out plug-in electric vehicles by 2012, followed by fuel cell hybrids in 2015.

While demonstrating how Toyota plans to cut fuel cell costs, the company noted that plug-in vehicles will be used for small, short range intra-city vehicles. However, for larger vehicles and longer ranges, Toyota believes that fuel cell hybrids are the most well-to-wheel efficient autos compared to conventional hybrids, plug-in EVs and conventional gas vehicles.

Toyota: Lithium still too expensive

A plug-in Prius at HybridFest

Since 2006, in the US, Japan, and Europe, Toyota has been quietly testing 126 lithium-powered Prius hybrid cars. In fact, there was a time when a few top Toyota executives announced that lithium would power the third generation Toyota Prius.

Then a few cell phone and laptop batteries exploded. Soon after, Toyota announced that lithium would not power the third generation Prius.

So, is lithium unsafe?

According to Toyota senior staff engineer for batteries, Kazuo Tojima, Toyota's tests demonstrated that lithium's “durability, stability and safety are assured.”

Unfortunately, while lithium also provided "small" fuel-economy gains, the costs of lithium still out-weighed the benefits.

Besides, is there any reason for Toyota to rush into lithium? On the other hand, isn't there every reason for US automakers to rush into lithium?

New, tiny Lexus will be a hybrid

250h: Toyota's latest Lexus hybrid

Within the next decade, Toyota plans to begin selling 1 million hybrid cars per year. The path to that sales output will certainly require a number of new hybrids, and the next new one might just be a CT 200h, CT 300h, or CT 400h according to the latest Lexus rumors.

The new hybrid Lexus is being designed to take on the BMW 1 Series and Audi A, and it will be Toyota's smallest Lexus. More interesting, the new CT, which stands for Compact and Tourer, will only be available in a hybrid format.

A hybrid spice up for Scion?

A highly customizable city hybrid?

Toyota is seeking to spice up its Scion brand. So, how about some hybrid Scions? Could adding a few hybrid cars to the Scion brand help Toyota increase Scion sales?

For instance, wouldn't Scion be the perfect platform for a small Toyota city hybrid?

How would you spice up Scion?

Mazda dumping Ford hybrid tech for Toyota tech?

The Ford inspired Tribute hybrid

By 2013 or so, Mazda will seek to sell about 100,000 hybrid vehicles per year using a hybrid system provided by Toyota that will include batteries, motors, control units, etc according to GreenCarCongress.

In the past Mazda has developed hybrids with Ford, but that original Ford technology included licensed Toyota hybrid technology, so it isn't that odd that Mazda would seek such a relationship. It will, however, be interesting to learn whether this hybrid technology will continue to be based on NiMH battery technology, or whether it might also include lithium technology.

Regardless, Toyota believes the relationship will help make Toyota's hybrids cheaper.

Toyota's hybrid ride back to profitability

Will also start selling fuel cell hybrids in 2015

At a shareholder meeting yesterday Toyota vice president Masatami Takimoto told attendees that Toyota would increase its line of hybrid cars, in addition to cost-cutting, to return the company back to profitability.

Likewise, when asked about zero emission vehicles, Takimoto stated that Toyota would begin selling new fuel cell cars in 2015 as part of its plan to stay ahead of the green vehicle pack.

Plug-in Prius leasing coming this year, but...

Ready to lease a plug-in Prius?

Later this year Toyota will lease a number of lithium-powered plug-in Prius hybrids. Unfortunately, only 150 of them will make it to the states in the first year.

On a side note, 110,000 orders for the 2010 Prius have been placed in Japan according to the AP.

Led by Prius, Toyota hybrid sales decline

7,232 units sold in February

Overall, for the month of February, Toyota new vehicle sales declined dramatically, although passenger car sales increased by 6.3 percent compared to last month. In terms of hybrid cars, however, the news was even worse - particularly for the Prius.

Overall, Toyota hybrid sales dropped from 11,876 units in January to 11,814 in February. The Toyota Prius went from 8,121 units in January, to 7,232 units in February.

Ironically, the Lexus RX400h hybrid saw an uptick in sales of 36.3 percent over last February.

Prius plant in America - Do you care?

An American-made foreign oil dependency fighter?

Now that Toyota is offering buyouts for US workers and cutting pay for everyone, a new US plant to develop Prius hybrids - in America - appears dead.

Do you care? Many don't because it's a foreign company.

Yet, when the first Chevy Volt hits the street in 2010, it will be manufactured with an imported engine and an imported battery - the most critical component in the vehicle.

Do you care?

Couldn't having significant numbers of Toyota hybrid vehicles built in America help develop a US battery industry? Wouldn't that be a good thing?

Is this the time for nationalism, or the intelligent acceptance of the global economy?

Toyota's used hybrid vehicle commercial campaign

Used hybrid reliability?

Toyota has been running a new used hybrid commercial campaign on KROQ, a well-known alternative rock radio station in California.

Basically, there's a three-month warranty on top of the original vehicle warranty. Ultimately, it comes down to dealership trust when buying used Toyota hybrid vehicles.

No surprise there. That's the way it is with any used car. Why should hybrids be much different?

Still, it's pretty interesting that Toyota is doing so much to promote used hybrid vehicles. Might be a good time to look for used hybrids, which just a few months ago, were priced ridiculously high. I'm hoping to follow up on that angle either tomorrow or this weekend.

Anybody do any used hybrid shopping lately?

Should Obama save the Big 3 at any cost?

25,000 per year for years now

Last night I was watching an interesting NOVA program called The Big Energy Gamble and how AB 32 is going to drastically change the auto market in California. Essentially, if California moves forward with AB 32, automakers will need to sell many millions of hybrid cars or EVs in California alone, in order to meet CO2 emissions requirements.

And, there are many states considering similar laws if California's continues to move forward.

Toyota, the king of hybrid cars, is well on its way to helping California meet its goals, and Honda is ramping up its hybrid production as well, although even Honda has some serious work ahead.

The Big 3, on the other hand, seem pathetically far behind. Possibly, Ford has some plans, but as the automaker has only been able to make 25,000 Escape hybrids per year, and has the same 25,000 cap for the Fusion hybrid, I have some serious worries. Sadly, GM and Chrysler seem even further behind.

Yet, as the bailout deadline approaches, the UAW is already calling on Obama for help. If this were the end of all bailout talk, a little extension wouldn't be a bad idea, but this is just the beginning.

GM's latest prediction for 2009 auto sales, for example, is even worse than 2008. According to Big 3 Congressional bailout testimony, GM's prediction for 2009 is unsustainable if it continues for a few years, regardless of any bailout money. UNSUSTAINABLE. The auto industry, as we know it today, would collapse.

Even if things get better, the Big 3 are still in no position to make a serious stab at fuel economy, especially if the requirement is as aggressive as AB32 - something Obama has supported. According to an economist from Moody's during Congressional testimony on the bailout, the US auto industry will need about 100 billion over the next few years just to survive.

How much more it take to make the Big 3 green?

Not one of the Big 3 has yet developed a cheap hybrid to challenge the Prius. Do they really believe that millions of Americans are going to be able to afford $40,000 Volts in five years? Will GM even be making 100,000 Volts per year by then?

President Obama's plans for an energy moon shot should move forward, and I'm sure it will, but should our moon shot be limited to the Big 3's ability to make it happen? Might it not be better, for instance, for the government to regulate standards and requirements, put all incentives in the hands of consumers, and let ALL automakers COMPETE for consumers, even if it means the UAW loses 1/2 its workforce because its products don't compete?

Or, should Obama save the Big 3 at any and all costs and make the Big 3 essential to our moon shot?

LeBeau - Automakers open to fuel efficiency strings for cash

Time to make the best out of this bailout?

During CNBC Reports just a few minutes ago, Phil Lebeau - whom interviewed GM CEO Rick Wagoner this morning - stated that US automakers would be open to fuel economy strings for government cash.

Seems like a positive sign, and an angle that Congress should exploit.

Are Toyota's hybrid plans recession proof?

Set for launch late next year?

Last month, Toyota Prius sales were down 10 percent. Not bad, considering that October was one of the worst months ever in auto sales. And, while hybrid cars have helped Toyota's sales strength the last few years, this recession is greatly hurting Toyota.

"At least there's no red ink at the moment. But if the situation deteriorates we could be looking at that," said Ashvin Chotai, managing director of Intelligence Automotive Asia reports the AFP.

Thus, "Planned factories, existing facilities, new projects; they [Toyota] are reviewing all of them," said Toyota executive vice president Mitsuo Kinoshita.

If US auto buyers can't afford anything but the cheapest cars, amidst declining gas prices, hybrid sales will take a hit. Such a hit, I'll bet, could easily delay the launch of the 2010 Toyota Prius few months, and slow the launch of any consumer-orientated plug-in hybrids from Toyota as well. And that new Lexus hybrid? Why be in a rush when Lexus hybrid sales got hammered last month?

GM to ask Toyota for help to fix business?

Seeking some kaizen

Toyota has always been known for it's kaizen-influenced business model, or the constant move towards efficiency in all elements of its business. From manufacturing to developing new automobiles, such as hybrid cars, kaizen influences every aspect of Toyota's corporate culture.

CNBC just reported that there are now rumors that GM might seek some sort of assistance from Toyota to help turn GM's business around. Is GM seeking some kaizen?

Toyota not interested in diesel hybrids

Not unless diesel fuel costs go down

Toyota is not interested in developing diesel hybrid vehicles due to the high cost of diesel fuel according to Green Car Congress. Even though diesel is the dominate fuel in Europe and many competitors are preparing diesel hybrids for the European market, Toyota believes gasoline hybrids still are more cost effective.

Chevy Volt: Can it change perception of GM?

The Volt made a recent publicity stop at NASCAR

For many Americans, the Chevy Volt has become the savior of the US auto industry. A made in America foreign oil dependency freedom fighter. And, one day, it might just be that, but not any time soon.

In the interim, however, can it change the perception of GM and its ability to build quality automobiles?

Finish: Chevy Volt: Can it change perception of GM?

$7,500 plug-in hybrid tax credit passes Senate - Too favorable to Volt?

Only about battery capacity, not actual EV range, nor real world fuel economy?

The Senate has passed a new tax bill that will provide tax credits for plug-in hybrid vehicles ranging from $2,500 - $7,500, depending on the vehicle's battery capacity. To be eligible for the credit, such plug-in vehicles must store at least 6 kWh's of electricity.

So, battery capacity, not actual EV range nor real world fuel economy, is how Congress judges plug-in quality? Does that really make sense?

Finish: $7,500 plug-in hybrid tax credit passes Senate - Too favorable to Volt?

Toyota testing plug-ins in England, lithium coming

A plug-in Prius filling up with solar energy

Today, Toyota and EDF Energy of Britain have started road tests to evaluate Toyota's plug-in hybrid vehicles. The tests are being used to help EDF design infrastructure for recharging stations, and to determine "ease of use" according to Edmunds.

Toyota has long stated that it would offer such hybrid vehicles for fleet sales in 2010 but, due to higher energy prices, Toyota recently decided to move that date up to late 2009.

More important, Toyota seemed to confirm that when the plug-ins hit fleet sales next year, they will be lithium-powered, not NiMH-powered, as are the ones currently being tested by EDF Energy.

Toyota to launch plug-in Prius in 2009

Coming a year ahead of schedule

Due to rising fuel economy concerns, Toyota is going to "quickly and flexibly" respond according to reports coming out of Japan. Thus, Toyota will launch a plug-in Prius for fleet customers in late 2009, a year ahead of schedule. It will also speed up development on pure electric cars as the hybrid king increases production on hybrid vehicles.

Toyota preparing to mass produce lithium batteries?

A lithium-powered hybrid?

The Toyota and Matsushita hybrid vehicle battery partnership, formally called Panasonic EV Energy Co, have begun studying the process of mass producing lithium-ion batteries for hybrid vehicles.

Additionally, Toyota President Katsuaki Watanabe, again reiterated the company's focus on hybrids as a key to a sustainable future, as well as the goal of offering a hybrid option for every Toyota vehicle.

Toyota is "a hybrid company"

A Toyota Prius hybrid car

Despite the fact that Toyota has received a lot of criticism from some environmentalists regarding its alliance with US automakers over CAFE, Toyota claims it was worth it.

"We have taken hits because of our alliance," U.S. president of Toyota, Jim Lentz, said of the unified stance with U.S. companies on the No.1 regulatory issue to face auto companies in years. "We were willing to take those hits to get a standard the industry could live with."

Nonetheless, Toyota isn't afraid of the new CAFE standards coming out of Congress.

"We're a hybrid company, especially on the passenger car side," Lentz said, noting that in addition to the conventional hybrid cars that Toyota is now selling, such as the Prius and Camry hybrid, Toyota will continue to test plug-in hybrid vehicles.

Toyota confirms 3rd generation Prius plans

Better battery, better software, better price

When Toyota moved from the first generation Prius to the second generation Prius, increased power and fuel economy was achieved. Most of this increase was accomplished by software and by a smaller and lighter battery pack, according to Toyota.

Expect the same for the 3rd generation Prius. (Finish)

Toyota's next plug-in hybrid?

The best plug-in hybrid Toyota has to offer?

It's great that this golf cart looking car is a plug-in hybrid vehicle and can improve posture, but what the heck?

It doesn't look very aerodynamic, and it looks as if it would have a hard time cruising down anything but a path or sidewalk.

I know Japan is a far different sort of driving culture than America, but what is up with the Tokyo Auto Show?

Toyota will also be showing the Hi-CT plug-in hybrid concept, "an edgy, urban vehicle, " according to the AFP "inspired by the lifestyles of youth, with a removable rear trunk and a deck to store surfboards and bicycles."

In terms of hybrid vehicles, Toyota will also show the FT-HS hybrid and the Crown luxury hybrid concept.

Honda, Toyota lead U.S. fuel economy

Prius balances Toyota's gas-guzzlers

Honda Motor Co. had the highest fuel economy of any manufacturer selling automobiles in the U.S. with 22.9 mpg, a slight decrease compared with its 2006 lineup, according to MSNBC.

Toyota posted a 22.8 mpg average for its 2007 vehicles compared with 22.4 mpg the previous year, largely driven by the Prius and Toyota's other hybrid vehicles.

22.9 mpg is the best fuel economy in America? There is only one word to describe America's fuel economy: pathetic.

Toyota's lithium contradictions and the third generation Prius

Will it be lithium powered?

Katsuaki Watanabe, Toyota's top guy, has been very bullish regarding lithium batteries and their ability to power Toyota's hybrid cars. He was even quoted by BusinessWeek a few months ago confirming that lithium batteries were ready for Toyota's hybrids.

Shortly thereafter, however, rumors emerged from Japan claiming that lithium would be delayed, and multiple Toyota executives have seemed to confirm these rumors. Earlier this week Kazuo Okamoto, Toyota's research and development chief, for example, claimed that Toyota's Third Generation Hybrid Synergy drive had not been delayed, however, Okamoto also made it seem as if the next gen Prius would not utilize lithium.

Likewise, regarding lithium batteries, ...Finish: Lithium contradictions and the third generation Prius

Next generation Prius on track?

Has Toyota lost some hybrid mojo?

"I know there's a lot of speculation in the United States that we're delaying the Prius because of battery development issues," Toyota research and development chief Kazuo Okamoto told Reuters. "That's not the case."

Really?

Additionally, Kazuo stated that Toyota would not race GM to put the first commercially available plug-in hybrid on the road. GM has previously announced 2010 as their launch date.

Additionally, the first plug-in Prius hybrids will probably be very similar to current Prius hybrid technology.

"The plug-in will be an extension of the system we're using with the Prius," he said. "We see some advantages. For instance, we can add trunk space and have a lighter vehicle."

If GM is serious about the Chevy Volt and, more important, the launch date of the Volt, there is a real chance that GM could surpass Toyota in terms of viable, green technology. Now that truly would be shocking!

Can Honda build a Prius-contender?

One possible new hybrid from Honda

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

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

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

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

Hybrids to help buoy Toyota through subprime mortgage crisis?

Toyota not worried about slumping housing market?

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

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

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

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

Ohh, that quirky little Prius.

GM's hybrids: The wrong start?

Large SUVs will become GM's first hybrids

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

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

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

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

The Chevy Malibu hybrid: GM's Big Mistake?

GM plans massive marketing blitz to challenge Camry

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toyota "bemused" by hybrid delay rumors

Third generation Prius still on track?

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

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

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

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

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

Volt road ready this Spring?

Still, a long way to go

GM's Bob Lutz is a spin-master.

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

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

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

No slowing Prius sales

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

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

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

CAFE: Toyota's bad, growing addiction?

Toyota just loves trucks too much?

Toyota has long made excellent vehicles, but when it comes to the environment, Toyota has always lagged far behind its Japanese rival, Honda. Nevertheless, when Toyota pushed ahead with the Prius, despite mockery from the rest of the automotive world, it seemed the automaker might just be ready to push ahead of Honda.

Then again, it isn't just the Prius, it's all of Toyota's hybrid vehicles.

While most hybrid hype is placed upon the Prius, the Toyota Camry hybrid has quietly become a strong seller itself, a trend that I bet will only pick up pace. Moreover, if Toyota is correct when it claims that the price difference between hybrids and conventional gasoline vehicles will disappear within the next decade, then the Camry hybrid might soon outsell the Prius.

Thus, it's completely dumbfounding that Toyota continues to join the Big 3 against a significant increase in CAFE. If the future is all hybrid, as Toyota claims, and the hybrid price differential will soon end - another Toyota claim - then 35 mpg fleet economy should be a cake-walk by 2020.

So, what's up with Toyota? Does it fear high CAFE standards will destroy U.S. automakers and bring a backlash against foreign autos? Is Toyota still uncertain about the future of hybrids? Or, are the ridiculous profit margins of large, gas-guzzling vehicles just too bloody addictive?

Where's the kaizen?

Green Technology: GM versus Toyota

Automotive Evolution: Adaptation versus the Big Bang?

Ever since the Chevy Volt Concept debuted at NAIAS, many auto journalists have called it a Prius killer, claiming the technology was so much more advanced than the Prius, or at least claiming that the Volt's technology was so much more advanced than Toyota's hybrid technology.

The other day, another similar comment was made by BW's David Kiley, "GM, of course, was the hit of last January’s Detroit auto show when it debuted the Chevy Volt plug in. It was the first time in recent years that GM appeared to be ahead of Toyota, or even equal, in the arena of alternative and greener vehicles."

What? Why?

Thus far GM offers a few mild hybrids (Yes, I know they offer full hybrid buses!). More important, there isn't yet a fully functional Volt, and yet some can claim the technology is better than Toyota's hybrid vehicles?

--> Finish Green Technology: GM versus Toyota

New hybrid tax credits only for plug-in hybrids?

No new tax credits for regular hybrids?

I have to hand it to Congress. Only Congress can create a lot of buzz while actually doing nothing, such as is with the proposed tax credits for plug-in hybrid vehicles (more).

Now, I'm as big a fan as any regarding plug-in hybrid vehicles, but America can't get enough buyers into conventional hybrid cars. So, how can tax credits for plug-in conversions accomplish anything?

The biggest seller of hybrids, Toyota, is facing the end of any tax incentives for buyers of Toyota hybrids, including the best selling Toyota Prius. With better tax incentives, imagine how many more Prii, Camry hybrids and Highlander hybrids would be selling.

Moreover, if there are not enough hybrids on the road already, how is converting a small percentage of them into plug-ins going to accomplish anything other than buzz among politicians, celebrity-advocates and a handful of rich treehuggers?

I say extend Toyota's tax credits first. If the Prius becomes the best selling car in America because of tax credits, so be it. Millions and millions of 45 mpg hybrids on the road is a good start and it is probably the fastest way to more hybrid competition amongst automakers, as well as the fastest path to mass-produced plug-in hybrids.

I mean, c'mon. How many Americans can really afford to buy a Prius and spend another $10,000 to convert it into a plug-in hybrid that voids the battery warranty? Move forward with the plug-in tax incentive, but not without extending Toyota's tax credits or making larger tax incentives for all hybrid buyers.

Lithium - Toyota's revolutionary 3rd Generation Prius?

Are Computers just the beginning of the lithium revolution?

Recently, someone asked if I truly believed that the integration of lithium into hybrid cars was revolutionary - something I had claimed regarding Toyota's decision to use lithium batteries in the third generation Prius.

Absolutely, I replied.

Finish --> Lithium - Toyota's revolutionary 3rd generation Prius

Does Edmunds.com hate Toyota?

Is Edmunds.com biased against Toyota?

Yesterday, some eco-activists used Toyota to bring some attention to global warming. Essentially, the protesters questioned Toyota's environmental commitment and their apparent hypocrisy on the matter claiming that producing hybrid cars doesn't balance also producing gas-guzzlers.

“Building Priuses does not give Toyota license to mass-produce the Tundra,” said Sarah Connolly, the co-director of the Freedom from Oil campaign for Rainforest Action Network. “If Toyota really believed in curbing global warming, why did they argue with the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers in the Supreme Court that CO2 is not a pollutant and that the EPA should not have the right to help regulate greenhouse gas emissions?”

Edmunds.com took license to title this action 2007 New York Auto Show: Anti-Toyota Activists arrested. In reality, these activists are not anti-Toyota per se, rather, these activists are anti-gas guzzling - a U.S. automaker speciality. Since U.S. automakers aren't really doing anything to help the environment, Toyota is the natural scapegoat to use for this global warming message. That's fine, but why did Edmunds use the story as an indictment against Toyota, instead of an indictment against gas-guzzling - the real point of these activists?

Hard sell? Hybrids help drive record Toyota sales

Almost 20,000 sold in March

With significant help from hybrid cars, Toyota posted "best-ever monthly sales" for the month of March. The Toyota Prius achieved the best month of sales for the second month in a row with 19, 156 vehicles sold, an increase of 133.2 percent according to Toyota.

The Camry hybrid achieved sales of 5,144 units sold in March, while the Highlander hybrid achieved 2,501 units sold. In addition, Toyota also sold 1,471 units of the Lexus RX400h hybrid.

While some of this increase in hybrid sales might be attributed to a decreasing tax credit for Toyota hybrids, that's still an amazing month. Too bad the credit is expiring, I guess Congress just doesn't feel the need to get as many foreign oil dependency fighting, global warming reducing automobiles on the road as fast as possible?

Stupid Toyota to build hybrid plant

Silly Toyota keeps trucking along with hybrids, like this hybrid Camry

Toyota is going to build a new hybrid parts factory in Japan according to several news sources. Not much is known about specific plans for the hybrid plant, but it seems obvious that Toyota keeps ramping up for greater and greater production of hybrid cars.

Yet, Toyota's hybrids are consistently questioned. Series hybrids are better than Toyota's parallel hybrids. Toyota's hybrid powertrain is too complex. The Prius just doesn't make sense.

Apparently, Toyota is the dumbest automaker on the planet, staking their future on second rate hybrid technology. Of course, one has to continually ask, where are these technologically superior hybrids vehicles?

Aura hybrid versus the Prius? Nonsense!

GM's first hybrid sedan

Hybrid cars have become incredibly important buzz generators in the automotive world. Thus, I use the term hybrid vehicle very lightly when describing mild hybrids, such as the Saturn Vue hybrid or the upcoming Saturn Aura hybrid.

It's not that I hate these hybrid vehicles. In fact, if GM offered both mild hybrid and full hybrid versions of these vehicles - letting consumers choose their hybrid package - I'd be incredibly supportive of mild hybrid technology. Since this choice does not exist, I see GM's mild hybrids more as a PR effort, rather than a technology effort.

Finish Aura hybrid versus the Prius

Toyota tax credits set for another reduction

Are you in the market to buy a hybrid?

Have you been out shopping for hybrid cars recently? If so, then you know there are some pretty good deals being offered on hybrids. For Toyota hybrids, the deal might never be sweeter. The current tax credits offered on Toyota hybrids are set to again be cut in half in April. So, if you were thinking about a new Prius, Camry hybrid or Highlander hybrid, you might want to act now.

Hybrid Advantage: Is Toyota Unstoppable?

Hybrids have given Toyota a nice sales boost

Yesterday, I was walking in Pasadena and it seemed everywhere I looked, I saw a Toyota Prius. In Southern California the Prius is a very popular car.

While some critics speak of slowing hybrid sales, the reality is that hybrid sales are catapulting Toyota past every other automaker. Yet, the best of hybrid technology is yet to come.

Finish reading, Hybrid Advantage.

Hybrid X: Is this the third generation Prius?

Wow!

According to Erin Riches of Straightline, the Toyota press conference at the Geneva Auto Show was packed, as the hype around the Hybrid X had boiled into a froth.

So, is the Hybrid X the third generation Prius? If so, and if this vehicle can hit the streets sometime in 2008, Toyota is going to become an almost unstoppable force in the automotive world. Imagine this hybrid with lithium-ion batteries, significantly increasing both the performance and the fuel efficiency of the third-generation Prius compared to the current Prius.

This hybrid says one thing: future.

Toyota might be the king of hybrid cars right now, but this vehicle could be the beginning of a new hybrid vehicle empire for Toyota.

Read more of Erin's report.

Toyota confirms plug-in hybrid development

Just plug-in your Prius?

Toyota confirmed today that it is now working on plug-in hybrid vehicles. "We are doing consumer research right now as well as product development," Toyota North America President Jim Press told Reuters in an interview. Additionally, Mr. Press claimed that batteries are still the biggest obstacle to plug-in hybrid development and that Toyota would be willing to work with other automakers to develop such batteries. "We would be quite open to any kind of sharing," Press stated.

Is this a prelude to Hybrid X?

Hybrids help Toyota sales soar

Hybrids helped Toyota post best-ever February sales

While the conventional Camry drove Toyota to the best February ever for the automaker, hybrid cars played an important role as well. Toyota sold almost twice as many Prius hybrid cars this February compared to last year, achieving its best monthly sales ever. The Camry hybrid posted sales of 3,332 units, while the Highlander hybrid achieved sales of 1,892 vehicles.

On the Lexus side, the RX 400h achieved sales of 1,249 units.

As a result, Toyota hybrid sales are now up 45 percent compared to last year at 33, 182 hybrid vehicle sales. Imagine if Toyota still qualified for the full hybrid tax credit!

Toyota's Tundra Mistake?

Why not a Tundra hybrid?

When I walked into the Toyota section of the Los Angeles Auto Show, I was almost appalled. This is the king of hybrid cars, I wondered, as huge gas-guzzling trucks loomed everywhere. Consequently, I wasn't surprised to find the same scene at NAIAS in Detroit. At least in Detroit, however, Toyota was also displaying the FT-HS hybrid concept, which made me a bit more forgiving.

While I realize that Toyota needs to challenge America's Big 3 in this pickup truck segment, I don't understand why Toyota didn't include a hybrid version. Recently, Toyota announced that more Toyota models would have to be converted into hybrids to achieve Toyota's future hybrid sales goals. So, why not start with the Tundra hybrid? Wouldn't a pickup hybrid have been the perfect way to show-up Detroit?

I know in the past there have been some concerns regarding Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive and towing capabilities, for example. Is this still an issue, or did Toyota just blow an opportunity?

GM hybrid trucks in 2008?

Trucks are one of the most important automobile categories in the U.S., and it seems shocking that a hybrid version of a truck or two has yet to hit the U.S. market.

That will surely change before the end of 2008.

In the past, Toyota has acknowledged that a Toyota Tundra hybrid is a possibility. It might be more of a possibility now that GM is entering the hybrid truck space.

GM has confirmed that the Chevy Silverado and the GMC Sierra pickup trucks will be offered with dual-mode hybrid powertrains in late 2008. Some of these hybrid trucks, or all of them, are scheduled to built at the Oshawa Truck Assembly Plant in Ontario, Canada.

(Source: Reuters)

What to expect from the 2008 Highlander hybrid

A Hybrid Highlander at 2007 NAIAS

So, what can you expect from the newest version of the Highlander hybrid? Well, the 2008 Highlander hybrid will not offer any changes to the Hybrid Synergy Drive, nor to any of the hybrid technology powering this vehicle.

Essentially, the 2008 Toyota Highlander hybrid will receive mostly cosmetic changes. Nonetheless, for larger families interested in hybrid technology, the newest hybrid Highlander does offer at least a few interesting upgrades.

The new Highlander hybrid is both wider and longer than the previous hybrid Highlander so there is more interior space. Unfortunately, this extra size adds extra weight. That extra weight will almost assuredly cause decreased acceleration. Fortunately, however, Toyota has indicated that the weight increase will not cause a decrease in fuel economy.

Ultimately, the extra size creates more room for larger families seeking a hybrid. In addition, the latest Highlander hybrid offers more airbags - a total of 7, and AWD is no longer optional. Instead, AWD is standard on all hybrid Highlanders.

What if Toyota takes over Subaru?

Are hybrid Subaru's THE car for environmentalists?

There have been a lot of rumors that Toyota would like to take over Subaru, a company in which Toyota already has an ownership interest. However, such a move has been difficult because of current regulations - regulations that might soon change.

So, what if Toyota took over Subaru?

Many fans of Subaru vehicles are the outdoor, environmentalist type. Thus, wouldn't Subaru hybrid vehicles be the perfect fit for this segment of auto customers? Subaru and Toyota have already had discussions regarding hybrid car technology, so this match just seems perfect. In fact, Subaru could almost become Toyota's Saturn Division. Except, Subaru would be the super clean and green division of Toyota.

Prius for $219 a month, or a low-interest loan

Now that Toyota has significantly increased its capacity for producing hybrid cars, particularly the Prius, it is offering new incentives. For example, Toyota will offer 3 year leases on the Prius starting as low as $219/month. Additionally, Toyota will also offer low-interest loans on the Prius.

Toyota Prius sales were up 4 percent in January compared to the previous year, despite a 50 percent reduction in the clean vehicle tax credit.

Hybrid Vehicles Dead? Toyota Prius sales soar in January

Are hybrid vehicles losing their appeal?

Despite lower gas prices and a federal tax credit that was reduced by 50 percent, the Toyota Prius had its best January on record, selling 8,299 units. The Camry hybrid posted sales of 2,801 units, the Highlander hybrid reported 1,810 sales, while the Lexus RX400h reported 1,245 units sold.

So, if Toyota sold more than 14,000 hybrid cars in January with only a reduced tax credit, how many more would Toyota have sold if it still qualified for the full tax credit? Considering the seriousness of foreign oil dependency, pollution and global warming, it is simply silly that Toyota is being punished for being too successful doing the right thing.

--> More on Hybrid vehicles dead? Prius sales soar in January

The Prius Effect? Only to those with the loser effect

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

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

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

That's not the only thing GM missed!

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

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

2008 Toyota Highlander to debut in Chicago

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

(Source: KickingTires)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ford, Toyota partnership talks still brewing

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

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

Honda to fight "Prius effect" in Super Bowl Ad

A natural gas Civic next to Phill at NAIAS

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

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

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

Toyota wants extended tax credits, other automakers fearfully say no

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

E flex System versus Hybrid Synergy Drive: First Thoughts

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

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

The Prius had become a path to fuel cell vehicles.

--> Read the Full Story

Will Toyota produce the FT-HS concept?

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

Number 1: GM versus Toyota

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is the FT-HS a "pipe dream"

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

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

Why Ford stock might not be a bad idea

Ford stock is dirt cheap, but not many analysts would recommend a buy on the stock and probably with good reason.

Still, one has to take note of Ford's new leader, Alan Mulally. Mulally is a long time fan of Toyota, particularly due to Toyota's manufacturing process - a process he hoped to replicate as an executive at Boeing. In fact, Mulally has called himself "a disciple of the Toyota production system," according to the DetroitNews. Moreover, when Mulally, along with the leaders of GM and Chrysler, met with the President a couple of months ago, it was Mulally whom was by far the most optimistic. It just seems as if Mulally realizes that the future of American automakers will require a revolution in process and in thinking. In a word, however, that revolution can be defined by efficiency.

Whether it is efficiency in production, in supply chains or in fuel economy, the mantra of efficiency can be a game changer for American automakers.

Consequently, I was very excited to hear that Ford is in discussions with Toyota regarding efficiency. Whether production efficiency or hybrid vehicle efficiency, it's obvious Ford can learn a thing or two from Toyota. While some analysts have questioned what Toyota might have to gain from a partnership with Ford, I say they have a lot to gain.

For example, yesterday, I noted that a hybrid partnership would benefit Toyota by making their hybrid powertrain more standard, which would give suppliers more incentive to develop Toyota-friendly hybrid parts. Obviously, more hybrid suppliers would lead to cheaper hybrid parts. Furthermore, Toyota would also receive a license fee from Ford which would help fund Toyota's hybrid development costs.

While none of this might work out, I think there is great potential for both companies. Obviously, Ford needs help, and Toyota knows a strong Ford is good for Toyota, especially if Toyota can create a nice revenue stream from a successful Ford.

Regardless, Mulally should give Ford fans great hope.

Check out Toyota's hybrid sports car

So, you've heard about the FT-HS Hybrid Sports Concept that is supposed to debut at the Detroit Auto Show. A 0-60 mile per hour in 4 second hybrid sports car with 400 hp can claim the attention of both many hybrid fans, as well as sports car fans. What really has me interested about this vehicle, however, is the use of carbon fiber. With its ability to cut the weight of many automobiles in half, but also making them stronger, carbon fiber holds great potential. Carbon fiber plug-in hybrid vehicles, for example, could essentially end the need for liquid fuel for most in the U.S., enabling the far majority of drivers to drive purely powered by electricity. Of course, you'd still be able to fill up with liquid fuel when needed.

Anyway, for some cool pictures of the FT hybrid, check out Winding Road.

What kind of help is Ford seeking from Toyota?

Updated: 2:07 PM Pacific

There are rumors coming out of Japan that Ford is seeking some kind of assistance from Toyota, but it is not known exactly what kind of assistance Ford is exploring. Nonetheless, early reports indicate that Ford is interested in Toyota's hybrid and fuel cell technology. With fuel economy and global warming becoming ever more important issues in the U.S., it isn't surprising that Ford might be seeking more hybrid assistance from Toyota.

Already, Ford utilizes some Toyota hybrid technology for its hybrid vehicles, the Escape hybrid and the Mercury Mariner hybrid. Thus, could Ford be seeking help on another hybrid vehicle?

Since tax credits for Toyota hybrids have been reduced, the sales of Toyota hybrids have slowed. In this market, a serious Prius challenger might be able to make some important gains in the hybrid vehicle segment, especially for a company like Ford. Moreover, if Toyota helped Ford challenge the Prius, Toyota would still make money off of the deal by licensing their hybrid technology - a move in which Toyota has claimed significant interest.

Toyota will offer plug-in hybrids as soon as technology is ready

Toyota is hearing the voice of Americans when it comes to plug-in hybrid vehicles, Jim Press, President of Toyota North America told the Inside Line. However, just as GM has indicated, plug-in technology just isn't quite ready for prime time. "We are hearing the voice of the customer, and we want [plug-ins] as much as anyone else," Press said. "It is not a lack of desire; it is a lack of science. We don't want to come out with a technology prematurely that might not succeed." So, if you are interested in plug-in hybrid technology, buy one of today's hybrids - its the best way to invest in tomorrow's hybrid technology.

Toyota hybrids at the LA Auto Show

Heading to the Los Angeles Auto Show this weekend, I had few expectations regarding Toyota and its hybrid vehicles. Pre-show hybrid buzz focused on the Aura and Yukon hybrids and GM's new green identity. Since, I started out on the GM side of the convention center, I thought the best of the show's hybrid displays were behind me, especially when I walked into the Toyota side of the convention center and saw Toyota Tundras everywhere.

Eventually, though, I did make my way through the Tundras and into Toyota's hybrid section.

The difference between GM's hybrid offerings and Toyota's was absolutely stunning. In fact, there was simply no comparison between Toyota and any other automaker at the show regarding hybrid vehicles. Ironically, Toyota's hybrid section was all business and no show gimmicks. There was a huge information bar where you could sit down, talk to a rep and obtain product literature. Then of course, there were Toyota's three hybrids, the Highlander hybrid, Camry hybrid and the Prius.

As I sat near the Toyota hybrid section I was amazed at the visitors to this area. This was a high traffic area, but it wasn't just people looking at hybrids. Here people were getting into hybrids - sitting in the front, then the back, opening the trunk, touching every gadget that the vehicles had to offer. These visitors looked like buyers.

Wow, I thought, not bad for a company without any new hybrid debuts. Then, however, I noticed the Lexus hybrid section and realized Toyota did debut a hybrid at the show, the Lexus LS600h L hybrid. While Lexus had the GS 450h hybrid the RX 400h hybrid at the show, in addition to a split 450h show gimmick, the LS 600h was the show stopper. Still, the Lexus hybrid section was pure auto show marketing, unlike the Toyota section, and it worked. The buzz around the Lexus hybrids was nothing short of phenomenal.

In terms of hybrid vehicles, Toyota didn't just dominate the LA Auto Show; it was the LA Auto Show.

Hybrid sales up 30% in 2007 according to Toyota

Now that the Toyota Camry hybrid is being produced in the U.S., Toyota's ability to produce hybrids has increased. As a result Toyota is predicting a 30 percent increase in the sales of hybrid vehicles in 2007 versus 2006, which would equal more than 300,000 hybrids.

Toyota versus GM: Health Care, Hybrids and Kaizen

Now that Democrats have assumed control of Congress, many in GM are hoping for help dealing with health care as part of the solution to their problems. While I agree that GM might need some help dealing with health care, I think GM should also take the President's advice - build more relevant vehicles.

Still, even Japanese automakers are dealing with health care issues when they open up factories in the U.S.. For example, Toyota's health care costs for U.S. employees has doubled in the last five years to more than $11,000 per employee. Unlike GM; however, Toyota is taking action rather than just complaining to the government.

To help deal with health care, Toyota is building a $9 million dollar clinic to serve the employees of one of their factories. Why? Kaizen, or continuous improvement.

"Typically we reduce costs by improving quality," said Ford Brewer, assistant general manager for health and wellness at Toyota's North American manufacturing headquarters. "That's the same thing we're doing here." (more)

Just as with hybrid vehicles, Toyota is always seeking continuous improvement. Hybrids are not only fuel efficient and incredibly clean, but they help develop new technologies. Hybrids don't require one huge jump when the time is right - such as from gasoline vehicles to full fuel cell vehicles - they enable continuous improvement. First a hybrid, then a plug-in hybrid, then a small stack fuel cell plug-in hybrid, then a full fuel cell vehicle - continuous, constant improvement.

It will be very interesting to see if Toyota is able to reduce its health care costs with this approach. Still, Toyota is taking action, rather than just begging for help. Toyota is again thinking outside-of-the-box.

Perhaps if GM sought to solve more of its problems with innovative thinking, rather than always looking to the government, GM's bottomline would be a little more robust.

GM already toning down its i-Car campaign?

About two weeks ago I made a post about GM's i-Car, a car many believe will be some type of plug-in hybrid vehicle. According to unconfirmed sources at that time, the i-Car campaign would be launched some time before the end of the year as a challenge to Toyota and its hybrid cars. Then, earlier this week, Bob Lutz told the AutomotiveNews that the future was all electric vehicles powered by fuel cells. In the interim, Mr. Lutz claimed a plug-in hybrid would probably be the best solution, and the reality of the i-Car campaign seemed, well, real.

Suddenly, it seemed GM was preparing to completely reinvent itself. Finally, I thought, finally.

Perhaps, I got a little too excited a little too quickly.

While the LA Times is reporting that GM is going to launch an electric vehicle prototype next year, there are already questions about how serious GM actually is about the i-Car program, at least in the short term. Maybe, now that Democrats have control of Congress, GM believes it can rest on E85 and flex-fuel vehicles for several years rather than actually doing something great.

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.

Toyota's huge hybrid vehicle mistake?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prius shortage close to over

An increase in Toyota Prius production is finally catching up with Prius demand, which has lessened in the face of falling gas prices and reduced federal tax credits. Still, demand for the best selling hybrid vehicle is still very strong. Eventually such a trend should decrease the value of used Prius hybrids, which often sell for more than new ones. Nonetheless, it will take several months of dropping sales to actually create a surplus of Prius hybrids.

(Source: CNNMoney)

GM to build hybrids in China by 2008

GM will join Toyota and build hybrid cars in China. While details of the report are sketchy, it appears GM will build the new hybrids with their new two-mode hybrid powertrain starting in 2008. Currently, the two-mode hybrid system is not offered in any GM vehicles and GM has not made clear which hybrid vehicles it will produce in China.

(Source: AFP)

Civic and Escape hybrid sales up big in October

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

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

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

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

(Source: Green Car Congress)

A city Prius and other derivatives coming soon?

In a few years there will probably be more than one type of Prius. While there are no known plans for these derivative Prii, the idea is brewing within Toyota according to Bloomberg News.

``To the extent they can leverage derivatives to help amortize investment costs for the hybrid system, they'd be crazy not to,'' said Eric Noble, president of consulting firm Car Lab in Orange, California. ``There is so much equity in the Prius name at this point, that would make sense, especially in the near term.''

A smaller ``city car'' based on the Prius would have even higher fuel efficiency and would fit with ``a trend toward people moving into inner-city lofts,'' Lentz said. ``People also want to see more utility on the vehicle, so you could imagine something that's a little more utility or crossover-based.''

In related news, Toyota is reporting that sales of the Prius are still strong and should be higher in 2006 compared to 2005.

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!

Prius sales down 8.6% in October

Sales of the Toyota Prius, by far the world's best selling hybrid vehicle, fell 8.6% in October to 8,733 vehicles. Still, considering gas prices have been dropping and tax credits for the Prius have been cut in half, I would call October a strong month for Prius sales.

(Source: CNNMoney)

Silverado hybrid wins SEMA Award

I had to laugh when I read the press release from SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association, regarding the award the Chevy Silverado Hybrid won at the 2006 show.

"The Chevrolet Silverado Classic Hybrid -- the first full-size production pickup to utilize hybrid technology -- is also the first hybrid to be recognized as the most accessory friendly vehicle at the 2006 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, capturing one of four SEMA Vehicle Design Awards and becoming the benchmark in SEMA's newest design award category." (more)

"First hybrid....", please.

Quite frankly, calling the Silverado a hybrid is offensive to those whom truly support hybrid technology. If the Saturn Vue hybrid is a "a maximally minimal venture in hybrid powertrain technology that would seem less about fuel economy and more about securing coveted hybrid badges on the doors," then the Silverado hybrid is a maximally inept hybrid vehicle.

Sorry GM fans. Until GM offers a full hybrid vehicle, GM is on my #8@* list regarding hybrids. Hopefully, GM will exceed my expectations when they announce plans for the i-Car plug-in hybrid.

For now, however, GM simply doesn't offer any hybrid vehicles in my eyes.

Some Toyota dealers struggling to keep up with Camry hybrid demand

Some Toyota dealers are having a hard time keeping up with demand for the Camry hybrid. Bill Penney Toyota in Huntsville, Alabama recently claimed the Camry hybrid is the most difficult vehicle for him to obtain, "I have sold five of them that I am now trying to obtain," he says.

(Source: Christian Science Monitor)

GM's I-car Campaign set to challenge Toyota on hybrid vehicles?

According to unofficial sources cited by the Detroit News, GM is ramping up to challenge Toyota's lead in hybrid vehicles. So, are they serious?

Last year, Toyota sold more than 235,000 hybrid vehicles. GM, on the other hand, has yet to sell one single full hybrid. Sure GM offers a few mild hybrids, but mild hybrids are not going to challenge Toyota's hybrid vehicle sales lead.

Still, GM might have a secret weapon, the I-car.

The I-car isn't just a hybrid vehicle, but a plug-in hybrid vehicle. If Toyota were to develop a cost-competitive plug-in hybrid vehicle before Toyota, I think it could be a game changer. While some hybrid critics have argued that plug-in hybrids are even more of a niche product than current hybrids, poll after poll has demonstrated that Americans are very intrigued by plug-in hybrid technology.

Still, it won't be easy. Toyota hasn't been particularly bullish regarding plug-in hybrids thus far because of costs and battery issues. So, does GM have a secret weapon? Is their past experience with electric vehicles going to finally pay off? Is GM demonstrating even more vision than Toyota regarding the potential of hybrids?

Simply building plug-ins won't be enough, however. If current hybrids are too expensive for most consumers, imagine adding $6000.00 to the price tag. Americans aren't going to buy. Sure, the technology will probably pay for itself over the life of the vehicle, but that isn't the way American consumers think.

Consequently, the success of the I-car program will come down to cost. Can GM convince the Feds to not only offer tax incentives for hybrid technology, but also extra incentives for plug-in technology? Obviously, the government is probably much more interested in adding new incentives that could help an American automaker, unlike the government's lack of interest in helping Toyota hybrid buyers.

Such incentives might make a plug-in hybrid cost-effective, especially an American-made plug-in hybrid. Many Americans want to do something about foreign oil dependency, but many Americans refuse to buy a hybrid from Toyota or Honda. Unlike Toyota and Honda, GM has real power to really rally this customer segment around not only supporting GM and American workers, but fighting foreign oil dependency, pollution and global warming.

Can GM play this hand correctly, or will they just fold amidst a temporary drop in gasoline prices?

Even better than GM going green, are the choices that would open up to American consumers interested in green options. A hybrid battle between GM and Toyota would force every automaker to get very serious about clean technologies, and this competition for green supremacy would make hybrid technology not only better, but cheaper.

Before the end of this year, GM is supposed to announce this new strategy. Let's hope GM isn't just serious, but ready to launch this program as soon as possible. This could change everything for GM, and for America.

Make me a believer, GM, make me a believer!

Hybrid Interest down 10% in Q3 according to Autobytel

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

(Source: Autobytel)

Leo DiCaprio The Rare: Prius driving, commercial flying celeb

Yes, Leo DiCaprio is a true green celeb according to TMZ.com. TMZ posted an article last week about celebs who claim they are green, but guzzle gas. TMZ points out that Julia Roberts, Jennifer Lopez, George Clooney and Brad Pitt all pretend to be green because they drive clean vehicles, such as hybrid cars like the Toyota Prius, but these same stars fly all over the world in private jets that consume more fuel in one trip than most Americans ever consume driving. On the other hand, Leo DiCaprio flies commercial unless impossible. Apparently Leo just isn't quite as cool as these other stars.

Do you want to be in a Toyota hybrid commercial

Are you so proud of your Toyota hybrid vehicle that you want to tell the world about it? If you own a Prius, Highlander hybrid or Camry hybrid then you can apply to be in one of Toyota's next hybrid commercials.

"We want to know who you are and what your reasons are for owning a hybrid vehicle. Participants will not only get the chance to be part of an important national campaign that supports a good cause but may also receive financial compensation for participation! You must own or have a Toyota hybrid vehicle in your immediate family to apply."

HOW TO APPLY:

Send an email to telluswhy@nvbb.net including:

Your name
Age
City/state of residence
A photo of yourself and anyone in your household who uses the car (ideally posed in front of your Toyota hybrid)
Your reason for purchasing a Toyota hybrid vehicle

Deadline:All applications must received no later than OCTOBER 30TH, 2006

For further questions please contact: epoteet@nvbb.net

Do gas price fluctuations threaten hybrid future?

"The problem for the whole hybrid vehicle sector is America's evident short-lived concern over higher fuel prices. Even though there is plenty of concern among energy analysts that fuel costs could head north again before the year is out, vehicle buyers only seem to take notice of the latest prices displayed at gas stations."

"The public's short term, blinkered view of gas prices is already taking a toll on hybrids. Their sales fell last month by 11 percent compared to August. In the same period total vehicle sales slipped by just 1.9 percent, while truck sales were up by 5.4 percent." (more)

It is no big surprise that the sales of hybrid cars are dropping. Still, I doubt very much that Toyota expected sales of the Prius to ever reach the levels that they did. Ultimately, I don't think that Toyota expected the surge in gas prices that America just witnessed.

Nonetheless, when Toyota did launch the Prius hybrid car, gas prices were not that high. Toyota's hybrid vehicle development was not driven by the current energy market, but the future energy market. As I wrote earlier today, in 2008 we could see the highest gas prices we've ever seen.

In the end, gas price fluctuations might threaten the future of American-made hybrid vehicles, but I doubt very seriously that it will threaten the future of Toyota hybrid vehicles. Unlike the short term view of the average American, American auto companies MUST take a long term view, and almost every indicator is signaling much higher gasoline prices in the future.

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

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

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

(EPA)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good work, ladies and gentlemen!

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

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

Bush believes hybrid cars one of the best paths to foreign oil independence

"I believe so strongly that this country has got to use its talent and its wealth to get us off oil," Bush said. "Probably the fastest way we can begin to change the consumer habits -- is to promote hybrid vehicles."

President Bush made that statement earlier today in response to falling gas prices.

"My worry is, however, that a low price of gasoline will ... make us complacent about our future when it comes to energy," Bush said at a government-sponsored renewable energy conference in St. Louis.

I couldn't agree more. Already one new study has demonstrated that consumer interest is dropping significantly as gas prices are dropping, while interest in gas-guzzlers is rebounding.

Bush, who has asked Congress to extend the tax credit for hybrids earlier this year, again brought up tax credits today. Unfortunately, Congress has not addressed this issue. Perhaps, hopefully, once the elections are over an extension will be enacted. Otherwise, with dropping gas prices and smaller tax credits for Toyota hybrids, interest in hybrid vehicles could drop significantly.

(Source: Reuters via Yahoo)

Toyota Camry hybrid video on SquawkBox

The Toyota Camry hybrid is now being produced in Georgetown, KY as of today. Consequently, this morning SquawkBox ran a feature about hybrid cars going mainstream focusing on the Camry hybrid. And what's not to like? 0-60 in less than 9 seconds with 187 hp while achieving a combined City/Highway 39 mpg. Not too bad for $26,000.

View the video.