Punditry: The top five Fiats that Chrysler needs now

Fiat's recent offer to link up with Chrysler could be silver lining within the Carpocalypse's clouds of doom.

Under the proposed deal, Chrysler gets its cash-starved mitts on Fiat's la bella machinas. And Fiat grabs a minority stake in Chrysler and dibs on Chrysler's distributors and dealerships.

We would get a heaping helping of la dolce automobili, but which cars would head stateside? Presuming all goes well, here's my list of the five Fiats that would save Chrysler's bacon.

Geneva Motor Show Preview: 2011 Fisker Karma

Mere weeks after stealing the spotlight at the Detroit Motor Show with the voluptuous Karma S convertible, Henrik Fisker and his eponymous carrosserie have announced pricing and specs for the Fisker Karma hybrid luxury sedan, due to hit the road in early 2011. 

2009 Nissan Cube Krom - Pics, Specs & Prices

Hoping to build on the same Gen-Y mojo that has made the Scion xB a sales smash, Nissan has priced the 2009 Cube to move.

BMW ships, prices first US-market diesels in 20 years

It's been a long while since BMW sold a diesel car in the US market.

Since 1988, when the 524d and 524td sedans left our shores in a cloud of their own soot, the Soviet Union fell apart and Germany reunified. We've had two Bushes and a Clinton in the White House and watched oil prices surge to dizzying heights.

Now, even as crude oil prices continue to fall in the dour economy, BMW has returned with a pair of oil-burners. Starting next year, the German automaker will offer the 335d, a diesel version of the 3-series sedan and the X5 xDrive35d, a diesel variant of the popular X5 SUV.

Both are powered by 3-liter, twin-turbocharged diesel inline-six rated at 265 horsepower and a tarmac-wrinkling 425 pound feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is the only option for both models. BMW has yet to develop a manual gearbox that can handle the immense torque output, so neither US or European customers will be able to row the gears themselves.

Like the new Mercedes-Benz diesels, the oil-burning BMWs will use a particulate filter and urea injection to eliminate soot and reduce emissions. The urea solution - called AdBlue - is carried in a 5.5 gallon tank on both the 335d and X5 diesel. BMW expects a tankful of AdBlue to last for about 15,000 miles.

As a part of the automaker's five-year / 40,000 mile complimentary maintenance program, BMW will refill each car's AdBlue tank at no extra cost at 10,000 miles.

At the pump, the 335d is rated at 23 mpg city and 36 mpg on the highway, with a range of about 560 miles. The X5 diesel carries a 22 gallon tank which translates to 585 miles with a 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway EPA rating.

The 335d will sell for $44,725 and the X5 xDrive35d will go for MSRP of $52,025, including destination and handling.

Both will be eligible for a federal tax credit. The IRS will kick back $900 for each 335d, while X5 xDrive35d customers will qualify for the maximum federal tax credit of $1,550.

[BMW]

Rare fungus munches cellulose, pees diesel, solves energy crisis?

I know what you're thinking. What the hell is a fungus-flocked petri dish doing being featured a car blog?

Gilocladium roseum is its name. Dr. Gary Strobel discovered it in the rainforests of Patagonia. What he's found could be the solution to our energy needs for the next century and beyond.

How? Because it removes a very energy-intensive and wasteful step in producing biofuels.

Let's use corn-based ethanol as an example. In order to turn corn into a usable fuel, the cellulose fibers and sugars have to be fermented to unlock the carbon molecules trapped within. Those carbon molecules then have to be synthesized into complex hydrocarbons. In order for this to happen on an industrial scale, both steps require a lot of heat and a lot of pressure.

And the microbes used in fermentation are very picky eaters. They'll happily gorge themselves on simple sugars like those in an ear of corn. But throw a corn stalk into the mix and they just turn up their little noses. At most ethanol distilleries, the stalks are simply tossed out.

So a lot of the plant gets wasted and what is used takes a lot of energy to process.

Gilocladium roseum can solve both of these problems. Strobel discovered that the fungus consumes wood and synthesizes it into the same kinds of hydrocarbons found in diesel fuel. Strobel has dubbed the secretions "myco-diesel."

"A step in the production process could be skipped," Strobel said in a press release.
That said, Strobel admits that industrial production is a long way off.

"This report presents no information on the cost-effectiveness or other details to make G. roseum an alternative fuel source," Strobel and his team wrote of their discovery. "Its ultimate value may reside in the genes/enzymes that control hydrocarbon production, and our paper is a necessary first step that may lead to development programs to make this a commercial venture."

The next step involves researching the fungus' genome. Work has already begun under the direction of Dr. Strobel's son Scott, who chairs the department of molecular biophysics and biochemistry at Yale University. Montana State University now holds a patent on G.roseum and the myco-diesel process.

With enough money and time, our future fill-ups might come not from the ground, but from the fungus among us.

Learn more:

Read Dr. Strobel's paper here. [PDF]

A podcast of Dr. Strobel talking about myco-diesel is available here.

[Photo Credit: Montana State University/ Gary Strobel]

MPG-o-rama! 2010 Prius leak confirmed; Toyota speaks on Scion iQ rumors

Fuel misers rejoice! We've got a double shot of Toyota MPG-centric news for you tonight.

Last night, while I was off waxing poetic about the British and their victory in the Nevada desert 11 years hence, the internet was boiling over with rumors that the 2010 Prius had done the full-monty strip show.

After weeks of execrable teaser shots, it's true. The design of the 2010 Toyota Prius has indeed been revealed in its entirety. It all started at PriusChat.com, where member bossdowner posted four pictures of the third generation Prius.

After a day of speculation, the truth was revealed when the lads at Jalopnik sat down with Toyota's PR reps. They confirmed the pictures were legit, but declined to comment further.

So we have no other information about the car at this time. Instead, we'll all have to wait until the car's official unveiling at the Detroit Motor Show in January.

Or until the next leak gushes forth.

Toyota engineer confirms iQ under review for sale in USA
In other news, one of Toyota's top engineers has confirmed the Japanese automaker is considering selling the new iQ subcompact in the United States.

Speaking with Automotive News, Hiroki Nakajima said that Toyota is investigating the idea and that he expects a launch date before the iQ is given a mid-model refresh. Sales of the iQ begin in Japan on November 20; the tiny Toyota is a 2+2 competitor to the 2-seat Smart forTwo subcompact.

While the JDM model is powered by a 1.0-liter SOHC 12-valve inline-3, Nakajima said there is plenty of room to install the 1.5-liter DOHC 16-valve four currently used in the Toyota Yaris compact hatchback.

The iQ's unique transmission - which sits below the engine rather than behind the engine - would carry over, as it is crucial to maximizing space within the iQ's 77-inch wheelbase.

And as we reported earlier this week, the iQ is quite thifty. While the EU testing regimen differs from ours, 65 mpg is quite a feat. Even if that figure drops by 15 percent due to added weight and a larger motor, the smart forTwo would have face stiff competition in a market it currently owns.

But first, a reality check. Tossing aside the rose-colored glasses for a moment, there are a few hurdles the iQ must clear before we see it stateside.

A number of changes must be made to the iQ unit-body structure. Speaking with Automotive News, Nakajima said the iQ's airbags would need to be redesigned and the bumpers would need to be strengthened to pass federal safety standards.

Another issue is price. The 118-inch long iQ might be dinky, but the price tag isn't. In Japan, the iQ retails for between $13,860 and $15,840 (¥1.4M - ¥1.6M). It's a safe bet to add another $1,000 to cover the cost of shipping and retooling the iQ to meet US safety standards.

And even though the rumor mill has the iQ pegged as a new Scion, it doesn't really change the marketing math. Assuming the iQ is priced near $16,000, the subcompact will fight it out with the Honda Fit Sport, Toyota's own Yaris sedan and Scions' own xD hatch.

At the bottom end of the market, profit margins are often very slim. And the entire industry is headed into a very turbulent economy. With sales of new cars tanking this year and 2009 expected to be just as bleak, the iQ might only steal sales from within the Toyota family.

But then again, I might be the one who's off base. After all, I was rattling on about supersonic rocket cars — humming Rule Brittania [MP3]— while all this came to pass.

[AN]

Does Scion's future lie in Toyota's new iQ?

In the years since Scion introduced the second generation xB, the once-booming Toyota division has watched sales go stagnant. While rising gas prices have helped sales of the xB and xD hatch, both models are less fuel-efficient than their predecessors. Consumers and reviewers alike have lamented the loss of the lighter and more nimble Scions of years past.

Late last week, MotorTrend reported that Toyota is considering sending their IQ subcompact to US shores as a new Scion model. According to sources inside the Japanese automaker, the rebadged iQ will debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The Toyota iQ was developed for the Japanese and European markets as a 2+2 competitor to the two-seater Smart for Two. At nine-feet, nine-inches long, five feet high and five-feet, five-inches wide, the front-wheel-drive IQ manages to squeeze in a diminutive rear seat that unfolds from the flat load floor.

While the rear seats aren't particularly spacious, the additional capacity make the iQ a more palatable prospect as an urban runabout for a single-car household.

The city car meme is reinforced by the iQ's exceptional fuel economy. When equipped with the 1.0-liter VVT-i SOHC inline-three and a five-speed manual, the iQ delivers a combined fuel economy of 65.7 mpg in the EU test cycle.

The iQ is also stuffed to the gills with safety features. In addition to usual alphabet soup of antilock brakes, side and front airbags and electronic traction control systems, the iQ offers the world's first rear passenger airbag. Since the rear seats occupy most of what would otherwise be the trunk, Toyota equipped the iQ with a rear curtain airbag which deploys in a rear-end collision if the rear seat is in use.

If the rumors are indeed true, the Scion-branded iQ would likely be offered with the 1.5-liter four offered in the Toyota Yaris, backed by either a five-speed manual or a version of the European market MultiDrive CVT automatic.

Ideally, the Scion iQ would be priced at about $16,000, putting it in direct competition with the Smart ForTwo passion coupe.

The logic behind selling the iQ stateside is that the city-friendly runabout would lend credibility to the brand's targeted urban demographic -- a concept that seems lost considering that the xB and xD are larger and heavier than their predecessors.

A 65 mpg commuter car with such quirky styling would go a long way toward granting the Scion brand a new, buzz-worthy model.

On a personal note, while I'm hesitant to give voice to the rumor mill, I would be pleasantly surprised if this one comes true. Speculation is inevitable in an industry where automakers rely on secrecy, but the rumor mill has also been used as a tool to lead competitors astray. Even though all the marketing logic adds up, take all of today's news with a grain of salt.

Naturally, as the Los Angeles Auto Show draws near, we'll be watching this one closely. Stay tuned.



[MotorTrend]

Ford introduces MyKey electronic watchdog for parents of teen drivers

When handing over the keys to the family car, parents of teen drivers have every right to be worried.

Not only are teen drivers statistically the most likely to crash, they are also more likely to speed and less likely to wear seatbelts than older drivers.

In an effort to help parents curtail risky driving and promote safe driving habits, Ford has designed the MyKey system, which will debut on the 2010 Ford Focus.

The MyKey system allows parents to program any key through the Focus' vehicle message center and turn on a range of safety-concious settings. These settings are stored in the car and activated when the specific key is inserted into the ignition.

The MyKey system can be programmed to include a persistent reminder to buckle up — not only will a reminder beep continue to nag the driver, the stereo is muted until the driver's seat belt is fastened. A message center display “Buckle Up to Unmute Radio” also appears on the instrument cluster.


To combat the dreaded lead-footed teenager, the MyKey system can also be programmed to limit the car's top speed to 80 mph.

Parents can also limit the volume of the car's stereo, permanently activate the traction control system and set a speed alert chime to sound at 45, 55 or 65 mph.

The speed alert system has an added benefit: improved fuel economy. According to studies conducted by Ford, driving at 55 mph instead of 65 mph consumes 15 percent less fuel.

By mastering other eco-driving habits such as avoiding jackrabbit starts and excessive idling, young drivers can help improve fuel economy by more than 30 percent, according to studies conducted by Ford.

Ultimately, the MyKey system is an innovative tool to promote safe driving, even if teens ultimately chafe at the system's electronic leash.

No doubt Ford is banking on the MyKey system to make the Ford Focus a popular choice for both parents and teens alike, the latter of which may be appeased by the optional SNYC multimedia system that is offered in the Focus and other Ford vehicles.

[Ford]

Resurgence in Flint: Volt, Cruze engines to be built in Michigan

General Motors CEO Rick Wagoner announced today that the automaker will build engines for the Chevrolet Volt and Chevrolet Cruze in Flint, Michigan at a entirely new plant. Construction of the new factory will commence immediately.

The plant will begin producing the company's new 1.4-liter dual overhead cam Inline-four in 2010. The $370 million investment will include a 552,000 square foot facility, machinery and tooling to build the new engines.

The plant will build two 1.4-liter inline-fours: a 140-horsepower turbocharged motor to be used in the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, and a naturally-aspirated version to be used with the 2010 Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle.

Both engines will feature variable valve timing for both the intake and exhaust cams. Both engines will also use a molded resin intake manifold to save weight.

Final horsepower figures have not been released for the naturally aspirated motor.

The new engines are part of a global engine family dating back to 1997, debuting as a 1.6-liter inline-four for the Opel & Vauxhall Corsa.

Speaking with Automotive News, Tom Stephens, GM Powertrain Group vice president, said production would start at 800 engines per day. Stevens didn't say how production would be split between the two motors.

Today's news comes as a watershed moment for Flint as well. In 1984, General Motors CEO Roger Smith closed the automaker's largest plant in Flint, a town that once was a symbol of GM's manufacturing might.

The plant closure eliminated 300,000 jobs and sent the town of Flint — which grew up around the plant — into severe decline, as later documented in the 1989 film "Roger and Me."

Speaking of the company's return to its roots in Flint, Wagoner said that "GM, the UAW and the city of Flint have had a long-standing relationship. We are confident that Flint is exactly the right place to build our all-new powertrain plant."

[AN, GM]

Auto News Wrapup: F-bombs, tax bills and buyouts

Cerberus in talks to buy out Daimler AG stake in Chrysler

A day after the company's bold assertion to enter the EV market in less than three years, Chrysler may soon be owned wholly by current majority shareholder Cerberus Capital Management.

This afternoon, officials from both companies confirmed the talks regarding the sale of the 19.9 percent stake Daimler currently holds in Chrysler LLC. A spokesman for Cerberus Capital Management also said that the current supplier agreements between Daimler and Chrysler would continue after a potential sale.

The private-equity firm Cerberus bought 80.1 percent of Chrysler from Daimler AG in August 2007 for $7.4 billion. Chrysler Holding encompasses Chrysler LLC, the automaker, and DaimlerChrysler Financial Services Americas LLC, known to the market as Chrysler Financial.

"It's still very early to tell why this is happening," Aaron Bragman, auto analyst at Global Insight, told Reuters. Bragman posited that the full purchase of Chrysler may be a prelude to selling the automaker whole to a third party.

House approves $25 billion in auto industry loans; Senate passes $7,500 tax credit for plug-in hybrids

As the mortgage bailout dog and pony show continues on Capitol Hill today, the House of Representatives voted 370 to 58 in favor of a $25 billion aid package for American automakers and suppliers. The bill sponsors the issuance of low-interest government-backed mortgages that would allow automakers to retool factories and expedite the production of more fuel-efficient vehicles.

The Senate is expected to vote on the budget bill by week's end; President Bush is likely to sign it. When signed, the new loan program will set a new precedent in government involvement within the auto industry, far exceeding the 1979 bill which provided loan guarantees to Chrysler Corporation.

Rep. John Dingell, D-Mich., chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, said in a statement:

"Some critics will call this loan package a bailout. It is not. These loans amount to a little more than 1 percent of the real bailout -- the one that the Bush administration wants for Wall Street at a cost of $700 billion to taxpayers.

"The loans to the automakers will cost about $7 billion and will be repaid to the taxpayer at a profit," Dingell said. "The auto direct-loan package is a good deal for auto workers and a good deal for taxpayers."

Rep. Jerry Lewis, R-Calif., ranking member on the House Appropriations Committee, complained that the bill was put together by a handful of Democratic leaders and the vote was taken before it was properly reviewed in session.

Chevy Volt to qualify for maximum plug-in hybrid tax credit

Meanwhile in the Senate, General Motors is one step closer to their wish of a $7500 tax credit to help jump-start sales of the Chevrolet Volt. In a wide-ranging and intricate tax bill, a small provision creating a new tax credit for buyers of plug-in electric vehicles was passed today.

The credit would start at $2,500 and rise to as much as $7,500 for a light-duty vehicle, depending on battery capacity. As currently written, the Chevrolet Volt qualifies for the maximum tax credit. The measure would begin to phase out tax credits for plug-in electrics after 250,000 units have sold — a marked contrast to the 2005 tax bill that began to phase out after only 60,000 units.

The complex tax bill ricocheted through the various subcommittees for months, but when the votes was taken, the bill passed by 93-to-2. The House must still act on the bill, but with the upcoming recess for the election, a vote is expected by week's end. The White House dropped objections to some provisions unrelated to the plug-in hybrid tax credit.

As of a few days ago, Toyota officials complained that the 2011 plug-in hybrid Prius would be excluded from the tax credit. It's unclear how far the Senate moved to meet Toyota's objections, but it appears the issue has been resolved.

Dropping "F" Bombs: Ford family heir sells 1M shares of company stock

And in our last news item of the night: Bill Ford, chairman of Ford Motor Company and grandson of founder Henry Ford, dumped one million shares of common stock on Sept. 19 — in part to pay off debt incurred by exercising stock options in 2004 and 2005.

Ford sold the shares at an average weighted sale price of $5.05 on Thursday and continues to hold more than 5.3 million shares of common stock in the automaker, according to a filing on Friday with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Ford bought over 1.4 million common shares in the company since March 2004 and another 1.5 million in March 2005 after exercising options granted over the years, according to SEC filings. Share prices fell in the immediate aftermath of Friday's sale before rebounding to close at $5.03 tonight.

[AN, Reuters]

Chrysler unveils 3 EV prototypes, will enter EV market by 2010

A few weeks after this blog set sail, I wrote at length about the difficulties Chrysler would face and the cause for concern that majority owner Cerberus Capital Management would simply dismantle the company and sell it off piecemeal.

While the storm clouds have yet to fully part, today's announcement is precisely the type of good news the market has waited months to hear.

After a brief preview on CNBC yesterday, Chrysler LLC unveiled a trio of electric vehicle prototypes this morning.

* The Dodge EV, an all-electric sports car developed with British automaker Lotus.
* The Chrysler EV, an extended-range electric vehicle based on the Chrysler Town & Country minivan.
* The Jeep EV, an extended-range electric vehicle based on the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.


Chrysler said it would bring one of the three prototypes to market in 2010 -- precisely when Chevrolet will start selling the Volt plug-in electric sedan.

The Dodge EV sports coupe — based off the Lotus Europa — takes direct aim at the Tesla roadster, relying on a 26 killowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack to power the car's electric drivetrain. Chrysler claims a driving range of 150 to 200 miles and a 0-60 time under 5 seconds.

The Chrysler EV and Jeep EV both use a drivetrain similar in concept to that of the Volt. Electric power drives the wheels at all speeds. When the on-board battery is depleted, a small gasoline engine drives a generator to simultaneously recharge the battery pack and power the vehicle's electric motor. An AC-to-DC converter is included to allow overnight charging via a 110 or 220-volt power outlet.

Chrysler chose the Town & Country minivan as the benchmark vehicle for developing a front-wheel-drive setup, while the Jeep Wrangler was used to explore use of an electric drivetrain in a body-on-frame SUV.

And lest the idea of an electric-powered trail-blazing SUV sound preposterous, think for a moment of the advantages. Instant torque at zero rpm from an engine that doesn't mind which way it's oriented. No noise for your spotter to shout instructions over.

And the fuel savings are substantial. Chrysler claims that with approximately eight gallons of gasoline, both EVs have a range of 400 miles, including 40 miles of zero fuel-consumption, zero-emissions, all-electric operation.

The end goal of Chrysler's EV program is to build a "plug-n-play" electric-gasoline drivetrain that can be offered across the entire Chrysler range.

To that end, Chrysler has launched a new web site to spread the word on the company's electric and extended range electric vehicle development programs. Seeing as how Chrysler is ostensibly betting the company's future on electric power, we'll be keeping a close eye on future developments.

[Sources: Chrysler LLC, CNBC, AN, AO, MT]

2011 Chevy Cruze: 45 mpg, but with a three year wait?

In the mass-market MPG race, Chevy's Cruze is the one to watch and wait for.

While the Chevrolet Volt has been stealing headlines (mine included) with its environmentalist cache and its electron-wily ways, the replacement for the Cobalt is shaping up to be the fuel miser for the masses.

Yesterday evening, the House of Representatives passed legislation that would qualify the Volt for a $7500 tax rebate. Toyota is not at all pleased with being left out in the cold; they've redoubled their lobbying efforts to get the bill amended before a vote in the Senate.

While the exact size of the rebate remains unknown, the current speculation pins the Volt's sales price at $35,000 or so, a large chunk of change for the average family. Hence why the 2011 Cruze — Chevrolet's successor to the maligned Cobalt — will go on to be GM's mass-market fuel sipper and the company's likely savior.

But not before a whirlwind tour in Europe.

When sales begin next March, the Cruze will be offered with three engine choices: a naturally aspirated 1.6 liter inline four good for 112-horsepower, a 140-horsepower, 1.8-liter turbocharged four or a 2.0-liter turbodiesel four producing 150 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque. Five speed manuals will come standard on all Cruze models. The Cruze will also be the first compact car to offer GM's new six-speed automatic transmission as an option.

While official EPA figures aren't available yet, the 1.6 liter four is projected to return about 45 miles per US gallon of gasoline. Judging by the contemporary Opel diesel lineup, the 2.0 liter diesel Cruze will likely get up to 50 mpg per US gallon.

These are impressive figures, considering that the current Cobalt eeks out 34 miles per gallon and only when tarted up in XFE trim with a miserly ECU tune and low-rolling resistance tires.

But despite the new car's technological bona-fides, the Cruze faces stiff competition simply overcoming the precedent set by the mediocre Cobalt sedan.

"Our goal in designing Cruze was to be bold, not evolutionary," said Taewan Kim, chief designer on the Cruze. "We wanted to take a big step forward, making a strong design statement for Chevrolet products around the world."

Kim clearly broke with the Cobalt and Cavalier mold, giving the Cruze an arching roof-line and steeply raked windshield that together seem more Teutonic than its bulbous predecessors. At the front, the Cruze employs one of the better uses of Chevrolet's global dual-panel grille layout — a trend your author still despises. Large headlamp housings frame the signature grille, wrapping around the front corners giving the Cruze an aggressive countenance that again seems more Germanic than Yankee.

Then why the long wait?
After decades of floundering in the compact car market, it seems like General Motors is finally beginning to understand how to use it's engineering muscle effectively. But the next step is to get the product planners on board. The Saturn Astra is the first US compact car to build on GM's strong European offerings; as gas prices rose, the Astra became a viable competitor. The Cruze seem set to solidify those gains.

Which begs the question why American buyers must wait until 2011. When viewed with the same cynicism as the Cruze's predecessors, the pre-sale braggadocio is merely a shot across the bow of Chevrolet's Japanese and Korean competitors, giving them nearly three years advance notice to counter the Cruze's strengths.

Mr. Wagoner, if you're reading this... stop talking and start selling.
After all, the purpose of building a competitive car is to sell it, rather than gaze at it longingly from afar.

[GM]

2011 Chevrolet Volt debuts on General Motors' centennial

A day after a tidal wave of insolvency inundated Wall Street creditors and set the Dow Jones tumbling, General Motors celebrated its centennial.

And in the midst of such turbulent economic tides, there was hardly a better way to celebrate than with the unveiling of the production ready 2010 Chevrolet Volt.

“It is a great way to open our second century,” said Rick Wagoner, GM Chairman and CEO. “The Volt is symbolic of GM’s strong commitment to the future … just the kind of technology innovation that our industry needs to respond to today’s and tomorrow’s energy and environmental challenges.”

Innovative design throughout
At first glance, it's clear that a healthy amount of time was spent honing the Volt's aerodynamics. On the whole, the production appears retains much of the concept's design essence while at the same time making concessions to aerodynamic and cost efficiency.

The Volt's rounded and flush front fascia, tapered corners and grille are the most readily apparent changes, all designed to minimize turbulence and the aerodynamic drag that results. Out back, the rear fender, spoiler and steeply raked rear window combine to form a faceted, sleek composition that allows air to flow off and away quickly.

Inside, the Volt offers a broad, airy cockpit for four, packed with leading-edge technology. Prominently placed in the center console is the Volt's standard touch-sensitive infotainment screen. The screen is used to display information about the battery's state of charge, climate control and audio systems.

Standard audio will include a six-speaker MP3 enabled CD player with AM/FM radio, as well as Bluetooth networking for hands-free phone integration and music streaming from a Bluetooth-enabled personal music player. Navigation will be offered as an option; the system will also include an on-board hard drive for storing both the navigation system's maps and music recorded from CDs.

In lieu of conventional analog gauges, the Volt uses a color LCD screen which the driver can reconfigure to his or her liking. More details on the instrumentation will come to light as release date nears.

All of this design and technological wizardry is an accessory to the key innovation of the Volt — its electric-gasoline drivetrain.

Under the hood, electrons abound... gasoline optional
Unlike a conventional gasoline-electric hybrid, the Volt's electric motor drives the car's wheels all the time at all speeds. For up to 40 miles on a full charge, the 16 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery provides all the vehicle's power, which means no gasoline used and no tailpipe emissions.

When the battery is depleted, a gasoline-powered engine turns an on-board generator, providing electricity to power the Volt's electric drive unit and simultaneously sustaining the charge of the battery.

Unlike previous electric vehicles, the Volt will never leave the driver stranded by a flat battery. Further enhancing the car's efficient drivetrain, the Volt can be plugged into either a standard household 120-volt or 240-volt for direct charging of the onboard battery off of mains power.

At 240 volts, the Volt will fully recharge in three hours; eight hours are required with a 120v outlet. Charge times are reduced if the battery has not been fully depleted. At a cost of about 80 cents per day (10 cents per kilowatt-hour) for a full charge that will deliver up to 40 miles of electric driving, GM estimates that the Volt will be less expensive to recharge than purchasing a cup of your favorite coffee.

Charging the Volt about once daily will consume less electric energy annually than the average home's refrigerator. For a driver that stays within the Volt's 40 mile electric-only range and recharges off of mains power, about 500 gallons of fuel will be saved. At an average price of $3.60 per gallon, that’s a yearly savings of $1,800. Commuters with a 60 mile round trip commute could save up to 550 gallons, or $1,980 per year.

In addition to offering substantial fuel savings, the Volt's electric drive unit offers spirited driving performance in a remarkably quiet interior. The Volt delivers the equivalent of 150 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of instant torque to the wheels. Top speed is electronically limited to 100 miles per hour. The lack of engine noise, combined with special sound-deadening materials make the Chevrolet Volt a particularly quiet vehicle to drive.

An American Revolution (we hope)
The last remaining step in the Volt's production process is to settle on a location for the plant.

Wagoner has expressed interest in keeping Volt production stateside and has begun lobbying Congress for tax incentives both on production and retail sales of the Volt.

Assuming all goes well, the Volt will begin rolling off the line at GM's Detroit-Hamtramck manufacturing facility in late 2010. Pricing has not yet been announced, but we will continue to follow the Volt as further details emerge.

[GM]

2010 Porsche Panamera teaser shot, hybrid model details released

Porsche's released the first official "teaser" shot of the Panamera sedan today, along with early details on a hybrid version.

The Panamera will likely go on sale immediately following its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2009.

In addition to the photo, the German automaker has posted videos online of disguised Panamera prototypes running on various test drives.

Porsche will conduct a direct-mail marketing campaign this fall, targeting current Porsche owners as prospective buyers for the Panamera.

Whether you love or loathe the idea of a Porsche sedan, here's what we know (or can safely assume) about the 2010 Panamera's specifications:

• The car is front engine, rear drive, measures nearly 5 meters long, about 2 meters wide and is estimated to weigh about 1700 kg.

• Three engines will be available at launch: a 300-horsepower 3.6-liter V-6, a 405-horsepower 4.8-liter V-8 and a twin-turbocharged 4.8-liter V-8 producing approximately 520 horsepower.

• According to Autobild, the base model is capable of 250 km/h; the 4.8 twin turbo Panamera should be able to manage 300 km/h. All Panamera models will offer the dopplekupplung seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox which recently debuted on the 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera model range.

• The Panamera will be the first Porsche to offer a hybrid drivetrain option, combing the base 3.6-liter V-6 with a 110-horsepower electric motor. Autobild reports that the Panamera will be able to move under electric power alone at low speed.

A second teaser shot is due to be released on October 20. We've included a 1280 x 796 version of the press photo as well as a cropped detail shot for your downloading pleasure. As more information becomes available, we'll bring it to you first at NMM.

[Image Credit: Porsche NA]
[MotorAuthority]

Video: Renault Ondelios Concept merges Gallic style, high tech for ultimate luxury

Crossover, trucklet, compact SUV.

All of these words might spring to mind at the first sight of Renault's latest concept. Yet the Gallic automaker sees the Ondelios as a vision of the future high-end luxury sedan, blending performance and luxury with respect for the environment.

We wrap up this week with a detailed examination of the Renault Ondelios — a machine that challenges traditional design concepts in the interest of advancing the art of the luxury automobile.

"Motion rather than speed"
"Ondelios is inspired by motion rather than speed and is a whole new response to the call of the open road," said Patrick Le Quément, design director for Renault.

Sitting on seven-spoke, 23-inch aluminum alloys, the wheels are at first glance the centerpiece of the Ondelios' design. Their propeller-like hubs draw airflow from the sides of the car to prevent turbulence and cool the brake rotors. Rolling on 255/40 R23 next-generation Michelin Pilot Sport tires, the tread pattern is designed to minimize deformation of the contact patch, reducing rolling resistance and offering responsive handling.

Unified design through advanced materials
In designing the Ondelios, spaciousness, efficiency and avant-garde style were top priorities. Le Quément chose to use broad gullwing doors to span the pillarless opening, allowing easy entry into all three rows of seats. At the push of a button, the second row of seats will automatically slide forward and fold down to facilitate access to the third row.

Outside, the fully glazed roof, broad windscreen and low window sill are all complimented by flush-fitting glass and anthracite blue bodywork, lending the car a windswept and unified look. The steeply raked windscreen, which extends well down the bonnet, further accentuates this ethereal feel.

"We think of it as made from a single material, where the body and glazed areas merge into one. Ondelios is a glimpse of what the automobile might be in the medium term future," said Le Quément.

At the front, the Ondelios' aluminum grille is flanked by highly efficient LED headlamps with sculpted polycarbonate covers featuring integrated lenses. Out back, boomerang-shaped LED tail lights are mounted flush with the bodywork and ringed with air extractors to control the flow of air from the wheel arches. The tailgate's upper section rounds off the car's sleek, aerodynamic lines with a glare shield that slides inwards to air and cool the cabin.

These advanced aerodynamic aids are key to the Ondelios concept's efficiency. Proving that not all hybrids need to be miniaturized, anodyne and awkward, the 5 meter long and 1.6 meter high Ondelios uses a fully enclosed undercarriage to deliver a drag coefficient of 0.26, rivaling the Toyota Prius for wind-cheating efficiency.

To compliment the extensive aerodynamic tuning, the Ondelios is also designed to be highly recyclable. Non-structural body parts are made from a natural flax fiber composite for greater recyclability. Since weight is also a detriment to fuel efficiency, the car's monocoque is made from carbon fiber and the glazed roof from polycarbonate.

Next generation diesel hybrid power
Under the hood, the Renault Ondelios features a diesel-electric drivetrain; a 205-horsepower 2.0 liter turbodiesel four and two 20kW electric motors positioned at the front and rear axles, respectively.

The Ondelios will run on electric power alone using the front electric motor at speeds up to 45 mph. The torque-rich diesel four and the rear electric motor add power during acceleration; regenerative braking is used to charge the on-board battery pack.

When traction is poor, the rear electric motor will activate, providing all-wheel-drive stability without relying on a heavy and drag-laden mechanical driveshaft. Thus, the Ondelios provides all-wheel-drive traction when it is beneficial and front-wheel drive efficiency when it isn't needed.

The Ondelios can hustle from 0 to 60 mph in 7 seconds, while using 4.5 liters of diesel every 100 kilometers. CO2 emissions are also remarkably low; a mere 120 grams per kilometer. An impressive feat for such a large sedan.



The bottom line: Renault has taken the concept of spaciousness and environmentalism and applied cutting- edge design and materials to create a genre-defying expression of a 21st century luxury automobile.

Like most of Renault's show cars, the design is fanciful with heaps of show car tinsel, but the fundamental technology is already here. The future of the automobile is a lot closer than you'd expect; this is Renault's vision.
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[Video: Renault via R2R]
[Pictures: Renault via ABG]

Fisker Automotive secures $65 million from US, Qatar investors

Fisker Automotive of Los Angeles, Calif. announced its latest investment deal today, through which the startup automaker will receive $65 million in new capital.

The deal was lead by an affiliate of Qatar Investment Authority, along with representatives from Palo Alto Investors and Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers.

"We are extremely pleased to have closed our financing round at this time, particularly in light of the current market conditions," CEO Henrik Fisker said in a statement. "This shows that Fisker Automotive has a solid business plan and a globally experienced automotive team with very strong investors behind the company."

The proceeds from today's deal will go toward continued development of the Fisker Karma.

In addition to being the company's first automobile to be based on a custom built chassis, the Fisker Karma will be the company's first hybrid vehicle. Featuring plug-in hybrid technology the electric powertrain will allow drivers to drive emission-free for 50 miles a day, provided that the car is recharged every night.

In 2003, former Aston Martin design chief Henrik Fisker founded Fisker Coachbuild LLC.

Fisker launched the firm with the Tramonto and Latigo sports cars, both custom designs penned by Fisker and based off the BMW 6-series coupe and Mercedes-Benz SL-series convertible.

Shortly after the Fisker Karma concept (pictured at right) was unveiled in 2007, Fisker Automotive was founded by Fisker Coachbuild LLC and engineering partner Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies, which will design and build the Karma's hybrid drivetrain.

Fisker Automotive has received more than 500 orders since the Karma's unveiling, delivery of the first customer vehicles are expected to start by the end of 2009.

[AN]

2010 Honda Insight Concept debuts ahead of Paris Motor Show

After watching Toyota release a panoply of hybrids to complement the Prius, Honda is going on the offensive.

In 1999, Honda made headlines with the Insight, the first gasoline-electric hybrid auto offered for sale in the US market. The first vehicle to break the 70-mpg fuel economy barrier, the Insight was designed from the ground up for fuel economy in a diminutive two-seat hatchback.

Ten years on, Honda has revived the nameplate for a new 5-door hybrid hatchback designed compete on price with the Toyota Prius. While the final price has yet to be set, word on the street is that the Insight will sticker for well under $20,000.

Official photos of next-generation Insight concept were released today; the production version of the new Insight will debut on October 2 at the Paris Motor Show.

"The original Honda Insight pioneered hybrid technology in the U.S. and remains a symbol of Honda's commitment to innovative technology and fuel efficiency," said Takeo Fukui, CEO of Honda Motor Company. "This new Insight will break new ground as an affordable hybrid within the reach of customers who want great fuel economy and great value."

In addition to expanding their hybrid product range, the new Insight will become Honda's first global hybrid offering. The Japanese automaker is planning to sell 200,000 Insights per year, with half of those sales coming from the US market. Stateside sales will start next next spring, with the Insight selling as 2010 model.

[Honda]

10 years and 1 million Smarts later, a celebration

What began in the early 1970s as a Daimler-Benz concept car for the urban future cemented its legacy as one the first automotive icons of the 21st century today.

Celebrating ten years of production and one million models built, a silver-on-black forTwo passion coupe rolled off the production line to a suitably sized celebration at the the factory in Hambach, France.

In an era defined by high gas prices and urban congestion, the car's distinctive styling and innovative packaging have proven their merit. Sales in the United States outstrip supply and the forTwo will make its debut in the Chinese market next year.