Two people familiar with the situation told Reuters today that electric-vehicle automaker Tesla Motors is planning to go public soon. The sources said that Tesla is outlining plans to offer an IPO and cash in on investors who are interested in the future of electric-vehicles.

A source said that an IPO filing from Tesla is expected any day; however, the source would not give a specific time frame.

Tesla spokesman Ricardo Reyes declined to comment on the report and called it “rumor or speculation.”

Tesla’s investors include Google founders Sergey Brin and Larry Page.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Reuters

Pricing for the 2010 Nissan Cube will start at $13,990 for the base Cube 1.8 model, unchanged from the price-tag in 2009. For 2010, the Cube S and SL models get Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, leather-wrapped steering wheel and steering wheel audio controls as standard options. The S models also get iPod connectivity, MP3 CD-ROM playback capacity, Radio Data System, speed-sensitive volume control and two additional speakers (for a total of six) as standard. A new exterior color, Sapphire Black, is also being offered.

The 2010 Cube 1.8 S Krom Edition gets a new 4.3-inch color audio display with USB connectivity and a RearView Monitor as standard equipment. Both are optional on the SL Preferred Package.

2010 Nissan Cube Pricing (MSRP):

cube 1.8 Base 1.8L I4 M/T: $13,990
cube 1.8 S 1.8L I4 M/T: $15,030
cube 1.8 S 1.8L I4 CV: $16,030
cube 1.8 SL 1.8L I4 CVT: $17,130
cube 1.8 S Krom Edition 1.8L I4 CVT: $20,120

Check out our review of the 2009 Nissan Cube here.

Click through for the press release.

2009 Nissan Cube:

Press Release:

Nissan Announces U.S. Pricing on 2010 cube®

Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced pricing for the 2010 Nissan cube®, which is on sale now at Nissan dealers nationwide. The 2010 Nissan cube is available in three well-equipped models: cube 1.8, cube 1.8 S and cube 1.8 SL and in a special cube 1.8 S Krom Edition. The starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price* (MSRP) for the cube 1.8 Base model of $13,990 USD is unchanged from 2009. Earlier today, the 2010 Nissan cube was named a “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Every cube includes many standard safety features, including six standard air bags.

The front-wheel drive cube is offered with a standard 122-horsepower 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine and a choice of Nissan’s advanced, smooth shifting Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission) or 6-speed manual transmission.

For 2010, the Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, leather-wrapped steering wheel and steering wheel audio controls are now standard for cube S and SL models. New standard equipment for cube S models includes the Interface System for iPod®, MP3 CD-ROM playback capacity, Radio Data System (RDS), speed-sensitive volume control (SSV) and two additional speakers (six total). One new exterior color is available, Sapphire Black.

The cube 1.8 S Krom Edition adds a new 4.3-inch color audio display with USB connectivity and RearView Monitor, along with Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition as standard equipment. In addition, the 4.3-inch color audio display with USB connectivity and RearView Monitor is added to the optional SL Preferred Package.

About the 2010 Nissan cube
The cleverly designed Nissan cube®, with its asymmetrical rear window, refrigerator-style rear door and wide range of personal accessories, enters its second year of production in 2010 with its unique style firmly intact. The cube’s roomy interior is designed as an inviting social space for up to five passengers, with comfortable front seating and a three-position sliding, reclining theater-style rear seat. Unique interior features include asymmetrical Fine Vision gauges, “Water Drop” interior accents and detachable multi-hooks.

Available cube technology includes the Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, Rockford Fosgate subwoofer with six upgraded speakers, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and Interface System for iPod®. The cube also meets the practical needs of today’s active, environmentally aware drivers, providing a small footprint with a large interior space – along with fuel efficiency of 31 mpg Highway with the CVT transmission.

The specialty vehicle cube 1.8 S Kr?m Edition includes exclusive upper and lower front grilles, fully integrated front and rear bumper fascias and body side sills, rear roof spoiler and 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, along with a custom interior with exclusive black and gray seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum-trimmed pedals, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, upgraded audio system with 4.3-inch color display, Rockford Fosgate subwoofer and RearView Monitor. More than 40 individual accessories are offered – ranging from a unique 20-color interior accent lighting kit and “shag dash topper” inserts to aerodynamic body kits and custom wheels – allowing cube owners to personalize their vehicles to reflect their own tastes and needs.

In North America, Nissan’s operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010, whose key priorities are reducing CO2 emissions, cutting other emissions and increasing recycling. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.NissanUSA.com and www.InfinitiUSA.com.

- By: Kap Shah

Speaking to the folks over at TheDetroitBureau.com, the General Manager of Lexus, Mark Templin, said that the luxury brand is giving some serious thought to launching a new compact luxury model in the United States.

“There is a group of buyers growing up now who won’t buy cars by the pound,” said Templin. “We have already seen a structural shift” to the compact and more affordable models in the luxury market over the past couple of years.

He said that Lexus’ compact model, which will be based on the Lexus LF-Ch Concept that debuted in Frankfurt, “won’t necessarily be targeting the budget-constrained” luxury shopper.

“We’re not going to build a smaller vehicle with all that technology (found in the likes of a top-line LS sedan) and knock the price down,” the executive stressed. “Just because it’s small doesn’t mean cheap.”

So what will it take for Lexus to put the LF-Ch Concept into production? The concept will now make rounds at North American auto shows including the 2009 LA Auto Show next month and the 2010 Detroit Auto Show in January. Lexus said that it will measure the reaction to the hatchback and if it is positive, Templin said a production edition “potentially” will appear in Lexus dealerships by 2012 or earlier.

Lexus LF-Ch Concept:

- By: Kap Shah

Source: TheDetroitBureau

Earlier this week, engineers and other members of the Chevrolet Volt team provided the media with an update on the development of the new plug-in hybrid vehicle.

There is less than one year to go before GM starts making the production Chevrolet Volt, according to Vehicle Chief Engineer Andrew Farah. The plug-in hybrid is scheduled to go on sale in Nov. 2010.

Click through to see highlights from the presentation.

Here are some highlights from Farah’s presentation:

• GM has teamed with LG Chem to produce a great battery cell for the vehicle. It puts the team in a position to meet customer expectations and to use this technology to make vehicles beyond the Volt.
• Inside the Volt’s battery are cells, which are grouped together into modules that are grouped together into battery packs – or, the T-shaped objects that actually go into the vehicle.
• The Volt is meeting energy power requirements and is now balancing issues such as safety, regulations and customer satisfaction with other issues such as performance, durability, packaging and vehicle design.
• The team has completed the pre-production build process and is in the process of testing the vehicles. Some are being tested around the clock 24/7.
• The team has built all 300 packs for the Volt and the results have been excellent.
• There have been more than 250,000 miles of testing on the pre-production and mule vehicles. Some of the highlights of this testing include hot weather testing in Death Valley, mountain testing at Pikes Peak and a 65% calibration drive.
• Everything is not perfect on these drives, but there are not any problems that will not be handled before production. This is not unlike any other challenges that come with developing a new type of vehicle such as the Volt.

Engineering Group Manager Bill Wallace:

• There are 50,000 cells available for testing and to date, none of the cells have failed in the tests.
• Pack development is lining up with overall vehicle development and both tracks will meet with the start of production in November 2010.
• Battery cells go through 150 tests, including cell crushing, cell overcharging and cell life cycling.
• There are three major battery modules (groups of cells) inside the pack and they are tested to measure pressure, stress and high dynamic impact, among other things.
• The battery pack itself undergoes more than 20 different types of tests, including corrosion, crash and life cycle use.
• The team learned that the battery is well protected inside the vehicle and the cell abuse tests have shown the cells to perform as expected.
• Since the vehicle is so quiet, noise is an issue and the team is working on ways to reduce ambient noise when the vehicle is in motion.

2011 Chevrolet Volt:

- By: Kap Shah

Source: GM FastLane Blog

At the 2009 LA Auto Show early next month, the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG will make its U.S. debut alongside the fuel-sipping ML450 HYBRID SUV, the first hybrid SUV from Mercedes-Benz.

We’re hoping Mercedes-Benz will offer some pricing details on the US-spec Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Earlier this week, it was announced that 563-hp SLS AMG will carry a price tag of 177,310 euros ($265,513 USD) in Europe.

The Mercedes-Benz ML450 HYBRID will make its U.S. debut with a 3.5L V6 engine mated to two-electric motors producing a total of 335-hp and a peak torque of 381 lb-ft. Mercedes-Benz says that fuel-economy is improved by 46 percent. The ML450 HYBRID SUV can also drive solely on electric power up to a maximum speed of 34 mph.

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG:

- By: Omar Rana

Press Release:

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, ML450 HYBRID and Fuel Cell to Debut at L.A. Auto Show

All-New SLS AMG Supercar, Fuel-Cell-Powered F-Cell, and New Hybrids Share the Spotlight

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 18 — The 563-horsepower Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG supercar, the fuel-sipping E350 BlueTEC and the fuel-cell-powered F-Cell will be making their North American debuts at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show, open to the public December 4-13 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Mercedes-Benz will also launch its first hybrid SUV — the ML450 HYBRID — as well as the impressive SPLITVIEW dual-content viewing technology.

All-New SLS AMG Supercar

The first-ever car designed and developed from the ground up by Mercedes-AMG, the new SLS AMG supercar features a lightweight aluminum space-frame body with gullwing doors and a 563-horsepower dry-sump V8 engine. With its front-mid engine and dual-clutch seven-speed, the compelling SLS AMG boasts ideal weight distribution and race-car-like handling.

F-Cell for Fuel Cell Electric Power

Essentially an electric car that makes its own power on board, the new Mercedes-Benz F-Cell will make its North American debut at the L.A. Show. The F-Cell car has a range of about 240 miles and, running on compressed hydrogen, boasts an equivalent fuel mileage of 86.6 city-highway combined miles per gallon. In 2010, 200 production F-Cell cars will be delivered to customers in the U.S. and Europe as part of a special lease program.

BlueTEC – The World’s Cleanest Diesels

Sharing center stage with the F-Cell and the SLS AMG, the fuel-sipping E350 BlueTEC is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 diesel with 210 horsepower, an impressive 400 lb.-ft. of torque and approximately 30 percent better fuel economy than a comparable gasoline engine. Now with revolutionary AdBlue injection that makes diesel exhaust super-clean, the E350 BlueTEC will be available in all 50 states in Spring 2010.

S-Class Debuts SPLITVIEW Technology

Also at the L.A. Show is an S-Class equipped with SPLITVIEW — a single display screen that allows the driver and front passenger to view two different programs at the same time. For example, the driver can view the navigation system, while on the very same display screen, the front passenger can watch a movie.

ML450 HYBRID Boasts 46 Percent Better Fuel Economy

Making its West Coast debut at the L.A. Auto Show, the Mercedes-Benz ML450 HYBRID uses a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine, two electric motors and sophisticated electronics to produce more than 46 percent better fuel economy than a comparable V8-powered ML550 model. Integrated within the modified automatic transmission, each magneto-electric motor is dedicated to a specific purpose — one for pulling away under electric power, the other specifically for acceleration. With both electric motors, the ML450 HYBRID has a total system performance of 335 horsepower and 381 pound-feet of torque.

During parking and low-speed operation, the ML450 HYBRID runs on the electric drive only. The ML450 HYBRID can drive solely on electric power up to a maximum speed of 34 mph.

The electric motors are powered by a liquid-cooled, 288-volt nickel-metal-hydride battery that’s enclosed under the rear cargo floor.

- By: Omar Rana

Daimler AG announced today that it has kicked off production of its new Smart ForTwo electric-drive EVs at the company’s plant in Hambach, France. The first 1,000 units produced will go to customers participating in various pilot programs across Europe and the United States.

The Smart ForTwo electric-drive will be available to the general public by 2012.

Power for the Smart ForTwo electric-drive comes from a 40-hp electric-motor (fitted at the rear) with a peak torque of 89 lb-ft. 0-37 mph comes in 6.5 seconds with a top speed of 62 mph (hold onto your butts). When fully charged, the electric Smart can offer an expected driving range of 75 miles. A quick charge will allow you to travel a total of 25 miles.

The electric-motor gets its power from a lithium-ion battery that is provided by Tesla Motors.

Click through for the press release.

Smart ForTwo electric-drive:

Press Release:

Production of the smart fortwo electric drive Begins in Hambach

- Production of 1,000 units begins
- First European electric vehicle fully operational in everyday use
- Available to the general public as of 2012

Hambach, France / Stuttgart, Germany – This week, Daimler AG started production of the smart fortwo electric drive at the smart plant in Hambach, France. In a first step, 1,000 vehicles will be provided to customers participating in various mobility projects in major cities in Europe and the U.S., in order to generate broad feedback on electric driving under everyday conditions.

Marc Langenbrinck, Managing Director of the smart brand: “With the start of the series production of the smart fortwo electric drive, the Hambach plant enters a new era – at the same time, the smart fortwo emphazises its pioneering role on the way to individual mobility with local zero-emissions in cities and urban areas. Its innovative battery-electric drive makes the smart fortwo electric drive the ideal vehicle for the city: it combines responsibility to the environment with driving fun and joie de vivre in a virtually perfect manner.”

The second-generation smart fortwo electric drive started now is equipped with the most modern lithium-ion-battery. As of 2012, the smart fortwo electric drive will be produced as a regular part of the smart product portfolio and will regularly be sold through the smart sales network.

First Milestones in 2007 and 2008

The smart brand has taken a pioneering role in electric mobility since 2007. Back then, 100 smart fortwo electric drives of the first generation went into practical customer operation under everyday conditions of city traffic in London. Feedback from this project has been very positive right from the start and confirmed the high degree of maturity of this vehicle concept.

Just one year later, the company introduced the second generation – which is now being produced – with an even more advanced electric drive and an innovative, highly efficient lithium-ion battery. Lithium-ion technology has decisive advantages over other types of batteries including higher performance, shorter charging times, a long life and high reliability. In addition, a smart fortwo electric drive can be charged at a regular household power outlet.

A story of success: The smart Plant in Hambach

The smart plant in Hambach was inaugurated in 1997. Since 1998, it has produced the smart fortwo, since 2007 in its current generation. In 2008, more than 800 employees of the plant and some further 800 people employed by seven system partners produced about 140,000 units of the smart fortwo. In September 2008, the brand celebrated its tenth anniversary along with the 1-millionth smart fortwo produced at the Hambach plant.

The Hambach plant has represented an innovative production concept since its beginning: The assembly line in the shape of a plus sign has been designed to optimally meet the demands of assembly and logistics and ensures highly efficient production processes. This principle enables the system partners to supply modules directly to the assembly line, which reduces transport and logistics efforts to a minimum and hereby also provides an advantage regarding ecological aspects. In addition, the environmentally friendly and cost effective paint shop, an energy concept with numerous savings opportunities and the construction principle of the vehicles ensure that the ecological product responsibility of the smart brand is translated into the production.

- By: Kap Shah

When most of us play video games, we never really think about how much work goes into producing one that is as close to reality as possible. Take car racing games for example – capturing sounds of tire screeches and engine noise seems like a tedious task since its difficult to isolate one from the other.

Thanks to the Tesla Roadster electric-vehicle, that problem has been solved. Microsoft recently borrowed the very silent Tesla Roadster to capture sounds including tire squeal and other audio components of driving without mixing any engine noise in the process.

- By: Kap Shah

Source: CrunchGear

We’ve heard about Rolls-Royce working on an electric version of the Phantom many times before. According to AutoCar, Rolls-Royce could have an electric Phantom on the roads within 12 months. That would be just in time for the car to make its debut at the 2012 London Olympics, which are being sponsored by parent company BMW.

Boss Tom Purvis has previously said that he wishes to produce an electric version of the Rolls-Royce Phantom to cushion the company from a possible future ban on big-engined sedans in urban areas and avoid tough CO2 regulations.

Insiders have said that the excess weight of a lithium-ion battery is the least of Rolls-Royce’s concerns since the Phantom already weighs close to three tons with its V12 engine.

Rolls-Royce is also reported to be working on an hybrid version of the new Ghost sedan, which should improve fuel-economy by 15 percent.

2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost:

- By: Kap Shah

Source: AutoCar

The Obama administration is drawing a bright line between their preference for electric vehicles and their responsibility to manage the tax payers stakes in GM and Chrysler, according to Reuters. “We obviously would be very happy if Chrysler and GM were making lots and lots of high mileage cars. It’s not a prerequisite. It’s not an obligation,” Ron Bloom, head of Obama’s autos task force told Reuters on Tuesday.

Both companies however, do intend to release more fuel efficient vehicles and lines of smaller cars. The Chevy Volt, due out by GM next year is the company’s spear head in this fuel-efficiency movement, while Chrysler sidelined its plan for a similar vehicle seeing as how such a car would be inconsistent with their five-year business plan released earlier this month.

Both automakers have applied for billions of dollars in Energy Dept. loans for assistance in equipping their factories for output of more fuel-efficient vehicles. Bloom has said however that the Energy Dept. will retain complete autonomy in the decision process regarding who receives loans and who doesn’t.

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Reuters

The 2011 Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid is scheduled to make its market launch in Nov. of 2010. It’s no wonder that engineers working on the Volt are putting in hours even on their days off.

“They’re testing, measuring and evaluating what is arguably the most important vehicle in General Motors Co.’s history,” reports the Detroit News. “They take their work home with them, literally, commuting in the vehicles, strapping baby seats in the back or picking up groceries.”

“We’ve been through three levels of hardware in two years,” said Alex Cattelan, the Chevy Volt’s chief powertrain engineer. “The groups working on the second generation and third generation versions are still providing more information to us.”

Cattelan says that he has no doubt that the Volt will be ready for its scheduled launch in late 2010. At the 2009 LA Auto Show next month, GM will announce plans for initial retail markets where the plug-in hybrid vehicle will be sold.

2011 Chevrolet Volt:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Detroit News

A new study called Electrification Roadmap predicts that there will be at least 14 million electric-vehicles on U.S. roads by 2020 and that EVs could account for 75 percent of all light-duty miles driven by 2040. The new study is backed by Nissan, FedEx, Coda Automotive and Coulomb Technologies.

“Up to now, electrification seemed like a pipe dream,” said Fred Smith, chairman and CEO of FedEx and a member of the Electrification Coalition. “But we are offering a realistic, practical, achievable plan to build a transportation system that will enhance our national security, propel economic growth and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.”

The results from Electrification Roadmap are expected to capture the attention of the government, automakers and many companies that participate in developing electric cars.

The Nissan LEAF and the Chevrolet Volt are both scheduled to release in 2010. Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn recently predicted that electric-vehicle sales will reach around 1 million in the U.S. by 2015.

2010 Nissan Leaf EV:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Reuters

As some of you may remember, at the Dodgers Stadium here in Los Angeles last April I test drove a Nissan Cube fitted with what was to eventually be the powertrain of the new 2011 Nissan Leaf. What seemed to be an exercise in futurism, now looking back, was more close to reality that we, in the media, could have expected.

Flash forward to now. Back to the Dodger Stadium, and actually back to the same exact parking lot in the Dodger Stadium, things have changed. I was once again behind the wheel of a Leaf mock-up, but this time, it was 100% accurate to production in terms of powertrain chassis, just fitted with a Versa-based body. Much like the last time, the VersaLeaf (Yes, I just made that up) had a smooth rush of torque off the line, and nice acceleration up to the around-town types of speeds I was able to achieve through the autocross inspired closed course. The expectedly linear rush, of course, was accompanied by only the lear-jet-taxi’ing electric motor hum emanating from the powertrian. The big surprise this time was the nice handling. The steering was nicely weighted and the suspensioned reacted quite well to dynamic transitions. One key factor is that the formidably heavy batteries are packaged under the floorpan and thus, the car’s center of gravity was quite low. A 0-60 time of ‘under 10s’ was thrown around, and I believe it’s probably a conservative number. People looking to drive this car in day-to-day activities will not have any problems with the performance of this car. I also wouldn’t be surprised to see some Leafs pop up in SCCA autocross once the car hits the mainstream.

First Drive: Nissan Leaf EV… sort of:

Back to the event itself: no longer is this a small casual event, it is a full-blown media event. No surprise, as Nissan President & CEO Carlos Ghosn was there himself to talk about the Leaf. Along with him was a panel panel including moderator Tyler Suiters, Chief Correspondent for Clean Skies News, David Crane, President & CEO of NRG Energy, Patricia Monahan, Deputy Director, Clean Vehicles Program, Director of the California Office, Union of Concerned Scientists and Mary Nichols, Chairman of California Air Resources Board. There was a lot of frank discussion back and forth, but let’s start with what you’re likely to be interested in: automotive product.

While we didn’t get to drive the actual production LEAF we did get a chance to take a spin in a Nissan Versa that carries the same powertrain. Power comes from a 107-hp electric-motor that runs on power supplied by lithium ion cells. On a full-charge, the Nissan LEAF allows for a driving range of 100 miles with a top speed of 87 mph. A full charge takes up to 8 hours on a standard 200V outlet. Buyers can opt for the DC 50kW quick-charger, which recharges the battery up to 80 percent in under 30 minutes. One tasty tidbit of information that Carlos threw out there was an upcoming Infiniti 4-passenger compact luxury car that would also utilize the same or similar powertrain along with a light commercial vehicle (we imagine badged as a Renault) and two other yet unnamed vehicles. The Leaf will be built in Nissan’s Smyrna, Tennessee plant along with its batteries. The interesting thing about how the vehicle will be sold is that the car will be available for purchase, but the batteries will be leased to the consumer. This does 2 things: 1) makes price of the Leaf more competitive with gas-engined equivalent cars and 2) structures the variable cost portion (battery lease + electricity) to be competitive with fuel costs at a projected 12,000-15,000 miles a year. As gas will only be getting more expensive, while battery technology would make batteries cheaper, this disparity will only increase. Carlos added that this leasing scheme would also future-proof the consumer from new battery technologies as they can simply trade-up to new batteries rather than being stuck with outdated technology. When asked about third party battery providers, Carlos mentioned that since Nissan would be producing its own batteries, it would not have to work to convince a 3rd provider that there is a market for the batteries in order to get them to commit to building capacity. This speeds up the process, however Nissan is open to 3rd party providers as long as those batteries meet the requirements needed.

The key to making the vehicle successful, according to Carlos, is being able to build the car in mass-scale. Per unit, he said, electric cars are not by nature more expensive and actually have much less components and thus less complication. However, they are dwarfed by the scale of internal combustion cars and thus cannot, at the current sales levels, compete on price. Economies of scale are paramount and thus the impetus for getting some initial critical mass for the Leaf. He envisions volumes of 500,000 cars a year worldwide once all markets are on-line. He quoted a volume level of over 10% of worldwide sales moving forward. Being that Nissan-Renault sold around 6 million some odd vehicles last year, this doesn’t seem too unreasonable and actually might be conservative.

Infrastructure is also a key need that needs to be satisfied, though David Crane was quick to point out that this should not be a chicken/egg issue where one is waiting on the other. The infrastructure and cars able to utilize that infrastructure must build together, not sequentially. To that, Patricia Monahan added that government can help build this critical mass through its use of tax incentives, etc.

From an environmental standpoint, an acceleration in volume of non-oil powered cars would be required to hit required greenhouse gas reduction targets. Especially as tailpipe emissions are still 25% worse than even coal produced electricity. What’s different now than the so-called ‘false start’ we had in the early 90’s (they didn’t mention them by name, but they were of course referring to the EV1, RAV4 EV, etc.), is that the private sector (including automakers themselves) is on-board, not just being ‘forced’ into it by regulation. Furthermore, and probably more importantly, there is now public support for electric cars. It is now, as they said, just forward thinkers such as academics, scientists, etc. as was the case a decade or two ago.

First Drive: Nissan Leaf EV… sort of:

- By: Kap Shah

All Photos Copyright © 2009 Jack Rosenfeld – egmCarTech.

Aptera announced today that its Aptera 2e electric-car has been pushed back to 2010.

“We’re making significant progress every day with product refinements, the completion of engineering and design details, and securing meaningful strategic partnerships,” said Paul Wilbur president and CEO. “However, we now have to adjust our production schedule to align with financing realities. Properly managing the resources of the company means we’ll complete our first vehicles in 2010, not by the end of 2009 as previously projected.”

Aptera said that it has received nearly 4,000 deposits for the 2e which are fully refundable and remain in an escrow account, if you’re one of the many that are not willing to wait until 2010.

Click through for the press release.

Press Release:

FIRST ALL-ELECTRIC APTERA 2e PUSHED BACK TO 2010

Co-founders Fambro and Anthony step aside from day-to-day operations

VISTA, Calif. (Nov. 18, 2009) — In September 2008, when fledgling vehicle manufacturer Aptera named Paul Wilbur president and CEO, the 27-year Detroit auto executive set forth a series of financial goals and product deadlines. “Aptera’s production and delivery will be tied directly to funding,” said Wilbur.

During the past 12 months, the company’s initial offering – the aerodynamic Aptera 2e, an all-electric, three-wheeled two-seater that gets the equivalent of 200-plus mpg – has evolved from concept to near reality. Companies including Google and IdeaLab have made significant investments in the southern California auto manufacturer, and numerous potential private and public backers are in the process of doing their due diligence. However, according to Wilbur, the vehicle development progress has been outpacing the rate of fundraising.

“Aptera management is being a prudent steward of all resources to ensure future viability for the company and strong returns for its stakeholders. Therefore, we’ll begin volume production vehicles once our current series of private funding has closed or when we secure financing through the Department of Energy’s Advanced Technology Vehicle loan program, whichever comes first.”

The aerodynamically-inspired Aptera 2e goes from zero to 60 in under 10 seconds, tops out at 90 mph and has already received nearly 4,000 deposits, which are fully refundable and remain in an escrow account. The production vehicle includes enhanced safety features, a redesigned interior cabin that is airy and user-friendly, a monocoque, structural composite body as well as a telematics and infotainment system.

“I’m as disappointed as any of our depositors and loyal followers around the country that we’re delaying initial production,” says Wilbur. “There’s no one who’s more anxious than we are to put the 2e on the road.

“Because of this production delay, we’ve unfortunately been forced to lay off some hard working employees. It’s a strategy to streamline our spending to hone in on the items that advance our fundraising and completion of our first vehicle.

“Additionally as part of this plan, co-founder Chris Anthony is stepping aside from day-to-day activities to concentrate on his two other companies, Epic Boats and Flux Power.”

Aptera’s other co-founder, Steve Fambro, who started tinkering with the idea of building an aerodynamic vehicle five years ago, is taking a short leave of absence and will re-engage with the company in the new year.

“Right now my advanced work is a lower priority for Aptera,” said Fambro, the company’s Chief Technical Officer who directs all advanced concept development activities. “We’ve got to be wholly focused on funding and getting the first 2e on the road.

“Paul’s leadership and (chief engineer) Tom Reichenbach’s talent have led to changes in the vehicle that are spot-on. They’ve made the vehicle safer, it’s better handling and more comfortable. Once we get through this stage, we’ll begin mass producing the 2e – the most aerodynamic and efficient vehicle in the world.”

According to Wilbur, “Building and launching a new car company is the challenge of a lifetime – even in the best economic times. At Aptera, this is especially true because we didn’t start with an existing architecture for our vehicle. The 2e was designed from scratch, which is why we’re focused on properly, and painstakingly, creating a foundation that can succeed over time; it’s a chance for everybody working at Aptera to reshape the automotive world for the next generation.”

Mazda announced today that it will unveil the US-spec Mazda2 at the 2009 LA Auto Show on Dec 2.

“Bringing Mazda2 to North America completes the bookends in our line-up,” said Jim O’Sullivan, President and CEO, Mazda North American Operations. “With the seven- passenger crossover CX-9 at one end and the sub-compact Mazda2 at the other, Mazda’s line-up now spans the most significant product segments in the industry, and is the strongest, best-designed, best-built we have ever offered. Mazda2 will be true to everything that makes our cars stand apart from the competition: it will be stylish, fun-to-drive and a heck of a value. In short, it will be the definition of Zoom-Zoom.”

Sales of the Mazda2 will start in the late part of 2010.

We’ll be live in LA starting Dec. 2 – so make sure you join us for live coverage.

Click through for the press release.

2010 Mazda2 (Thailand):

Press Release:

North American Mazda2 to Debut at 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show

Hiroshima, Japan, 18 November 2009. Mazda Motor Corporation will showcase the Mazda2 at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show. The globally-acclaimed Mazda2 brings a level of style and driving dynamics to the North American sub-compact segment that no other competitor can offer. The vehicle will be sold in the U.S. and Canada beginning in late 2010. The LA Auto Show press days are 2-3 December; public days run from 4 through 13 December.

Mazda2 has been a sales and media success in markets around the world, winning 48 awards and being recognized as Car of the Year in more than 20 countries. Additionally, Mazda2 was named “2008 World Car of the Year,” besting all other new cars around the world.

Mazda’s press conference is scheduled to take place from 11:05 to 11:30 (local time) on Wednesday, 2 December 2009.
Main Exhibits

- By: Kap Shah

Norwegian electric-car maker Think, which recently exited bankruptcy court protection and raised $47 million, has announced that it is gearing up to launch vehicles in the United States and has picked a site in Indiana for its U.S. manufacturing facility.

Think will announce the exact location and other details in a few weeks, according to Charles Gassenheimer, chairman and chief executive of lithium-ion battery maker Ener1 Inc., which has a 31 percent stake in Think Global.

Think has previously said that it is exploring the idea of launching its vehicles in the United States and was considering a local manufacturing plant.

Gassenheimer declined to give more details on Think’s plans for the U.S. market. However, he said that the company has applied for a U.S. government loan under a program set up to encourage production of fuel-efficient vehicles.

- By: Kap Shah

Source: Reuters

Mitsubishi felt a bit left out from all the Chevrolet Volt and Nissan Leaf headlines going on recently. So it’s only right that the Japanese automaker makes a big deal about the first 25 full production units of the all-electric Mitsubishi i MiEV that landed at the Bristol’s Royal Portbury Docks yesterday. The cars are now going under final preparation before they hit the roads on December 12 as a part of the West Midlands based government trial.

The Mitsubishi i MiEV easily seats 4 adults and can travel a range of 100 miles after being charged from flat to full in 7 hours. It has a top speed of 81 mph.

Mitsubishi said that the 1,400 units allocated by the company for the Japanese market have already flown out the door. An additional 900 have been ordered for the 2010 build allocation.

Make the jump for the press release.

First 25 Mitsubishi i MiEV arrives in the UK:

Press Release:

ALL ELECTRIC i-MiEV’S CHARGE IN

It’s Here…
Excitement is building as the first 25 full production all-electric Mitsubishi i-MiEV’s arrive at Bristol’s Royal Portbury Docks. Final preparation has already begun before the cars hit the road on December 12th 2009 as part of a West Midlands based government trial.

The i-MiEV’s left Japan by boat six weeks ago and their arrival has been eagerly awaited, especially by the end users and everyone following their progress via Mitsubishi Motors UK’s i-MiEV Facebook fan page.

i-MiEV – Leading The Market
The multi award winning Mitsubishi i-MiEV is a fully electric city car and the first real-life EV with zero tailpipe emissions made available by a mainstream manufacturer. It’s a genuine car, ensuring no compromise in cabin space, seating 4 adults and room for luggage. It has a top speed of 81 mph, a range of 100 miles and can be trickle charged from flat to full in 6 hours at any UK three-pin socket – and it only costs 96p for a full charge.

An Early Sales Triumph
The i-MiEV, on sale in Japan since July this year, has been a sell-out success. The 1,400 units allocated by Mitsubishi for the 2009 Japanese market have flown out the door and an impressive 900 orders have already been placed in Japan from the 2010 build allocation.

European production will begin in October 2010 with left hand drive i-MiEV’s available in markets across Continental Europe towards the end of the year.

Real-World Trials
The cars are taking part in one of the Government’s Ultra Low Carbon Vehicle Demonstrator projects, run by the Technology Strategy Board. Through an extensive selection process, members of the public have been selected by consortium partner, Coventry University, to trial the cars for 12 months allowing analysis of driving and charging behaviour.

The West Midlands CABLED (Coventry and Birmingham Low Emission Demonstrators) consortium combines the expertise of Arup – design and engineering consultant and project leader, power provider E.ON, the city councils of Birmingham and Coventry, three academic institutions, and five other car manufacturers, and is supported by Advantage West Midlands.

- By: Omar Rana

It’s super skinny and super funky – meet the Tango EV. Limited to only 11 units, Jay Leno is one lucky guy to get behind the wheel of the $150,000 electric-car. The Tango EV can apparently go from 0-60 mph in just 4 seconds with a top speed of 100 mph. Surprisingly enough, it has beaten Chevrolet Corvettes, according to its creator Rick Woodbury.

On a full charge, the Tango EV can travel 40-60 miles on a Lead-Acid battery pack or over 150 miles on a lithium-ion battery pack.

Check out the company’s website at CommuterCars.com.

Click through to see Jay’s review.

- By: Kap Shah

Today, Hyundai Motors introduced their first direct-injection gasoline powered engine. According to Hyundai, the 2.4-liter engine, dubbed the Theta II, delivers more power while improving fuel-efficiency by 10%, reports Automotive News.

The new engine, set to debut in the redesigned Hyndai Sonata early next year, took four years and $147.4 million to develop. The Korean automaker plans to eventually introduce direct-injection technology across its entire line gas powered engines.

Hyundai reports that when compared to conventional engines of equal size, the Theta II delivers 7% more torque at low revolutions and 12% more at higher revolutions. Gas mileage is also increased by about 10% over conventional engines.

The engine will debut in the redesigned 2010 Hyundai Sonata sedan, due in U.S. dealerships early next year.

2010 Hyundai Sonata (Korea Model):

- By: Stephen Calogera