Porsche Cayenne Hybrid - Hybrid SUV

Probably not the greenest car on the planet, but Porsche is making an attempt to produce a fuel efficient version of it's extremely thirsty 4 wheel drive behemoth.

Features include: Porsche Traction Management (PTM): permanent all-wheel drive with self-locking center differential, aut. limited-slip differential (ABD) and traction-slip control (ASR), variable rear torque split
manual gear shift or Automatic 8-speed Tiptronic S with Auto start/stop function and gearshift controls on steering wheel


Stats:
 
279 kW (380 hp) at 5,500 rpm
0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.5 s
Top speed: 242 km/h (150 mph)
Combined: 8.2 l/100 km (34.4 mpg)*
CO2 emissions: 193 g/km*
£60,506 (GBP)

Ferrari 599 Hybrid - Kers Hybrid

Ferrari's are normally red, but when they're not they always seems to get themselves plastered in some hideous Look-at-me paint scheme and this 599 hybrid is not one to break that rule.

One of the stars of the 2010 Geneva Motor show and a token effort to address their environmental impact.
Called HY-KERS, the hybrid two-seater uses Ferrari's Formula One Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) to recover the braking and decelerating energy in a state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery.
That electrical energy is converted into about 650 volts, which gives an additional 100 horsepower that is used to supplement the acceleration of the six-litre V12 petrol engine and also run the engine's air conditioning and power-steering pumps.

The HY-KERS remains strictly an experimental vehicle currently, Favaretto Fabrizio, a Ferrari engineer says that it is capable of improving the 15.8mpg fuel consumption and reducing the 415g/km carbon dioxide emissions by up to a third in each case.

It would also monumentally expensive (with the emphasis on mentally!), almost doubling the £207,075 list price of the 205mph 599 GTB Fiorano, and adding 220lb of unsprung weight. Ferrari wants to have the system in production within five years at a far more affordable price and a lighter weight.

Volvo XC60 - Plug-in Hybrid Petrol/Electric

Volvo the Swedish car maker famous for it's safety features has been keen to emphasize – surprise – the safety of its plug-in vehicles at recent auto shows. At the Detroit Auto Show, Volvo has shown off the XC60 Plug-In Gasoline Hybrid Concept.

 Because this concept is headed to the U.S. and Chinese markets – in a different guise and with a lot of changes – within "a couple of years." Likely to mean something like 2014-2015. Volvo's first PHEV here could be an XC60 model, or perhaps an S60, said Volvo CEO and President Stefan Jacoby.

Here are the numbers: a 35-mile all-electric range, a recharging time of just 3.5 hours from a 220V outlet (7.5 hours from a more common 110V). Volvo estimates U.S. fuel economy of 105 MPGe  and 50 mpg when the battery runs dry. 0-60 is reached in 5.8 seconds on the way to a 130-mph top speed. Oh, and there is an eight speed auto transmission.

Gasoline is burned in a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that is turbocharged and direct-injected and has stop-start technology. This 280-horsepower powerplant moves the front wheels, and a 70-hp electric motor propels the back wheels (this is known as a through-the-road hybrid). The XC60 PHEV has a 12-kWh lithium-ion battery, but just 66 percent of that (8 kWh) is used. The driver can select three modes – Pure, Hybrid and Power – depending on which type of fuel economy and performance is desired. Details of this technology can be found after the jump, and images of the XC60 test bed are available in our galleries.

Lexus LF-FC - Hybrid Concept Car

Hybrid Heaven - Japanese Style!

Lexus is desperate for an image boost, their cars need to be more desirable, have that 'Drool' factor, the kind of thing that makes young boys want to put pictures on their bedroom walls (prior to scantily clad women adorning their walls!) 

So shown for the first time at the 2012 Detroit Auto show is this fabulous, not yet scheduled for production — but lets hope it is —  Lexus LF-FC roadster concept. A 2+2 coupe ready to see off  the BMW 650i and even Mercedes’ SL. The LF-FC is a bold step into a brave new world for Lexus, sharp lines and an aggressive stance combine with features such as the triple LED headlights and dramatic oversized air intakes, huge grille, targa style roof and enormous 21 inch alloy wheels to make this, designed by Lexus' Calty studio in California, stunning piece of automotive art. 

 The LF is a hybrid, although Lexus will not detail the powertrain, it's known that parent company Toyota are producing a replacement for the Supra featuring a 400 BHP 3.5 Litre V6 Hybrid, and it would make sense for this car to share that powertrain.

 Inside, there’s an iPad-like tablet built into the Lexus’s centre console, and along with the Tech, comes a large dollop of  luxury, flowing lines formed from quilted leather, wood veneer and metal. leather trimmed instrument binnacle completes the luxury feel along with sporty leather seats.

The Tango T600 - Electric Commuter Supercar!

Tango Supercar

The Tango from Commuter Cars Corporation is an astonishing little vehicle, extremely narrow so that 2 can fit side-by-side in a normal road lane, but with immense performance.

The Tango is fitted with two powerful electric motors, giving 805 hp and over 1,000 lbs/ft of torque. 

Tango Stats:                      39 inches        Wide

                                         60 inches        Tall

                                         8' 5"                Long

                                         3,150 lbs        Weight

                                         4 Seconds       0-60 MPH

                                         135 MPH       Top Speed

                                         Available in other colours!

This amazing little supercar is narrower than a Honda Goldwing motorcycle, comes fitted with a Prodrive designed full roll cage  and four-point harnesses for safety. The two seats are in tandem and despite it's compact outer proportions it's claimed the Tango can seat two 6'6" adults in comfort!

A full charge can last anywhere between 40 and 200 miles depending on the battery pack options you have chosen for your Tango, with a re-charge taking 3 hours to get to 80% of full charge.  

                                         

Eliica 230 MPH 8 wheel - Electric Car

Designed and built by a team at the Keio University and led by Professor Hiroshi Shimizu, the Lithium-Ion battery powered 8 wheel car has been built in two version. One with rapid acceleration (0-62 MPH) in 4 seconds, and the other for top speed, having already set a speed of 230 MPH at Italy's Nardo test track. The acceleration model is street registered and combines a 120 MPH top speed with a 200 mile range.

The very unusual looking Eliica weighs a hefty 2,400 kg (5,300 lb) and seats the driver and three passengers. The body was extensively tested in a wind tunnel.Other features include unusual door operation with the front doors opening forward and the rear doors upward like wings!

 The car's platform contains 4 tracks of 80 batteries, which make up one third of the vehicle's cost. They can be recharged in about 10 hours at 100 volts from empty to full charge, and can be easily charged off a residential power grid.

The car has eight wheels enabling it to be closer to the ground for better traction. Each of the wheels has a 60 kW (80 hp) electric motor, giving a 480 kW (640 hp) in total and eight wheel drive which can tackle all kinds of road surfaces. The four front wheels steer. The electric motors mean that the Eliica can deliver seamlessly smooth acceleration without the need to change gear. Each wheel contains a disc brake and employs a regenerative braking system to recover energy, which is normally lost to heat.


The estimated cost of development was in excess of US$320,000. Once the team receives corporate sponsorship, they plan to produce at least 200 units. As of early 2007, the projected price was ¥30,000,000 JPY (about US$255,000).

On December 19, 2005, then-Prime Minister of Japan Junichiro Koizumi tested this vehicle in a 10-minute ride to the Japanese Parliament. In 2006, the car was tested by Shintaro Ishihara, the governor of Tokyo, as well as by Naruhito, Crown Prince of Japan.

Honda Civic GX Natural Gas - 2012 Green car of the Year

Civic trying to get to the Gas?

Surprise...... The Green Car Journal announced at the Los Angeles Auto Show it's 2012 Green Car of the Year is a 2012 Honda Civic, but it's not the hybrid!

When the curtain dropped on the stage, the jaws dropped in the crowd! The five finalists had been the Ford Focus electric, Mitsubishi i, Toyota Prius V, Volkswagen Passat TDi and of course the Civic Natural Gas

Green Car Journal cites natural gas abundance in the United States, low tailpipe emissions, and cheaper fuel cost (by about 30 percent!) than gasoline among its reasons for selecting the Civic Natural Gas as the winner and makes note that the Civic is "the only assembly-line produced natural gas passenger model manufactured for sale in the United States."

The Civic GX produces 110 horsepower from its 1.8-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder engine and has a range of about 240 miles on a full tank.


The GX was originally introduced with a 1.6 liter In-Line 4 engine. The 2001 model make-over carried a 1.7 liter engine. Beginning in 2006, the 1.8 liter inline four-cylinder engine was introduced to the Civic lineup.
Compression in the Civic GX is 12.5:1, much higher than that of most US pump gasoline-powered automobiles. The significantly higher compression ratio is usable without detonation due to the 130-octane natural gas that powers the car.

Acceleration is significantly slower than that of the comparable 4-door LX model due to both lower power (113 hp vs. 140 hp) and heavier weight (2910 lbs vs 2652 lbs). 0-60 MPH is achieved in a rather leisurely 12.6 seconds. And fuel consumption is estimated to be around 32 MPG.

The CNG cylinder (fuel tank) is carried in the trunk of the car and holds 8.0 GGE (Gasoline Gallon Equivalent) at 3600 psi.

Range on a full 3600 psi fill is variable, depending on driving conditions and driving technique, as with any vehicle.  The GX qualifies for HOV Lane access in California, Arizona, Utah, and other states.

Ford Fusion/Mondeo 2013 - Hybrid & Energi Models

The 4 door Aston  2013 Ford Fusion/Mondeo

Ahhhh  Meeester Bond your four door saloon awaits you....... Ford have done it, havn't they, unashamedly plagarised Aston Martin's trade mark grille, that is  – it's a bit cheeky, but to be honest the result isn't bad. Cars in this sector tend to be hideously bland to look at, I'm sure we all find ourselves being overwhelmed by apathy at the sight of most four door hatchback's. But this is reasonably inoffensive to the eye, sleek, pretty? I think I need a lie down.....Nurse NURSE.

The Fusion will be available in S, SE and Titanium trims and with 3 engine options. In the states the bread and butter standard unit is a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four with approx 170 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque, mated solely to a six-speed automatic transmission. Also available are a 1.6-liter EcoBoost (Turbo) four with 179 hp and 172 lb-ft, and the top of the range 2.0-liter EcoBoost four with 237 hp and 250 lb-ft. Both engines can be had with the same six-speed automatic, though the smaller 1.6-liter engine can be mated to a six-speed manual box. Front-wheel drive is standard across the range, but top-of-the-line Fusions with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine can be had with all-wheel drive. Ford is no longer going to offer a V6

In the Hybrid (above), power comes from a 2.0L inline-four – downsized from the 2.5-liter unit in the current Fusion Hybrid. Total output is estimated to be 185 hp and 130 lb-ft torque, powering the front wheels via an electronically controlled (CVT) continuously variable transmission. The Hybrid runs on 17-inch wheels wrapped in low-rolling-resistance tires, and Ford says the car should achieve up to 47 mpg in the city and 44 mpg on a run. That not only beats the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Toyota Camry Hybrid, but also gets tantalisingly close to Prius territory. Ford says that the Fusion Hybrid will be able to operate at speeds up to 62 mph without starting the engine, very useful for efficient cruising.

Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid - Petrol/Electric Hybrid

Mercedes S400 Hybrid

Think of the Mercedes S Class, a name synonymous with effortless luxury, and chances are you won't be thinking too much about how fuel efficient this car is, but Mercedes are making tentative steps towards making cars that are more frugal with our limited resources .

 

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid packs all the luxury features you could ever want into one fuel efficient package. Options include a massaging seat system, amongst others. Costing $91,850, the S class is powered by a 3.5 liter V-6 engine that produces 275 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque. The smaller engine and mild-hybrid power plant help the S400 get up to 30 MPG Combined.

Now, car manufacturers like to be first, so the attention grabbing 'first' for this new S-Class hybrid, the S 400, is that it will be the first series production hybrid to use a lithium-ion battery pack. OK, we're impressed, but that isn't all!.  Daimler, are proud to let us know that there is more to the car than its battery. Take for example, the automatic stop/start system, the regenerative brakes, and plenty of reused and recycled materials used in the vehicle (including coconut and flax fibers). Daimler says that there are 45 components like wiring ducts and underbody panels that weigh a total of 21.2 kilograms that "are made from recycled, high-quality plastics."

Daimler even incorporated a recycling process for the li-ion battery into the design of the vehicle, so when the car reaches its end-of-life, that big and expensive pack won't die with it. All these features mean that Daimler calls the new S400 hybrid "the most economical luxury saloon with a petrol engine." The German TÜV Süd agency has recognized the "comprehensive environmental commitment" of the vehicle.

The S 400 hybrid gets 30 mpg (U.S.) on the European combined cycle and emits 186 grams of CO2 per kilometer. Not great, but this is a big heavy car after all. It's quite quick for a big car too: a 0-62 mph time of 7.2 seconds and a top speed of about 155 mph, but with a car like this who needs to rush?

Gordon Murray Design T27 - Electric City Car

Gordon Murray poses with his T27 electric car

Gordon Murray is a legendary name amongst Formula 1 fans of a certain age, for he was Mclaren's chief designer in 1988 when Ayrton Senna & Alain Prost won 15 of the 16 Grand Prix contested that year (and would have won the 16th, but for a pesky lapped car getting in the way!). The Mclaren MP4/4 and it's successors secured Gordon's legendary reputation. Not content with designing the worlds best racing cars, Mr Murray set about designing the equally legendary Mclaren F1 road car!

The T27 then is his latest baby, bringing together all he has learned to create a unique city car. The car uses formula 1 technology to create a light weight but extremely strong platform. The T27 has succesfully completed both frontal and side impact tests. Both results showing zero intrusion into the occupant space - a massive breakthrough for a such a compact car, justifying Murray's claim of 'Formula One technology for the everyday motorist!'

In November 2011, the car averaged an equivalent of 350 MPG and in the process won 'best overall electric car' and 'best overall entry'  in the RAC  Brighton to London Future car Challenge.

The powertrain is provided by well respected British Motorsport engine suppliers Zytek, accepting the challenge of providing a world class electric drivetrain.

The T27's Vital Stats are:

eMotor: 25kW                                          Height: 1.60m
Battery Type: Li-Ion (MNO)                     Weight: 680Kg (incl. battery)

Battery Spec. 12kWh                                Wheel Base: 1.78m
Length: 2.50m                                            Turning Circle: 6.0m
Width 1.30m

Performance Targets:

Top Speed: 105kph
0-100kph: Less than 15 seconds
Range: 80 – 100 miles

Gordon Murray Design (GMD) isn't a car manufacturer however, they produce the ideas turn them into concepts then sell the idea to a manufacturer. GMD is currently in talks with interested parties about turning this vehicle into a production car.

New Honda NSX - Hybrid Supercar

Honda's NSX returns - as a Hybrid

The Honda NSX gained almost mythical status as the supercar you could drive every day. None of that flimsy, highly strung nonsense that comes as standard with an Italian supercar, the handling characteristics were finely honed by Ayrton Senna himself. Well now it's set to make a spectacular return, within three years of the unveiling of an Acura-badged concept at the 2012 Detroit motor show.

Innovative new features such as its all-wheel drive system, which Honda calls it's Sport Hybrid SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive), and Honda claims it will deliver handling performance “unmatched by any previous AWD system”.

With an electric motors driving the front wheels and a bilateral torque-adjustable control system to generate positive or negative torque to the front wheels during cornering, combined with an 'all-new' direct-injection VTEC V6, linked to a dual-clutch transmission with a built-in electric motor, driving the rear wheels, this, Honda says creates “supercar acceleration while offering outstanding efficiency”.

Honda Motor Co. CEO Takanobu Ito says the future supercar’s all-wheel drive system will make it 'the ultimate expression of synergy between man and machine'. “The NSX will make the driver one with the car to enhance dynamic driving abilities without getting in the way.”

Ito said Honda’s engineers were targeting “high performance through engineering efficiency”, just as the developers of the original car did 25 years ago, although with a renewed sense of the environmental challenges that abound.

“In this new era, even as we focus on the fun to drive spirit of the NSX, I think a supercar must respond positively to environmental responsibilities.”

The all-new Honda NSX will be developed by Honda R&D Americas and manufactured in Ohio, with production set to begin before 2015.

Delorean Electric - Back to the past??

The Electric Delorean DMCev

Even though the DeLorean DMC-12 gained iconic status and a cult following after featuring as Marty McFly and Doc Brown’s vehicle of choice in the Back to the Future film franchise, the car was a monumental flop. The original car was built in Belfast using an underpowered Renault V6 engine and featured terrible build quality to boot. However, with it's brushed stainless steel body, it was always an eye catching machine. Responding to automotive trends, the DeLorean Motor Company has teamed up with start-up Epic EV to create an electric version of the failed coupe.

The new model will be called the DMCev and is powered by an electric motor made by California-based battery systems company Flux Power. Even though the motor adds around 200 pounds, a new lighter underbody developed by Epic EV will balance it out. The position of the battery will also improve weight distribution.

The car has a comfortable range of 70 miles, but if driven super efficiently is capable of driving for 100 miles. The next prototype will even feature regenerative AC technology, which is sure to boost efficiency further. With 260hp equivalent, the DMCEV doesn't hang about either, reaching 60mph in 4.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 125mph.

"I'm afraid someone's going to steal it," said DMC President Stephen Wynne. "They'll just drive it right out of the shop and we won't hear it leave!"

Riversimple - Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car

The Ground-breaking Riversimple

This little gem is an engineering  masterpiece, currently in pre-production testing in the UK midlands, Riversimple's team of highly qualified designers started from the ground up to re-think what is possible for the motor car.


The 2 seater features extensive use of carbon-fibre to keep weight down and structural strength high, a tiny  6kw Hydrogen fuel cell powers the vehicle at cruising speeds (approx 50mph max), whilst brisk acceleration is provided by ultra-capacitors charged from the highly efficient regenerative braking system, which can recover up to an astonishing 50% of the braking energy!


Riversimple realised that most energy is used to accelerate a vehicle up to it's cruising speed, and so have designed this car to use Ultra-capacitors (capable of  rapid storage and release of large amounts of energy for short periods), to provide shorts bursts of high energy to propel the car to its cruising speed, wherein the fuel cell takes over, needing to provide a mere 20% of the energy required for acceleration, this keeps the fuel cell small and light. In turn all the related systems can be made smaller & lighter (for example: power steering isn't necessary, saving weight of the power steering system) The design team refer to this principle as 'mass de-compounding' 


The car can accelerate from 0-30mph in 5.5 secs, has a top speed around 50mph and a range of approximately 240miles, with energy consumption equivalent to 300 mpg. Riversimple say they want to get away from selling people cars and will instead lease you a car for around £200 per month. The firm will produce 50 - 60 prototypes for evaluation in 2012.  

Electric Rolls Royce - Electric cars

The plug-in Rolls-Royce

Luxury car maker Rolls Royce have dipped a tentative toe into the Electric Vehicle sector. Unlikely as it may seem, this behemoth has had it's 6.75-liter V-12 surplanted by a massive 71-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery housed within the aluminum spaceframe. Rolls-Royce is using large-form NCM pouch cells, or lithium-nickel-cobalt-manganese-oxide to be exact. Due to its experimental nature, the 96 cells are separated into 5 modules (38-, 36-, 10-, 8-, and 4-cell units) and arranged in such a way that the overall battery takes on the shape of an engine and transmission.

The battery weighs a massive 1,411 pounds and outputs 850 amperes at 338 volts to two electric motors linked to a rear transaxle. The single-speed gearbox takes each motor’s 145 kilowatts (194 horsepower) and sends up to 388 horsepower to the rear wheels. Given its electric nature, the two motors will have up 590 combined pound-feet of torque on demand. The 0-60 mph time is quoted as being under 8 seconds, and there’s a governed top speed of just under 100 mph. A quite impressive performance for such a massive vehicle, around 3,000 kilograms.

The driving range is said to be up to 124 miles. In order to charge the battery, a three-phase charger would need 8 hours, while a single-phase (presumably 220/240V) would take 20 hours. Wireless charging is being trialed as well.

Inside, the company uses an experimental Corinova leather tanned with all-natural vegetable oil.

Whether this car will ever emerge as a production version remains to be seen!

Volkswagen 'E-Bug' - Electric Concept car

Shown at the 2012 Detroit Motor show, this electric cabriolet sports a 28.3 Kwh lithium-ion battery pack parked behind the seats, the all-electric E-Bugster has a range of 110 miles, and will accelerate from 0-60mph in 10.9sec. It also has a one-inch wider body than the familiar Beetle.

"This is a crazy car, it's fun, it's sporting and it's American looking," said VW Group design head Walter da Silva at the Detroit Motor Show.

Also on show was the Jetta hybrid model, which is unlikely to make it to Europe where it will have to compete with the diesel Jetta, who's performance & fuel economy is similar but with less cost and complication.

Kepler Motion - Hybrid Supercar

A Supercar by any standard - The Kepler Motion

The Kepler Motion supercar is an awesome beast of a hybrid car that has an eye toward the environment  but also can produce 800 horsepower! The Kepler boasts a 3.5L Twin Turbo V6 Eco Boost driving the rear wheels, and also an electric motor with 250 hp to the front wheels. With that much horsepower, this car can reach a maximum speed of up to 321 km/h and takes 2.5 seconds to achieve 0-100 km/hour. Motion has only sold 50 units and the car was scheduled to be delivered in 2011.

Renault Twizy ZE (Zero Emissions) - Electric 2 seater

Renault Twizy

Renault have a vision of the future, and we've all seen concept cars similar to the Twizy before, but this one is being made! It has a tall, narrow stance, open sides and seats two people, but will the Twizy start a trend towards this type of commuter mobility vehicle that combine the safety and confidence of a car with the convenience and cost of a scooter?

Fitted with a 17bhp electric motor, which should give a top speed of around 50mph, and frisky linear acceleration, that comes with an electric motor. Charging the battery – which takes around three and a half hours – gives a range of up to 62 miles, and its low weight and centre of gravity promise safe, stable cornering.

Both models – £6,690 for the Urban and the £7,400 Technic – have as standard equipment, an immobilizer, driver’s airbag, a four-point seatbelt for the driver and a three-point seatbelt for the passenger. The more expensive Technic version gains alloy wheels, metallic paint & half doors to reduce the spray coming into the cabin space! Bluetooth connectivity and rear parking sensors are optional.  A huge range of colours and 'fun' graphics are available to help customers personalise their Twizy.

In addition to the purchase price, Renault will charge you for the lease of the batteries - £40 per month over a period of 36 months. The idea being that Renault owns the expensive batteries so the owner of the vehicle doesn’t need to worry about their replacement or the prospect of a scrap vehicle if they fail.

Due to hit the roads in spring 2012, a £20 deposit can be paid now to reserve your Twizy via www.renault-ze.com 

Optimal Energy's Joule - Electric Car

Optimal Energy Joule

The joule is South Africa's answer to the Chevy Volt, currently (excuse the pun!) in pre-production testing and shake-down and scheduled for mass production from 2014. Unlike the 4 seater Volt though the Joule can seat 5 people.

The Joule can sprint from 0-60 kmh (37 mph) in a very respectable 5 seconds and on to a limited top speed of 135 kmh (83 mph), regenerative braking helps the Joule to a projected range of 190miles. Optimal expects to achieve a  Euro Ncap 4 rating.

The Chevrolet/Holden Volt/ Vauxhall/Opel Ampera - Hybrid Petrol/Electric

The Chevy Volt

Looking very different than the original 2007 Concept car which was shown at the North American International Auto Show.  The Chevrolet Volt is a 4 seat plug-in hybrid electric vehicle manufactured by the good General (Motors). Sales in selected U.S. markets began in mid-December 2010, according to the EPA the Volt is the most fuel-efficient compact car sold in the United States.

And the General tells us the Volt can travel 25 to 50 miles (40 to 80 km) on its lithium-ion battery alone. The EPA official all-electric range is 35 miles (56 km), and the total range is 379 miles (610 km). The EPA rated 2011 model year Volt's combined city/highway fuel economy at 93 mpg-US (2.5 L/100 km; 112 mpg-imp) equivalent (MPG-e) in all-electric mode, and at 37 mpg-US(6.4 L/100 km; 44 mpg-imp) in gasoline-only mode, for an overall combined gasoline-electric fuel economy rating of 60 mpg-US (3.9 L/100 km; 72 mpg-imp) equivalent. The 2012 model year Volt received a revised EPA rating, increasing the combined city/highway fuel economy in all-electric mode to 94 MPG-e. The Volt operates as a pure battery electric vehicle until its plug-in battery capacity drops to a predetermined threshold from full charge, at which point its gasoline engine powers an electric generator to extend the vehicle's range. The Volt's regenerative braking also contributes to the on-board electricity generation. In order to improve performance, the internal combustion engine may at times be engaged mechanically to assist both electric motors to propel the Volt.

The base suggested retail price for the 2011 Chevrolet Volt in the U.S. was US $40,280 before theUS $7,500 U.S. federal tax credit and additional incentives are available in some locations. The 2012 Volt base price is US $1,005 less than the 2011 model, as features have been removed from the base configuration. The Volt was sold initially only in selected U.S. markets and became available nationwide in November 2011. Deliveries of the 2012 Volt began in Canada in September 2011, and the suggested retail price starts at CAD 41,545 (US $43,568) before any available rebates. The initial Canadian launch is also limited to selected markets and availability in the rest of Canada is expected before the end of 2012. In China the Volt's price starts at  RMB 498,000 (around US $75,500) and initial sales will be limited to eight cities. In the Eurozone the Volt will also be sold as the Opel/Vauxhall Ampera, at a price of €42,900 (US$58,000) including VAT before any government incentives. Deliveries of the first Chevrolet Volts in Europe began in France in November 2011. Customer deliveries of the Opel Ampera were delayed in Europe until the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) completes its investigation of the Volt's battery fire risk after test crashes. In the UK the Volt platform will be sold as Vauxhall Ampera at a price of £33,995 (US$53,000) and deliveries are scheduled to begin in May 2012. In Australia the plug-in hybrid will be sold as the Holden Volt and its launch is scheduled by late 2012. Since its launch in December 2010 cumulative sales and customer deliveries in the U.S. and Canada reached 8,272 Volts through December 2011.

Among other awards and recognition, the Chevrolet Volt won the 2009 Green Car Vision Award, 2011 Motor Trend Car of the Year, 2011 Green Car of the Year, 2011 North American Car of the Year, and 2011 World Green Car. Despite the awards earned and the positive reception from many automotive critics, there has been some controversy and concerns in the media. These include the extent of the federal government participation in the Volt development during the General's unfortunate and embarassing 2009 government-led bankruptcy; concerns about the Volt's relatively high sales price; complaints about price markups due to the Volt's initial limited supply; and concerns about the battery pack fire risk after a crash.

                                                The 2007 Chevrolet Volt Concept Car

Citoen C-Metisse - Hybrid concept car

Citroen C-Metisse shows off it's fancy doors

The Citroën C-Métisse is a concept car produced by the French car manufacturer.  It was first introduced in 2006 at the Paris Autoshow. The reason Citroen felt the need to produce such an amazing car was to show how a hybrid can have the same performance as a gasoline or diesel powered car. Although, showing off their design expertise in this manner, must have been a consideration too!

The car can use front wheel, rear wheel and all wheel drive depending on situation. Lets hope they decide to build it!

Engine: 2.7 l V6 diesel with 208 hp (155 kW) on the front axle and two electric wheel motors by TM4 Electrodynamic systems with 20 hp (15 kW) on the rear axle

0–100 km/h: 6.2 s

Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph)

Fuel consumption: 6.5 litres per 100 kilometres (43 mpg-imp; 36 mpg-US)

Lumeneo Smera - Electric 4 wheeler (Leans like a Motorcycle!)

Lumeneo Smera - 'leaning' into a slide

Currently only available in Paris, the innovative Smera is powered by two electric motors and a lithium  battery pack. The Smera should have a 150km range, an 80 MPH top speed and is fitted with regenerative braking. 

The most astonishing feature of this very narrow four wheel car is that it leans into corners like a motorcycle. The Smera seats 2 people and costs €24,500 

Peugeot 3008 - Diesel/Electric Hybrid

                                Horror as monstrous carbuncle obscures spectacular lakeside view

Peugeot claims the 3008 Hybrid as the first Diesel Hybrid and it will come initially in two variants (a 99g and 104g model), the pair being distinguished by the amount of Co2 they release into our atmosphere. Larger wheels, slightly more CO2 output, slightly less fuel consumption (around 70MPG) and a few extra luxury knick knacks, seemingly the only difference between the two. The 3008 will has 4 wheel drive and a starting price of £26,995 in the UK. Thanks to Peugeot's Stop & Start system the car can run in Zero emission mode using just it's electric motor

Hybrid4 Technology (99g model)

- Diesel (e-HDi 163 bhp) and Electric Motor (37 bhp)
- 4 Wheel Drive
- 200bhp
- CO2 99g/km & 74mpg
- manually controlled electronic gearbox (EGC)
- e-HDi with Stop and Start
- Electronic Stability Programme (ESP)
- Alarm (Thatcham 1 Category approved)

Mitsubishi PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle)

Mitsubishi PX-MIEV

Mitsubishi are going BIG on plug-in Hybrid vehicles in the run up to 2015, and are using the PX to give us a glance of tomorrow. 

Powered by two electric motors and a petrol engine, the system works somewhat like an old Diesel electric train! The electric motors drive the vehicle and the petrol engine kicks in to charge the batteries when they become drained......Brilliant. 

Sources say that this should give in the region of 170 MPG!! Bring it on Mitsubishi. and the range will be.... well, anything they like really, put a 5 gallon fuel tank in and that's going to give you an 850 mile range!

ZAP Alias - 3 wheel Electric Car

The enviromentally friendly ZAP Alias will cost $38,500 and does 0 to 60mph in just 7.8 seconds with a top speed of 85mph. It is a joint project with Chinese manufacturer Jonway



The three-wheeler has its third wheel at the back and is powered by two electric wheel motors, one driving each of the car's front wheels. With approximately 320 horsepower equivalent.

Tesla Model S - Electric Car

Tesla Model S

Following on from the success of the Roadster comes Tesla's Model S

Smooth, uninterrupted acceleration. Control in an instant. Feedback and information within arm's reach.

The Model S offers luxurious space, seating for five adults and two children, and a second cargo area under the hood. 

There are three battery pack options: 160, 230, or 300 miles per charge. Concerned with Range Anxiety? Like the Roadster, the Model S is engineered to plug into nearly any outlet, anywhere in the world. With the ability to recharge in 45 minutes, the car begs to be driven everywhere you want to go. 

The Model S powertrain features a liquid-cooled, floor-mounted battery pack and single-speed gearbox. The body design is of stamped aluminum and provides top-notch aerodynamics, style, and safety. The 17-inch touchscreen with in-car 3G connectivity means quick access to streaming radio, gps navigation, restaurant recommendations, and movie showtimes.

0-60 MPH takes 5.6 seconds with a top speed of 120 MPH

Husqvarna (BMW) E-go - Electric Bike

The Husqvarna Ego Concept Bike

Among the many green offerings from the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show is a new bike from Husqvarna called the e-go, an electric bicycle that looks just like a motorcycle but gives the appearance of floating on air. The e-go weighs just 176 pounds and its frame, though tough and well-supported, is designed in such a way as to make the rear half look airy and light. Designed to appeal to a youthful audience with it's futuristic Supermotard look.

Fisker Karma - Range extended Electric vehicle

Fisker Karma

The Sleek 'design copied from a Cheetah' Fisker Karma has Dual electric traction motors, driving the rear wheels through a limited slip differential. With a 50 mile electric range, a full length solar roof and a 2.0l turbocharged motor giving it a 300 mile total range. 0-60mph takes just 6.3 sec and Fisker have made sure of a very low co-efficient of drag (0.313cd). Top speed is limited to 125mph. Place your orders it's due to hit the showrooms in 2012. 

Sim-Lei - Electric Car

The Sim-Lei has an extremely efficient body design

With its 24.9 kWh lithium-ion batteries made by Toshiba, the SIM-LEI achieves a travelling distance of 333km on a single battery charge in the Japanese JC08 testing mode (simulating mainly city driving) as well as 305km at a constant 100km/h cruising. When compared to the Nissan Leaf electric car that has a range of 200km in JC08 mode with its 24kWh battery, the SIM-LEI’s energy efficiency is about 1.5 times better than the Leaf. Impressive if....errrmmm weird looking.

Motoczysz EP1 - Electric Racing Motorcycle

Motoczysz at the IOM TT Zero race

Motoczysz may not be a well known name, but in a short time they have re-written motorcycling history.

The Isle of Man TT races are a gruelling, demanding and extremely dangerous series of races held over a 37 and 3/4 mile course in the middle of the Irish Sea. The riders and machines travel at incomprehensible speeds through villages and country roads seeking the ultimate motorcycling challenge.

Motoczysz won the 1 lap TT Zero race with American Mark Miller in 2010, and repeated the feat with a one-two finish in 2011 for Michael Rutter and Mark Miller. This incredible electric bike has 125hp equivalent and weighs 238kg

lightning GT - Electric car

Lightning GT

Built by the Lightning Car Company, based in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, this running prototype combines elegant GT looks with electric power. the Lightning looks fantastic, in a cool modern-retro kinda way. And Lightning has big plans to develop its new zero-emissions supercar.

Powered by Lithium-Titanate batteries, it generates a 400hp equivalent 44kW and can be charged in only 10 minutes, with the off-board charger thanks to it's Lithium-Titanate batteries (although using the domestic charging system will take up to 15 hours). With the help of regenerative braking, the firm hopes the car will have a range of nearly 150 miles and a 0-60mph time of less than five seconds. It’s powered by two electric motors - driving the rear wheels - The makers are hoping to start deliveries this year. expect to pay around the £120,000 mark. 

The Lightning GT has been seen around London, and various other events, such as the Goodwood festival of speed in preparation for it's production run.