Nissan’s New Global Compact Car Details Released

February 18, 2010
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Nissan has released details for its new global compact car which is set to replace the Micra model. The new vehicle is set to debut at the Geneva Auto Show next month.

The car, which is based on an all-new V Platform, features an all-new powertrain set-up. This includes a new 1.2 liter, 3-cylinder engine and a newly developed CVT (continuously variable transmission) that provides for a lot of flexibility for such a small power plant. The new CVT features a sub-gear that allows for a very wide gear ratio of 7.3.

Friction between parts throughout the vehicle has also been reduced to maximize efficiency. The company claims that this new powertrain…

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VW Moves EV Operations In-House

February 18, 2010
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After General Motor’s announcement of its intent in making EV technology one of its core competencies late last month, Volkswagen now follows suit with its production and design of its electric vehicle drivetrains shifted in-house.

VW plans to design and build its electric vehicle drivetrains in-house, starting everything from electric motors to battery packs. The move could give VW a leg up on the competition and will give the German automaker more stability as it won’t have to rely on outside suppliers for major vehicle components.

As VW’s head of electric vehicles Karl-Thomas Neumann told Automotive News, “We are systematically taking the path leading to the electric vehicle.” The new strategy will…

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BMW Releases Details For M3 Competition Package

February 18, 2010
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BMW has announced earlier this year that it will launch a high-performance lighter-weight version of its M3 sports sedan and coupe. And it seems now that the German automaker is living up to its words as they reveal some images and details ahead of the car’s formal introduction early next month at the Geneva Motor Show.

The package will be offered on both the coupe and sedan versions of the M3, but not convertibles. M3s outfitted with the performance group will go on sale in Europe towards the end of March with North American sales beginning a little later.

Most of the upgrades are made to the M3’s handling abilities. A lowered…

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Alfa Romeo Eyes 2012 US Return

February 17, 2010
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Alfa Romeo indeed made a limited return to the United States with the 8C Competizione, but the automaker is planning a massive comeback in 2012.

At a speech last week, Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne said, “I’m a lot more confident now that Alfa Romeo will reconstitute a product offering that is acceptable globally, and more in particular in the United States and Canada. There is a strong likelihood that the brand will be back here within the next 24 months.”

Although Alfa Romeo is still mum on the news, its North American lineup would probably include the 159 replacement mid-sized sedan and station wagon Giulia and a Chrysler 300-based 166 replacement. These…

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Ford Launches Go Green Dealer Program

February 17, 2010
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Ford has officially launched its “Go Green” program at the recent 2010 National Automobile Dealers Association Convention. The program is aimed at helping dealers to simultaneously reduce significant operating costs while improving environmental impact and the appeal of dealerships.

Bill Allemon, Ford’s manager of energy efficiency at Ford Land, explained that Go Green is aimed mostly at helping dealers that are looking to undergo structural and cosmetic upgrades to their facilities to develop the most cost effective and environmentally friendly plans possible, but clarified that new dealers will also be able to take part in the program. To do this, Ford has teamed up with Rocky Mountain Institute to help work…

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Porsche Panamera V6 To Debut in Beijing

February 17, 2010
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Porsche has just announced that they will be introducing the entry-level Panamera and Panamera 4 at the Beijing Motor Show on April 23.

Although nearly as identical to the Panamera S, the Panamera is differentiated by a dual exhaust system instead of a four-tailpipe unit, black window treatment, and other minor exterior details.

The Panamera is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 with 300 PS (220 kW / 296 bhp) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes 6.0 seconds in the Panamera and 5.8 seconds in the Panamera 4. One good thing about with the Panamera is that it consumes just 9.3 liters/100 kilometers (30.4 mpg UK) while…

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Hyundai i-Flow Concept Design Teaser in Geneva

February 17, 2010
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A teaser image of the i-flow concept has been released by Hyundai ahead of the concept’s scheduled unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show.

The concept was styled at the Hyundai’s European design studio in Russelsheim, Germany. The concept features a “fluidic sculpture” design (hence the name), roof-mounted solar cells which resembles a panorama glass roof, wraparound taillights, and a dynamic rear end.

The i-flow incorporates many new technologies from chemical company BASF, ranging from innovative lightweight materials to solar cells, to assist in reducing weight and improving energy efficiency.

According to Hyundai, the i-flow will be pioneering the styling direction of a future D-segment sedan—which could be the next-generation Sonata/140, the redesigned Genesis…

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Hertz Adds Nissan Leaf to Lineup

February 17, 2010
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Hertz will be the first major rental fleet that will be offering a fully electric vehicle when it adds the Nissan Leaf as part of its regular fleet. Hertz will start offering the vehicle in certain markets in the US and Europe beginning early next year.

Nissan and the car rental agency has signed a memorandum of understanding that will have Hertz design a roll-out program for the Leaf shortly after its fall 2010 public on sale date.

“The partnership with Nissan seals Hertz’s commitment to green-car rentals and firmly demonstrates our mission to advancing zero-emission mobility on a global scale,” said Mark P. Frissora, Hertz Chairman and CEO. “With unique solutions…

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Mercedes-Benz Vito Battery EV Starts Production in 2010

February 17, 2010
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Mercedes-Benz’ first phase production for its Vito battery is said to begin later this year. The company plans to build 100 units of the all-electric van in the first step, with already 20 customers receiving delivery.

The said customers are mainly “fleet operators and public institutions” trying to heave up to 900 kg in smoggy areas. The EV will be using a 32 kWh lithium-ion battery to provide a range of about 130 km or 81 miles. With power sent to the 90 kW electric motor, the vehicle gets to an electronically limited 80 km/h.  Speed is capped at such a low point as the van is meant for urban environments,…

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Honda Revises Ridgeline For 2011

February 15, 2010
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Honda confirms that they will be revising the 2009 Ridgeline. According to Vicki Poponi, Honda’s vice president of product planning, has revealed that Honda indeed has plans of introducing a fully revised version of its unibody pickup for the 2011 model year.

The Honda Ridgeline, which first debuted at the 2004 Detroit Auto Show and later launched as 2006 model year, is the automaker’s first venture into the truck segment. It was originally expected to sell 50,000 units annually, and early on even surpassed that figure. However, in recent years, its sales figures have declined with just 33,875 sold in 20008, and dropped lower with 16,464 in 2009.

After receiving its last…

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Dodge Introduces 2010 Limited Edition Challengers

February 15, 2010
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2010 is a special year for Dodge as they celebrate forty years of rich car heritage. And to celebrate the anniversary, Dodge has decided to produce two limited edition Challenger models which will be swathed in “Furious Fuchsia” paint.

Dodge has been known for their bold and vivid color choices—remember Plum Crazy and Go Mango?—so why not Furious Fuchsia. The limited edition color will be offered on both the Challenger R/T and the range-topping SRT8 model.

The Challenger R/T in Furious Fuchsia will feature dual throwback A-line body-side R/T stripes in either matte black or bright white, plus the 20-inch polished-aluminum heritage-edition wheels, a body-color rear spoiler, functional hood scoop and a…

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Porsche Unwraps 911 GT3 R Hybrid Race Car

February 15, 2010
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Porsche has developed a new hybrid version of their GT3 model. Built with two electric motors that will work in conjunction with the traditional 4.0 liter 480 horsepower V6, the Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show next month.

However, the vehicle will not be carrying the same hybrid concept such as the Toyota Prius does. Porsche engineers at their Weissech R&D center have instead decided to build a system that would have less potential for consumer applications, but instead help to give Porsche a boost in endurance racing. In particular, rumors suggest a full return to the 24 Hours of Le Mans by Porsche,…

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2011 VW Toureg Hybrid Version Unveiled

February 15, 2010
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An all-new, redesigned 2011 Toureg has been revealed by VW. Dubbed as the most technically innovative Volkswagen ever created, the Toureg had numerous modifications for a more improved efficiency and less emissions.

New design features for the 2011 Toureg include a new grille, a shapely profile and unique taillights. Other highlights list a standard 6.5 inch touchscreen, a 6-disc CD changer, an available GPS navigation system and a variety of wood trim.

Weighing 208 kilograms (459 pounds) less than its predecessor, the 2011 Touareg offers a choice of FSI, TDI, TSI, and Hybrid engines. Unfortunately, the V8 petrol, V10 TDI, and W12 engines are no longer offered. All the engines send power…

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