Stuttgart / Hamburg, 16th November 2009 – The new Mercedes-Benz Citaro FuelCELL-Hybrid made its first appearance in its future operating location of Hamburg today. The exceptional feature of this latest-generation fuel cell hybrid bus is its outstanding environmental compatibility. The bus emits absolutely no pollutants while in motion, and it’s also virtually silent, making it ideal for use in highly congested inner cities and metropolitan areas. Beginning next year, no less than ten of the 30 vehicles that Daimler Buses is producing for European transport operators are destined for the Hamburg transport authority. In addition, Hamburger Hochbahn will take delivery of 20 Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-CELL cars starting 2010, which are also equipped with a fuel cell drive system.

The Citaro FuelCELL-Hybrid is taking part in large-scale fleet trials which are due to take place in Hamburg and other European cities. This is a follow-up to the European Union’s successful CUTE and HyFLEET:CUTE projects, which were carried out from 2003 to 2009. In the HyFLEET:CUTE project, a total of 36 Mercedes-Benz Citaro buses equipped with the second-generation fuel cell drive system have performed outstandingly for 12 public transport agencies on three continents, among them Hamburger Hochbahn AG. In more than 140,000 hours of operation, during which they covered a total of more than 2.2 million kilometers (1.37 million miles,) these environmentally compatible Mercedes-Benz buses have impressively demonstrated their ability to function reliably under operating conditions.

Intelligent use of synergies in the passenger car and commercial vehicle sectors

“The new Citaro FuelCELL-Hybrid clearly demonstrates that electric mobility is already feasible today also with commercial vehicles”, says Hartmut Schick, head of Daimler Buses. “Besides, synergy potentials with our Mercedes-Benz passenger car development and Daimler research can be optimally used in particular with the fuel cell drive system.”

For the Citaro FuelCELL-Hybrid and the B-Class F-CELL, Mercedes-Benz successfully follows the cost-effective principle of using common parts. Components such as fuel cell stacks can be used as modules for both cars and commercial vehicles. For example: the new Citaro FuelCELL-Hybrid bus is powered by two fuel cell systems of the same type used in the B-Class F-CELL. Thanks to improved fuel cell components and hybridization with lithium-ion batteries, the Citaro FuelCELL-Hybrid consumes almost 50 percent less hydrogen compared to the preceding generation. The operating range of the fuel cell bus is around 250 kilometers (155 miles.) The fuel cell drive system is also practically maintenance-free, and has a long operating life.

The global initiative “Shaping Future Transportation” consolidates all the activities for sustainable mobility in the commercial vehicles sector at Daimler AG. The aim of this initiative is to use clean, efficient drive systems along with alternative fuels to realize zero-emission commercial vehicles for tomorrow’s transportation needs. “Shaping Future Transportation” means conserving resources and reducing emissions of all kinds, while ensuring the highest possible level of traffic safety. The Citaro FuelCELL-Hybrid, developed with the support of the European Union, plays a major role in this.

Prof. Kohler, Vice President e-drive & Future Mobility at Daimler AG: “Our intensive research and development conducted since 1994 has enabled us to bring the fuel cell to series production maturity. This enables us to entrust two fully practical electric vehicles with battery-electric and fuel cell drive systems to our customers – the smart fortwo electric drive and the B-Class F-CELL. The main objective now is to achieve a competitive cost level in comparison with conventionally powered vehicles and to create a full infrastructure of electric and hydrogen filling stations in cooperation with energy providers and the petroleum industry.”

Large-scale project using fuel cell vehicles

In this large-scale project for the use of fuel cell technology in Hamburg, Daimler is cooperating with the city council as well as with Shell, Total und Vattenfall Europe. The aim is to accelerate the creation of an emission-free vehicle fleet and establish an appropriate infrastructure of hydrogen filling stations. The project is part of the Clean Energy Partnership in Hamburg and Berlin. It is being supported by the federal German government as part of the National Innovation Program for hydrogen and fuel cell technology (NIP).

As part of this cooperation, four public filling stations with hydrogen pumps are to be constructed in Hamburg, enabling fuel cell vehicles to be refuelled within minutes. Thanks to the high hydrogen pressure of 700 bar (10,152 psi,) their operating range will then exceed 400 kilometers (249 miles.) This large operating range will make locally emission-free fuel cell vehicles fully suited to long-distance operations.

Citaro FuelCELL-Hybrid Bus and MB B-Class F-CELL Car Share Common Fuel Cell Technologies is a post from: CleanCarTalk

The 63rd Frankfurt International Motor Show (Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung) on September 16, 2009 saw the world launch of the REVA NXR (NeXt Reva), a new lithium-ion powered electric car from REVA Electric Car Company (REVA), which is scheduled to go into production early 2010. Also unveiled for the first time was REVA’s showcar, the REVA NXG (NeXt Generation), which is the company’s 2011 model.

REVA NXR is an M1 category three-door, four-seater hatchback family car that is suitable for urban driving. Top speed is 104 kph (65 mph) with a range of 160 kms (100 miles) per charge. If using the 90 minute fast charge (normal charging is eight hours), the REVA NXR offers an effective range of 320km a day. A fast charge for 15 minutes will provide a 40 km (25 mile) range.

The REVA NXR has keyless entry and operation, dual charge ports, intelligent digital display and a range of telematics. These include SMS alerts and commands such as distance-to-empty and time-to- full charge, remote cabin heat/cool, a monthly eco-drive check by email, service and insurance alerts, remote diagnostics and healing and REVive remote emergency charge. REVive is exclusive to REVA and acts like an invisible reserve fuel tank and addresses “range anxiety.” If a customer runs out of charge, they can telephone or SMS REVA’s customer support center. The advanced telematics will assess the car’s batteries remotely and activate a reserve amount of energy while protecting the battery life. Within minutes, a few extra miles of range are made available via the telematics and the driver can continue home or to a place where the NXR can be charged.

REVA NXR

Prices of the NXR will vary across Europe depending on taxes and subsidies. Customers will be offered the option of purchasing the car and batteries separately, or at an all-inclusive price. If bought separately, the benefit will be a lower purchase price, with the batteries paid for on a monthly basis – just like gasoline – as part of a monthly mobility fee, which could also include electricity, telematics and other services. Average prices in Europe, excluding batteries, will be around 14,995 euros (US$ 21,820) for the lithium-ion NXR Intercity version. The REVA NXR City, with lead acid batteries that has an 80 km (50 mile) range and a speed of 80 kph (50 mph) is also available from 9,995 euros (US$ 14,545) and a small monthly mobility fee.

Chetan Maini, deputy chairman and chief technology officer of REVA said during the Frankfurt show: “The NXR is a stylish city car packed full of user-friendly technology. You can order one from today and production will start early next year, so you can be one of the first to own the latest generation of electric cars.” Styled by Dilip Chhabria, the REVA NXG is a M1 category, two-door, two-seater car with a targa top. The REVA NXG has a range of 200km (125 miles) per charge and a top speed of 130 kph (80 miles per hour). It features the same telematics as the REVA NXR, including REVive and, using the fast charge, it has an effective range of 400 kms (250 miles) a day. This showcar, the REVA NXG, is REVA’s 2011 model and its first showing is at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) between Sep. 17 – 27, 2009. Pricing in Europe excluding batteries is from 23,000 euros (US$ 33,470) plus a monthly mobility fee.

REVA NXG

REVA is committed to mitigating climate change with the creation of ultra low carbon cars – it has only ever made EVs. Every REVA NXR and REVA NXG will be Born Green, meaning they will have one of the lowest dust-to-dirt carbon footprints of any car in mass production. The REVA NXR has been designed to use approximately 80% fewer parts than a conventional or hybrid car and will be assembled in REVA’s new ultra low-carbon assembly plant in Bangalore powered by solar energy and using natural light and ventilation and rainwater harvesting. Preparations have begun to create a ‘second life’ for the lithium batteries to optimize energy efficiency and reduce the cost to consumers via the creation of guaranteed residual values. From 2010 REVA will publish the carbon emissions for the assembly and lifetime operation of both these new cars and by this environmental disclosure, customers can make an informed buying decision.

REVA’s new website, www.revaglobal.com, launched the same time as the new cars and customers can register their interest in either vehicle on the online priority list today by paying a refundable 500 euro (US$ 727) fee. While Indian-made cars have sold in Europe and elsewhere, cars made in India have not targeted the U.S. market, and it is not expected that the REVA will be brought here either.

REVA NXR and REVA NXG All-Electric Cars Available For Europe Reservation is a post from: CleanCarTalk

Lithium Batteries

Chinese battery and electric automaker BYD Co. has set up a plant to mass produce lithium batteries for its electric cars in Huizhou, south China’s Guangdong Province, according to the China Securities Journal.

BYD, partly owned by Warren Buffet, has injected around five billion yuan (about 731.5 million U.S. dollars) into the operation of the Huizhou plant, which produces rechargeable batteries, automobile parts and handset components, the newspaper Xinhua reported.

Facilities for the production of batteries for the company’s electric cars are almost ready now, since construction began in September last year.

The Shenzhen-based company’s F3DM, China’s first plug-in hybrid, made its debut last December.

The Huizhou plant, the first eligible for mass production of lithium-ion batteries that are core technologies of BYD’s electric cars, is seen as a key step in the company’s electric car manufacturing. Source: xinhuanet.com

Hybrid Bus

In related news, on July 24, 2009, Shenzhen BYD Auto Company Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of BYD Company Limited, signed the Equity Transfer Agreement as transferee with Foshan Weishang to acquire the entire equity interests of Hunan Midea Coach for 60 million Yuan (US$ 8.8 million.)

Hunan Midea Coach, with its headquarters located in Hunan Environmental Protection Industrial Park, used to be a company engaged in the development, manufacture and sale of buses and coaches. After this acquisition, Shenzhen BYD Auto Company Limited will hold all the shares of Hunan Midea Coach and BYD Company Limited will be granted the permission by the government to manufacture buses and coaches.

BYD envisions entering into the new energy (hybrid and electric) bus field through this acquisition and plans to produce new energy buses in 2010. Furthermore, BYD will manufacture passenger vehicles in Hunan and plans to produce car models C3, C6, F2 and others.

This acquisition contributes to BYD’s new energy bus manufacturing and marketing and further enhances its automobile production capacity.

China’s BYD Aggressive on Lithium Battery and Hybrid Bus Production is a post from: CleanCarTalk

Elkhart, Indiana – Further accelerating the manufacturing and deployment of electric vehicles, batteries, and components here in America, and creating tens of thousands of new jobs, President Obama today announced 48 new advanced battery and electric drive projects that will receive $2.4 billion in funding under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. These projects, selected through a highly competitive process by the Department of Energy, will accelerate the development of U.S. manufacturing capacity for batteries and electric drive components as well as the deployment of electric drive vehicles, helping to establish American leadership in creating the next generation of advanced vehicles.

View listing of award recipients. View map showing award recipients.

“If we want to reduce our dependence on oil, put Americans back to work and reassert our manufacturing sector as one of the greatest in the world, we must produce the advanced, efficient vehicles of the future,” said President Obama.

“For our nation and our economy to recover, we must have a vision for what can be built here in the future – and then we need to invest in that vision,” said Vice President Biden. “That’s what we’re doing today and that’s what this Recovery Act is about.”

The announcement marks the single largest investment in advanced battery technology for hybrid and electric-drive vehicles ever made. Industry officials expect that this $2.4 billion investment, coupled with another $2.4 billion in cost share from the award winners, will result directly in the creation tens of thousands of manufacturing jobs in the U.S. battery and auto industries.

The new awards cover the following areas:

• $1.5 billion in grants to U.S. based manufacturers to produce batteries and their components and to expand battery recycling capacity;
• $500 million in grants to U.S. based manufacturers to produce electric drive components for vehicles, including electric motors, power electronics, and other drive train components; and
• $400 million in grants to purchase thousands of plug-in hybrid and all-electric vehicles for test demonstrations in several dozen locations; to deploy them and evaluate their performance; to install electric charging infrastructure; and to provide education and workforce training to support the transition to advanced electric transportation systems.

Today, President Obama visited Navistar International Corporation, in Elkhart, Ind., to make the announcement. Navistar will receive a $39 million grant to manufacture electric trucks which the company reports will ultimately will create or save hundreds of jobs when full scale manufacturing at the site commences. Overall, seven projects in Indiana will receive grants totaling more than $400 million. The applications from the companies and from one university engaged in this technology research anticipate that these awards will create or save thousands of jobs.

Vice President Joe Biden and four Members of the Cabinet, also fanned out across the country to discuss the historic announcement.

Vice President Biden was in Detroit to announce over $1 billion in grants to companies and universities based in Michigan. Reflecting the state’s leadership in clean energy manufacturing, Michigan companies and institutions are receiving the largest share of grant funding of any state. Two companies, A123 and Johnson Controls, will receive a total of approximately $550 million to establish a manufacturing base in the state for advanced batteries, and two others, Compact Power and Dow Kokam, will receive a total of over $300 million for manufacturing battery cells and materials. Large automakers based in Michigan, including GM, Chrysler, and Ford, will receive a total of more than $400 million to manufacture thousands of advanced hybrid and electric vehicles as well as batteries and electric drive components. And three educational institutions in Michigan, the University of Michigan, Wayne State University in Detroit, and Michigan Technological University in Houghton in the Upper Peninsula, will receive a total of more than $10 million for education and workforce training programs to train researchers, technicians and service providers, and to conduct consumer research to accelerate the transition towards advanced vehicles and batteries.

Energy Secretary Steven Chu, whose Department selected the 48 award winners, visited Celgard, in Charlotte, NC, to announce a $49 million grant for the company to expand its separator production capacity to serve the expected increased demand for lithium-ion batteries from manufacturing facilities in the U.S. Celgard will be expanding its manufacturing capacity in Charlotte, NC and nearby Aiken, SC, and the company expects the new separator production to come online in 2010. Celgard expects that approximately hundreds of jobs could be created, with the first of those jobs beginning as early as Fall 2009.

EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson was in St. Petersburg, FL, to announce a $95.5 million grant for Saft America, Inc. to construct a new plant in Jacksonville on the site of the former Cecil Field military base, to manufacture lithium-ion cells, modules and battery packs for military, industrial, and agricultural vehicles.

Deputy Secretary of the Department of Transportation John Porcari visited East Penn Manufacturing Co., in Lyon Station, Penn., to award the company a $32.5 million grant to increase production capacity for their valve regulated lead-acid batteries and the UltraBattery, a lead-acid battery combined with a carbon supercapacitor, for micro and mild hybrid applications. East Penn Manufacturing is a third-generation family business with over 63 years in battery manufacturing.

Commerce Secretary Gary Locke visited Kansas City, Missouri, to announce a $10 million grant for Smith Electric to build and deploy up to 100 electric vehicles, including vans, pickups, and their “Newton” brand medium duty trucks. In addition, Secretary Locke announced three other grants supporting manufacturing and educational programs in Missouri: a $30 million grant to Ford Motor Company supporting the manufacturing of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles in Kansas City and in Michigan; a $73 million grant to Chrysler, for the manufacturing of 220 plug-in hybrid and electric pickup trucks and minivans in St. Louis and in Michigan; and a $5 million grant to Missouri University of Science and Technology, in Rolla, Missouri, to fund educational and workforce training programs on advanced vehicles technologies.

President Obama Announces $2.4 Billion in Grants to Accelerate the Manufacturing and Deployment of the Next Generation of U.S. Batteries and Electric Vehicles is a post from: CleanCarTalk

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., NEC Corporation, and its subsidiary NEC TOKIN Corporation, just announced that their joint-venture company – Automotive Energy Supply Corporation (AESC) – has begun trial production of advanced lithium-ion batteries for a wide range of automotive applications at its Zama Operations Center.

With start-up capacity at 13,000 units/year, AESC will gradually ramp up production to 65,000 units/year by 2010.

Having twice the energy density of conventional nickel-hydride batteries, AESC’s lithium-ion batteries employ a compact module comprised of laminated-type cells, that contribute to more efficient packaging. The use of manganese-type electrode offers thermal stability and the laminated structure improves cooling, thus contributing to the battery’s safety performance. The battery has undergone extreme durability tests demonstrating average runs of more than 100,000 km(*) in field tests.

AESC will produce the lithium-ion batteries for Nissan’s electric vehicle to be introduced in the U.S. and Japan, as well as Nissan’s original hybrid vehicle, in 2010.

AESC intends to mass produce and market its batteries to any interested automaker, with an aim to become a global leader of advanced battery products and services.

Automotive Energy Supply Corporation (AESC) Begins Trial Production of Lithium-Ion Batteries is a post from: CleanCarTalk

Updated 08-14-09. YOKOHAMA, (Aug. 2, 2009) – Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today unveiled Nissan LEAF, the world’s first affordable, zero-emission car. Designed specifically for a lithium-ion battery-powered chassis, Nissan LEAF is a medium-size hatchback that comfortably seats five adults and has a range of more than 160km (100 miles) to satisfy real-world consumer requirements. LEAF stands for Leading Environmentally friendly Affordable Family car.

NISSAN LEAF

Slated for launch in late 2010 in Japan, the United States, and Europe, Nissan LEAF ushers in a new era of mobility – the zero-emission era. The car is the embodiment of Nissan’s radical, transformative vision for the future and the culmination of decades of investment and research.

“Nissan LEAF is a tremendous accomplishment – one in which all Nissan employees can take great pride,” said Nissan President and CEO Carlos Ghosn. “We have been working tirelessly to make this day a reality – the unveiling of a real-world car that has zero – not simply reduced – emissions. It’s the first step in what is sure to be an exciting journey – for people all over the world, for Nissan and for the industry.”

Key characteristics of the LEAF include:

• Zero-emission power train and platform
• Affordable pricing
• Distinctive design
• Real-world range autonomy – 160km (100 miles)
• Connected Mobility: Advanced intelligent transportation (IT) system

The “LEAF” name is a significant statement about the car itself. Just as leaves purify the air in nature, so Nissan LEAF purifies mobility by taking emissions out of the driving experience. Pricing details will be announced closer to start of sales in late 2010; however, the company expects the car to be competitively priced in the range of a well-equipped C-segment vehicle. Additionally, Nissan LEAF is expected to qualify for an array of significant local, regional and national tax breaks and incentives in markets around the world. As an added benefit, because the vehicle has less mechanical complexity than a traditional gasoline-powered car, Nissan LEAF is designed to be friendly to the wallet as well as to the environment.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNCOLsBEA9Q

ZERO-EMISSION MOBILITY

Nissan LEAF is powered by laminated compact lithium-ion batteries, which generate power output of over 90kW, while its electric motor delivers 80kW/280Nm. This ensures a highly responsive, fun-to-drive experience that is in keeping with what consumers have come to expect from traditional, gasoline-powered automobiles.

Unlike internal-combustion engine (ICE) equipped vehicles, Nissan LEAF’s power train has no tail pipe, and thus no emission of CO2 or other greenhouse gases. A combination of Nissan LEAF’s regenerative braking system and innovative lithium-ion battery packs enables the car to deliver a driving range of more than 160km (100 miles) on one full charge. (based on US LA4 mode, a typical urban driving cycle consist of a cold start phase, followed by a transient phase with many speed peaks which start from rest.)

Extensive consumer research demonstrates that this range satisfies the daily driving requirements of more than 70% of the world’s consumers who drive cars.

And, Nissan’s approach makes charging easy and convenient. Nissan LEAF can be charged up to 80% of its full capacity in just under 30 minutes with a quick charger. Charging at home through a 200V outlet is estimated to take approximately eight hours – ample time to enable an overnight refresh for consumer and car alike.

REAL-WORLD CAR

The engineers and designers behind Nissan LEAF worked to create a competitively priced real-world car that would enable Nissan to lead mobility into the zero-emission era. To ensure comfort, spaciousness and cargo capacity, Nissan LEAF employs a completely new chassis and body layout.

“Our car had to be the world’s first, medium-size, practical EV that motorists could afford and would want to use every day. And that’s what we’ve created. The styling will identify not only Nissan LEAF but also the owner as a participant in the new era of zero-emission mobility,” said Masato INOUE, Product Chief Designer.

DISTINCTIVE DESIGN

Even the smallest details can yield tremendous effect.

Nissan LEAF’s frontal styling is characterized by a sharp, upright V-shaped design featuring long, up-slanting light-emitting diode (LED) headlights that employ a blue internal reflective design that announces, “This car is special.” But the headlights do more than make a statement. They are also designed to cleverly split and redirect airflow away from the door mirrors, thus reducing wind noise and drag. And, the headlights provide yet one more benefit in that they consume just 10 percent of the electricity of conventional lamps, which helps Nissan LEAF to achieve its world-class range autonomy.

Through bright trim colors inside, Nissan LEAF creates a pleasing and stylish cabin environment. An environmentally friendly “blue earth” color theme originates from the Aqua Globe body color of Nissan LEAF’s introductory model. This theme is carried into the interior through blue dashboard highlights and instrument illumination.

CONNECTED MOBILITY IT SYSTEM

Nissan LEAF employs an exclusive advanced IT system. Connected to a global data center, the system can provide support, information, and entertainment for drivers 24 hours a day.

The dash-mounted monitor displays Nissan LEAF’s remaining power – or “reachable area” – in addition to showing a selection of nearby charging stations.

Another state-of-the-art feature is the ability to use mobile phones to turn on air-conditioning and set charging functions – even when Nissan LEAF is powered down. An on-board remote-controlled timer can also be pre-programmed to recharge batteries.

“The IT system is a critical advantage,” says Tooru ABE, Chief Product Specialist. “We wanted this vehicle to be a partner for the driver and an enhancement for the passengers. We also wanted this vehicle to help create a zero-emission community, and these IT features will help make that possible.”
HOLISTIC APPROACH TO ZERO-EMISSION MOBILITY AND ECO-FRIENDLY INNOVATION
Nissan LEAF is a critical first step in establishing the era of zero-emission mobility; however, Nissan recognizes that internal-combustion engine (ICE) technologies will play a vital role in global transportation for decades to come. Because of this, Nissan is implementing its zero-emission vision through a holistic approach, which provides consumers a comprehensive range of eco-friendly technologies from which to choose.

For some consumers, Nissan LEAF will be the perfect match, and the only car they will ever need. For others, Nissan LEAF will be a logical addition to the family fleet – the optimal choice for the daily commute, for example.

While zero-emission is the ultimate goal, the company is committed to ongoing innovation in eco-friendly technologies that increase efficiency and reduce emissions. As a result, Nissan offers a comprehensive suite of automotive technologies, including CVT, Idle Stop, HEV, Clean Diesel, and ongoing research and investment in FCV technology.

WORLDWIDE PARTNERS

Zero-emission mobility programs under the banner of the Renault-Nissan Alliance include partnerships with countries such as the UK and Portugal, local governments in the Japan and the USA, and other sectors, for a total of nearly 30 partnerships worldwide.

In these partnerships major efforts focus on three areas:

1. Development of a comprehensive charging infrastructure through public and private investment,
2. Incentives and subsidies from local, regional, and national governments, and
3. Public education on the individual and societal benefits of zero-emissions mobility.

In fact Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., NEC Corporation, and its subsidiary NEC TOKIN Corporation, just announced that their joint-venture company – Automotive Energy Supply Corporation (AESC) – has begun trial production of advanced lithium-ion batteries for a wide range of automotive applications at its Zama Operations Center. Read about AESC Lithium-Ion Batteries.

ZERO-EMISSION VEHICLE PRODUCTION

Nissan LEAF is the first in the company’s forthcoming line of EVs and is a major milestone in the realization of the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s vision for zero-emission mobility. The first of Nissan’s EV’s will be manufactured at Oppama, Japan, with additional capacity planned for Smyrna, Tennessee, USA. Meanwhile, lithium-ion batteries are being produced in Zama, Japan, with additional capacity planned for the USA, the UK and Portugal, and other sites for investment are under study around the world.

Official Nissan LEAF website.

ABOUT NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. is a global automotive company with vehicle sales of 3.411 million in 2008. Nissan is present in all major auto markets worldwide, selling a comprehensive range of cars, pickup trucks, SUVs, and light commerical vehicles.

NISSAN BLUE CITIZENSHIP

Nissan is committed to making a better world through its commitment to corporate social responsibility. This includes programs that focus on technological innovations that focus on people and care for the planet. Our vision for zero-emission mobility is an outgrowth of our CSR approach, which we call Blue Citizenship. Together, we are working with our Alliance partner, Renault, to make a better world through zero-emission mobility.

Nissan Unveils “LEAF” Electric Car – Forget the Pump and Go Straight to Zero Emission is a post from: CleanCarTalk

India is becoming one of the most significant contributors to the car manufacturing industry. India’s name in the car industry has been practically synonymous with amazing breakthroughs especially in terms of car sizes and prices. Though not a giant in the global car market, India carmakers sure find ways to rock the market with their unusual offers. One of these is the iconic Tata Nano, which is currently one of the world’s cheapest cars, as well as the hybrid vehicle Scorpio from Mahindra and Mahindra and the electric car Reva G-Wiz. The Indian car manufacturers may not be churning out cars by the minute, but the cars they do come out with seem to command attention, because they are very affordable.

India is finding itself in a similar situation as China, where a huge population of consumers (approaching 1.2 billion people as of mid 2009) is increasing its consumption, and economic growth begins to add more demands for energy use. India has taken serious steps to begin mass production of clean cars such as hybrid cars and electric cars in the near future. In recent years, the concerns regarding global warming have propelled the Indian automotive industry to go in search of eco-friendly alternatives to help reduce pollution.

Hybrid cars including those made in India are expected to hit the Indian highways very soon. Hybrid cars will run on the combined power of electricity and an engine of various conventional fuels. Many world leading car industry pioneers already turned to the development of hybrid cars, and India certainly followed suit.

Indian Automobile Manufacturing Leaders

The development seen by India in the clean car industry is progressing thanks to pioneering Indian car manufacturing leader Mahindra and Mahindra on the native front and Honda Siel Cars India, Limited (HSCI) on the foreign import front. Honda Siel Cars India is the joint venture between the Indian company Siel Limited, a Siddharth Shriram Group company, and the Japanese car giant, Honda. The partnership has already introduced the gasoline-electric Honda Civic Hybrid to become the first hybrid car in India. Even though this is an imported model, it is setting the stage for more public knowledge and acceptance, and eventual manufacturing of India’s own hybrids.

Other global car manufacturing leaders such as Ford as well as Japanese giant Toyota, however, are also observing the Indian car market for its response to hybrid cars, testing the potentials of the market. Toyota is a recognized leader when it comes to clean cars with the famous Toyota Prius. The release of import hybrids like the Prius in India was only delayed due to the lack of governmental benefits the hybrid car manufacturers will receive. The case is the same with Ford, which sees the potential of hybrid cars in the Indian market but seems to be waiting for the perfect opportunity. In any case, these cleaner cars are seen as premium cars, and the majority of Indians won’t be able to afford them any time soon.

Mahindra & Mahindra Limited

Mahindra Hybrid Scorpio side view. Photo courtesy www.motortrend.com.

Mahindra and Mahindra has come a long way and has already planned to introduce the Hybrid Scorpio, a diesel-electric hybrid version of their Scorpio SUV. It has also set up a center outside of Mumbai especially dedicated to advanced clean car discoveries such as diesel-hybrids. This, in itself, is a sign that the Indian car makers are dabbling in hybrid car technologies and concepts. However, as expected, the hybrid models will be sold at higher prices than the regular models, though they are designed to be more affordable in terms of usage.

The Hybrid Scorpio is quite promising, and is now held as the gauge as to how far India has come in the clean car market. The diesel-electric hybrid comes with four functions, a start-stop, an electric launch, a torque augmentation, and regenerative braking. It has a 2.2L 4-cylinder common rail diesel engine (CRDe) that provides 115 hp and 198 foot-pounds when it comes to torque. This is complemented by a 288-volt NiMH battery. The Scorpio’s powertrain even required the assistance of powertrain experts Robert Bosch, AVL, and FEV.

Hybrid Scorpios were also planned for a release to United States buyers by the year 2010. It does not take a car expert to tell you that this is one of the greatest challenge in the clean car industry since the U.S. has the highest emission standards in the world. For this reason, the plans for the United States release seem to be undergoing reconsideration.

The Indian Hybrid Car Market Challenge

Car manufacturers are also not launching full releases of their hybrid cars because of the high prices they need to charge for them. Indian hybrids are still priced quite high because they are not heavily supplied. Car manufacturers think that the clean car industry needs more time to grow, and with sufficient growth, the prices will be brought down. However, it seems that the Indian government is not pushing the clean car campaign far enough. Excise and custom taxes are also getting in the way of the hybrid cars finding their full growth in India.

This is in stark contrast to the full support that the government in China provides to its clean car industry, which includes tax benefits and subsidies to public transport fleets when clean cars are used. Infrastructure necessary for the maintenance and usage of clean cars such as clean fuels and electric charging stations are also part of the plan in China. It seems that the Indian consumers and carmakers alike can use a little push from the Indian government. Only then will India’s clean car industry be ready to welcome the hybrids with welcoming arms.

To be fair, affordability and infrastructure issues are still huge challenges for many Indian consumers. The recently available Tata Motors’ Tata Nano at between US$ 2,000 to US$ 2,500 price points will help bringing more indian citizens into car ownership. So the indian auto consumer base is still being established. Cleaner cars including the hybrid models will come eventually.

India and Hydrogen Vehicles

On the other hand, the Indian government seems to be paying more attention to hydrogen vehicles. In fact, the government has structured a plan including millions of vehicles that are all hydrogen-powered to be released by 2020. As of now, no hydrogen-powered cars have been fully introduced into the Indian market, but plans are underway. This move is quite surprising, though, since taking the full leap to hydrogen-powered cars without using hybrid cars as stepping stone seem more challenging than allowing hybrid cars the freedom to thrive in India. However, India has long held its position at the cutting edge of hydrogen energy technologies, which may be the reason why the hydrogen-powered cars are preferred over the hybrids.

Hydrogen will certain allow India to head off the expected worsening environmental issues. It’s a very aggressive plan and we’ll see how it plays out in the net few years.

India and Electric Cars

Aside from the hydrogen-powered cars, another alternative is the electric car. One of India’s best car makers now focus on the development of electric cars. Reva, an Indian carmaker, incorporated the Reva Electric Car Company back in 1994. It was set up as a joint venture with Maini Group of Bangalore and AEV LLC of California. Some years back, Reva created an eco-friendly battery electric vehicle called Reva or Reva G-Wiz that also offers good cost-efficiency aside from fuel-efficiency.

The REVAi, a light two-door sedan with lead-acid batteries, is quite small, with maximum speeds of 50 mph (80 km/h.) A newer model, the REVA L-ion, has lithium-ion batteries and a roof solar panel. It has a curb weight of just 1,250 lbs (565 kg,) charging time of 6 hours, and a nominal range of 75 miles (120 km.) It is known as one of the start up development toward the growth of the electric car industry. The original REVA (called REVA G-Wiz in the UK) does not offer much space, so it is not ideal for families. It also does not offer impressive mileage, but works quite well in light city driving.

The REVA car itself is a breakthrough. It is one of the most affordable cars to buy and to use, and even the United Kingdom’s PowerShift has recognized that it is the most energy-efficient vehicle in the industry. It has also passed extensive tests and high national standards successfully. The Reva G-Wiz is still out in the market and has been for some years now. It has not managed to wound its way to the United States, but has won acclaims from all over the UK, as well as from Germany, Switzerland, Nepal, Austria, Cyprus, Italy, Malta, Spain, Ireland, Japan, Sri Lanka, and Norway, among some others. The car has not yet received a thumbs up to enter the United States market and may never will.

Indian Car Ownership and Future Outlook

So far, the development of clean cars with hybrid and electric drive trains in India are quite limited to just some of the country’s car manufacturers. It is clear that in India, automobile ownership is still a struggling matter for many consumers. With only 0.7 to 0.8 % of Indian population owning a car, India has a long way to go, and the market for cleaner but more expensive cars are not currently sustainable.

India has a good technology and manufacturing base, which means that the country’s carmakers will continue to push their capabilities to manufacture their own clean cars. For now, India’s top priorities seem to evolve around affordability and environmentally-friendly considerations, that of putting affordable cars into the citizens’ hands, and planning for explosive growth in the future.

Cars Made in India: A Survey of Indian Clean Car Industry is a post from: CleanCarTalk

Maya 300 All-Electric Car. Photo courtesy Electrovaya’s Maya 300.

Ten Maya 300 electric cars will be made available for rent at the Maryland Science Center beginning August 2009. Here are some highlights of the Maryland Science Center Maya 300 electric cars renting program:

• This is the nation’s first electric car sharing and car rental program.
• The Maya 300 is all-electric and emission-free, and, according to the Center, are road tested, well appointed, and 5 door vehicles with seating for four passengers with room for cargo.
• From Electrovaya, the Maya 300 car can go up to 120 miles on one charge of its lithium-ion battery system, and can be recharged from a regular 110-volt outlet.
• The public can rent hourly or join the car share network as a member and reserve online.
• Rental rates are $14.50 an hour for the general public, $7.50 an hour for Altcar.org members.
• “The electricity cost to drive 50 miles in the Maya-300 is about $1.00 when charging during the day. However, if charging is done at off peak periods, the fuelling cost will go down even further,” according to Electrovaya.
• Between now through July 31, licensed drivers holding an admission ticket can take a free test drive daily.

The Maryland Science Center is a science museum located in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. The center was opened by the Maryland Academy of Sciences in 1976, with expansions in 1986 and 2004. The museum’s attractions include several permanent interactive exhibits, traveling exhibits, a planetarium, a demonstration stage, an observatory, a Segway station and an IMAX theater.

Electrovaya says it will make the cars available to the public in 2011, starting at $25,000 for a 60-mile range vehicle and $35,000 for the 120-mile range vehicle, according to the nytimes.com titled “All-Electric Car-Sharing Debuts in Baltimore.”

When will Enterprise, Hertz and other rental car companies take note?

Read more on Electrovaya’s Maya 300.
Read more on Altcar reservations.

Maryland Science Center to Become First in Nation to Rent Electric Cars Beginning August 2009 is a post from: CleanCarTalk