FRANKLIN, Tenn. (Oct. 22, 2009) – Nissan North America announced that the Nissan LEAF zero-emission, all-electric car will make its North American debut in Los Angeles on Nov. 13. The Los Angeles showing will be the first time people in the United States will be able to see the five-passenger, five-door, gasoline-free car, which is embarking on a nationwide tour.

The Nissan LEAF Zero Emission Tour will make stops in 22 cities, in 11 states, the District of Columbia, and Vancouver, Canada, offering the opportunity for interested drivers, media, civic partners, businesses and university students to learn more about the Nissan LEAF and the benefits of zero-emission driving.

Look for the Nissan LEAF to make public appearances in the following areas during these times:

Southern California
Los Angeles: Nov. 13-17
Orange County: Nov. 18
San Diego: Nov. 19-21

Northern California
Berkeley/Walnut Creek: Nov. 23-24
San Francisco: Nov. 25-29
Santa Rosa: Dec. 1
Sacramento: Dec. 1
San Jose: Dec. 3-6

Pacific Northwest
Seattle: Dec. 8-12
Vancouver, Canada: Dec. 14-15
Portland, Ore.: Dec. 17-23

Southwest
Phoenix/Tucson: Dec. 30-Jan. 5
Las Vegas: Jan. 6

Midwest/East Coast
Detroit: Jan. 11-13
Knoxville/Chattanooga, Tenn.: Jan. 16
Middle Tennessee: Jan. 19-21
Washington, D.C.: Jan. 26-28
Raleigh, N.C.: Jan. 29
Orlando: Feb. 1-2

Texas
Houston: Feb. 5-6

New York
New York City: Feb. 9-14

Nissan is the only automaker committed to making all-electric vehicles available to the mass market on a global scale. Through the Nissan LEAF Zero Emission Tour, Nissan will be showcasing the electric vehicle and battery technology as well as the company’s zero-emission mobility objectives. Nissan already has partnered on the development of an electric-vehicle infrastructure through partnerships in the State of Tennessee, the State of Oregon, Sonoma County, San Diego, Phoenix, Tucson, Washington D.C., Seattle, Raleigh, and Vancouver. Additional partnerships will be announced in the near future.

In North America, Nissan’s operations include automotive design, 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 recyclin

Follow the tour, get updates on the final schedule and specific showings, and sign up for more information, at www.nissanusa.com/leaf-electric-car.

Photos courtesy Nissan-zeroemission.com.

Nissan LEAF Makes U.S. Appearance Beginning With Los Angeles Nov. 13 is a post from: CleanCarTalk

Related posts

• Nissan LEAF at San Diego Alternative Fuels Education Day 2009
• Nissan LEAF priced at $25K to $33K with 100 mile range. Would you buy one?
• Citaro FuelCELL-Hybrid Bus and MB B-Class F-CELL Car Share Common Fuel Cell Technologies
• OPEC Number One Enemy of Hybrid Cars and Electric Cars
• Large-Scale Production of the smart fortwo Electric Drive to Begin in 2012 in Hambach
• REVA NXR and REVA NXG All-Electric Cars Available For Europe Reservation
• Renault Electric Cars Showing at Frankfurt Auto Show
• Nissan Adds Noise to Make Silent Electric Cars Safer to Pedestrians
• Leading Fuel Cell Vehicle Manufacturers Signed Joint Agreement
• Battery Pack Balancing – The Key to Maintain Top Hybrid and Electric Car Performance

Daimler AG on October 8, 2009 announced that it selected the smart plant in Hambach, France, as the location for future series production of the smart fortwo electric drive. As of 2012, the highly innovative electric vehicle, equipped with the most modern lithium-ion-battery, will roll off the assembly line in large-scale production and will be offered to customers through the smart sales network. The announcement was made on the occasion of an official visit of French President Nicolas Sarkozy at the Hambach plant.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars: “The smart fortwo electric drive proves that emission-free driving in an urban environment is already feasible today. The initial series production will begin now with 1,000 vehicles, the first of which will be delivered to customers by the end of this year. As of 2012, the smart fortwo electric drive will then be part of the regular product program of the smart brand. With our decision to locate production here at the parent plant in Hambach, we are setting the course both for series production of electric vehicles and for the future of this highly innovative assembly plant.”

Daimler will invest a double-digit million euro amount at the Hambach plant for production of the next generation of the smart fortwo electric drive with lithium-ion-battery. During his visit, President Sarkozy announced that the French government will support the project through its PAT (Prime d’aménagement du territoire) program. Further support is to be extended by the Region Lorraine and the Département de la Moselle. Both these measures will comprise a total of 15 percent of the investment. The president was visiting the plant today to – amongst others – get a first-hand impression of environmentally compatible powertrains of the future.

In November 2009, the plant will start to produce a small series of about 1,000 units of the smart fortwo electric drive. In a first step, these vehicles will be provided to customers participating in various mobility projects in major cities in Europe and the U.S., in order to generate additional feedback from the use under everyday conditions.

As of 2012, the smart fortwo electric drive will be produced in significantly larger volumes as a regular part of the smart product portfolio and will be sold through the smart sales network. smart thus emphazises its pioneering role on the way to individual mobility with local zero-emissions in cities and urban areas.

First Milestones in 2007 and 2008

Since 2007, the smart brand has taken a pioneering role in the electrification of drive systems. Back then, smart started emission-free driving under tough everyday conditions of city traffic in London. 100 smart fortwo electric drives of the first generation have been in practical customer operation. The feedback from this project has been very positive and confirmed the high degree of maturity of this vehicle concept.

Just one year later, the company introduced the second generation 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.

About smart

Environmental friendliness and contemporary functionality have been defining features of the smart fortwo ever since it was launched more than ten years ago. Since then its innovative concept has combined sustainable, forward-looking technologies with individual urban mobility. With a length of just over two and a half meters (about 8.2 feet,) the extremely compact and fuel-efficient vehicle brings its occupants to their destination comfortably and safely. Its distintive design made smart an automotive lifestyle icon which shows that mobility, responsibility to the environment and joie de vivre are compatible with one another. The smart fortwo has established a class of its own.

Today, smart is present in 41 markets around the globe, with most recent market launches in China and Brazil. Germany, Italy, and the U.S. are key markets. For me, I may just skip waiting for the diesel smart arriving in the U.S. and wait for the electric smart instead.

Large-Scale Production of the smart fortwo Electric Drive to Begin in 2012 in Hambach is a post from: CleanCarTalk

Related posts

• car2go smart cars and City of Austin Team Up For On Demand Mobility
• Citaro FuelCELL-Hybrid Bus and MB B-Class F-CELL Car Share Common Fuel Cell Technologies
• Nissan LEAF Makes U.S. Appearance Beginning With Los Angeles Nov. 13
• Renault Electric Cars Showing at Frankfurt Auto Show
• Leading Fuel Cell Vehicle Manufacturers Signed Joint Agreement
• Second Generation smart fortwo Electric Drive Goes Into Series Production
• Nissan Unveils “LEAF” Electric Car – Forget the Pump and Go Straight to Zero Emission
• Nissan All-Electric Car Goes to Market in U.S. and Japan in 2010 on New Vehicle Platform
• smart fortwo cdi: 21 Percent More Power, Still the CO2 Champion
• Cash For Clunkers: smart fortwo Gets Maximum Incentive

Renault had some interesting and cool displays at the recent Frankfurt Auto Show. Not all will see the light of the market, but they are all part of Renault’s long term electric vehicle global strategy.

2011 will see Renault begin the marketing of affordable production electric vehicles. The Renault-Nissan Alliance is targeting to be the leader in the sale of mass market zero-emission vehicles. The four electric concept cars on show in Frankfurt provide a preview of Renault’s range of vehicles due to be released from 2011. They are

1. TWIZY Z.E. Concept: 100% ELECTRIC, 100% PRACTICAL AND 100% INNOVATIVE. Twizy Z.E. Concept is an innovative response to the challenge of urban mobility. With its four-wheel chassis, Twizy Z.E. Concept offers the driver and passenger – seated one behind the other – an all-electric means of transport which produces no CO2 emissions. Twizy Z.E. Concept is compact, nimble and practical – everything you need in city traffic. The wraparound bodywork creates a safe, reassuring cocoon which offers first class protection for both the driver and the passenger. Power comes from a 15kW electric motor which develops 70Nm of torque, making Twizy Z.E. Concept versatile and easy to drive. The acceleration performance of Twizy Z.E. Concept in urban and suburban traffic is comparable to that of a 125cc motorbike.A new type of urban vehicle close to Twizy Z.E. Concept, with a passenger seat behind the driver, will be available in the 2nd-half of 2012.
2. ZOE Z.E. Concept: ZERO EMISSIONS AND A PERFECTLY REASSURING RIDE. Zoe Z.E. Concept is evidence that an all-electric zero-emission vehicle can also boast smart, appealing looks. Zoe Z.E. Concept’s special roof optimizes the management of the climate control system to ensure extended range, while the ambience inside the cabin can be customized. Over and above its traditional role, the climate control system breaks new ground thanks to its hydrating, ‘detox’ and active scent functions which combine to enhance the travelling experience. Zoe Z.E. Concept is a compact, versatile daily driver which represents a new way of experiencing mobility thanks to a choice of three battery-charging techniques.A full-electric city car (close to Zoe Z.E. Concept) measuring less than four meters (13 feet) long and with five seats, ideal for commuting, will be available by mid 2012.
3. FLUENCE Z.E. Concept: AN ATTRACTIVE, SPACIOUS ELECTRIC FAMILY CAR. Fluence Z.E. Concept is a statement of Renault’s intention to produce a range of zero-emission vehicles that meet the needs of all types of customer. Fluence Z.E. Concept is a genuine family car which demonstrates that attractive styling, comfort and space can go hand in hand with respect for the environment. Fluence Z.E. Concept is an all-electric car with a range of 160km. The battery can be charged using one of three methods: a standard charge (between four and eight hours), a quick charge (20 minutes) or an immediate solution (three minutes) which takes the form of the exclusive ‘Quickdrop’ rapid battery exchange system. Fluence Z.E. Concept previews the forthcoming electric version of Fluence, and represents a solution to zero-emission motoring in the world of tomorrow.Fluence Z.E. will be launched first in Israel (1st semester 2011) and then in other countries.
4. KANGOO Z.E. Concept. Kangoo Z.E. Concept is based on Renault Kangoo and brings zero-emission mobility to the business road-user. Kangoo Z.E. Concept is powered by a 70kW electric motor which delivers 226Nm of torque, in conjunction with a lithium-ion battery. Energy consumption is minimized thanks not only to the careful attention that has been paid to its overall design but also to energy optimization solutions, without the necessary high standard of comfort suffering in any way. Kangoo Z.E. Concept’s many information functions make it a particularly user-friendly, efficient and interactive vehicle.A light commercial vehicle and designed for professionals, Kangoo Z.E. will be available the 1st semester of 2011.

Details on Renault’s all-electric zero-emission vehicles.
Read Renault’s electric vehicle global strategy.

Renault Electric Cars Showing at Frankfurt Auto Show is a post from: CleanCarTalk

Related posts

• Nissan LEAF at San Diego Alternative Fuels Education Day 2009
• Nissan LEAF priced at $25K to $33K with 100 mile range. Would you buy one?
• Citaro FuelCELL-Hybrid Bus and MB B-Class F-CELL Car Share Common Fuel Cell Technologies
• OPEC Number One Enemy of Hybrid Cars and Electric Cars
• Nissan LEAF Makes U.S. Appearance Beginning With Los Angeles Nov. 13
• Large-Scale Production of the smart fortwo Electric Drive to Begin in 2012 in Hambach
• REVA NXR and REVA NXG All-Electric Cars Available For Europe Reservation
• Nissan Adds Noise to Make Silent Electric Cars Safer to Pedestrians
• Leading Fuel Cell Vehicle Manufacturers Signed Joint Agreement
• Battery Pack Balancing – The Key to Maintain Top Hybrid and Electric Car Performance

On September 9, 2009, the leading vehicle manufacturers in fuel cell technology – Daimler AG, Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corporation/Opel, Honda Motor Co., Ltd., Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation, the alliance Renault SA and Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. and Toyota Motor Corporation – gave a joint statement to the development and market introduction of electric vehicles with fuel cells with a Letter of Understanding (LoU). These companies have built up remarkable know-how in fuel cell technology and thus, the signing marks a major step towards the serial production of such locally emission-free vehicles.

The signing automobile manufacturers strongly anticipate that from 2015 onwards a quite significant number of electric vehicles with fuel cell could be commercialized. This number is aimed at a few hundred thousand units over life cycle on a worldwide basis. As every vehicle manufacturer will implement its own specific production and commercial strategies as well as timelines, commercialization of electric vehicles with fuel cells may occur earlier than in the above-mentioned expected year.

Road traffic has been steadily increasing in recent years and vehicle ownership is expected to grow. As a result, there will be increased priority on low and zero emission vehicles and an increase in overall CO2 reduction goals. Over the last decade, governments, car manufacturers and the energy sector have given special attention to the introduction of hydrogen as a fuel for road transport as a priority option to reach several goals associated with emission management and CO2 reduction. Current demonstration projects involving fuel retail companies, utility providers and engineering companies have shown that the production, storage, transportation and deployment of efficient equipment for hydrogen as a fuel are technically feasible.

In order to ensure a successful market introduction of electric vehicles with fuel cells, a hydrogen infrastructure has to be built up with sufficient density. The network is required by 2015 and should be built-up from metropolitan areas via corridors into area-wide coverage. The signing manufacturers strongly support the idea of building-up a hydrogen infrastructure in Europe, with Germany as regional starting point and at the same time developing similar concepts for the market penetration of hydrogen infrastructure in other regions of the world, including the USA, Japan and Korea as further starting points.

It’s about time these companies pull together to develop fuel cell vehicle standards and infrastructure. The technology may be ready, but if each company continues on its own development path, commercialization will not happen. So this is encouraging news.

Leading Fuel Cell Vehicle Manufacturers Signed Joint Agreement is a post from: CleanCarTalk

Related posts

• Nissan LEAF at San Diego Alternative Fuels Education Day 2009
• Nissan LEAF priced at $25K to $33K with 100 mile range. Would you buy one?
• Citaro FuelCELL-Hybrid Bus and MB B-Class F-CELL Car Share Common Fuel Cell Technologies
• Nissan LEAF Makes U.S. Appearance Beginning With Los Angeles Nov. 13
• Large-Scale Production of the smart fortwo Electric Drive to Begin in 2012 in Hambach
• Texting While Driving – A Case of Drivers Not Thinking Straight
• Renault Electric Cars Showing at Frankfurt Auto Show
• BlueTec SCR Technology Tests Totaling 25 Million Miles
• Second Generation smart fortwo Electric Drive Goes Into Series Production
• Daimler Buses North America Receives Major Order for Over 300 Buses

From mid November 2009 the new smart fortwo electric drive will roll off the production line at the smart factory in Hambach, France. Unlike its predecessor, the electrically driven smart fortwo of the second generation is fitted with an innovative and highly efficient lithium-ion battery. It is housed in a space-saving position between the axles, which means that space is not compromised in any way in the intelligent two-seater vehicle. A 30 kW electric motor is fitted at the rear. This provides for good acceleration and high agility with 120 Newton meters or Nm (88.5 ft-lbs) of torque that are immediately available. The smart fortwo electric drive can be charged at any normal household socket. In Germany, a full battery charge costs approximately two euros and is sufficient for a range of around 135 kilometers (84 miles) – more than enough for city traffic. smart has made electric drive a practical alternative for zero-emission mobility in urban areas. The new smart fortwo electric drive is initially being leased to customers in Berlin and other cities in Europe and the USA who will subject the environmentally friendly trendsetter to intensive real-world testing in tough everyday conditions. From 2012 it will be available to anyone interested.

smart fortwo Electric Drive – Sustainability for Urban Mobility

Environmental friendliness and contemporary functionality have been defining features of the smart fortwo ever since it was launched more than ten years ago. Since then its innovative concept has combined sustainable, forward-looking technologies with individual urban mobility. With a length of just over two and a half meters (8.2 feet) the extremely compact vehicle can also park perpendicular to the flow of traffic. In addition, the space-saving and environmentally friendly two-seater currently has the lowest fleet consumption and brings its occupants to their destination comfortably and safely. Its design is fresh, youthful, modern and yet sophisticated and has made it an automotive lifestyle icon which shows that mobility, responsibility to the environment and joie de vivre are compatible with one another. The smart fortwo has established a class of its own.

smart fortwo Electric Drive Offers Innovative Driving Fun

The new smart fortwo electric drive from the popular brand that will roll off the production line from mid November 2009 is a logical continuation of a very ambitious goal: the production of a well-engineered, attractive city car that has no local exhaust gas emissions i.e. a zero emission vehicle. smart started emission-free driving in the tough everyday conditions of city traffic in 2007 in London. Since then 100 smart fortwo electric drives of the first generation have been in practical customer operation. The feedback from the UK capital has been very positive and confirms the high degree of maturity of this vehicle concept.

In 2008 smart presented the second generation smart fortwo electric drive, a more advanced electric drive with an innovative 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. Marc Langenbrinck, responsible for brand management at smart, says: “The second generation smart fortwo electric drive is based on a successful and accepted vehicle concept with character and inherent environmentally friendly characteristics. Its innovative electric battery drive makes it the perfect car for the city: it is agile, economical and climate-friendly. Motoring with zero local emissions in an urban environment has become a reality. This equates to driving fun with a clear conscience.”

Electric Drive Taken into Account in the Very First Concept

Electric drives have been part of the smart concept right from the start. The later integration of the components needed for electric drive was planned at a very early stage. For example, there is space for the battery in the underfloor between the axles where the tank is located in other smart models . The electric drive module does not limit the space available in the smart fortwo electric drive in any way; there is just as much interior and luggage compartment space as in a smart fortwo with a combustion engine.

Powerful Drive

A 30 kW magneto-electric motor is installed at the rear of the new smart fortwo electric drive and reacts immediately and without delay. Powerful torque of 120 Nm (88.5 ft-lbs) is immediately available. This results in a surprising amount of power when pulling away. The smart fortwo electric drive accelerates from 0 – 60 km/h (37 mph) in 6.5 seconds – just as quickly as a gasoline model. Its maximum speed has been deliberately limited to 100 km/h (62 mph,) a suitable speed for the city. Thanks to the power characteristic of the electric motor, the smart fortwo electric drive needs just one single fixed gear ratio. There is no need for any gear changing – a major advantage in dense city traffic. To reverse, the engine’s direction of rotation changes.

The second generation smart fortwo electric drive is powered by a lithium-ion battery from Tesla Motors Inc. with capacity of 14 kWh. It is simple to charge at any fused 220 Volt socket.

A fully charged battery is sufficient for up to 135 kilometers of driving fun (NEDC, New European Driving Cycle). This range is more than enough for city traffic as studies have shown that cars drive an average of 30 – 40 kilometers (19 – 25 miles) per day in towns and cities. For this, the vehicle only needs to be charged for three hours. Plugging the car in overnight will fully recharge the battery.

Electronics Optimize the Battery Charge Status and Power Consumption

Special electronics ensure that all is well with the battery. The electronics also monitor the charging process and control the capacity display. The vehicle’s power electronics supply the electrical system with electric current from the battery via a DC/DC converter. In addition, they also control the heating and air conditioning, for example, to minimize the strain on the battery. Clever drivers can air condition their smart fortwo electric drive in advance as long as their vehicle is being charged at home – the long-standing dream of stationary cooling becomes a reality! No other car offers this comfortable option.

The new second generation smart fortwo electric drive is based on the smart fortwo coupé/cabrio passion. As well as air conditioning with automatic temperature control all the equipment features of the popular passion equipment line are included. In addition to the battery indicator, an ammeter shows the consumption and the recuperated energy.

Very Low Costs

Based on German electricity prices it costs approximately two euros to drive the smart fortwo electric drive for 100 kilometers or 62 miles (even cheaper with off-peak electricity). This is less than the price of two liters of gasoline. Electric power is much cheaper in lots of countries. The maintenance costs are considerably lower than those of a smart with a combustion engine as the battery, motor and other components of the electric drive are maintenance-free.

In addition to the low running costs, there are further cost advantages in lots of countries and cities. For example, drivers of a smart fortwo electric drive are entitled to national subsidies, tax advantages or exemption from local toll charges such as the city center congestion charge in London.

smart fortwo Electric Drive in Major Cities in Europe and the USA

From the end of 2009 the smart fortwo electric drive will be delivered to selected leasing customers. Leases will be offered for a period of four years and 60,000 kilometers (37,300 miles.) The first vehicles are destined for the “e-mobility Berlin” project . Here, in cooperation with the energy provider RWE and with the support of the German government and the city of Berlin, Daimler is creating the conditions for running battery-driven vehicles with no local emissions. This includes setting up a network of electricity charging stations that enable intelligent communication between electric vehicles and the power network so that the battery can be charged when electricity is cheapest.

Further vehicles of the new generation smart fortwo electric drive will take to the roads of Hamburg, Paris, Rome, Milan, Pisa, Madrid and they will also be deployed in further projects in Europe. Some of the models will also go to cities in the USA.

There is already a very lively demand for the smart fortwo electric drive, and from 2012 it will be produced in large volumes as a normal part of the smart range and sold via the smart dealer network. This underlines the pioneering role of the car brand on the way to attractive individual mobility with zero local emissions in cities and urban population centers.

Second Generation smart fortwo Electric Drive Goes Into Series Production is a post from: CleanCarTalk

Related posts

• car2go smart cars and City of Austin Team Up For On Demand Mobility
• Citaro FuelCELL-Hybrid Bus and MB B-Class F-CELL Car Share Common Fuel Cell Technologies
• Nissan LEAF Makes U.S. Appearance Beginning With Los Angeles Nov. 13
• Large-Scale Production of the smart fortwo Electric Drive to Begin in 2012 in Hambach
• Renault Electric Cars Showing at Frankfurt Auto Show
• Leading Fuel Cell Vehicle Manufacturers Signed Joint Agreement
• Nissan Unveils “LEAF” Electric Car – Forget the Pump and Go Straight to Zero Emission
• Nissan All-Electric Car Goes to Market in U.S. and Japan in 2010 on New Vehicle Platform
• smart fortwo cdi: 21 Percent More Power, Still the CO2 Champion
• Cash For Clunkers: smart fortwo Gets Maximum Incentive

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.

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

Related posts

• Nissan LEAF at San Diego Alternative Fuels Education Day 2009
• Nissan LEAF priced at $25K to $33K with 100 mile range. Would you buy one?
• Citaro FuelCELL-Hybrid Bus and MB B-Class F-CELL Car Share Common Fuel Cell Technologies
• Nissan LEAF Makes U.S. Appearance Beginning With Los Angeles Nov. 13
• Large-Scale Production of the smart fortwo Electric Drive to Begin in 2012 in Hambach
• REVA NXR and REVA NXG All-Electric Cars Available For Europe Reservation
• Renault Electric Cars Showing at Frankfurt Auto Show
• Leading Fuel Cell Vehicle Manufacturers Signed Joint Agreement
• Second Generation smart fortwo Electric Drive Goes Into Series Production
• China’s BYD Aggressive on Lithium Battery and Hybrid Bus Production

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. on 7-26-09 previewed its electric vehicle (EV) platform on a Tiida-based prototype to demonstrate the superior driving pleasure of a pure zero-emission vehicle. It also showcased a sophisticated EV-IT system developed to support electric driving 24/7 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week).

Newly developed EV platform

The dedicated EV platform is comprised of a highly rigid body, high-performance motor, compact lithium-ion battery with high power output and energy capacity, delivering outstanding driving performance and safety, while offering a quiet and peaceful driving experience – a unique feature of a fully-electric drivetrain.

The in-house developed electric motor delivers 80kW/280Nm for high response and powerful acceleration. Nissan’s unique motor control also contributes to the vehicle’s seamless acceleration.

The 24kWh laminated compact lithium-ion battery pack is placed under the vehicle floor for more efficient packaging, without compromising cabin or cargo space. The battery layout also allows smooth underfloor air-flow which helps reduce drag. Additionally, the regenerative brake system employed to recharge the battery during deceleration and braking extends the driving range to more than 160km under a 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.)

High durability is achieved by employing an additional frame for the battery pack to significantly improve the rigidity of the platform. The combination of a high rigidity platform and electric powertrain minimizes vibration and external sounds to produce a quiet and pleasing drive.

EV-IT support function

Nissan has developed an sophisticated IT system for its zero-emission EVs, connecting the vehicle’s on-board transmitting unit to a global data center to support EV driving 24 hours 7 days a week. The global data center is a globally common platform to provide identical telematics services via mobile network by connecting internet and vehicle IT system.

Usability and convenience for EV driving is achieved via the following:

Maximum range display

• With a simple touch of a button, the navigation map shows the driving radius within range under the current state of charge.
• The system can calculate if the vehicle is within range of a pre-set destination.

Update on charging stations

• The navigation system points out the latest information on available charging stations within the current driving range.
• Detailed information for each charging station will also be displayed.

Timer function

• The timer function enables the air-conditioner or battery charging to begin at a specified time. The air-conditioner can be pre-set while the vehicle is plugged-in to cool the cabin to a desirable temperature before driving begins, without taxing the vehicle’s battery. Meanwhile, the battery charging can be set to start at a specified time at night to benefit from more favorable electricity rates.

EV remote control and monitoring function

• The driver can monitor the state-of-charge of the EV via an online website and a cellular phone. For example, when the battery is fully charged, a message alert is sent to the cellular phone. Additional remote control functions range from switching the charging system ON/OFF or setting the air-conditioner timer.

To be a leader in zero-emission mobility, Nissan is progressing its development for electric vehicles and the key components. The all-electric vehicle slated for launch in 2010 will have a unique design and body. Nissan plans to unveil the design of the production EV at its new Global Headquarters Opening in Yokohama on August 2nd. A Nissan Zero-emission Website (www.nissan-zeroemission.com) will also go live on Aug. 2nd.

Nissan has been addressing a wide range of actions under “Blue Citizenship” which represents the company’s desire to protect the blue planet and to be a corporate citizen that can live symbiotically with people and society. These efforts range from such global issues as the environmental protection to contribution to communities, promoting diversity and making personal mobility available to as many people as possible. Nissan continues promoting the development of zero-emission vehicles based on the “Blue Citizenship” spirit by introducing effective technologies, products and services into the market.

Nissan All-Electric Car Goes to Market in U.S. and Japan in 2010 on New Vehicle Platform is a post from: CleanCarTalk

Related posts

• Nissan LEAF at San Diego Alternative Fuels Education Day 2009
• Nissan LEAF priced at $25K to $33K with 100 mile range. Would you buy one?
• Citaro FuelCELL-Hybrid Bus and MB B-Class F-CELL Car Share Common Fuel Cell Technologies
• Nissan LEAF Makes U.S. Appearance Beginning With Los Angeles Nov. 13
• Large-Scale Production of the smart fortwo Electric Drive to Begin in 2012 in Hambach
• General Motors India and REVA Form Partnership to Transform Electric Car Market
• Renault Electric Cars Showing at Frankfurt Auto Show
• Leading Fuel Cell Vehicle Manufacturers Signed Joint Agreement
• Second Generation smart fortwo Electric Drive Goes Into Series Production
• One More Challenge For the Electric Car – Charging Station Permit and Installation

Editor’s note: This is the first of a series of articles peeking into clean car industries and car manufacturers of China, India, South Korea and Germany. Please send comments and suggestions using our Contact page or by leaving a comment at the end of this article.

China is becoming a force to reckon with in the auto industry, and I’m not talking about the huge potential number of car-buying consumers. I’m talking about China’s car manufacturing industry. And specifically clean, low-emission cars.

Recently, China has adopted new measures to boost its car industry, especially in the clean car arena, despite the global economic crisis. Chinese-made cars started to receive much attention in recent major auto shows. It took China some time to jump on the bandwagon, but now that it has set its goals, the way forward seems quite clear. And with China in on the game, it would only be a matter of time before China flexes all of its muscles to provide clean cars for the rest of the world, and in so doing, change the world’s transportation industry.

In 2006, China became the third largest automobile manufacturer in the world behind only to Japan and the United States. Currently it has the second largest automobile market in the world, following only behind the U.S. It will be only a matter of time before many million more Chinese consumers can afford cars of their own. The car population was last recorded at 19 million back in 2005. Now, the car industry has set its sights on developing not just cars, but environment-friendly cars. And when such promise can be harnessed to promote environmental safety, changes are sure to come.

Getting in the Game

China is one of the leading pollution emitters in the world, right alongside the United States. Fortunately, because of its sheer size, it also has the best potential to make a big difference fast when it comes to low-emission automobile development. China has a strong eco-friendly legislation system and has a growing automobile market with capital investments to spare for the development of low-emissions vehicles. China’s market also has a global reach, which means that if China starts coming out with eco-friendly vehicles, the vehicles are sure to be affordable, much like most other Chinese exports. Aside from that, the Chinese government is also quite willing to invest and commit resources to the clean car technology.

China has never been known to be a leader in quality car manufacturing. The quantity may have been there, but quality would be lacking. It was only in 2001 that China decided to prioritize its clean car research and development industry, particularly the creation of fuel cell cars, hybrid cars, and electric cars. This was already after the year 2000, when Japan already had thousands of electric cars. During the same year, the United States was setting long-term goals and Europe has invested a lot of money on fuel cell buses. But since China decided to take on this road, it had no problem catching up. Before long, the country’s clean car industry was creeping ahead the countries that sparked its motivation to create clean cars in the first place.

Developing Clean Vehicles

Clean cars come in different types, mostly in the form of electric cars, fuel cell cars, and hybrid cars. Electric cars run purely on battery power and are known for their zero emission rates though they are only ideal in specific driving circumstances. Fuel cell cars, on the other hand, runs on hydrogen fuel with byproduct being heat and water. Hybrid cars employ power from both a rechargeable battery pack and an engine (running on one of various standard fuels) to achieve very high mileage. All three types have the common element of using battery packs to power part or all of their propulsion needs.

It took China around five years to come up with functional models of all three types of cars. Despite China’s slow rise to the challenge, what it does, it does quite well. In fact, its fuel cell car was hailed as one of the most successful among all the fuel cell cars in the Michelin Challenge Bibendum 2006 Paris competition. The car, called the Chao Yue No. 3, brought home four gold awards in total. They have also started using hybrid cars for public transportation and electric cars for export.

The Chuangxin No. 1 fuel cell buses are now being used in seven Chinese cities, including Beijing, Tianjin, Hangzhou, Shenzhen, and Wuhan. The buses are noticeably very quiet and boast of high mileage at about 18.6 thousand miles (30 thousand kilometers) of service.

With these accomplishments China has come a long way to reach its goals, with the main long-term goal being that the cars should reduce emissions by 30% and save gas by 30%. Speeds are expected to be at around 100 miles per hour or mph (160 kilometers per hour or km/h) for cars and 50 mph (80 km/h) for buses.

Chao Yue No. 3 fuel cell car

Chuangxin No. 1 fuel cell bus

The development in the Chinese clean car industry were led by Dongfeng Electric Car Co., Chery Automobile Co., and a few other leading car manufacturers in China. Some of the development were led by Dr. Yang Yifu, a researcher who worked on the electric car technology in Japan for three years. Going back to his homeland, Dr. Yang Yifu found that the concept of hybrid cars was not well known in the country. In fact, a lot of people in the Chinese car industry were still uncertain about such new idea. Eventually, Chinese car companies got it and  began launching their own thrust into the eco-friendly automobile industry.

Chery Automobile

Not long after, the Chinese clean car industry was dubbed as the largest publicly funded development research in history of car manufacturing. Dongfeng brought hybrid buses to the market; Chery has done the same. According to Chery, their research and development is now focused on hybrid power. However, Chery’s hybrid-powered cars are different from other popular hybrid cars such as the Toyota Prius. The Toyota Prius is a high technology hybrid car that saves more gas but is very costly to produce. Chery, on the other hand, is developing mid-range and short-range hybrid cars to lower production costs, while maintaining a faster development cycle and shorter time to market. Chery has released the S18EV, a vehicle that runs on electric battery, promising 93 miles or 150 km range on one charge.

BYD Auto

Another industry leader is BYD Auto, a lithium-ion battery manufacturer and now a revolutionary car company based in Shenzhen, China. BYD , or “Build Your Dreams,” has started to showcase its E6 electric car at major auto shows around the world. The all-electric sedan is set for mass production and is highly promising. The E6 uses a revolutionary ferrous battery designed by its experienced battery engineers. The electric car can drive up to around 249 miles (400 km) on one full battery charge and can reach top speed of 100 mph (160 km/h). The aim, according to BYD executives, is to create an electric car that “people can use like a normal car.” BYD has also come out with the F3DM, yet another revolutionary plug-in hybrid vehicle.

The Government’s Involvement

By the year 2020, about 20% of all cars roaming China are expected to be fuel cell cars, all made in China. If this goal were reached, then China would surpass United States and Japanese car manufacturers in the clean car industry.

To help with such lofty goal, the Chinese government now offers rebates to boost the use of hybrid and electric cars, and public transport fleets are encouraged to buy clean vehicles. The government has also released subsidies reaching up to about $8,000 to all taxi fleets and public transport agencies in thirteen cities China with every low-emission vehicle purchased. Setting up of charging stations for hybrid plug-in cars all over Beijing, Tianjin, and Shanghai is also part of the plan. Finally consumers are being encouraged to buy clean cars, with promises of tax credits to those who cooperate in the move towards clean car use.

The Future

The most important advantage of hybrid and electric cars is their ability to recover energy during slowing or stopping, and store it in battery packs for later reuse. This is called regenerative braking or regen, and it is exactly what makes hybrid and electric cars efficient and attractive: high mpg for hybrid cars or long range per charge for all-electric vehicles. In most Chinese cities, driving is done in relatively low speeds with lots of stop-and-go urban traffic. This presents the perfect environment for these low-emission cars to be more readil accepted and adapted by Chinese drivers.

As successes, challenges and opportunities emerge, China will probably continue to maintain an ambitious course on the future direction of its car industry. Now already in planning are more advanced models of hybrid cars, hydrogen fuel cell cars and electric cars. As its industry tries to fulfill its own consumers’ future need for efficient and affordable cars, China will no doubt look to export its products elsewhere as well.

Other Asian countries are obvious target markets. Next stops: Europe and America.

Clean Cars Made in China: a Look at China’s Low-Emission Car Industry is a post from: CleanCarTalk

Related posts

• Nissan LEAF at San Diego Alternative Fuels Education Day 2009
• OPEC Number One Enemy of Hybrid Cars and Electric Cars
• Nissan LEAF Makes U.S. Appearance Beginning With Los Angeles Nov. 13
• Large-Scale Production of the smart fortwo Electric Drive to Begin in 2012 in Hambach
• REVA NXR and REVA NXG All-Electric Cars Available For Europe Reservation
• Renault Electric Cars Showing at Frankfurt Auto Show
• Nissan Adds Noise to Make Silent Electric Cars Safer to Pedestrians
• Leading Fuel Cell Vehicle Manufacturers Signed Joint Agreement
• Battery Pack Balancing – The Key to Maintain Top Hybrid and Electric Car Performance
• Second Generation smart fortwo Electric Drive Goes Into Series Production

Here’s a creative view on bailing out the U.S. automobile industry. Daniel Sperling and Deborah Gordon wrote in the Opinion section of The New York Times, Nov 16, 2008. Actually, it’s more than bailing out, it’s also about saving the industry with high gas prices, and kick-start a revolution.

Here are some key points:

• It’s the automakers’ own fault as they have themselves been flirting with financial ruin, by building irresponsible products and promoting irresponsible consumer behaviors with inefficient vehicles.
• They may deserve bankruptcy, but this would also possibly lead to collapse of the companies themselves, and mass unemployment.
• How about maintaining price floor of $3.50 per gallon of gasoline? If prices fall below this, impose a federal variable tax to bring price up to $3.50. If prices exceed this, then the tax disappears. Various additional provisions can be put in place to accommodate special-needs individuals and situations, etc.
• Monies raised by the tax would be used to provide loan guarantees to auto companies. This would also require auto makers to produce large numbers of affordable, safe, fuel-efficient, low- or non-polluting vehicles in the near term, plus additional requirements for longer term. Other additional details may include requiring them to stop fighting California’s clean car standards and other standards, and going as far as requiring them to produce zero- or near-zero emission cars as well.

The bottom line is: here’s an opportunity to jump-start the revolution of providing clean, responsible transportation for the public. Talk is cheap. The government must be take important actions. Sperling and Gordon present a good plan of action in my opinion.

Sure, We’ll Bail Out the U.S. Auto Industry, with this Little String is a post from: CleanCarTalk

Related posts

• Nissan LEAF at San Diego Alternative Fuels Education Day 2009
• OPEC Number One Enemy of Hybrid Cars and Electric Cars
• Nissan LEAF Makes U.S. Appearance Beginning With Los Angeles Nov. 13
• Large-Scale Production of the smart fortwo Electric Drive to Begin in 2012 in Hambach
• REVA NXR and REVA NXG All-Electric Cars Available For Europe Reservation
• Renault Electric Cars Showing at Frankfurt Auto Show
• Nissan Adds Noise to Make Silent Electric Cars Safer to Pedestrians
• Leading Fuel Cell Vehicle Manufacturers Signed Joint Agreement
• Battery Pack Balancing – The Key to Maintain Top Hybrid and Electric Car Performance
• Second Generation smart fortwo Electric Drive Goes Into Series Production