Green Cars, Hybrid Cars, Electric Cars and Clean Diesel News

Zero Motorcycles Signs First Eastern Asia Distributor

Sun, 19 May 2013 03:00:00 -0500

Zero Motorcycles has signed its first eastern Asia distributor, Yuen Ho Trading Company, Ltd. (YHT), based in Hong Kong.

In celebration of the occasion, Zero Motorcycles representatives were in Hong Kong presenting the Hong Kong government with 59 MY 2012 Zero S motorcycles as part of Zero's single largest fleet sale to date.

All 59 motorcycles are based on Zero's highly popular 2012 Zero S. The Zero S has an approximate range of 89 miles (143 miles) on a single charge with a top speed of 88 miles per hour (142 km/h).

The majority of the units will be provided to the Hong Kong Police Department for patrolling and special event purposes with a small allocation of the police motorcycles going to the Hong Kong Airport Police for traffic enforcement. The Police motorcycles have been up fitted with a series of components developed exclusively for traffic enforcement.

The Hong Kong Agricultural, Fisheries and Conservation Department will be using select motorcycles at country parks. The Transport Department will be using a selected number of motorcycles to conduct motorcycle rider examinations, and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department will be using their Zero S motorcycles for general transportation throughout Hong Kong supporting public parks.

All 59 motorcycles were purchased by the Hong Kong government through YHT. Zero Motorcycles participated in an open RFP process and was awarded the contract based on meeting criteria in regards to performance, reliability, after sales commitments and the low cost of operation of the Zero S motorcycle.

Mitsubishi Brings Two MiEV Evolution II Electric Cars in 2013 Pikes Peak

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:48:00 -0500

Mitsubishi will compete in the 2013 edition of the world-famous Pikes Peak Hill Climb with a pair of all-new MiEV Evolution II all-electric 4WD prototype racecars.

With the upgraded all-new MiEV Evolution II, MMC has set its sights on an outright victory in this legendary American race.

Held annually in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC) is an annual automobile and motorcycle hill climb to the 14,110-foot summit of Pikes Peak in Colorado, with entrants covering an elevation difference of almost 4,720 feet. First run in 1916, the hill climb celebrates its 91st running this year making it the second oldest U.S. motorsport event after the Indianapolis 500. Also known as "The Race to the Clouds," atmospheric pressure, temperature, weather and other conditions vary significantly between the start and finish, requiring optimum vehicle tuning for maximum performance.

MMC entered the Pikes Peak competition for the first time last year with the i-MiEV Evolution all-electric prototype, finishing second in the Electric Vehicle division. Participation in the event brought a wealth of data in areas such as vehicle speed and acceleration, lithium-ion drive battery consumption, electric motor temperature and other key information that will play an important role in future MMC electric vehicle development.

Driving the pair of all-new MiEV Evolution II racing prototypes will be two-time Dakar Rally champion and MMC vehicle development/test driver Hiroshi Masuoka and six-time PPIHC motorcycle champion Greg Tracy.

Hiroshi Masuoka scored a second-place finish in last year's PPIHC in the Electric Vehicle division piloting the i-MiEV Evolution racing prototype.

In addition to competing in the event with two electric vehicles, Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is proud to announce its role as the Presenting Sponsor of the 91st running of PPIHC.

All-New MiEV Evolution II
Like last year's i-MiEV Evolution, the MiEV Evolution II combines parts used in production vehicles with a high-capacity battery and high-output motors specially-designed by MMC's suppliers. Based on experience gained from last year's race, MMC has added a high-tech Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel drive system to the innovative four-motor (two-front/two-rear) drivetrain for increased handling and control in the MiEV Evolution II.

Together with a specially-designed body that provides reduced weight and improved aerodynamics, the MiEV Evolution II represents a significantly improved all-electric racing prototype.

2013 MiEV Evolution II Design Highlights
- Improved lower center of gravity due to redesigned lithium-ion battery placement
- Improved power output/performance from four-motor (two front/two rear) 4WD drivetrain with MMC's Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) integrated vehicle dynamics control system
- Active Yaw Control (AYC) to optimally control yaw for improved high-speed cornering
- Active Stability Control (ASC) for improved vehicle dynamics and control by automatically managing brake force to one or more wheels as well as motor output
- Redesigned Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

2013 MiEV Evolution II Specifications

Length x Width x Height (in.)	191.7 x 74.8 x 54.7
Occupants	1
Drivetrain	4WD
Motors (Made by Meidensha)	Configuration	4 (2 front, 2 rear)
Maximum Output (kW)	400 (100kW x 4 motors)
Battery (Made by LEJ)	Maximum Capacity (kWh)	50
Chassis	Specially-designed tube frame
Cowl	Carbon-fiber
Tires (made by Dunlop)	260/660-18

BYD Delivers E6 Electric Taxis for Service in Hong Kong

Fri, 17 May 2013 01:01:00 -0500

BYD is launching Hong Kong’s first all-electric taxi fleet with BYD e6 electric cross-over sedans.

BYD closely collaborated with Sime Darby Motors Group (Sime Darby), Hong Kong Taxi & Public Light Bus Association Limited, The Link Management Limited, CLP Power Hong Kong Limited and The Hong Kong Electric Company Limited to place into service the first batch of 45, BYD e6 Taxis.

BYD also announced that the e6 “Taxi version” and e6 “Premier” sedan were now officially on sale in Hong Kong.

In conjunction with the introduction of Hong Kong’s first pure electric taxi fleet and the e6 Premier sedans, BYD is setting up 47 chargers in 9 charging locations near car parks throughout Hong Kong as the first phase of deployment.

To address the anticipated growth of EV adoption, BYD plans to increase the number of charging facilities as adoption rolls out. These charging stations are now dispersed across Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, New Territories and Lantau Island. The selection of these locations was optimized with the taxi-driver, shift-change locations, while taking into consideration the distance between each station and forming a reasonable coverage network for convenience. In addition, it is only anticipated that a one-hour recharge would only be needed per shift (during a rest or lunch break).

Pure electric vehicles are becoming a major trend in the world, especially in densely populated cities like Hong Kong, where many vehicles are driven in a compact area day and night -- it is a pressing imperative that this public transportation becomes cleaner.

TAG Heuer Signs Major Global Partnership with Formula E Championship

Thu, 16 May 2013 03:45:00 -0500

TAG Heuer has signed on as Official Timekeeper, Official Watch and Chronograph and Founding Partner of the FIA Formula E Championship.

The agreement was signed at TAG Heuer’s headquarters in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland by Jean-Christophe Babin, President and CEO of TAG Heuer and Alejandro Agag, CEO of Formula E Holdings.

TAG Heuer Professional Timing, the timekeeping division of the renowned Swiss brand, will provide all live timings for the Championship’s inaugural season, which will take place on 10 street circuits worldwide including London, Rome, Los Angeles, Miami, Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires and Beijing. TAG Heuer will also be the exclusive watch brand to appear on track signage at all cities around the world.

“Teaming up with Formula E, the world’s top competition for electrically-powered racing cars represents the next logical step for TAG Heuer’s ongoing commitment to motor sports, as it draws on both our racing heritage and our commitment to sustainability,” said Jean-Christophe Babin.

"TAG Heuer has also been deeply involved in sustainable development for years, with for example solar roofs providing electricity in our Swiss facilities. We have an ongoing partnership with Leonardo DiCaprio and Green Cross international’s ecological initiatives. In 2010, we organised with Tesla the very first ever world tour in a 100% electric GT car and in 2011, we signed on with the Electric Masters Kart in Paris Bercy. So Formula E is a natural fit.”

The announcement also sees the unveiling of the first 3D images of the new Formula E car – the Spark-Renault SRT_01E. Capable of reaching 0-100kph in less than three seconds, the futuristic looking single-seater is currently under construction by Spark Racing Technology with Renault Technical Partnership. Leading Italian firm Dallara will produce the chassis while tyres will be supplied by the Championship’s Official Tyre Partner Michelin.

ANSI Announces Version 2 of EV Standardization Roadmap

Thu, 16 May 2013 04:21:00 -0500

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) announced the publication of the Standardization Roadmap for Electric Vehicles – Version 2.0.

Developed by the Institute’s Electric Vehicles Standards Panel (EVSP), the Standardization Roadmap for Electric Vehicles – Version 2.0 (PDF) tracks progress to implement recommendations made in the roadmap version 1.0 and identifies additional areas where there is a perceived need for standardization work to help facilitate the safe, mass deployment of electric vehicles and charging infrastructure in the United States.

Developed by representatives from more than 100 private- and public-sector organizations, the Standardization Roadmap aspires to maximize coordination among those developing standards for electric vehicles – primarily plug-in electric vehicles (both battery-powered all-electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids) – and the charging infrastructure needed to support them.

The publication considers issues that are integral to consumer adoption of EVs such as safety, performance, and interoperability. It describes relevant standards, codes, and regulations that already exist or that are in development, and gaps where new or revised standards would prove useful. Gaps are prioritized as needing to be addressed in the next two years (near-term), two to five years (mid-term), or more than five years (long-term). Standards developing organizations and others that may be able to take up the recommendations are noted. Conformance and training programs are also considered, including for those who provide support services for EVs and the infrastructure.

Highlights of the revision include:

- the closing of four partial gaps on power quality, DC charging levels, the safety of electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), and EV coupler safety, where work to publish a new standard or a revision to an existing standard was still in progress at the time the original roadmap was released last year and has now been completed;

- the identification of eight new gaps relating to standardization work in the following areas: electromagnetic compatibility issues related to EV charging; the functionality and measurement characteristics of EV sub-meters included those embedded in EVSE or EVs; coordination of EV sub-metering activities; cybersecurity and data privacy; telematics smart grid communications; electrical energy stranded in an inoperable rechargeable energy storage system; and workforce training related to charging station permitting and college and university programs;

- substantial modifications to fifteen of the gaps identified in the roadmap version 1.0;

- an indication of the status of progress on all outstanding gaps, including those where new standardization activity was initiated in response to roadmap version 1.0;

- significantly expanded text in a number of areas, in particular the infrastructure communications sections and appendix A on EV charging actors and communications; and,

- information on domestic and international coordination efforts since publication of the original roadmap.

Also updated is the ANSI EVSP Roadmap Standards Compendium, a searchable spreadsheet of standards that relate to the issues identified in the roadmap.

“Over the past year, ANSI has widely promoted the Standardization Roadmap for Electric Vehicles both domestically and internationally with a view toward achieving a coherent set of standards that will support the EV market for years to come,” said S. Joe Bhatia, ANSI president and CEO. “The further development of the roadmap during that time, culminating in this new version, demonstrates the strong commitment that exists among public- and private-sector stakeholders to see this effort succeed.”

Renault Signs As Technical Partner for Formula E Championship

Wed, 15 May 2013 09:53:00 -0500

Renault SAS has signed on as official Technical Partner of Spark Racing Technology to supply the Formula E cars to be entered in the FIA Formula E Championship.

The agreement was signed by Patrice Ratti, Renault Sport Technologies Managing Director and as a Renault SAS representative, Alejandro Agag, CEO of Formula E Holdings and Frédéric Vasseur, President of Spark Racing Technologies.

“Renault has demonstrated a unique commitment to zero-emission mobility, with a range of 4 cars available for sale. Renault in Europe, and the Renault-Nissan Alliance worldwide, have gained a position of EV sales leader. Formula E is an exciting opportunity to demonstrate the excellence and the reliability of our EV solutions” said Philippe Klein, Executive Vice President, Corporate Planning, Product Planning & Programs of Renault Group.

“We believe that motorsport is an efficient manner to promote the efficiency of new technologies, and we’re eager to use that single-seater in FIA Formula E championship to show our technology is the best.”

Renault’s ongoing involvement in motor racing’s series provides it with a unique technological laboratory, giving it an edge not only in the world of production vehicles but also on the race track. Renault’s technological excellence extends not only in F1 but also in all Z.E. range.

“Renault and Formula E both share the same commitment to innovative technology and sustainable motoring and we’re delighted to welcome them to the Championship as a Founding Partner,” said Alejandro Agag, CEO of Championship promoter Formula E Holdings.

“Not only is Renault one of the world’s leading car manufacturers, with a very successful motorsport pedigree, it is also a pioneer for electric vehicles being the first full-range car manufacturer to market zero-emission vehicles. To have a manufacturer of this calibre onboard is a great testament to the growing appeal of the FIA Formula E Championship.”

Spark Racing Technology sided toward this technological expertise to optimize the electric and electronic layout. The 42 Formula E single-seaters built for the beginning of the first season will be named “Spark-Renault”.

“Spark Racing Technology is extremely proud to have a new major quality player in motorsport, Renault” said Frédéric Vasseur, CEO of Spark Racing Technology.

“Their record and involvement in high level motorsport speaks for the brand. In addition, Renault has always been at the forefront of innovation and having their expertise and know-how is invaluable at such a key moment in the creation of the FIA Formula E World Championship. This partnership with Renault is a new corner stone in a building harmoniously taking shape at all levels.”

CarCharging and Nissan to Expand EV Quick Charger Network

Tue, 14 May 2013 08:34:00 -0500

Car Charging Group and Nissan are partnering to make EV charging more readily available and to expand consumer awareness of the electric car market.

CarCharging and Nissan will work together to determine the placement of the chargers, which is expected to be in key markets throughout the United States by the end of 2013.

Nissan's quick charger stations drastically reduce charging times, charging a fully depleted Nissan LEAF to 80 percent capacity in approximately 30 minutes. The initial goal for the initiative is to deploy the 48 Nissan-branded quick chargers primarily in California and on the East Coast.

As a part of the initiative, CarCharging will continue to educate consumers about how the EV charging infrastructure enhances the adoption and use of electric cars. This campaign will include tools to communicate the charging opportunities for drivers without private garages, such as residents of apartment and condo communities; the ease and benefits of public EV charging; and charging subscription offerings.

CarCharging is also developing a mobile application to provide real-time charging station location information with turn-by-turn directions and access capability for all CarCharging EV charging stations, including ChargePoint and Nissan's quick chargers. CarCharging will also offer its proprietary evCharge card at no cost to all LEAF drivers at participating Nissan dealerships.

The evCharge card allows drivers to initiate use and payment at all public charging stations on the ChargePoint Network, the largest national online network connecting EV drivers to EV charging stations.

Nissan Starts Field Testing e-NV200 Electric Van in Saitama City

Mon, 13 May 2013 03:03:00 -0500

Nissan has announced the start of field tests for the electric e-NV200 electric van in Saitama City (Saitama Prefecture) as part of E-KIZUNA Project.

Saitama City is promoting the adoption of electric vehicles by linking up with a variety of stakeholders through its E-KIZUNA project. Begun in 2009, the project promotes EVs as a way to address global warming and realize a sustainable low-carbon society.

Nissan, which signed on at the start of the project, is discussing and cooperating with the City in the areas of building the charging infrastructure, creating demand and developing incentives, and building community awareness. The initial field tests for the van are part of Nissan's commitment to these initiatives.

Saitama City will put the e-NV200 through its paces as it travels between Saitama City Hall and other municipal offices in the course of conducting regular business. The vehicle will be evaluated for environmental-friendliness, usability and economy. The City's ultimate goal is to implement sustainable transportation solutions by promoting the adoption of EVs.

Nissan has been carrying out field tests since 2011 for the 100% electric e-NV200 with many major corporations. Nissan has already road tested the e-NV200 with several other major companies, including AEON Retail Co., Ltd., Coca Cola, Tochigi Prefecture and FedEx Express in Japan, and British Gas and FedexExpress in Europe, while recently in Singapore, FedEx Express participated in tests as part of the company’s comprehensive global field testing program.

Results and feedback from field tests will be reflected in production model development. The 100% electric e-NV200 commercial vehicle follows the Nissan LEAF as the second EV to be sold globally. The e-NV200 establishes Nissan's leadership in the zero-emissions domain even more firmly, and at the same time contributes significantly toward breakthrough innovation for commercial vehicles.

The e-NV200 offers all of the spaciousness, versatility and practicality of its base vehicle, the multipurpose commercial van NV200. It delivers advanced performance that can only be achieved through the powertrain of the Nissan LEAF. The e-NV200 provides exceptionally smooth acceleration and quietness, driving characteristics that are unique to electric vehicles, while emitting no CO2 emissions at the point of use.

e-NV200 displays great potential for businesses, with its advanced telematics system and power-supply function in the cargo compartment. Also, the model's enviable running cost – a priority for most companies – will be highly attractive when competing in the commercial vehicle marketplace.

Ford Picks AeroVironment as Preferred Charger Station Supplier

Thu, 09 May 2013 15:36:00 -0500

AeroVironment announced its selection by Ford as the preferred installation partner and authorized charging station supplier for the Ford Focus Electric, C-MAX Energi and Fusion Energi plug-in electric vehicles.

Ford plug-in customers can now purchase a Ford-approved 240-volt charger and schedule a turnkey professional installation with a single telephone call to AeroVironment at 1 (888) 219-6747.

Soon customers will also have a web-based option for ordering their home charging package or purchasing their charging station.

AeroVironment brings extensive experience in plug-in electric vehicle charging solutions to Ford, with more than 11,000 charging stations deployed across North America.

In addition to charging hardware, the company also offers the convenience of turnkey, professional installation performed by its nationwide network of certified installers and supported by a three-year onsite parts and labor warranty. Many customers will have the opportunity to schedule a charging station installation in a single visit, without the need for a preliminary site consultation, depending on local regulations and the layout of their property.

AeroVironment’s 240-volt home charging package gives plug-in drivers more time and freedom. Ford’s plug-in hybrid models, C-MAX Energi and Fusion Energi, will recharge in 2.5 hours, giving drivers another 21 miles of all-electric driving.

The Focus Electric will be ready for 76 miles of all-electric driving in less than 4 hours. By comparison, charging the Focus Electric from a standard 120-volt wall outlet can require 18 to 20 hours for a full recharge.

West Midlands Police Receives 30 Nissan LEAFs

Fri, 10 May 2013 04:12:00 -0500

Nissan has delivered the largest UK order to date of its all-electric Nissan Leaf this week, after West Midlands Police (WMP) bought 30 of the electric vehicles for non-emergency trips.

Ten local policing units will run three “diary car” LEAFs each: the cars will be used to attend pre-arranged meetings with victims of crime and locals who have contacted the police force.

Diary cars average 40 to 45 miles per day making 124-mile range of the Nissan LEAF EVs perfectly suited for WMP’s day-to-day needs.

After a successful trial by WMP Fleet Services last summer, the decision was made to order 30 LEAFs and spread them evenly across each local policing unit. Feedback so far has been very positive, with police drivers praising the LEAF for its arresting looks and zero emissions when in use.

Dedicated charging points installed at each local policing unit will be used to charge the LEAFs, meaning officers won’t have trouble finding leads. With the bill for a full recharge being a mere £1.75, costs are kept under control too.

Bob Jones, Police and Crime Commissioner for West Midlands Police said: “We welcome the new LEAFs, which fit in perfectly with the operational requirements of diary cars and will significantly cut our fuel costs while also reducing our carbon footprint.”

Barry Beeston, Nissan corporate sales director said: “It’s fitting that the UK’s largest corporate LEAF deal to date is with such a prestigious institution in the West Midlands Police. The LEAF is becoming ever more popular as fleet managers see the benefits of 100% electric vehicles and massively reduced running costs. We’re delighted to hear the police are already enjoying driving the LEAFs and we hope they’re enjoying going after a new type of lead!”