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Tuesday 31 August 2010
Monday 30 August 2010
How Clean and Green are Electric Vehicles? It All Depends…
All electric vehicles (EVs) cause carbon emissions, unless all of the electric generation used to charge the batteries comes from non-fossil based sources such as wind, solar, hydro etc. For the foreseeable future we expect utilities to have an evolving resource portfolio. Maybe we’ll see 20 – 30 percent non-fossil generation mix by 2050. Who knows? But, even if we accelerate the widespread building of nuclear power plants, we’re going to have fossil (mostly coal) generation for a long time.
The eco-friendliness of EVs all depends on how and when the batteries are charged. The usual electric vehicle charging paradigm has the batteries being charged overnight at home or in a company’s fleet garage. In fact, a number of utilities are offering special rates for charging EVs on off-peak hours. That makes sense from a system cost standpoint, using the least expensive base-load generation.
But those incentives may encourage maximizing total EV-related carbon emissions, particularly in areas with growing solar and wind resource penetration. That’s because little or no solar generation is available during the proposed early-evening or night charging period. Also, in some areas, (such as the Altamont Pass wind farm in Northern California), higher wind speeds often coincide with peak load hours (due to hot inland convection currents pulling in the off-coast cooler air).
There’s another disadvantage to having the EV batteries connected to the system only on off-peak hours: the utility is prevented from taking advantage of EV battery storage for system support during periods of high system demand - a very attractive idea that’s been tossed around for years.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/278#278
Nissan to take orders for its Leaf electric car starting today
The automaker has been accepting reservations for a refundable fee of $99, and already has 18,000 pre-orders, according to John Schilling, Nissan spokesman – with a goal of reaching 20,000 by December. More than half of the reservations are from people in the five states where the Leaf will have its initial rollout.
The rollout will be staggered. The first vehicles will go to drivers in Arizona, Tennessee, California, Washington and Oregon, then in January to Texas and Hawaii. The car maker expects the Leaf to be available everywhere in the U.S. by the end of 2011.
Officially, Nissan declined to comment on the date orders will start, saying only that it “will happen soon,” but it’s being reported that a Washington dealership has posted on Mynissanleaf.com that tomorrow’s the big day.
Dealers are reportedly being instructed on how to convert those reservations into orders, with buyers able to choose options for their vehicles, one of which is a $700 fast-charge option that can recharge your car to 80% capacity in just 30 minutes.
The car is certainly in high demand: car rental heavyweight Hertz plans to offer the Leaf in the U.S. and Europe. The Leaf also has cool features like iPhone integration that will allow owners to check the car’s charging status remotely and adjust the temperature of the car before they hop in.
And with the Chevrolet Volt and Coda sedan set to be released by the end of the year, this may well be The Year of Electric Cars. The Leaf being the first of its kind has already taken some dings from other electric-vehicle makers, notably Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, who called Nissan’s battery technology comparatively “primitive.” And it’s not clear where the payoff is for consumers: Mitsubishi, which is releasing its own electric car at the end of 2011 – the miEV, told the BBC that electric cars could be more expensive to own than regular gas-based cars due to rapid depreciation and the high cost of replacing the battery once it dies.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/274#274
Vehicles may get letter grades for fuel efficiency
Vehicles would get an "A+" to "D" grade, and the median grade would be a "B-." No vehicle would get a failing grade. To get an "A," a vehicle would have to average at least 59 miles per gallon; to avoid a "D" a vehicle would have to average at least 14 mpg.
Fully electric vehicles, such as the Nissan Leaf, would get an "A+," while a plug-in hybrid would get an "A." Many hybrids like the Ford Fusion hybrid and Toyota Prius would get an "A-." The Ferrari 612 would be one of those gas-hungry high-performance vehicles that would get a "D."
No van would rate higher than a "C+" and most SUVs would get a "C+ or lower. Some versions of the Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan, Cadillac CTS, Lexus 570 and GMC Sierra 15 would all get a "C-."
The move could dissuade some consumers from buying the biggest, most polluting vehicles on the roads. The new design also will provide consumers with an estimate of the expected fuel cost savings over five years, compared to an average gasoline-powered vehicle of the same model year.
The second proposed label would retain the label's focus on miles per gallon and annual fuel costs, while updating the overall design and adding the required new comparison information on fuel economy and emissions.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/277#277
No van would rate higher than a "C+" and most SUVs would get a "C+ or lower. Some versions of the Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan, Cadillac CTS, Lexus 570 and GMC Sierra 15 would all get a "C-."
The move could dissuade some consumers from buying the biggest, most polluting vehicles on the roads. The new design also will provide consumers with an estimate of the expected fuel cost savings over five years, compared to an average gasoline-powered vehicle of the same model year.
The second proposed label would retain the label's focus on miles per gallon and annual fuel costs, while updating the overall design and adding the required new comparison information on fuel economy and emissions.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/277#277
61st Mahindra Great Escape concludes successfully in Chikmagalur
The 61st edition of the Mahindra Great Escape, one of India’s most loved off-roading adventures, concluded successfully in Chikmagalur with over 70 vehicles from the Mahindra stable manoeuvring the challenging route. Mahindra customers from Chikmagalur and its neighbouring areas, including Bangalore and Mangalore, participated in the rally. The Chikmagalur event received an overwhelming response from offroading enthusiasts, leaving everyone asking for more.
The rally was flagged off at 10:00 am from The Gateway Hotel, K.M. Road, Opposite Pavitravana
Jyothinagar Post, Chikmagalur. Iconic Mahindra SUVs such as the Scorpio, Bolero, Getaway, Legend, Major and Classic negotiated an arduous route of over 70 km. The convoy of vehicles negotiated rocky terrain, slush, canals and streams, passing through Vasant Cool Estate, Karemane, the paddy fields and forests of Hukkunda, Kodal and Aladagudde before returning to the hotel.
Jyothinagar Post, Chikmagalur. Iconic Mahindra SUVs such as the Scorpio, Bolero, Getaway, Legend, Major and Classic negotiated an arduous route of over 70 km. The convoy of vehicles negotiated rocky terrain, slush, canals and streams, passing through Vasant Cool Estate, Karemane, the paddy fields and forests of Hukkunda, Kodal and Aladagudde before returning to the hotel.
“We are delighted to be in Chikmagalur, for the 61st edition of the Mahindra Great Escape. The scenic yet challenging route was an off roader’s delight and gave Mahindra customers an idea of the tough and enduring nature of Mahindra vehicles. The adrenaline rush was palpable and the atmosphere was charged. Real time tweets and updates on various social networking sites by participants further added to the overall excitement of the rally. We plan to return with yet another fun-filled edition of the Great Escape, shortly,” said Mr. Vivek Nayer, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.
This edition of the Mahindra Great Escape was conducted in association with JK Tyres, Bosch and Servo Lubricants. The Mahindra Great Escape route was chalked out by the Mahindra team, while the ‘With You Hamesha’ service team ensured that participants could enjoy the rally unhindered.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/276#276
Your Car Would Have to Get 70 MPG to Be as Clean as an Electric Car, Study Finds
Are electric cars less catastrophic for our future climate than gasoline cars? Well, duh. But, here’s another study carefully poring over the evidence and showing it to be the case. At least for Europe.
A team of Empa scientists made a detailed life cycle assessment of the current state of the art lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries used in electric vehicles, and published it in the scientific journal “Environmental Science & Technology.”
Comparing not just the energy sources of gasoline-powered versus electric-powered cars, but also comparing an exhaustively detailed full life-cycle analysis of every step to make a battery versus a combustion engine: what did the researchers find?
The EV is the cleaner way to go. This is contrary to widely spread beliefs – based on the earlier lead-acid and nickel metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries – that batteries are dirty to manufacture. Also, the common misconception that running electric cars on coal power would be worse for the environment than running gasoline cars on gasoline.
Researchers at Empa’s “Technology and Society Laboratory” calculated the ecological footprints of electric cars fitted with Li-ion batteries, taking into account all possible relevant factors, from those associated with the production of individual parts all the way through to the scrapping of the vehicle and the disposal of the remains, including the operation of the vehicle during its lifetime.
Comparing not just the energy sources of gasoline-powered versus electric-powered cars, but also comparing an exhaustively detailed full life-cycle analysis of every step to make a battery versus a combustion engine: what did the researchers find?
The EV is the cleaner way to go. This is contrary to widely spread beliefs – based on the earlier lead-acid and nickel metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries – that batteries are dirty to manufacture. Also, the common misconception that running electric cars on coal power would be worse for the environment than running gasoline cars on gasoline.
Researchers at Empa’s “Technology and Society Laboratory” calculated the ecological footprints of electric cars fitted with Li-ion batteries, taking into account all possible relevant factors, from those associated with the production of individual parts all the way through to the scrapping of the vehicle and the disposal of the remains, including the operation of the vehicle during its lifetime.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/275#275
Auto in India
India is one of the few markets that saw growing passenger car sales during the recession of the past two years. In fact, in 2009-10, it recorded its highest volumes ever. A new KPMG report, The Indian Auto Industry: Evolving Dynamics, projects that the twin phenomena of low car penetration and rising incomes, when combined with increasing affordability of cars, will continue to drive India’s auto demand upwards. While quite a few new vehicles launched in the Indian market have been developed locally, vehicle affordability remains a significant concern. Although the price of an average motorcycle in India (about $900) is comparable to the average per capita income, the price of passenger cars have a long way to go. Although the entry level car (Nano) is priced at around $2,500, the passenger cars market could grow multi-fold if there is a breakthrough of another price level in the years to come.
In recent times, electric two-wheelers have ridden on the back of customer demand for vehicles with lower running costs, as well as some incentives to users in the form of little or no duties on electric vehicles (and parts) in areas such as New Delhi.
Read this news completely @ http://www.evhub.in/news/273#273
America based Fuel cells developer NEAH Power signs letter of intent with Bangalore based Eko Vehicles, to explore acquisition or merger plans
US based fuel cells developer; NEAH Power reported Friday that it had signed a letter of intent with Indian firm, Eko Vehicles, for a possible merger or acquisition. The Bangalore based Eko Vehicles is a manufacturer of two-wheeled electric vehicles and its agreement with the US based firm will see the two firms explore potential acquisition or merger plans.
The plan will see NEAH Power gain access to the Indian markets from which it is hopeful of increased demand for its fuel cells for a wide range of purposes, from military and industrial applications in India and Asia at large. The US firm is a manufacturer of fuel cells for the military and portable electronic gadgets. The letter of intent, according to NEAH Power, may as well result in its acquisition of the Bangalore based firm.
However, no details were given over the investment transaction. Even so, NEAH Power reiterated that if the merger or acquisition is successful, the resultant entity will be in a position to offer more prospects for growth and expansion of the firm’s product lines and global business. It is also understood that the two firms are as well carrying out due diligence studies in a bid to establish the viability and structure of the entity to be formed.
Chris D’Couto, president and chief executive officer, NEAH Power, said the firm plans to take the synergistic partnership between the two firms to new levels. He reiterated that, other than the fuel cells for electric wheelers, NEAH Power is hopeful of an increase in demand for its fuel cells in India with a presence.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/267#267
China to Invest Billions in Electric and Hybrid Cars
The Chinese government, determined to become a world leader in green technology, says it plans to invest billions of dollars over the next few years to develop electric and hybrid vehicles.
The government said a group of 16 big state-owned companies had already agreed to form an alliance to do research and development, and create standards for electric and hybrid vehicles.
The plan aims to put more than a million electric and hybrid vehicles on the road over the next few years in what is already the world’s biggest and fastest growing auto market.
The announcement, analysts say, is another example of how China seeks to marshal resources and tackle industries and new markets. The plan also underlines what China describes as its growing commitment to combating pollution and reducing carbon emissions.
According to some reports by state-run media, Beijing intends to invest nearly $15 billion in the venture, which if true would make it one of the world’s most ambitious attempts to develop more energy-efficient vehicles.
The bold plan was announced late Wednesday by one of China’s most powerful bodies: the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission. Sasac, as it is known, operates under China’s cabinet, or State Council. From Beijing, it oversees about 125 of China’s biggest state-owned companies.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/272#272
The plan aims to put more than a million electric and hybrid vehicles on the road over the next few years in what is already the world’s biggest and fastest growing auto market.
The announcement, analysts say, is another example of how China seeks to marshal resources and tackle industries and new markets. The plan also underlines what China describes as its growing commitment to combating pollution and reducing carbon emissions.
According to some reports by state-run media, Beijing intends to invest nearly $15 billion in the venture, which if true would make it one of the world’s most ambitious attempts to develop more energy-efficient vehicles.
The bold plan was announced late Wednesday by one of China’s most powerful bodies: the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission. Sasac, as it is known, operates under China’s cabinet, or State Council. From Beijing, it oversees about 125 of China’s biggest state-owned companies.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/272#272
GreenAngel's Rapid Electric Vehicles wins U.S. Army, Honeywell contract to power combat vehicle
Rapid Electric Vehicles (REV), a GreenAngel Energy Corp. investee company, won a contract for its bi-directional charging technology for micro-grids. Through a contract with Honeywell, REV will participate in the U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research Development Engineering Center (TARDEC) Micro-Grid project at Wheeler Air Base, Hawaii.
The project involves the design, building, and demonstration of a Micro-Grid with plug-in electric vehicles. It will help determine the technical readiness of Micro-Grids to accept power from various inputs while charging selected vehicles and provide output power to various applications in both alternating and direct current systems.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/271#271
The project involves the design, building, and demonstration of a Micro-Grid with plug-in electric vehicles. It will help determine the technical readiness of Micro-Grids to accept power from various inputs while charging selected vehicles and provide output power to various applications in both alternating and direct current systems.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/271#271
6 Chinese, American enterprises establish new-energy vehicle alliance
Only 10 days after the establishment of the electric vehicle alliance by China's central state-owned enterprises, the "Sustainable New-Energy International Alliance" was officially established by enterprises including IBM, U.S.-based Eaton's Electrical Group and Foton Motors on Aug. 28. This signifies that competition in the domestic new-energy vehicle sector will start to intensify.
The "Sustainable New-Energy International Alliance" currently has six members consisting of three American and three Chinese enterprises. Of them, IBM will specialize in developing a sustainable transportation network information system, integrating and managing an intelligent power grid and researching the sustainable transportation strategy and business mode.
Aecom will be responsible for the design and development of sustainable transportation infrastructure as well as project management. Eaton's will specialize in the business of the vehicle power system, charging stations connecting with the intelligent power grid, storage battery services and battery management.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/270#270
BYD backing away from worlds biggest car company dream
Late last year BYD announced it would be the world’s biggest car manufacturer by 2025, now it seems thatBYD are backing out of that goal in a bid to shore up meager sales in their home markets.
Two years ago, BYD Auto announced its ambition with certainty to become the No.1 automaker by sales in China in 2015 and 2025 over the world.
Under the pressure of a weakening auto market in China, the Warren Buffet-backed carmaker has become more and more low-key since August 4 when it slashed its full-year sales target in 2010 by 25 percent to 600,000 units.
The company’s Shenzhen-based spokesman Lin Mi told the Global Times Tuesday that they had been overconfident in the auto market this year and BYD’s ability to expand capacity. The BYD, whose founder says the name stands for Build Your Dreams, has decided to tap on the breaks to work more on its brand image.
Poor sales
In the past five years, BYD’s annual unit sales almost doubled every year, hitting in 2009 448,000 units, nearly tripling the sales over the previous year.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/269#269
Win with plug-in cars
Like most consumers, when I look to purchase a new gadget, I always ask: Is it worth the investment, can it stand up to my crazy schedule and lifestyle and will it actually improve my quality of life? Well, I've found something that is reliable, makes a positive impact on my life and will save me money - a plug-in electric car.
I've been driving a special plug-in hybrid Prius to work and all over the Bay Area. This Prius has an all-electric vehicle range of 13 miles and runs in normal hybrid mode beyond that. It's perfect because my commute to our San Jose headquarters is 13 miles, so I can go back and forth without using any gas. And though it's not a sports car, given its added battery weight, I've still been able to cruise across town averaging more than 70 miles per gallon, including some longer hauls to our office in Richmond. I charge it up fully at home in about three hours on a standard 110-volt outlet, and with my solar panels, it uses clean and economical power.
These cars will not only reduce our global warming pollution, they will also save owners thousands of dollars each year. Because the cost to charge an electric vehicle is comparable to 75 cents per gallon of gas, owners can save upwards of $2,000 each year or more, especially because gas prices are likely to climb. Also, federal tax credits ranging from $2,500 to $7,500 plus the state's $5,000 rebate on some cars really reduces the sticker price, making the cars considerably more affordable. Moreover, instead of continuing to pay high prices for oil and sending billions of dollars overseas to unfriendly countries, we can invest in our own economy and create jobs in leading-edge industries here at home.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/268#268
Saturday 28 August 2010
Bio-fuels, electric cars don't suit India ! Do you agree?
See what's happening in India regarding electric vehicles ?
Minister of state for environment and forests Jairam Ramesh came down against the use of bio-fuels in automobiles, saying food security concerns were the priority.
On the sidelines of an automobiles event in New Delhi, Ramesh said, ''We should take a cautious approach towards it (bio-fuel) as its production would require land and crops. It will be difficult as there are other needs like food security in the country.'' as in the news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/262#262
See what's happening in USA regarding electric vehicles ?
President Barak Obama has now got his dream car, the hybrid car Chevy Volt, produced only after intervention from government and labour union- owned Government Motors. as in the news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/266#266
We all know that government has to initiate incentives, programs to promote electric vehicles. But in India, government representatives are commenting as stated above which will be de-motivating more than 50 number of electric vehicle manufacturers (as published in http://www.evhub.in) in India. This type of comments are not recommended by responsible persons, when already hundreds of crores(10 millions) invested on it. In contrast, we can see how US government is involving to promote electric vehicles. The difference is attitude.
This news compilation is to expose the attitudes of governments towards the GREEN Technologies. EVHUB.IN as the common platform for electric vehicles, requests the Indian government to change the attitude towards this technologies and help this market to grow for the good of Mother Earth.
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President Obama's dream car: Government intervention on four wheels
President Barak Obama has now got his dream car, the hybrid car Chevy Volt, produced only after intervention from government and labour union- owned Government Motors.
In one way it reminds us of the German predecessor: the Volkswagen. A car not produced according to market demand, but for dubious ideological targets. However, the new ‘Voltswagen’, on sale for $41,000, costs, when all subsidies are accounted for, about $81,000. Not only is it worlds apart from the original Volkswagen, but its creation signifies a distorted economy: taxpayers funding a vehicle which can only lead to loss and a shortage. In addition, comes the government subsidy of $7,500 for purchasers of the car, a nice addition for ‘upscale urban liberals’, some of Obama's strongest supporters.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/266#266
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/266#266
Plug-In Cars: Not Just for Environmentalists Anymore
PHOTO CREDIT: ERIN MILNES / SOLAR HOME & BUSINESS JOURNAL
Speakers at the Plug-In 2010 conference agreed that today's electric-vehicle drivers are more interested in economy and national-security concerns, although the desire to help the environment still plays a part. Above, the Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle has an attentive audience.
Speakers at the Plug-In 2010 conference agreed that today's electric-vehicle drivers are more interested in economy and national-security concerns, although the desire to help the environment still plays a part. Above, the Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle has an attentive audience.
By Erin Milnes
Published Aug. 27, 2010
In stark contrast with the caricature of electric-car drivers as latte-swilling environmentalists, the automakers, utility representatives and electric car proponents at the recent Plug-in 2010 conference in San Jose, Calif., agreed that economics and energy security are the primary motivators for most consumer interest in electric vehicles, though environmental concerns play an important role.
Related stories:
Plug-In 2010
conference and
a second chance
for electric cars.
Plug-In 2010
conference and
a second chance
for electric cars.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/265#265
Obama’s electric car champion drives the drive
Washington
David Sandalow starts his 5-mile commute each day by unplugging an orange extension cord connecting his Toyota Prius hybrid to an outlet in his brick carport.His Prius, which was converted two years ago to allow him to recharge the battery from an electrical outlet, gets more than 80 miles per gallon and lets him drive 30 miles on a single charge. He fills up his car with gasoline about once every month or two, an oddity in a transportation sector long dominated by the internal combustion engine.
“If you’re thirsty, you can get a Diet Coke or orange juice or water. If you’re hungry you can get a hamburger or hot dog or a fruit plate. If you want to drive someplace, you only have one choice. You can use gasoline or petroleum-based products,” said Sandalow, the Energy Department’s assistant secretary for policy and international affairs. “That doesn’t seem strange to us ... but it’s odd. It’s strange that we are utterly dependent on this one fuel source for mobility.”
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/264#264
Could future electric vehicles be noisier?
For many consumers, electric vehicles (EVs) have the additional advantage of being much quieter than conventional-fuelled cars.
However, road safety campaigners have called for EVs to be louder in order to alert pedestrians of oncoming traffic.
This has led Toyota to bring in an Approaching Vehicle Audible System for its Prius hybrid.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/263#263
Friday 27 August 2010
Bio-fuels, electric cars don't suit India: Ramesh
Minister of state for environment and forests Jairam Ramesh came down against the use of bio-fuels in automobiles, saying food security concerns were the priority.
On the sidelines of an automobiles event in New Delhi, Ramesh said, ''We should take a cautious approach towards it (bio-fuel) as its production would require land and crops. It will be difficult as there are other needs like food security in the country.''
According to the minister, there are differences between India and other countries that produce bio-fuels, as the country is faced with enormous population and shortage of land. This precludes the mass production of bio-fuels, which are procured from crops, plants and trees, although such fuels are environment friendly and cleaner than fossil fuels.
''We are a country of a billion people adding ten million every year, and we have serious food security issues. Diverting land or crops for bio-fuels cannot be a sustainable option,'' the minister said.
His comments seem to contradict the union government's stand. The government has given a directive of blending of bio-fuel with diesel. In 2007, the government had mandated addition of 5 per cent of bio-fuel (ethanol) in diesel. An indicative target of 20 per cent blending of bio-fuels, both for bio-diesel and bio-ethanol, by 2017 has been proposed.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/262#262
Manhattan Parking Lots to Get EV Chargers
The expansion of the charging points for electric vehicles will soon reach several parking lots in Manhattan thanks to the Car Charging Group, an EV charging solutions provider which will begin installing such systems in parking lots.
The parking lots in question belong to Icon Parking Systems. Some 200 locations will benefit from the services provided by the Car Charging Group following the deal signed with Icon. The company that will install the chargers will also own, maintain and upgrade them, sharing the profits in an undisclosed manner with Icon.
The chargers to be installed at the locations are Level 2 (220-240 volts) stations sourced from Coulomb, but the possibility of Level 3 chargers making it into parking lots is also open to discussion.
There is no precise word yet on how much charging your EV in a Manhattan parking lot will cost, but Andrew Kinard, president of the Car Charging Group says that in some states, where the billing by the kilowatt-hour isn't allowed, it would cost $3 for one hour of charging.
The chargers to be installed at the locations are Level 2 (220-240 volts) stations sourced from Coulomb, but the possibility of Level 3 chargers making it into parking lots is also open to discussion.
There is no precise word yet on how much charging your EV in a Manhattan parking lot will cost, but Andrew Kinard, president of the Car Charging Group says that in some states, where the billing by the kilowatt-hour isn't allowed, it would cost $3 for one hour of charging.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/261#261
ODOT seeks money for electric vehicles, NASA runway strip
Plug-in electric cars in Oberlin and a new runway for NASA Plum Brook Station in Erie County are on Ohio’s wish list for new transportation projects.
Local and state officials hope to score federal money that would pay for the projects, which are among a dozen requests compiled this week by the Ohio Department of Transportation. The state transportation agency is seeking a share of $600 million available through the U.S. Department of Transportation program known as TIGER II, the second round grants from the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery program.
ODOT is seeking $11.29 million for the Plug-in Electric Vehicle program to deploy 136 plug-in electric cars and trucks and 864 charging stations around Ohio, including in Oberlin.
The program would make electric car trips available, while studying the effects of plug-in electric cars and trucks on the road. The program also would reduce emissions and fuel consumption while creating up to 191 jobs, including 156 jobs in vehicle manufacturing.
One partner in the project is CityWheels, a Cleveland-based car-sharing agency that lets members drive cars when needed. The agency also has cars available in Oberlin.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/260#260
Land-speed record set for battery-electric vehicles
A team of Ohio State University engineering students has set a world land-speed record for a battery-electric vehicle this week.
Professional driver Roger Schroer guided the university team’s Venturi Buckeye Bullet 2.5 car to an average speed of 307.7mph on 24 August 2010.
The lithium-ion battery-powered car eclipsed the previous 245mph world land-speed record for battery-electric vehicles, which was set in 1999 by White Lightning, driven by Pat Rummerfield.
The team anticipated making further tries at besting its time this week but decided to stop after trying to replace the vehicle’s broken clutch - too much torque from the motor ripped apart the half-inch steel teeth that connect the motor to the gearbox.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/259#259
Six Clean Energy Markets That Will Change Life as We Know It in the Next Five Years
Renewable energy is receiving a big push from the Obama Administration and from governments around the globe. Stimulus packages and government incentives for green technology have created jobs and established new industry, which in turn has sparked a brighter outlook on the world's economy. Going into 2011 and beyond, SBIEnergyhas identified six clean energies that will not only gain double-digit growth in the next five years, but will also alter the lifestyle we know today.
Electric Vehicles -- For years the marketing and advertising from government and car companies alike have boldly stated that electric cars will take over the car industry "real soon now." Now, electric vehicles, in the form of hybrids that combine both gas and electric motors, are finally beginning to do just that. The world populace is accepting hybrid electric vehicles, giving them equal weight as an option in their car purchases. Just how quickly this market will grow depends on several factors including gas prices, government incentives and vehicle price. According to market research from SBI Energy worldwide hybrid electric vehicle sales will double from just under 700,000 units sold in 2009 to 1.5 million passenger hybrid vehicles sold in 2014. Exponential HEV market growth will occur in smaller existing markets such as Europe, Australia and South Korea, and in new markets such as India and China where product sold will increase from 95,000 vehicles in 2010 to 440,000 vehicles in 2014, a phenomenal 47% compound annual growth rate.
For this news go to http://www.evhub.in/news/258#258
US-based Neah Power may acquire EKO Vehicles
US-based Neah Power Systems has announced that it has signed a letter of intent with Bangalore-based Eko Vehicles, a manufacturer of electric two wheelers to explore acquisition or merger plans. Neah Power Systems is into development of fuel cells for the military and portable electronic devices. No transaction details were disclosed.
According to a statement from Neah Power Systems, this combined venture is expected to provide additional opportunities for the expansion of product lines and global growth. Both companies are undertaking due diligence efforts to determine the viability and the structure of the combination.
Eko Vehicles, is a 3-decade-old company based in Bangalore with experience in non-polluting powered vehicle design, testing and manufacturing, industrial consulting and business management. The company is developing “Rapid Battery Charging Stations” at several locations in Bangalore and Mysore to enable customers to charge Eko electric vehicles in under 15 minutes. EKO is planning to introduce electric three-seater, three-wheeler and four-seater, omni-type four-wheelers with the same capabilities.
The company is understood to have mandated PriceWaterhouseCoopers to raise around Rs 25 crore as part of its expansion plans. According to investment bankers, Mahindra & Mahindra were also understood to have shown interest in having an alliance with Eko Vehicles.
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Thursday 26 August 2010
Car built by high school students achieves 444 mpg
This story will challenge your beliefs about what high school students, especially
those who live below the poverty line and face alcohol and drug problems, are
capable of. Autopia, a blog at Wired.com, reported on the story of a class
project at the Automotive Design Studio at the DaLeSalle
Education Center which serves as an alternative high school. The project was to
design and build an electric car that weighed less than 1500 pounds,
half the weight of 98% of most electric vehicles today.
The car the students had to work with was a damaged 2000 Lola
Champ Car which was purchased for $2500 and repaired by students who had
collision repair courses. One of the eye-catching traits of the car is its
transparent body, which is made of a material by 3M which is the same that is used
to shrink wrap windows. The student’s attached the film to the bottom wire of
the body and then stretched it using a heat gun across the rest of a wire frame
in a process that takes an hour. To date, the skin has shown no fatigue or
damage after trial runs.
Champ Car which was purchased for $2500 and repaired by students who had
collision repair courses. One of the eye-catching traits of the car is its
transparent body, which is made of a material by 3M which is the same that is used
to shrink wrap windows. The student’s attached the film to the bottom wire of
the body and then stretched it using a heat gun across the rest of a wire frame
in a process that takes an hour. To date, the skin has shown no fatigue or
damage after trial runs.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/256#256
Want to take an electric vehicle for a test drive? You are not alone.
When, exactly, did cars become considered consumer electronics? I suppose when the market for the gadgets inside them became one that that the likes of Microsoft cannot ignore. In any case, electric vehicles will be featured for the first time at the Consumer Electronics Association’s 2011 International CES. The rationale? CEA has just released a new survey indicating that 40 percent of American adult consumers would like to test-drive an electric vehicle.
According to the online study, called “Electric Vehicles: The Future of Driving,” about one-third of consumers are aware of hybrid vehicle options while only a quarter know much about electric vehicles. The three biggest perceived disadvantages of electric vehicles:
- Running out of battery power on the road
- Lack of charging stations or places to recharge
- Limited mileage potential
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/251#251
Chief Mentor: Reinventing the Wheel for India
The transportation sector in India is witnessing rapid
growth as India urbanizes and the economy continues to expand. Car sales for
July recorded a jump of 38% from a year earlier, rising to an all-time
high. Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai and Kolkata are all building up mass-transit
systems. The national capital has just opened a swanky new airport
terminal and the civil aviation industry has never been more competitive.
growth as India urbanizes and the economy continues to expand. Car sales for
July recorded a jump of 38% from a year earlier, rising to an all-time
high. Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai and Kolkata are all building up mass-transit
systems. The national capital has just opened a swanky new airport
terminal and the civil aviation industry has never been more competitive.
Consumers today have lots of choices in how they choose to
get around. This is a far cry from the earlier times when government carriers
dominated the skies and entry into the automotive industry was heavily
regulated and just a handful of players allowed to manufacture cars. With the
exception of railways, which continue to be a government monopoly, every sector
of transportation is witnessing a vibrancy never seen before in India.
get around. This is a far cry from the earlier times when government carriers
dominated the skies and entry into the automotive industry was heavily
regulated and just a handful of players allowed to manufacture cars. With the
exception of railways, which continue to be a government monopoly, every sector
of transportation is witnessing a vibrancy never seen before in India.
The upward shift in the standard and quality of
transportation in India is one of the most visible and tangible benefits
bestowed by economic growth. The problem - and investment opportunity - is that
we have only scratched the surface.
transportation in India is one of the most visible and tangible benefits
bestowed by economic growth. The problem - and investment opportunity - is that
we have only scratched the surface.
India currently has just one automotive company, Tata
Motors, in the global top 20, while China has three in the top 20 and ten in
the top 30. Interestingly, many of China’s large automotive firms are
home-grown, while international auto companies like Suzuki, Honda and Hyundai
dominate the Indian market.
Motors, in the global top 20, while China has three in the top 20 and ten in
the top 30. Interestingly, many of China’s large automotive firms are
home-grown, while international auto companies like Suzuki, Honda and Hyundai
dominate the Indian market.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/255#255
Toyota to sell 5mn hybrids by 2015
Toyota Motor Corp says it wants to nearly double sales of its gasoline-electric vehicles to reach cumulative sales of 5 million units by the middle of this decade.
The Japanese company, already the biggest player in the hybrid market, has a goal to sell one million hybrids annually in the first half of this decade, Reuters reported.
The world's largest automaker announced earlier this month it had sold more than 2.68 million hybrid vehicles globally since it launched the first model in 1997.
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Electric cars to be in the spotlight
After taking a hiatus last year because of the struggling economy, the Inland Empire Auto Show returns this weekend charged with electricity.
Appearances by electric vehicles soon to be on the market, including the long-touted hybrid Chevrolet Volt and fully electric Nissan Leaf, are planned. Toyota is sending two electric concept cars for display.
The emphasis on electric and other energy-efficient cars signals the advances manufacturers are making in the market, event organizers said.
"As green products become more available, the technology's changing, and that's what manufacturers will be showcasing," said Bob Brown, general manager of the Ontario Convention Center, where the event is set to take place Friday through Sunday.
Last year, organizers canceled the show after manufacturers suggested pushing it back, Brown said. The show is in its third year.
"The economy and state of the auto industry last year was really prohibitive for manufacturers to come in," Brown said.
At least 20 manufacturers are scheduled to display vehicles this year. Missing from the lineup is Honda.
The Volt, the plug-in hybrid electric car that General Motors has marketed as its commitment to green vehicles, is set to debut in California, five other states and Washington, D.C., in November. Sales for the Leaf, Nissan's first all-electric vehicle, which can run for 100 miles on pure electricity, will also begin in coming months.
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DF Cast: Getting Infrastructure for Electric Vehicles
With the Chevy Volt and Nissan Leaf being rolled out this fall across the country … and the more pricey Tesla Roadster already making its electric vehicle debut … the next concern is where to charge these electric vehicles. While most folks will have or will be getting the capability to do it at home, the lack of infrastructure for these new cars could be problematic.
In this edition of the Domestic Fuel Cast President of Car Charging Group Andy Kinard says his company will be able to provide these away-from-home chargers at a variety of locations, including shopping centers, parking garages and movie theaters. He explains his company’s system is put in for free at these types of locations, and then the revenues generated are shared. There’s even an application for smart phones that will help electric vehicle owners find the charging locations, generating traffic for that business that has a charger put in.Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/252#252
Wednesday 25 August 2010
NEAH and India's EKO Vehicles to Explore Merger and Acquisition Opportunities to Facilitate Global Growth
NEAH Power Systems, the company leading development in fuel cells for the military and portable electronic devices, announced today it has signed a letter of intent to explore acquisition or merger plans with EKO Vehicles of Bangalore, Private Limited, India's leading technology producer of two-wheeled electric vehicles. This combined venture is expected to provide additional opportunities for the
expansion of product lines and global growth. Both companies are undertaking due diligence efforts in order to determine the viability and the structure of the combination.
expansion of product lines and global growth. Both companies are undertaking due diligence efforts in order to determine the viability and the structure of the combination.
NEAH had previously announced a customer relationship with EKO to build fuel cells for EKO's electric scooter product line. The third generation of EKO product is currently being sold in Asia and will shortly be available in the United States and Europe. "We intend to take the synergistic relationship between Neah and EKO to new levels. In addition to the fuel cells for electric two wheelers, we see high demand for Neah's fuel cells for a variety of military and industrial applications in India and Asia, and this relationship could enable us to meet this demand. Our micro fuel cells may eventually replace batteries for most uses," said Dr. Chris D'Couto, President and CEO of Neah Power.
"We welcome NEAH's technology and we share the common goal of reducing the levels of air and noise pollution, provide cost effective power solutions for two wheeler and four wheeler applications, and enable global growth for our products," said Mr. Anil Ananthakrishna, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of EKOVEHICLES Pvt. Ltd.
Read this news completely @ http://www.evhub.in/news/245#245
U.S. Anticipates Major Drops in Costs of Solar Power, Electric Vehicles by 2015
The U.S. Department of Energy says that Recovery Act funding programs are on track to help cut the cost of solar electricity in half by 2015, and the cost of batteries for electric vehicles by 70 percent in the same time.
Energy generation from renewable sources is expected to double by 2015, along with manufacturing capacity for U.S. renewable energy industries, the government said.
The announcement Tuesday, led by Vice President Joseph Biden and Secretary of Energy Steven Chu, along with numerous private industry representatives, has the unintended effect of suggesting that solar and plug-in vehicles are too expensive now.
In fact, non-subsidized solar is already cost-competitive with peak retail electricity prices in some places, and with incentives may offer significant bargains to attentive consumers. The same will be true as plug-in vehicles are rolled out in 2011. What the report means is that if such cost reductions are achieved, solar and plug-in vehicles will not only be the cleanest but among the cheapest ways to obtain electricity and to travel just five years from now.
The report is called "The Recovery Act: Transforming the American Economy Through Innovation." It mentions that with more than $787 billion in funding, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is one of the largest investments in the U.S. economy in the nation’s history. More than $100 billion has been invested in programs aimed at innovations in technology and science, including alternative energy and transportation research and development.
The jury is still out, of course, on whether the goals will be achieved. But officials in the solar and electric vehicle industries are at least as confident as the government officials.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/246#246
Electric Vehicles for US TARDEC
With the rapid expansion of the electric vehicles engulfing most of today's world, it was only a matter of time until the military began contemplating the idea of operating environmentally friendly vehicles while going out to conquer the world.
Although this is not the first time the EV world merge with the military one (remember the hybrid tanks to be tested in the Army's new Ground Systems Power and Energy Laboratory), it is the first time a pure electric vehicle will begin testing in the service.
The vehicle is being manufactured by Canadian company Rapid Electric Vehicles (REV, a Honeywell Aerospace subcontractor) and is meant as an Ancillary Power Vehicles (APV). It is powered by a 125 kW permanent magnet AC motor paired with a gearbox drive system that delivers 300 Nm of torque. The REVs will be using Ford Escape and Ford F150 platforms.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/247#247
Although this is not the first time the EV world merge with the military one (remember the hybrid tanks to be tested in the Army's new Ground Systems Power and Energy Laboratory), it is the first time a pure electric vehicle will begin testing in the service.
The vehicle is being manufactured by Canadian company Rapid Electric Vehicles (REV, a Honeywell Aerospace subcontractor) and is meant as an Ancillary Power Vehicles (APV). It is powered by a 125 kW permanent magnet AC motor paired with a gearbox drive system that delivers 300 Nm of torque. The REVs will be using Ford Escape and Ford F150 platforms.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/247#247
Charging Guides for Electric Cars to Be Issued
China will issue three standards in October to regulate charging facilities for electric cars, the Shanghai Securities News reported Monday, citing an unnamed source from the State Electricity Regulatory Commission.
China will issue three standards in October to regulate charging facilities for electric cars, the Shanghai Securities News reported Monday, citing an unnamed source from the State Electricity Regulatory Commission.
Related readings: China's 1st electric car sold to individual Electric car purchase to be subsidized in 5 cities Shanghai to build 400 E-car charging stations Electric car recharging station opens in E ChinaFive more standards are being drafted and will be released before the year's end, the newspaper said.
Related readings: China's 1st electric car sold to individual Electric car purchase to be subsidized in 5 cities Shanghai to build 400 E-car charging stations Electric car recharging station opens in E ChinaFive more standards are being drafted and will be released before the year's end, the newspaper said.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/248#248
Toyota Prius available with Approaching Vehicle Audible System in Japan
In the face of concerns that new hybrid and electric vehicles are dangerously silent, Toyota Japan has added a noisy new option to its third-generation Prius range.
The Approaching Vehicle Audible System (AVAS) is an optional speaker setup in the front of the car that makes a humming sound equivalent to the volume of a standard petrol-powered vehicle.
Despite not yet being required by law in Japan, sales of AVAS will begin on August 30 for 12,600 yen ($170, excluding installation) for those who want their Prius to be heard.
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Ford, PGE team up on electric vehicles
Ford Motor Co. and Portland General Electric Co. are teaming up to share information about vehicle charging needs, as both companies prepare for higher numbers of electric cars in the coming years.
Ford said Tuesday it plans to bring five new electric vehicles to market over the next two years, including an electric version of the Transit Connect commercial van.
"To support the roll out and acceptance of these vehicles it is important to work with local utilities to make sure the necessary infrastructure and grid capability are ready," said Mike Tinskey, Ford manager of vehicle electrification and infrastructure, in a statement.
Ford and Portland General will share information about charging needs, with the goal of making sure the electrical grid can support the higher demand resulting from more electric cars on the road.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/250#250
Tuesday 24 August 2010
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Monday 23 August 2010
M&M inks SsangYong pact
Mumbai, Aug. 23: Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd (M&M) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to acquire a majority stake in troubled South Korean automobile maker SsangYong Motor Company.
SsangYong had picked the $7.1-billion Anand Mahindra-controlled M&M as the preferred bidder on August 12.
M&M president (automobile and farm sector) Pawan Goenka said, “We are committed to leveraging SsangYong’s strong competencies in R&D and technology by investing in a new SsangYong product portfolio which will help us to gain momentum in global markets.”
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China Aims to Leapfrog Gasoline Cars with Electric Models
The Chinese government announced last week that it plans to invest up to $14.8 billion (100 billion yuan) over the next ten years to stimulate the production of plug-in hybrid and all-electric cars. The country intends to have 5 million of these vehicles on the road by 2020. That kind of commitment makes the $5 billion that the U.S. government plans to spend in this direction appear as a paltry sum.
How will China disperse those funds and why is China moving so aggressively in the electric vehicle space?
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Can an electric car handle a Montreal winter?
BOUCHERVILLE - The upcoming three-year trial of 50 electric Mitsubishi cars in this South Shore city is “at the heart” of Hydro-Québec’s move toward the electrification of ground transport, a senior director of the utility said Monday.
Although Hydro-Québec is involved in tests with four different manufacturers of electric or hybrid vehicles, the $4.5-million Mitsubishi project is the largest test in Canada, said Pierre-Luc Desgagné, head of strategic planning and government affairs.
“We will have real-life experience with real people driving those cars, so the data provided will be very” significant, he said.
Desgagné made his remarks as the all-electric Mitsubishi i-MiEV made its debut in Boucherville. That emissions-free car, right off the assembly line in Japan, is on a 7,500-kilometre cross-Canada promotional tour.
The first five i-MiEV test cars are to arrive in Boucherville in December – in time to taste a real winter – followed by another 10 in the spring. The rest of the cars will follow in several batches.
Read this news @ http://www.evhub.in/news/242#242
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