CO2 – Automobiles Review

2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid increases style, efficiency, and comfort

2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid1

Honda UK has today announced details of the revised and updated 2021MY CR-V Hybrid. Available in dealerships from the start of December the midsized SUV is now solely available as a hybrid; built around Honda’s innovative i-MMD system for unparalleled levels of efficiency and refinement. A number of revisions and styling tweaks, inside and out, refresh and align the CR-V more clearly with Honda’s other e:TECHNOLOGY products.

Priced from £30,180, all models of the 2021 CR-V gain blue-ringed H badges and e:HEV nomenclature to highlight their electrified credentials. Other revisions include a new silver finish applied to key visual elements on the centre console, doors cards and dashboard accents. Other updates include a new 18” alloy wheel design for all grades and privacy glass from SE models upwards. The range topping EX grade CR-V also gains wireless smartphone charging for improved seamless connectivity.

Mechanically, the CR-V retains Honda’s responsive and highly efficient advanced hybrid powertrain technology, which is built around two electric motors, an Atkinson-cycle petrol engine, and an innovative fixed-gear transmission.

On the WLTP combined cycle, this fuel-efficient hybrid system produces CO2 emissions of just 151g/km and fuel economy of 42.2mpg on front-wheel drive models, and 161g/km and 39.2mpg for all-wheel drive models.

Further under skin revisions include tweaks to the suspension that has been retuned for more linear handling responses and to provide increased low longitudinal rigidity for optimised ride compliance. The Dual pinion variable-ratio electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering has been refined for improved low-speed manoeuvrability.

Ensuring safety for all occupants, the CR-V’s platform design incorporates Honda’s exclusive next-generation ACE™ (Advanced Compatibility Engineering) body structure design technology. This employs a network of connected structural elements to distribute crash energy more evenly. In line with Honda’s ‘Safety for Everyone’ philosophy, the CR-V’s class-leading suite of passive and active safety systems continue to be available as standard for all variants. The Honda Sensing package is among the most comprehensive suites of active safety and driver-assistive technologies in the class, combining radar and camera information to assist the driver.

Rebecca Stead, Head of Automobile at Honda UK, commented: “The CR-V is such an iconic part of Honda’s range and history it is only fitting that the revised 2021 model is ready to take on a changing and challenging market place, equipped with the latest technologies and equipment to make consumer’s lives that little bit easier.”

January 8, 2021

Japanese Debut For LaFerrari

LaFerrari is the first hybrid supercar built at Maranello by the iconic Italian brand. The latest member of the limited special edition series has just made its first appearance in Japan last night. It was shown to a group of selected owners and enthusiasts of the brand in an exclusive event in the centre of Tokyo.

The hybrid technology which is utilized in this project is called HY-KERS and it delivers a combination of maximum performance and lower emissions. To be more precise, this Ferrari emits only 330 g/km of CO2 without the use of the electric system. When it is “On”, the full-electric version of LaFerrari achieves just 220 g/km of CO2 emissions on the combined cycle.

To go even further into details, the engine of this vehicle is a 6.3 liter V12 and it generates 800 hp (588 kW) at 9,250RPM an 700Nm (519 lb-ft) at 6,750RPM. Thanks to the HY-KERS, the overall power becomes 963 hp (708 kW) and 900 Nm (664 lb-ft). These numbers simply result in an effortless acceleration time of less than 3 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h.

In addition, the guests at the event enjoyed a special exhibition called “Supercar Chronicle” where supercars such as the 288 GTO, the F40, the F50 and the Enzo were presented. The LaFerrari was introduced in an elegant ceremony, which matched the exclusivity of a car of which only 499 examples will be built.

Source: Ferrari

June 3, 2013

Renault Teases F1-Influenced Electric Concept Vehicle

When the worlds of Formula 1 and electric vehicles meet, then according to the French brand Renault, something unique is born. And this is their new electric vehicleconcept, that has just been teased with the above image, giving insufficient information of what it will look like.

The model has been teased a day ahead its official reveal on 25th of April, where the company’s latest concept will be showcased at its Valladolid plant in Spain.

All that has been revealed so far is that this is a prototype vehicle, which will exude muscular styling and will deliver impressive performance credentials. It aims to provide a bridge between the world of Formula 1 and that of electric vehicles.

Source: Renault

April 24, 2013

Lexus Debuts GS 300h In China

Lexus GS 300h has just been unveiled at the 2013 Shanghai International Auto Show. The rear-wheel vehicle is equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine. The latter will make its official debut in the IS 300h later this year.

The power that the engine generates is estimated at 223 hp (164kW). The drivetrain also includes D-4S direct injection technology that adds power delivery and helps improve the fuel economy. The efficient petrol-electric unit is expected to deliver a fuel consumption figure as low as 6.0-litres per 100km while emitting 110 grams of CO2 per kilometre.

In this vehicle, Lexus also debuts the new full-colour head-up display (HUD). Here all the needed information is being displayed such as road speed, gear position, radio station, navigation and pre-collision safety system warnings on the windscreen. GS 300h also features new LED fog lamps.

Lexus GS 300h will have its launch in late 2013.

Lexus GS 300h Specifications:

Engine
Engine Type	2AR-FSE
Cylinders and arrangement	4 cylinders, in-line
Valve mechanism	16-valve DOHC with Dual VVT-i
Displacement	2494 cm3
Compression ratio	13.0:1
Fuel injection system	EFI, D-4S
Max. output	133kW/6000rpm (178hp/6000rpm)*
Max. torque	221Nm/4200-5400rpm*
Fuel consumption	Below 6.0L/100km
CO2 emissions	Below 110 g/km (Europe spec)
Motor generator
Motor type	Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (1KM)
Hybrid battery
Battery type	Nickel-Metal hydride
Nominal voltage	230.4V
Total combined output	164kW*
Measurements
Overall length	4850mm
Overall width	1840mm
Overall heights	1455mm
Wheelbase	2850mm
Seating capacity	5

Source: Lexus

April 22, 2013

Exclusive: Detroit Electric SP:01 Unveiled!

Detroit Electric is officially back on the market with the disclosure of their emissions-free Detroit Electric SP:01 limited-edition. The two-seat pure-electric sports car aims to set new standards in terms of performance and handling in the electric vehicle (EV) segment. Only 999 examples of this EV will be built at Detroit Electric’s new production facility in Wayne County, Michigan.

The electric model has an impressive 155 mph (249 km/h) top speed and is capable of covering the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in only 3.7 seconds. This literally makes the SP:01 the world’s fastest pure-electric production car.

The EV’s astonishing performance is due to its excellent power-to-weight ratio. The rear-wheel-drive SP:01 includes a compact, mid-mounted 201 hp (148 kW) electric motor that delivers 225 Nm (166 lb-ft) of torque. Adding to this are the lightweight, purpose-designed battery pack and all-new carbon-fibre bodywork. The result is that the total weight is only 2,354 lb.

The Detroit Electric model is based on a strong lightweight aluminium platform, and features carbon-fibre bodywork, specialised performance-tuned suspension, steering and brake systems. They contribute to car’s class-leading ride and handling characteristics.

The innovative powertrain generates an electromagnetic field around the rotor shaft, which then spins at varying speeds to drive the wheels. Moreover, the person behind the wheel can select one of four gear ratios in order to achieve maximum acceleration.

Furthermore, the battery has an impressive energy storage capacity of 37 kWh, which gives the SP:01 a range of almost 190 miles between recharges. Full charge is achieved in 4.3 hours.

Vehicle’s bespoke bodywork is constructed entirely of carbon fibre, and its angular lines and muscular stance gives it bold, imposing design while at the same time they also optimize the aerodynamic efficiency. The one-piece front panel for instance includes sharply contoured bonnet and angular front fenders with imposing air-intakes.

At the rear, the compact rear light cluster resembles those of high-performance American sports cars of the past. There can also be seen integrated side cooling ducts. In addition, a transparent inspection window displays the vehicle’s impressive battery technology.

What is more, the interior of the vehicle combines combines luxurious refinement with advanced technology. Here are to be found carbon-fibre and specially selected leather finishes. The cabin of the SP:01 includes innovative technologies as well. The infotainment system of the car is named “SAMI” which stands for Smartphone Application Managed Infotainment system.

The latter provides access to functions such as music player, satellite navigation, interior lighting adjust and vehicle systems status. SAMI can also be utilized as a remote control unit which helps the owner locating the vehicle, turning the climate control system or checking the charge status.

An all-disc braking system, coupled with ABS (anti-lock braking) and ESP (Electronic Stability Control) comes here as a standard. What is more exceptional however is the Regenerative Braking technology that sets the car apart, underpinning superb stopping performance while ensuring greater energy efficiency.

Detroit Electric SP:01 will have a starting price of $135 000 USD.

Source: Detroit Electric

April 5, 2013

The Rebirth Of Detroit Electric [TEASER]

Detroit Electric has been known for a long time. However, its absence on the automotive market counts over 70 years. Now, the innovative electric car manufacturer has returned with the creation and a range of exciting 100% electric vehicles for the mass market.

The rebirth of the original electric car brand is marked by a new pure electric sports car, which is going to have a production start in August. The dedicated production facility will have an annual capacity of 2 500 sports cars. The goal of the brand is to create over 180 sales and manufacturing-related jobs over the next year.

The first model that is going to be produced and that is currently teased has been in research and development for five years. It is going to carry the renowned Detroit Electric logo and will be a limited-edition two-seat sports car. Thanks to the image we can conclude that it will have a bold styling, and in addition the manufacturer promises an outstanding performance, exhilarating handling characteristics and impressive range.

What is more, the sports car will be launched early next month in Detroit. On the other hand its first public appearance will happen at the Shanghai Motor Show on 20th of April. Of course, all of the needed details will be disclosed there.

Moreover, the model is planned to go on sale by the end of August this year and will spearhead a diverse family of all-electric production cars, including two other high-performance models that will enter production by end of 2014.

By going back in history, we can state that Detroit is possibly the “home” of electric cars. Early in the last century the electric vehicle industry was flourishing in Detroit. There was of course, the Detroit Electric company which back than offered and sold the innovative electric vehicles.

The brand was a market leader ad by 1912 there were numerous American electric vehicle makers that made around 13 000 cars per year. As a matter of fact, this is the production world record for the twentieth century.

Detroit Electric was revived in 2008 by Albert Lam, who is the former Group CEO of the Lotus Engineering Group and Executive Director of Lotus Cars of England. He had the aim to create and offer to the general public an electric vehicle that seamlessly integrates refined aesthetics, innovative technology and superior handling and performance.

Just months ahead of the realization of this dream, the sports car will allow Detroit Electric to demonstrate to the world its ability to build an exciting and innovative product. The same strategy is promised to be seen in its future sedans, which are going to deliver exceptional fun of driving and performance.

Source: Detroit Electric

March 20, 2013

Launch Of The 1-litre Fuel Economy Volkswagen XL1

Volkswagen XL1 is releasing the most fuel efficient production car in its range of vehicles, which manifests into reality the 0.9 litre combined fuel consumption vision. This remarkable efficiency is due to its plug-in hybrid system.

This two-seater Volkswagen can also cover a distance of up to 50 km in all-electric mode and therefore delivers zero local emissions. The model is rebirth of a concept study and includes pure sports car design attributes such as low weight (795 kg), perfect aerodynamics (Cd 0.189) and a low centre of gravity (1,153 mm high).

This gives the XL1 the ability to run on the road at a constant speed of 100 km/h utilizing just 6.2 kW (8.4 hp). And in all-electric mode the car spends less than 0.1 kWh in covering a distance of over one kilometer.

The main attributes of this model are: high-tech lightweight design, perfect aerodynamics and a plug-in hybrid system. The latter comprises of a two-cylinder TDI engine (35 kW / 48 hp), E-motor (20 kW / 27 PS), 7-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG) and lithium-ion battery. The XL1 is 3,888 mm long, 1,665 mm wide and just 1,153 mm tall.

They all contribute towards the CO2 emissions of just 21 g/km. The XL1 covers the acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 12.7 seconds on its way to the top speed of 160 km/h. Conceptually, the XL1 represents the third evolutionary stage of Volkswagen’s 1-litre car strategy.

Source: Volkswagen

February 22, 2013

Tesla Model S Goes to Europe

tesla-model-s-651 One of the three most popular green car manufacturers in the United States is undisputedly Tesla Motors. The company has recently announced that it is making plans to start a worldwide distribution of its all-electric Model S Sedan.

In order to make this into reality, what it also plans is to make distribution centers in other parts of the world. And Tesla Motors sets the beginning of this by opening its European Distribution Center in Tilburg, Netherlands, which will happen later this month.

It is going to be 62 000 square foot facility in a central location. More importantly, the new Tesla facility is going to compete in the automotive European market with luxury car manufacturers such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

What it first considers to do is to start stocking parts for both the Tesla Roadster and Model S. Furthermore, another utilization of this factory will be for importing operations, final vehicle assembly and distribution, service headquarters, technical training operations, parts remanufacturing, collision repair.

Even more, for all who live in UK and wish to go greener, it was noted that there will be also a general production of a European left-hand drive Model S, which production will begin in March next year.

Source: earthtechling

December 18, 2012

Rinspeed microMAX to debut at 2013 Geneva Motor Show

Rinspeed microMAX is a concept vehicle which intends to revolutionize urban traffic. This innovative urban transportation car is created by Frank M. Rinderknecht with the aim to revolutionize short-distance transport.

First of all, microMAX has unique upright seats, which are perfect for short-distance transfers. In fact, this concept defines an entirely new class of vehicles. Despite its length of 3.6 meters, this Rinspeed vehicle offers plenty of space for the driver, three passengers and a stroller or shopping cart. In addition, it also provides the desired privacy.

The vehicle height is of 2.2 meters. This allows the installation of comfortable and space-saving upright seats equipped with safety belts. Moreover, this allows an outstanding sense of spaciousness with homey lounge character.

What is even more, a coffee maker, a refrigerator for the passengers’ happy-hour drinks and unlimited connectivity for entertainment purposes or for working while on the move are also included. microMAX also allows passengers to get in and ride because it is extremely convenient and simple. And every passenger decreases CO2 emissions and costs.

Of course, being environmentally conscious, the microMAX is an all-electric vehicle. Various equipment modules, for example for craftsmen or delivery services, make the space saver extremely versatile.

And to sum up: this is another creative idea which we look forward to seeing in the near future.

Source: Rinspeed

December 10, 2012

2013 Fiat 500e Recharges the Electric Vehicle Segment

2013 Fiat 500e is city-friendly, environmentally responsible and fun-to-drive and in other words – all that you want to see in an urban vehicle. Through its iconic style, engaging dynamics and an environmentally responsible zero-emissions design, this EV is ready to show what true Italian style and performance mean.

The 500e builds on the Cinquecento’s small-car formula, but adds battery-electric powertrain which generates 111 horsepower (83 kW). In addition, it is rechargeable in less than 4 hours with its Level 2 (240 volt) on-board charging module (OBCM) and delivers more than 80 miles of estimated range.

What is more, there is a brand new chassis and suspension designed for the new EV powertrain. The wind-tunnel-sculpted shape and retro-futuristic dot-matrix styled cues are those details which give the vehicle a cutting-edge look.

Improvements in aerodynamics here were achieved through exterior enhancements and more than 140 hours of wind tunnel testing and refinement. The result is a purposeful design that enables this Fiat to achieve an additional five miles of range.

The interior of the new EV is retro and futuristic at the same time. For example, a 7-inch thin-film transistor (TFT) instrument cluster displays full-color picture graphics to illustrate vehicle functions, charge levels and trip summary.

In addition, the driver will benefit also from the TomTom Navigation unit, which will enable them to view the vehicle’s charge schedule, range, and power-flow gauges, and can even request nearby charging stations with real-time availability.

Those who want more style, the interior environment is available in Nero (black) or exclusive Steam (white) themes, highlighted by Electric Orange.

2013 Fiat 500e will be officially launched in the second quarter of 2013.

Source: Fiat

December 4, 2012

Tata Nano Special Edition Adds More Style

Tata Nano Special Edition has just came out of the dark with its new stylish exteriors, utilities and infotainment. The car focuses on the young generation and brings about more sportiness and individuality.

New Alloy Wheels and sportier brand new decals immediately capture one’s attention regarding the exterior. For the first time in a hatchback class, in the interior are featured two glove boxes, one on the passenger side and the other on the driver’s side, giving more space for all utilities. New technologies are also features: MP3, USB, Aux-in and front two door speakers.

More importantly, the car is equipped with 624cc engine which generates 38 horsepower (28 kW) and 51 Nm of torque (38 lb-ft). This is absolutely enough for a city dweller, who in addition is environmentally minded. The fuel efficiency here is 25.4 kmpl and the CO2 emissions are estimated at 92.7 gm/km.

In addition, the new Tata model is enhanced with a revised suspension set-up, including an anti-roll bar at the front. The cabin is quieter, but a racier sounding exhaust note gives the Tata Nano a more agressive road presence.

The interior can be in either beige color (Nano LX), rich black (Nano CX) and stunning medium graphite (Standard version). The exterior colors available are then. Eight oof them are nw: Pearl White, Rouge Red, Aqua Blue, Neon Rush, Serene White, Meteor Silver, Mojito Green, Papaya Orange, Sunshine Yellow, and Champagne Gold.

Tata Nano Special Edition Features
Features:	LX	CX
Alloy Wheels	Yes	Yes
Music System	Yes	Yes
Glove Box (Both Side)	Yes	Yes
Body Graphics	Yes	No

Source: Tata

November 12, 2012

2013 Honda N-One: Variety in Action

2013 Honda N-One is currently being launched on the market, being a third of the new N Series mini-vehicles (including N-Box and N-Box+). The model was created with the help of the motif of the N360 series, which was the first mass-produced Honda mini passenger car introduced to the market in 1967.

With N-One the engineers aimed to make a new basic car which will be a new type of vehicle for the new era in Japan. Key features of the N-One include a spacious cabin for four adults, and an improved acceleration performance.

Furthermore, stable driving performance and excellent quietness even during highway driving were achieved via lightweight and highly-rigid body and an exclusively-developed suspension. Here the engineers made the car with excellent fuel economy of 27.0km/L. In addition, for the first time among all mini-vehicles in the market, the N-One will include Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) system as standard equipment on all types.

Another highlight is the higher grade model – N-One Premium, which includes a high-quality exterior and interior. In addition to this Honda has supplied the customers with great variety of exterior colors, offered with total 11 body colors and a 2-tone color style, which has different colors for the body and roof.

2013 Honda N-One Key Specifications:

Body Colors:

・Premium White Pearl

・Alabaster Silver Metallic

・Crystal Black Pearl

・Premium Yellow Pearl II

・Milano Red

・Innocent Blue Metallic (new color)

・Premium Deep Mocha Pearl

・Cherry Shell Pink Metallic

・Premium Blue Moon Pearl (new color)

・Polished Metal Metallic

・Premium Deep Rosso Pearl

2-tone Color Style:

・Taffeta White × Innocent Blue Metallic

・Crystal Black Pearl × Premium White Pearl

・Crystal Black Pearl × Milano Red

・Crystal Black Pearl × Premium Yellow Pearl II

・Starry Silver Metallic × Premium Blue Moon Pearl

Interior Colors :

Beige × Mocha Gray, Black

Black × Burgundy

Timeless N design which is friendly and impressive:

• Individuality and innovativeness are expressed with the friendly and timeless hatchback style which was designed in the motif of the N360.

• There are five color combinations for the 2-tone color style which more effectively highlights the individual tastes of customers.

• The Interior design is simple and yet great attention was paid to ensure the quality feel of materials in every detail. Comfort and a sense of security were pursued with the large-size bench seat. With these factors, a comfortable cabin space was achieved that people will not grow tired of even after prolonged use.

• A flat and cleanly fit audio system display was adopted. By connecting a smart phone using “InterNavi Pocket,” a genuine navigation system application developed by Honda, the navigation screen can be displayed on the screen of the audio system (manufacturer’s option).

High performance power unit which realizes top class driving performance and fuel economy:

• The DOHC Turbo engine equipped with a high-performance turbo charger is made available for all grades and realizes driving performance equivalent to a vehicle in the 1.3L class.

• Both smooth and powerful driving and excellent fuel economy of 27.0km/L*2 were realized through the combination of the DOHC engine, which realizes top class output and torque, and optimally-tuned CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

Enhanced safety features which realize excellent safety performance:

• For the first time among all mini-vehicles in the market, the Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) system, which responds to sudden braking and quickly blinks hazard lamps automatically to alert the drivers of trailing vehicles, is featured as standard equipment on all types.

• VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) system is standard equipment on all types.

• HSA (Hill Start Assist) system that temporarily prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on an upward incline is standard equipment on all types.

• The side curtain airbag system which helps mitigate head impacts in a side collision and the front seat i-side airbag system are standard equipment on select model types.

• The Pedestrian Injury Mitigation Body, which features structures that absorb the impact of a collision on a pedestrian’s head and legs in case of a collision, was adopted.

• Class-leading omni-directional collision safety performance was realized with the newly-designed engine and new load distribution structure.

Environmental performance:

• All types are certified by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism as complying with the 2005 – 75% emissions standard.

• NA (natural aspiration) engine types achieve fuel economy of 20% higher than the 2015 fuel economy standard. Turbo engine types*6 achieve fuel economy 10% higher than the 2015 fuel economy standard.

Source: Honda

November 5, 2012

Tag: CO2