Frankfurt 2009: Volkswagen L1 Concept

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifejKRYtSlXNacTTa3q71AQ8nN11UMjo7XBUMKcca4U6Xeqh32vZpE3nyxz5Xj6EQnEMh0WgM1Y1lncA4n0GmUIKahddL1NVDzkav37O0g216yqreDeK-iD29ZgxjnfnQL5EEug9B-xII/s1600-h/2009-volkswagen-l1-concept_100228601_l.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383475885562059698" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifejKRYtSlXNacTTa3q71AQ8nN11UMjo7XBUMKcca4U6Xeqh32vZpE3nyxz5Xj6EQnEMh0WgM1Y1lncA4n0GmUIKahddL1NVDzkav37O0g216yqreDeK-iD29ZgxjnfnQL5EEug9B-xII/s400/2009-volkswagen-l1-concept_100228601_l.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" /></a><br />The L1 name refers to the European concept of a "1-Liter" car, meaning one so efficient it uses no more than 1.0 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. If you're not particularly metric, that translates to 235 miles per gallon.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />VW didn't quite make its mark; the L1 actually uses 1.38 L/100 km, meaning its gas mileage is "only" 170 miles per gallon.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FKe7y0oG-X3BL_KiGL_7GGRsXx-nN9SqmOaBNnXypiXDODCn858jltm-2NTyFzgotNKG-EJJPh2b9PaThr_st_1hmJCLqETP_gucpYTKK6dt_G1D1Ox2KxISxMwF4H3Fj7tONFY9h-4/s1600-h/2009-volkswagen-l1-leak_100228529_m.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383475753093897458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FKe7y0oG-X3BL_KiGL_7GGRsXx-nN9SqmOaBNnXypiXDODCn858jltm-2NTyFzgotNKG-EJJPh2b9PaThr_st_1hmJCLqETP_gucpYTKK6dt_G1D1Ox2KxISxMwF4H3Fj7tONFY9h-4/s400/2009-volkswagen-l1-leak_100228529_m.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a><br />The rear-mounted engine, a 0.8-liter two-cylinder turbocharged diesel, is essentially half of VW's current 1.6-liter TDI turbodiesel engine. It puts out 27 horsepower in Eco mode, which rises to 39 hp in Sport mode, and drives through a 7-speed direct-shift gearbox (DSG) paired with a 14-hp hybrid electric system that switches off the engine as the car comes to a stop.<br /><a href="http://www.greencarreports.com/blog/1035226_frankfurt-volkswagens-radical-170-mpg-diesel-two-seater">more detail</a>. ...<br /><br /></span><p>

Frankfurt 2009: Volkswagen L1 Concept

The L1 name refers to the European concept of a "1-Liter" car, meaning one so efficient it uses no more than 1.0 liters of fuel pe...

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Frankfurt preview: New 2010 Saab 9-5 _ With Video

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitR39gBjq9jnBvgVI6lkcxTUKOTEOxnwv_-qu8l3oEx3R3h3ECD7WpmFBgDHQ8gaMJhGnAreEPSKEg6lwZ2u5z22r9F8_Iix04p4XnfrA-YdMSyzus2kZ4ppRrM6HoMHIEuTullbzJDEI/s1600-h/2010_saab_9_5_press_011.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381235868459207666" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitR39gBjq9jnBvgVI6lkcxTUKOTEOxnwv_-qu8l3oEx3R3h3ECD7WpmFBgDHQ8gaMJhGnAreEPSKEg6lwZ2u5z22r9F8_Iix04p4XnfrA-YdMSyzus2kZ4ppRrM6HoMHIEuTullbzJDEI/s400/2010_saab_9_5_press_011.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 240px;" /></a><br />Saab is already working on a hybrid version of the new 9-5 sedan. The hybrid version will use a small petrol engine backed up by an electric motor in an effort to increase fuel-economy and cut emissions.<br /><span class="fullpost"> <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixPtzeQC7o1v7PTqtxdk6CFXhXgfxDaFrbsJd1c3t46d28LrijzLHHBRisMjJNx9nudW_Mm5DzlbAXBRF_ROKfImw2wFCJBDbhttzqjVoXRp9dypZWZ1-dSOg7wWf3DQ9ijJ45FQ8I0xU/s1600-h/2010_saab_9_5_press_012.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381235608933878306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixPtzeQC7o1v7PTqtxdk6CFXhXgfxDaFrbsJd1c3t46d28LrijzLHHBRisMjJNx9nudW_Mm5DzlbAXBRF_ROKfImw2wFCJBDbhttzqjVoXRp9dypZWZ1-dSOg7wWf3DQ9ijJ45FQ8I0xU/s400/2010_saab_9_5_press_012.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 240px;" /></a><br />Saab is working on a new 120-hp turbocharged 1.4L gasoline engine that will be assisted during periods of acceleration by an electric motor fitted in between it and the transmission. AutoCar says that the electric motor will offer high levels of torque and will come on when the driver is accelerating.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUO_VJDArfumHKna8eWhVoIMgyfgfz_iHtvfMMVxQYWAFNKfCDaBaG_o5WajIgvdG88iE5dehvW_Zc6JL1RtKUTChHKNRcLoZ8bei-qJIJUVFsDv_uxrO7VLOIRdQ9SrnXCuoIdsdGvQI/s1600-h/2010_saab_9_5_press_007.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381235404325316402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUO_VJDArfumHKna8eWhVoIMgyfgfz_iHtvfMMVxQYWAFNKfCDaBaG_o5WajIgvdG88iE5dehvW_Zc6JL1RtKUTChHKNRcLoZ8bei-qJIJUVFsDv_uxrO7VLOIRdQ9SrnXCuoIdsdGvQI/s400/2010_saab_9_5_press_007.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 199px;" /></a><br />The big advantage of an electric motor is that it offers high levels of torque from idle. In the Saab the electric motor will come on stream when the driver is pulling away or accelerating.<br /><br /><center><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" height="280" width="400"><param name="_cx" value="12700"><param name="_cy" value="9525"><param name="FlashVars" value=""><param name="Movie" value="http://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649"><param name="Src" value="http://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649"><param name="WMode" value="Window"><param name="Play" value="0"><param name="Loop" value="-1"><param name="Quality" value="High"><param name="SAlign" value="LT"><param name="Menu" value="0"><param name="Base" value=""><param name="AllowScriptAccess" value=""><param name="Scale" value="NoScale"><param name="DeviceFont" value="0"><param name="EmbedMovie" value="0"><param name="BGColor" value=""><param name="SWRemote" value=""><param name="MovieData" value=""><param name="SeamlessTabbing" value="1"><param name="Profile" value="0"><param name="ProfileAddress" value=""><param name="ProfilePort" value="0"><param name="AllowNetworking" value="all"><param name="AllowFullScreen" value="true"><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fegmcartech%2Fsets%2F72157622158750444%2Fshow%2F&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fegmcartech%2Fsets%2F72157622158750444%2F&set_id=72157622158750444&jump_to=" height="280" width="400"></embed></object></center><br />The new 2010 Saab 9-5 will make its world debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show next week. It will go on sale in early 2010. Pricing and availability details will be announced closer to launch date.<br />via:<a href="http://www.egmcartech.com/2009/09/10/2010-saab-9-5-hybrid-version-in-the-works/">egmcartech</a><br /><br /></span><p>

Frankfurt preview: New 2010 Saab 9-5 _ With Video

Saab is already working on a hybrid version of the new 9-5 sedan. The hybrid version will use a small petrol engine backed up by an electric...

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GM Presents those 'Simple Bare Necessities' Concepts

<center><img alt="GM Bare Necessity Truck" height="230" src="http://img.worldcarfans.com/2009/8/large/3413689.jpg" width="400" /></center><br />For GM one of the most fundamental definitions goes to the idea of saving weight. That means unnecessary features are stripped off to make room for what may be termed as Bare Necessities which is applied to all vehicles including trucks and smaller cars. A number of the blog's users suggested a diesel motor and better aerodynamics for Bare Necessities Trucks as examples of eco-friendliness. The designers and engineers may end up taking some of these thoughts into the final truck product, as well as using lighter construction materials.<br /><span class="fullpost"> <br /><center><img alt="GM Bare Necessity Car" height="245" src="http://img.worldcarfans.com/2009/8/large/5102986.jpg" width="400" /></center><br />The new GM's plan to interact better with the world is working quite well seemingly. Users of the online forum at GMblogs are quite impressed with the company's plans for better, more fuel-efficient vehicles. During one of the discussions on the company's Eco Initiative project GM designers explained how difficult it is to meet customer expectations when it comes to eco-friendliness because different customers have different ideas of what eco-friendly means.<br /><br /><center><img alt="GM Bare Necessity Car" height="244" src="http://img.worldcarfans.com/2009/8/large/7624912.jpg" width="400" /></center><br />For smaller cars like the Bare Necessities Car some of the same principles can be applied, such as eliminating non-critical features as per customer needs while using the minimum of parts and sustainable materials. Quite a challenge considering that one man's critical feature may be another one's luxury.<br /><br /><center><img alt="GM Bare Necessity Car" height="238" src="http://img.worldcarfans.com/2009/8/large/8421906.jpg" width="400" /></center><br /><a href="http://www.worldcarfans.com/109081121008/mini5/gm-presents-those-simple-bare-necessities-concepts">More Photos </a><br /><br /></span><p>

GM Presents those 'Simple Bare Necessities' Concepts

For GM one of the most fundamental definitions goes to the idea of saving weight. That means unnecessary features are stripped off to make r...

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Frankfurt Motor Show:: Audi to Unveil R8 ePerformance Electric Vehicle Concept

<center><img alt="Audi R8" height="285" src="http://img.worldcarfans.com/2008/5/large/9080530.007.Mini18L2.jpg" width="400" /></center><br />For a number of years now major automakers' favourite flavour at international motor shows has been the hybrid system. Now a new dawn is upon us and it is the dawn of full electric power. Rumours that have been doing the rounds for a while are suggesting that Audi will be one of those who unveil an electric sports car concept at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. It will take the form of an R8.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Supposedly the car will be called the R8 ePerformance. Power is to come from large powerful batteries and an electric motor to drive the wheels, so it will not be a hybrid but a complete electric-powered car.<br /><a href="http://www.worldcarfans.com/109073020794/audi-to-unveil-r8-eperformance-electric-vehicle-concept-in-frankfurt">more detail</a>. ...<br /><br /></span><p>

Frankfurt Motor Show:: Audi to Unveil R8 ePerformance Electric Vehicle Concept

For a number of years now major automakers' favourite flavour at international motor shows has been the hybrid system. Now a new dawn is...

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Gilligan's Island tech? Coconut oil-fueled, bamboo taxi

<center><img alt="" height="300" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2009/07/img-5219.jpg" width="400" /></center><br />Increasing powertrain efficiency is just one area in which vehicles' environmental impact can be lessened. A significant portion of the total energy used to operate the vehicle over its lifetime comes from sourcing and processing raw materials into individual vehicle components, as well as transporting finished vehicles to their end customers.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><center><img alt="" height="298" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2009/07/img-5220.jpg" width="400" /></center><br />With this in mind, new taxis based on renewable materials are being built and used on Gilligan's Island in the Filipino town of Tabontabon. The bodywork is made entirely from bamboo -- a grass which, in addition to being strong and lightweight, grows back after it's harvested. Don't expect to see this on the list of IIHS Top Safety Picks anytime soon, but as a low-speed vehicle for use in rural areas, it's an interesting alternative.<br /><br /><center><img alt="" height="300" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2009/07/tram-010.jpg" width="400" /></center><br />Even the fuel is renewable, as the engines in these vehicles are powered by coconut oil-based biodiesel. Plus, if you're lucky, maybe you'll be able to split a fare with Ginger or Mary Ann on the way to the Professor's hut.<br /><br /><center><img alt="" height="301" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2009/07/img-5013.jpg" width="400" /></center><br /><a href="http://www.autobloggreen.com/photos/philippines-bamboo-taxi/">More Photos</a><br /><br /></span><p></p>

Gilligan's Island tech? Coconut oil-fueled, bamboo taxi

Increasing powertrain efficiency is just one area in which vehicles' environmental impact can be lessened. A significant portion of the ...

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2010 Tesla Roadster gets upgrades

<center><img alt="" height="227" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/01_tesla_roadster_sport_rend.jpg" width="400"></center><br />While owners of the current Tesla Roadster get the benefit of driving their bad ass electric vehicle today, people who are on the list for a 2010 model will get a few benefits that make 2009 owners jealous. Tesla Motors Club member DrComputer wrote about "a conversation with Ted at corporate" that revealed some improvements to the new cars. A tipster sent in a similar list of upgrades.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><center><img alt="" height="226" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/02_tesla_roadster_sport_rend.jpg" width="400"></center><br />The upgrades include:<br /><br /> * New power electronics module<br /> * Better cooling for the power electronics<br /> * Improved AC with variable speed fans<br /> * Built in WiFi cards that connect the Roadster to the Internet (unless you turn the feature off) and gives Tesla the ability to interact with the car remotely. Also, this could open the door to mobile phone apps that talk to the car.<br /> * Glove box locks when you lock the car (to leave it out with the top down)<br /><br /><center><img alt="" height="226" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/03_tesla_roadster_sport_rend.jpg" width="400"></center><br />Both sources mention the ability to switch vehicle performance modes – from Range to Standard or Performance (but not back to Range) – with the key instead of needing to change modes via the screen. There has been no official confirmation about these upgrades, but none of them would surprise us if they were true. Thanks to Dan for the tip!<br /><br /><center><img alt="" height="228" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/04_tesla_roadster_sport_rend.jpg" width="400"></center><br /><a href="http://www.autoblog.com/photos/tesla-roadster-sport/">More Photos</a><br /><br /></span><p>

2010 Tesla Roadster gets upgrades

While owners of the current Tesla Roadster get the benefit of driving their bad ass electric vehicle today, people who are on the list for a...

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2010 Toyota Prius ditches Incredible Shrinking Gas Tank for conventional unit

<center> <img alt="" height="267" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2009/01/02_2010_toyota_prius_abg.jpg" width="400" /></center><br />Since its introduction back in 2001, Toyota has equipped the Prius with a synthetic fuel tank bladder that collapsed as gasoline was slowly pumped out of the tank and into the engine.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><center> <img alt="" height="268" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2009/01/06_2010_toyota_prius_abg.jpg" width="400" /></center><br />Due to complaints that the last-gen car wasn't able to take its full 11.9 gallon fuel allotment whenever the temperature was below 70-degrees, the third-generation Prius comes equipped with a more conventional rigid fuel tank made from lightweight resin. In order to retain its coveted low-emissions rating in California, the latest Prius also reportedly features an improved vapor-recovery system that will help reduce hydrocarbon emissions.<br /><br /><center> <img alt="" height="269" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2009/01/04_2010_toyota_prius_abg.jpg" width="400" /></center><br />Ever notice that you your bladder seems to shrink when its cold outside? Apparently, the Toyota Prius feels your pain, and while we don't have any good solutions to report for your own personal problems, Toyota has found an easy fix for its hybrid. Unlike previous generations of Toyota's fuel saver, the new 2010 model won't have an underperforming bladder when it's cold outside.<br /><a href="http://www.autobloggreen.com/photos/2010-toyota-prius-4/">More Photos</a><br /><br /></span><p>

2010 Toyota Prius ditches Incredible Shrinking Gas Tank for conventional unit

Since its introduction back in 2001, Toyota has equipped the Prius with a synthetic fuel tank bladder that collapsed as gasoline was slowly...

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Compact hybrid Range Rover LRX gets green light

<center><img alt="" height="262" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2008/03/black_lrx_hi_01.jpg" width="400" /></center><br />According to the report, Land Rover will borrow liberally from corporate partner Jaguar's hardware stable, which is rumored to soon include both hybrid and extended-range EV options. Land Rover's innovative electric drive rear axle is supposedly on the LRX menu, which would work along with the automaker's well-known and highly-effective Terrain Response System to put power to the ground wherever possible.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><center><img alt="" height="265" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2008/03/black_lrx_hi_02.jpg" width="400" /></center><br />If there's any truth to these rumors, we shouldn't expect Land Rover to have the hybrid LRX in production until at least two years have passed. In the meantime, the British-built, Indian-owned automaker is set to debut stop/start and regenerative braking on all of its models to improve their environmental performance.<br /><br /><center><img alt="" height="227" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2008/03/black_lrx_hi_03.jpg" width="400" /></center><br />Automakers that hope to continue doing business over the next few years need to be increasingly aware of their fuel consumption, emissions and environmental credibility. In deference to this fact, Auto Express in the U.K. is reporting that Land Rover is moving forward with plans to launch the new LRX compact hybrid 'ute, possibly with a bit of help from the U.K. government.<br /><br /><center><img alt="" height="300" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2008/03/black_lrx_hi_06.jpg" width="400" /></center><br /><a href="http://www.autobloggreen.com/photos/land-rover-lrx-black-and-silver/">More Photos</a><br /><br /></span>

Compact hybrid Range Rover LRX gets green light

According to the report, Land Rover will borrow liberally from corporate partner Jaguar's hardware stable, which is rumored to soon incl...

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Nissan to Releases Global Electric Vehicle on August

<center><img alt="Nissan Electric Vehicle Prototype" src="http://img.worldcarfans.com/2008/8/large/9080806.001.Mini1L2.jpg" style="width: 400px; height: 262px;" /> </center><br />Nissan will unveil a prototype of their new global electric vehicle when the company officially opens their new headquarters in Yokohama, Japan on August 2.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><center><img alt="Nissan Electric Vehicle Prototype" height="261" src="http://img.worldcarfans.com/2008/8/large/9080806.001.Mini2L2.jpg" width="400" /> </center><br />Although little is known about the upcoming EV, AutoCar reports it will be a mid-size five door hatchback with unique styling. The car will be propelled by an advanced lithium-ion battery developed by AESC. Nissan says it offers twice the power of a traditional "li-lo" battery, while providing unparalleled performance and reliability.<br /><br /><center><img alt="Nissan Electric Vehicle Prototype" height="264" src="http://img.worldcarfans.com/2009/3/large/nissan-electric-vehicle-prototype.jpg" width="400" /> </center><br />Nissan will start with a production rate of 50,000 units per year, ramping up the build rate as mass-marketing begins around 2012-13. The EV motor will be produced in Yokohama and the inverter will initially be made at Nissan's Zama plant.<br /><br /><center><img alt="Nissan EV-02 Electric Vehicle Prototype in San Diego" height="299" src="http://img.worldcarfans.com/2009/3/large/nissan-ev-02-electric-vehicle-prototype-in-san-diego.jpg" width="400" /> </center><br />Nissan is also pushing ahead with the next Micra, coyly described as its 'global entry car'. This will launch in spring 2010. Nissan will produce this car both in India (for European markets) and Thailand (for Japan) but China and two other as-yet-unnamed nations will also make the car that's on line to sell one million units a year after manufacturing is fully ramped up.<br /><br /><center><img alt="Nissan EV-02 Electric Vehicle Prototype in San Diego" height="384" src="http://img.worldcarfans.com/2009/3/large/nissan-ev-02-electric-vehicle-prototype-in-san-diego_2.jpg" width="400" /> </center><br />Look for the production model to be officially unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in October.<br /><br /><center><img alt="Nissan EV-02 Electric Vehicle Prototype in San Diego" height="287" src="http://img.worldcarfans.com/2009/3/large/nissan-ev-02-electric-vehicle-prototype-in-san-diego_1.jpg" width="400" /> </center><br />Source: <a href="http://www.autocar.co.uk/News/NewsArticle.ASpx?AR=240958">autocar</a> via <a href="http://www.worldcarfans.com/9090623.010/nissan-to-unveil-global-electric-vehicle-on-august-2nd">worldcarfans</a><br /><br /></span>

Nissan to Releases Global Electric Vehicle on August

Nissan will unveil a prototype of their new global electric vehicle when the company officially opens their new headquarters in Yokohama, J...

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Fortwo 4 Less: Smart offers first incentives in U.S.

<center><img alt="" border="1" height="233" hspace="4" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2009/05/smart_fortwo.jpg" vspace="4" width="400" /></center><br />So far this year, Smart USA has sold just 7,451 Fortwos, which is down nearly 16% over the first five months of 2008. May sales, though, were down an alarming 56.6% to 1,169 units. To stem the rushing tide of order cancellations and slow sales, Penske has decided to offer its first-ever incentives on the Fortwo. From now until the end of July, buyers may qualify for 4.2% financing through Daimler Financial Services for the purchase of a new 2009 Smart Fortwo.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><center><img alt="" height="267" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2007/02/06c5000_014.jpg" width="400" /></center><br />Penske Automotive Group, distributors of the Smart Fortwo here in the United States, recorded an impressive 24,622 total sales of the diminutive city car in 2008 and dealers widely reported that they could have sold even more had they been available. With that in mind, the nascent company set what seemed at the time like a realistic sales target for 25,000 units in 2009. That may have been a bit optimistic.<br /><br /><center><img alt="" height="268" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2007/02/06c5000_008.jpg" width="400" /></center><br />If this incentive has a positive impact on sales, expect it to be extended a bit longer. Further, Penske is considering making it possible for dealerships to order new cars without accepting the refundable $99 reservation from a customer that's currently required, which could have the desirable effect of placing more new vehicles on dealer lots for buyers to choose from.<br /><a href="http://www.autoblog.com/photos/smart-fortwo-2/">More Photos</a><br /></span>

Fortwo 4 Less: Smart offers first incentives in U.S.

So far this year, Smart USA has sold just 7,451 Fortwos, which is down nearly 16% over the first five months of 2008. May sales, though, wer...

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Toyota to Release New 2G 'Prius' Grade-'EX'

<center><img alt="" border="1" height="263" hspace="4" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2009/05/2008_09_20_09_prius_opt.jpg" vspace="4" width="400" /><br /></center><br /><br />Tokyo - TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announces that it will release a new<br />grade of its second-generation "Prius" aimed mainly at fleet customers. The<br />competitively priced "EX" Prius is to be sold through "Toyota" and "Toyopet"<br />dealer channels, starting on June 8.<span class="fullpost"><br /><br />The EX will be available in three colors-Super White II, Silver Metallic and<br />Black-with a gray interior, and will come with a color-coded front grill. It<br />will feature the same basic safety and comfort elements of the "G" and "S"<br />grades that it replaces, such as dual-stage Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)<br />airbags up front and an electric inverter-controlled automatic air-conditioning<br />system with humidity sensor.<br /><br />But hubcaps, front fog lights and other equipment have been made dealer options,<br />rather than standard, to better suit fleet users' needs.<br /><br />The total monthly sales target is 2,000 units.<br /><br />Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (Prices in Hokkaido and Okinawa differ)<br /><br />Grade Hybrid System Powertrain Price* (including<br /><br />consumption tax)<br /><br />EX THS II (Toyota Hybrid System II) Front-engine,<br /><br />front-wheel drive 1,890,000 yen<br /><br />*Excludes recycling fees<br /><br />Source: Toyota via<a href="http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/18/toyota-releases-new-ex-grade-second-gen-prius-in-japan/">autoblog</a><br /><br /><br /></span>

Toyota to Release New 2G 'Prius' Grade-'EX'

Tokyo - TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announces that it will release a new grade of its second-generation "Prius" aimed mainly at...

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