Porsche Plans a Hybrid in Every Model Line

Porsche is counting on hybrid drive to help reduce its fleet CO2 emissions. “In the future, we will have hybrid drive in every model line," development chief Wolfgang Duerheimer said.

Earlier this year, Porsche launched a hybrid version of its Cayenne SUV. A Panamera sedan will go on sale with the Cayenne's hybrid technology in 2011. According to Porsche engine chief, Heinz-Jakob Neusser, the Panamera hybrid will be able to travel about 3 miles under electric power.

Porsche's first electrically powered sports car, the 918 Spyder, will come next, with small production runs planned in three to four years. “We want to learn how we can electrify all our sports cars in the future with the help of this short production run," Duerheimer said.

4 cylinder engines:

The company could also introduce smaller engines to help cut CO2 emissions.

"If the CO2 guidelines require it, then our engines will become smaller and may have just four cylinders," Duerheimer said. “The important thing is that the performance has to be right. The 911 must always be on the cutting edge.” He is looking at turbocharging and direct injection. They could be used to transform a four-cylinder powerplant into a sports car engine.

Weight is another parameter and Porsche aims to ensure that new models are no heavier than the vehicles they replace. "A constant weight is our minimum requirement in the change to a new generation, even with compliance with all the new safety and comfort requirements," Duerheimer said. That means a new model must be 10 percent lighter each generation, so that the new car doesn't end up weighing any more than the old.

He said Porsche is developing carbon car bodies for road vehicles that can be used to make another improvement of 110 pounds in weight.These could be ready in five years.

Porsche is introducing new smaller vehicles such as the planned Cajun SUV, which will positioned below the Cayenne, to win new customers, not to cut the carmaker's CO2 emissions, Duerheimer said.

Reference: http://www.autoweek.com/article/20101018/CARNEWS/101019895

L.A. Car Connection Welcomes the 2011 Infiniti M37

Infiniti's objective for the latest M series was to enhance its overall image, in terms of both styling and performance. Our early drives of engineering prototypes indicated that the longer, lower, wider exterior styling changes definitely impart a sleeker, more elegantly muscular appearance that looks especially good when viewed rolling down the road.

The wider stance, primarily for styling purposes, also contributes to improved road holding, with the front track 1.4 inches wider and the rear track 0.8 inch wider. The wheelbase is unchanged, but new rear-suspension geometry aims for a quieter ride and additional handling stability.

Under the hood, the 3.7-liter V6 of the M37 outpowers not only the previous V6 but also the 4.5-liter V8 of the previous M45 by five horses, for a total of 330 hp. The new 32-valve, 5.6-liter V8 in the M56 ups the ante to 420 hp (an additional 95 hp) and 400 lb-ft of torque (81 lb-ft more). A seven-speed automatic transmission with rev matching on downshifts in the manual sport mode backs up either engine.

The M56 prototype we drove was the Sport version, which also includes 20-inch wheels, four-wheel active steering, sport suspension and four-piston caliper, vented-disc brakes. Infiniti admitted that the M56 we had driven earlier was not quite ready for prime time, but engineering changes since then were evident as soon as we got on the throttle in a more recent test drive. Power-train engineers changed the shift-program software for more responsive part-throttle operation which holds lower gears longer and makes better use of the available torque. The result is that the standard setting of the four-mode M drive is more assertive off the line, while the sport mode responds even more aggressively when you mash the throttle or downshift. In short, despite a more discreet exhaust note than on previous models, you can feel the added punch of the larger, more powerful V8.

The M37 V6 prototype we drove had an authoritative growl and an enthusiastic throttle response.

In manual mode, the transmission provides crisp upshifts, but the downshifts, while fine for the majority of the intended audience, could be a bit more aggressive physically and aurally for the hard-core. Steering feel and response were very good. Under aggressive cornering in tight turns, the rear steering (with "4-Wheel Active Steer") lagged a bit. Otherwise, both ends of the M56 delivered solid handling and a firm but comfortable ride. Braking was very good but not outstanding. An eco mode (one of four throttle maps) saves fuel by pushing back on the accelerator, something that can be felt but is not annoying or distracting.

Overall, our drive revealed definite improvements over earlier M models, with performance and styling gains that should provide a stronger identity for Infiniti against the competition.

2011 Infiniti M37

ON SALE: Now

DRIVETRAIN: 3.7-liter, 330-hp, 270-lb-ft, V6; RWD, seven-speed automatic

FUEL ECONOMY (EPA): 21 mpg (est) 

Read more: http://www.autoweek.com/article/20100127/CARREVIEWS/100129936#ixzz11gn0oYR0

Porsche 911 Speedster returns

Porsche is bringing back the 911 Speedster some 16 years and three model generations after it last was featured in the German sports-car maker's lineup.

The car, pictured here ahead of a planned unveiling alongside the 911 Carrera GTS at the Paris motor show, is just the third 911 Speedster to be put into series production and follows tradition by being based on the existing cabriolet version of Porsche's iconic rear-engine sports car.

Paying homage to the car that kicked off Porsche's fascination with the chopped-top look, the original 356 Speedster launched in 1953 at the behest of its U.S. importer. The new 911 Speedster uses standard bodywork but receives a shorter and more heavily raked windscreen than other 911 models.

A plastic tonneau cover behind the cabin also receives a double-bubble treatment reminiscent of that gracing the first 911 Speedster, the 964 model introduced in 1988. The overall appearance is further enhanced by the adoption of the widened rear bodywork of the latest 911 Carrera 4S cabriolet, with its 1.7-inch wider wheel housings.

A flat, manually operated fabric hood is designed to provide occasional protection from the elements, although as on earlier examples of the 911 Speedster, it is unlikely to be as sturdy as the standard 911 Cabriolet's automatic roof.

The car was created to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Porsche Exclusive, the company's in-house individualization program. Porsche's latest 911 also receives a series of visual upgrades, including an additional chin spoiler at the base of the front bumper, tinted indicator lamps, blackened headlamps surrounds and windscreen frame, unique side sills and a rear bumper boasting 911 GT3-style air ducts behind the rear wheel arches. Inside, there is a combination of black leather and color-keyed elements from the Porsche Exclusive catalogue.

Power for the rear-wheel-drive 911 Speedster comes from the same 3.8-liter version of Porsche's classic horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine as that unveiled in the 911 Carrera GTS. With 402 hp, it packs 22 hp more than the standard 3.8-liter flat-six used in the 911 Carrera S cabriolet.

Torque remains the same at 310 lb-ft, albeit developed 200 rpm lower in the rev range at 4,200 rpm. No performance figures have been released, but expect 0 to 62 mph in about 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 190 mph.

Standard equipment includes Porsche's excellent seven-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox, a locking differential, adaptive damping and carbon-ceramic brakes.

In a move that will ensure its exclusivity, Porsche says it plans to produce just 356 examples of the new 911 Speedster. North American pricing is yet to be revealed but look for the car to sticker at about $150,000.

Read more: http://www.autoweek.com/article/20100921/PARIS/100929985#ixzz10CFnssXV

2010 Jaguar XJ75

 

As part of the year long celebration of Jaguar’s 75 Years of Looking Forward, Jaguar Cars design team has created the XJ75 Platinum Concept, a one-of-a-kind design project on display at the Pebble Beach Concept Car Lawn this weekend.

The XJ75 Platinum Concept is the company’s first demonstration of the design customization potential of the striking new XJ luxury sedan, emphasizing the Jaguar’s dramatic interior and exterior styling themes.

“The new Jaguar XJ Platinum Concept celebrates Jaguar’s 75th Anniversary, and highlights the uniqueness of the XJ, and more broadly, the increasingly personal nature of luxury cars in today’s market,” said Mike O’Driscoll, Managing Director of Jaguar Cars. “The XJ is thoroughly modern, and captures the innovative and daring character that our founder Sir William Lyons built into every Jaguar. And the design team clearly had some fun making their first one-of-a-kind XJ design concept in that spirit.”

Dominated by a striking white and black contrast theme that suggests precious platinum metal, the XJ75 Platinum Concept is a high-performance 470-hp 2011 Jaguar XJL Supercharged equipped with new ground-hugging front, rear and side sills. Painted a lustrous Satin Matte Pearlescent White, exterior chrome elements have been revised to either a dark chrome or gloss black. Bespoke 22-inch wheels are black and use a brushed contrast finish.

The contrast theme continues with gloss pearlescent white air vents, veneers and diamond stitch suede inserts to the seats and headliner, all set against the backdrop of a full Jet Softgrain leather interior. Suede and leather accents are seen throughout the interior to further material enhancements.

The XJ75 Platinum Concept center console houses a bespoke clock developed and designed in partnership with the Bremont Watch Company. An independent British company, Bremont creates beautifully engineered and designed mechanical watches hand assembled in Switzerland.

“From a pure design perspective, the XJ75 Platinum Concept is foremost about emphasizing the striking proportion and presence of the new XJ, with a distilled black and white theme, which conjures up the sense of precious platinum,” said Jaguar XJ Chief Designer Giles Taylor. “At the same time, the pure sporting character of XJ is brought to the fore by keeping the car’s clean graphic approach and further lowering its stance.

“On the inside, we played up the XJ’s combination of high-end materials and British flair to really have some fun. The XJ75 Platinum Concept is a design exercise that shows our vision of customization as an inspiration for those enthusiasts who have a taste for strong individuality and visual confidence in their luxury automobiles.”

Performance on the XJ75 Platinum Concept is derived from its 5.0-liter Supercharged direct-injection V8 with 470 horsepower and 424 lb.-ft of torque. Entertainment is provided by a 1,200-watt Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system with 20 speakers powered through 15 channels and state-of-the-art sound processing technology.

·        Reference http://www.topspeed.com/cars/jaguar/2010-jaguar-xj75-platinum-concept-ar94964.html

Land Rover to Launch Its First Diesel Hybrid in 2013

According to Car Magazine, Land Rover announced it would launch its first hybrid model in 2013. The new Range Rover is a hybrid prototype that displays how hybrid technology will be put to work on a Range Rover Sport platform. With the expansion of the hybrid vehicle, the automaker stands a good probability of becoming one of the greenest companies around.

Land Rover’s promise to become environmentally friendly is starting to result in some appealing developments, with the automaker revealing this week its new Range_e hybrid concept vehicle based on the Range Rover Sport SUV.

Building on previous developments like the Electric Rear Axle Drive diesel-hybrid LR2 from 2008, Land Rover’s new Range_e points the way to the automaker’s first hybrid model due for sale in 2013, about the same time the next-generation Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models are due.

Few details have been released but Land Rover has confirmed that trials of a small test fleet of Range_e vehicles will start later this year, and eventually the automaker plans to develop a plug-in hybrid variant.

According to the guys at MotorAuthority.com, the Range_e features:

• 34 horsepower electric motor matched
• 3.0-liter V-6 turbodiesel engine on a common driveshaft

 In this configuration, the diesel-electric concept will be able to travel up to 20 miles on electric power alone and emit CO2 emissions of just 100 g/km--about two-thirds the levels of the Lexus RX 450h and comparable with a compact car.

Reference: http://www.autoevolution.com/news-image/land-rover-to-launch-its-first-diesel-hybrid-in-2013-20363-1.html

L.A. Car Connection's Newest Edition

From Lexus to Honda: 2010 Most Fuel Efficient Cars

2010 Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius, the family sedan has always been labeled the “environmentalist dream.” The Prius remains at the top of the list of most fuel efficient widely available vehicles, with 50 mpg combined fuel economy. The classic hybrid gets 51 MPG city and 48 mpg highway and will only cost you roughly $1.34 for 25 mpg. With an annual fuel cost of only $801.oo, the Prius was rated one of the greenest cars of the year by Greenopia and Kelley Blue Book.

—————————————————————————–

 2010 Honda Civic

This top-rated small car again proudly sits alongside the Prius among the widely available 2010 vehicles with 42 mpg fuel economy. Although the conventional Civic will run ou about $8,000 less, the hybrid Civic will save you $430 less to fuel annually. Compared to Prius, the Honda Civic Hybrid will cost you a mere $1.59 for every 25 miles you drive and only $953.00 to fuel annually. It was named one of Greenopia’s greenest cars of 2010.

——————————————————————————–
2010 Honda Insight
The second-best small car, also a good old’ Honda, is the newly redesigned Insight, a hybrid with a fuel economy of 40 mpg city, 43 highway. Another huge plus?  It costs a few thousand dollars less than the leaders in this class and will only cost you $1.63 to drive you 25 miles. It ranks on both Greenopia and Kelley Blue Book‘s greenest lists and has an annual fuel cost of $977.00

——————————————————————————
Ford Fusion Hybrid
The most fuel-efficient family sedan behind the Prius, sits at about 39 mpg. If you’re stuck between buying The Fusion and its hybrid version, the hybrid costs $8,000 more, but will cost nearly $600 less to fuel each year. The extraordinary Fusion will give you 41 mpg city and 36 mpg highway and only cost you a little over $1000 annually to fuel. It was rated one of Kelley Blue Book‘s greenest cars of 2010, and it was named North American Car of the Year at the Detroit Auto Show.
——————————————————————————
2010 Smart ForTwo
Whether you pick up the classic coupe or the convertible (looks a bit like a golf cart), the Smart ForTwo’s 36 mpg make it the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid car on the market. And at $11,990 it’s also the most affordable.  This little ride around will cost you roughly $1.85 to drive 35 miles, and $1,113 annually. Smart ForTwo’s was rated one of Greenopia’s greenest cars of the year.

——————————————————————————–
2010 Lexus HS250H
The Lexus HS 250h is of the most luxurious fuel-efficient car on the market, and really makes “going green” look sleek. This prestige vehicle offers 35 mpg city, and 34 mpg highway with an annual cost of only $1,145. If you want to contribute to the “go green” movement, but can’t quite give up the need for a luxury vehicle, then the 2010 Lexus HS250H is the car for you!
 

——————————————————————————
2010 Nissan Altima Hybrid
This Nissan Altima Hybrid surprisingly is not much more expensive that the standard Altima. Running you about $7,000 more, the hybrid family sedan gets 34 mpg and will save about astounding $750 in fuel costs.



——————————————————————————
2010 Toyota Camry Hybrid
The Toyota Camry Hybrid sedan brings the quality and reliability of the Camry together with increased fuel efficiency. Compared to the conventional Camry, the hybrid costs roughly $7,000 more, but at 34 mpg, the hybrid will save about $560 in annual fuel costs.


——————————————————————————
Audi A3 TDI
The Audi A3 TDI offers sporty styling and dynamic performance combined with the latest luxury, entertainment and safety technology. The Sportback design adds utility and convenience that sets the A3 TDI apart from the crowd. The Audi A3 “clean diesel” TDI achieves 34 mpg – 10 mpg more than its gasoline-fueled cousin. Still, this car earned “Green Car of the Year” designation from the Green Car Journal. $1,226 annual fuel cost
——————————————————————————-
2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI
The little Jetta gets 34 mpg and has an annual fuel cost of $1,235, making it one of the most fuel-efficient non-hybrids on the market. But it runs on diesel, which means its carbon footprint is greater than comparable vehicles. The stripped-down gasoline-powered Jetta costs about $5,000 less, but will cost about $350 more to fuel each year.
——————————————————————————–
2010 Volkswagen Golf TDI
The most fuel-efficient hatchback on the market, the Golf TDI gets 34 mpg and will only dip into your wallet about $1,235 a year. The TDI costs about $3,600 more than the gasoline, but saves about $300 annually in fuel costs. Because it burns diesel, its carbon emissions are greater than comparable cars. Also, it’s only going to cost you a mere $2.06 to drive 25 miles.


——————————————————————————
2010 Volkswagen Jetta SportsWagen TDI
This diesel hatchback runs about $5,000 more than its gasoline-powered cousin, but with 34 mpg, it will save about $360 in annual fuel costs. Because it runs on diesel, its carbon footprint is higher than comparable vehicles. It was rated one of Kelley Blue Book‘s greenest cars of 2010.



——————————————————————————

2010 Toyota Yaris
Whether the little Yaris you get is the 3-door hatch, the 5-door hatch (add $300) or the 5-door sedan (add $750), the little Yaris gets 32 mpg. From its excellent fuel economy and eccentric appearance to its comprehensive package of safety features, the 2010 Toyota Yaris is a good value.




————————————————————————
2010 Mini Cooper
Mini Coopers are among the most recognizable cars on the road, beloved for both their cutesy looks and zippy driving dynamics. The Cooper’s small size means it’s already incredibly maneuverable — and that’s before you consider that it has handling dynamics designed by parent company BMW’s engineers. The classic Mini Cooper gets 32 mpg and is rated one of 2010′s greenest cars by Kelley Blue Book. $1,366 annual fuel cost
—————————————————————————
2010 Ford Escape Hybrid
The Ford family again has the only members in the over-30 mpg SUV club. The hybrid Ford Escape gets 32 mpg — as good as the tiny Mini Cooper. While it costs $11,000 more than the gasoline-powered Escape, it costs between $440 and $570 less to fuel every year (depending on whether you go with 4WD or not).


—————————————————————————
2010 Honda Fit
The 2010 Honda Fit is a winner is almost every respect. Beloved by the automotive press for its innovative storage options, its extensive list of available features and its zippy ride, the Fit is a good choice for anyone shopping for an affordable small car. If you’re buying a new Fit, the automatic 5-speed gets the best mileage, with 31 mpg. It is rated one of the greenest cars of 2010 by Kelley Blue Book.

——————————————————————————
2010 Kia Rio
The manual Kia Rio gets 31 mpg without the benefit of a hybrid engine, keeping its cost low. (The automatic drive comes in at a combined 30 mpg, but does better on the highway.) $1,294 annual fuel cost





——————————————————————————
2010 Hyundai Accent Blue
At 31 mpg, this new baseline version of the Accent (which otherwise gets 30 mpg) is among the more affordable fuel efficient 2010 cars.  $1,294 annual fuel cost




-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reference: http://www.thedailygreen.com/environmental-news/latest/fuel-efficient-cars-47102201#ixzz0rtTn6ztX