For supply exclusively to the domestic Korean market, the Kia Ray EV shares the same dimensions as the 1.0-liter gasoline powered Ray CUV (crossover utility vehicle) that was launched last month.

The front-wheel drive Ray EV is powered by a 50kW electric motor and a high-capacity 16.4 kWh lithium ion polymer battery pack that is engineered for a 10-year life cycle and skillfully packaged under the rear seat and cabin floor.

Although the Ray EV weighs 187 kg more than the gasoline model, the electric motor’s generous torque – 167 Nm (an increase of 77%) – ensures responsive performance.  The EV’s acceleration is brisker than the gasoline models (0-to-100 km/h in 15.9 seconds), while top speed is 130 km/h (81 mph).  Recharging times are six hours using a 220V household supply and just 25 minutes in fast-charge mode.

The Ray EV’s automatic transmission offers the driver a choice of two modes while in ‘D’ drive.  ‘E’ (or ‘eco’) mode optimizes the delivery of the motor’s torque to achieve minimum battery consumption and maximum driving range.  ‘B’ (or ‘brake’) mode can be selected when driving downhill on highways and on mountain roads to maximize braking power.

Bearing the same striking exterior styling as its gasoline cousin, the Kia Ray EV has four small distinguishing points.  A flap in the front radiator grille covers an electricity inlet for a 220V supply for the slow recharge mode, another inlet (for the fast recharge mode) is fitted in the same location as the fuel intake of the regular models, special decals on each front door proclaim the ‘Zero Emissions EV’ message and super-smooth 14-inch alloy wheels improve aerodynamic performance by minimizing drag.

Inside, the Ray EV features a unique instrument cluster, displaying electric motor operation, battery status and distance to recharge. It is also equipped with the first-ever EV-specific navigation system that features a 7-inch screen and provides crucial information for EV drivers such as the nearest locations of the slow/fast recharging stations.  The display shows a circular shaped area in which the model can travel with its current level of battery power, so that drivers can see which destinations are reachable without a recharge.

Currently there are 500 slow/fast recharge stations in Korea, and the government plans to increase that figure to 3,100 stations by the end of 2012.

The Kia Ray EV embodies numerous innovations.  The electric motor achieves 93% efficiency, which is the best in its segment.  The lithium ion polymer battery’s cell is optimized and highly integrated, which has enabled its weight to be reduced by 13% and its energy density to be increased by 15% compared to competitors’ systems.

The on-board charger, current inverter, high-low voltage converter and EV-specific VCU (vehicle control unit) each features advances over previous equipment.

Ray EV is also equipped with a new type of regenerative braking system featuring an Active Hydraulic Booster that utilizes the electric motor, instead of the gasoline engine in the regular model, to create hydraulic pressure for the brake system.  The result is consistent brake pedal force throughout a wide variety of driving conditions and the ability to harvest excess energy and use it to recharge the car’s battery.

Unlike regular gasoline vehicles, Ray EV generates no engine noise, which can be a potential problem with pedestrians being unaware of the approaching car.  To prevent accidents, Kia has fitted Ray EV with a VESS (Virtual Engine Sound System).  When driven at speeds below 20 kph (12 mph) this system delivers a mixture of recorded gasoline engine noises, which are also emitted whenever the car is backing up.

Japan and the USA are already considering the introduction of a legal requirement for EVs to have a virtual engine sound, and Kia has taken the first step to commercialize this system in order to anticipate the global industry’s trend.

To ensure that the Ray EV is as safe as gasoline cars, it is equipped with six air-bags, and electronic stability features – VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control) and HAC (Hill Assist Control, to prevent roll-back) – as standard.

During 2012, Kia is planning to manufacture 2,500 units of the Ray EV, which will be provided to government departments and public offices as part of Kia’s long-term real-world research and development program to provide environmentally friendly transport to Kia customers around the world during the next decade.

Kia Ray EV / Technical Specification

DIMENSIONS
Length              3593 mm           Width                1595 mm
Height               1700 mm           Wheelbase        2520 mm
Kerb weight       1185 kg

POWERTRAIN
Electric motor    50 kW
Max power        68 ps                Max torque        167 Nm (17.0 g/km)

BATTERY
Power               330V Lithium ion polymer
Capacity           16.4 kWh
Charge time       6.0 hrs (slow) / 25 minutes (fast)

PERFORMANCE
0-to-100 km/h    15.9 sec (to 62 mph)
Max speed        130 km/h (81 mph)
Max range         139 km (86 miles)

After the initial batch of 1,000 cars for model year 2013, production of the V60 Plug-in Hybrid will increase to 4,000-6,000 cars as of model year 2014.

Volvo expects that about 30 percent of total volume will go to Sweden and the other Nordic countries. Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, France, the Netherlands and the UK will have a share of between 5 and 15 percent each.

The production version of the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid will be launched in just one color – Electric Silver. The V60 Plug-in Hybrid is also distinguished by aero-designed 17-inch wheels, integrated exhaust tailpipes and a number of bodywork features in glossy black, such as the grille and the aerodynamic front spoiler. The chromed “Plug-in Hybrid” emblem is found both on the lower part of the tailgate and in a smaller version on the front wings.

The V60 Plug-in Hybrid features a five-cylinder 2.4-liter D5 turbodiesel, which produces 215 horsepower and maximum torque of 440 Nm. The turbodiesel drives the front axle, while the rear axle has ERAD (Electric Rear Axle Drive) in the form of an electric motor producing 70 horsepower, which receives its power from a 12 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The car features a six-speed automatic transmission.

The Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid promises a fuel economy of 1.9 L/100 km (123.8 mpg US or 149 mpg Imperial) with carbon dioxide emissions below 50 g/km.

The V60 Plug-in Hybrid can be driven on diesel power alone, as a diesel-electric hybrid, or as an electric-only car – technology that no other manufacturer can currently offer. The driver chooses the preferred driving mode via three buttons on the instrument panel: Pure, Hybrid and Power.

In Pure the car runs only on its electric motor as much as possible. If the battery has been recharged using electricity from a renewable source, the driving range is up to 50 km (32 miles) with zero emissions of carbon dioxide. Battery range varies with terrain, climate and driving style.

Hybrid is the default mode whenever the car is started. The diesel engine and electric motor interact to provide the optimal balance between driving pleasure and low environmental impact. Emissions of CO2 (EU Combined) are 49 g/km, corresponding to diesel fuel consumption of 1.9 l/100 km (123.8 mpg US or 149 mpg Imperial). The car’s total range is up to 1200 km (750 miles). The driver has the possibility to key in the planned route’s distance (short, medium or long) in the car setup menu. The control system calculates the balance between diesel and electric power to obtain the lowest possible CO2 emissions for the given distance.

In Power the technology is optimized to give the car the best possible performance. The diesel engine and electric motor have a combined power output 215 + 70 horsepower and maximum torque of 440 + 200 Nm. The electric motor’s lightning-quick torque delivery contributes to the car’s 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time of 6.9 seconds.

Volvo claims the car has an overall range of up to 1200 km (750 miles), a top speed of 200 km/h or 125mph (100 km/h or 62mph in all-electric mode) and will cover the 0-100km/h (0-62mph) dash in 6.9 seconds.

Save battery power for later
The V60 Plug-in Hybrid offers the driver the option to save battery capacity in order to have enough charge for driving on clean electricity later, for instance in an urban low emission zone.

When Save For Later is activated, the car makes sure that the battery has a sufficient charge level for another pure drive. If necessary, the High Voltage Generator recharges the battery in order to maintain a sufficient charge level for another “Pure” drive.

The aim is that the Save For Later mode should secure enough battery capacity for approximately 20 kilometers drive on pure electricity.

The two-step braking system is another intelligent feature in the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid. When the driver pushes the brake pedal, the system initially brakes the car by controlling the rear axle motor. This braking energy is used to regenerate the car’s battery pack.

The mechanical brakes are only activated when the situation requires more braking power than the rear axle can handle.

Recharging at home
The Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid is recharged via a regular power socket (230V/6A, 10A or 16A) at home or in a parking lot. The charging time depends on the level of the current. A full 10A charge takes 4.5 hours. The time is shortened to 3,5 hours with 16A, while a charge in a 6A socket takes 7.5 hours.

To get a comfortable start of the journey, the car driver has the possibility to preheat or cool the passenger compartment during the recharging process. This also means that more battery capacity can be used for powering the car.

The pre-conditioning also includes the possibility to cool the batteries. The battery pack has an ideal working temperature of 20-30°C. This means that the pre-cooling is highly important for maximizing the charging capacity and thereby the driving range on each charge. The timing is programmed via the car’s setup menu or remotely via a smart phone application.

The V60 Plug-in Hybrid has two heating possibilities. When running on electricity a PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) air heater is used. The car also has a Fuel Operated Diesel heater.

Smart mobile applications
On the outside the car has several additional features that emphasise its CO2-lean profile, such as lightweight wheels with exceptionally low air drag and tyres designed for low rolling resistance.

The instrument panel in the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid has been modified to give the driver a full range of important information about diesel and electricity consumption, battery charge level, remaining range and so on.

It will also be possible to communicate with the car via a mobile application. This gives the owner access to a number of smart features, such as climate conditioning, both pre cooling and pre heating, a reminder to plug in the charging cable if this hasn’t been done at a certain and pre-set time for charging.

Depending on specifications, the Mitsubishi MINICAB-MiEV will carry a manufacturer’s recommended retail price of between 2.4 million yen and 2.971 million yen (between $31,140 and $38,550 at today’s exchange rate), before government subsidies. Including the government subsidies, the MINICAB-MiEV will start at 1.73 million yen ($22,300).

As with the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, the MINICAB-MiEV will be sold on a maintenance lease, credit or cash basis.

Derived from the MINICAB Van minicar-class commercial vehicle, the MINICAB-MiEV has been developed maximizing the technologies and knowhow gained from the development of the Mitsubishi i-MiEV in delivering the superior environmental performance inherent to an EV, together with the high levels of operating economy, payload capacity, drivability and reliability demanded of a commercial vehicle.

The MINICAB-MiEV will come with a choice of two sizes of drive battery to allow the customer to choose the cruising range best suited to his or her needs. The 10.5 kWh battery version provides a cruising range of 100km (62 miles), at JC08 mode, on a single charge, while the 16.0 kWh version takes this up to 150km (93 miles).

Mitsubishi Motors said it aims to sell 4,000 Minicab MiEVs by March 31. In the 12-month period starting next April it targets sales of 50,000 EVs, including the i-MiEV, Minicab-MiEV, and versions of both models built under original equipment manufacturing (OEM) deals.

The Japanese automaker has sold about 17,000 electric vehicles (EVs) globally so far, including those supplied under PSA Peugeot Citroen’s brands, since the launch of the tiny i-MiEV in mid-2009.

Commercial vehicles are usually owned longer and cover longer cumulative mileages than family cars; so the MINICAB-MiEV also offers possible advantages over a comparable gasoline-powered in terms of total operating cost, including the price of the vehicle, because the main running cost is just that of the comparatively inexpensive electricity used to charge its battery. Further, because the MINICAB-MiEV can be charged at the business or at home it eliminates the need to make separate journeys to gasoline stations.

The MINICAB MiEV shares the following components with the i-MiEV: drive battery, motor, inverter, on-board charger, air-conditioner and rear suspension.

The MINICAB MiEV uses the same 10.5 kWh and 16.0 kWh lithium-ion drive batteries as the i-MiEV, and these provide a cruising range ample for normal minicar-class commercial vehicle use.

As on the i-MiEV, the driver can use the drive selector to choose from three modes: “D,” “Eco,” and “B.” This allows him or her to choose between normal operation, lower output/energy-saving operation, and operation in which the regenerative brake bias is increased.

All models are fitted with ABS and TCL (traction control) as standard, and with a vehicle-approaching alert system which, at vehicle speeds of approximately 25 km/h (15.5 mph) or less, emits an audible warning to alert pedestrians to the approach of the vehicle.

For regular charging purposes The MINICAB-MiEV comes standard with a 200V AC (15 amp) cable that fits outdoor sockets used for EV battery charging. A 100V AC (10 amp) cable and a Quick Charging Connector are available as factory-supplied options.

The MINICAB-MiEV comes in a choice of three body colors: White Solid, Cool Silver Metallic and Titanium Grey Metallic. Exclusive decals (for the body sides and tailgate) which accent the advanced nature of EVs are available as factory-supplied options.

The high-capacity drive battery is located under the floor and the motor, inverter and other EV components are located under the cargo compartment. The result is cargo compartment space and payload capacity of 350kg with two occupants.

The Fit EV is based on the popular Fit hatchback and is a part of the company’s diverse portfolio of alternative fuel vehicles that includes gasoline-electric hybrid, plug-in hybrid, fuel cell-electric and natural gas-powered models.

American Honda will begin leasing the Fit EV to customers in select California and Oregon markets next summer, and will expand to six East Coast markets in early 2013.

The Fit EV’s Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price2 (MSRP) is $36,625 with an estimated lease priced at $399 a month. Honda will monitor market acceptance, but expects volume at this early stage of production to be approximately 1,100 Fit EV’s over the next three years.

The Fit EV is designed to meet the needs of an average urban commuter, offering an estimated driving range of 123-miles on a single charge using the US EPA city cycle test methods (Honda anticipates a combined city/highway EV range of 76 miles on the new Fuel Economy labels).

The Fit EV will be powered by a 20 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 92 kilowatt coaxial electric motor. The high density electric motor, derived from the motor used in the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle, delivers excellent efficiency and power while remaining quiet at high speeds.

Driving range of the Fit EV can be maximized by using several innovative features, including a 3- mode electric drive system, adapted from the CR-Z Sport Hybrid. The system allows the driver to select between Econ, Normal and Sport to instantly and seamlessly change the driving experience to maximize efficiency or improve acceleration.

While in Econ mode, practical driving range can increase by as much as 17-percent compared to driving in Normal mode. Acceleration improves significantly when in Sport mode, adding to the Fit EV’s fun to drive nature.

In addition to the 3-mode driving system, the Fit EV includes interactive coaching features designed to assist the driver in maximizing battery performance and driving range. The power meter alerts the driver to optimal driving conditions. Additional energy- saving features includes a highly efficient electric air conditioning system and new regenerative braking system.

The 6.6 kW, onboard 32 amp charger allows for convenient recharging of the Fit EV. With a 240-volt charger, the Fit EV can fully recharge in as little as three hours. At launch timing, Honda will have a preferred Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) charging supplier.

Fit EV Telematics and Interactive Remote
To help the driver manage the electric vehicle ownership experience, the Fit EV will have a standard telematics system that allows the driver to stay connected through a smartphone, personal computer or interactive remote. Through the Fit EV smartphone and computer applications, the driver can remotely view the vehicles state of charge, initiate charging and activate the air conditioning and heater, to pre-condition the vehicle while connected to the grid which maximizes battery range on start-up. The mobile application and website also offers the ability to set charging notifications and alerts to optimize charging times based on varying utility rates and provides access to 24-hour roadside assistance. The Fit EV will come equipped with a standard Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ that provides the ability to locate public charging stations and frequently updated traffic information.

The interactive remote allows the driver to monitor the vehicles state of charge and cabin temperature. Additionally, the driver can initiate and terminate charging and remotely turn on the air conditioning using the interactive remote. The interactive remote does not require an internet or mobile connection to operate however the driver must be within 100 feet (30 meters) of the vehicle.

Fit EV Exterior and Interior Styling
The exterior dimensions of the Fit EV are identical to the gasoline-powered Fit with the addition of a higher hip point to accommodate the under floor placement of the 20 kWh battery. When the car launches in summer 2012, it will be available in one exclusive color, Reflection Blue Pearl. EV badges on the rear hatch and decals on the side of the vehicle distinguish the electric vehicle from its gasoline counterpart.

The Fit EV carries a familiar chrome front fascia that is similar to other Honda environmentally-responsible vehicles like the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle and Insight hybrid. The Fit EV is outfitted with distinct five-spoke alloy wheels and an aerodynamic rear spoiler.

In the passenger cabin, the seating surfaces are covered with bio-fabric. The Fit EV features illuminated meters that alert the driver to key vehicle functions including state of charge, battery usage and driving range. The meters change color depending on the driving mode selected (green, white or red).

The Fit EV features a spacious and functional cabin with comfortable seating for up to five passengers. For enhanced versatility, the Fit EV offers multiple seating and cargo-carrying configurations.

Honda Electric Vehicle Demonstration Program
Honda will test the Fit EV with the City of Torrance, California Google Inc. and Stanford University as a part of the Honda Electric Vehicle Demonstration Program. Each program participant will provide Honda with real-world feedback on the Fit EV. Individually, each participant will use the Fit EV to further initiatives such as research into human behavior and various usage like personal, fleet and car-sharing.

Designed specifically for a lithium-ion battery-powered chassis, the Nissan LEAF is a medium-size hatchback that comfortably seats five adults and has a range of 100 miles (U.S. LA4 cycle) on one full charge to satisfy real-world consumer requirements.

Enhancements for the 2012 model year include the addition of a standard battery heater, heated steering wheel, heated front and rear seats, heated outside mirrors and rear HVAC duct on all models. Also, a Quick Charge Port is now standard on the LEAF SL.

The EPA has rated the Nissan LEAF as “best” in the mid-size vehicle class for fuel efficiency and “best” for the environment with a 99 miles-per-gallon (MPG) equivalency rating (combined city/highway), along with a rating of 106 MPG city and 92 MPG highway.

Nissan LEAF was also named “2011 World Car of the Year,” edging out the BMW 5-Series and the Audi A8 for the top spot. The award is just one of a string of accolades for the vehicle, which was also named “2011 European Car of the Year.”

Two Well-Equipped Models
The 2012 Nissan LEAF is offered in two well-equipped models, the LEAF SV and LEAF SL. Standard features include a 6-way manual driver’s seat, 4-way manual front passenger’s seat, front door map pockets, passenger seat map pockets, trip computer (instant and average energy consumption, driving time, outside temperature and autonomy range), Automatic Temperature Control (ATC), center console storage and electric parking brake.

Other standard equipment includes an AM/FM/CD with MP3/WMA CD-ROM playback capability and 6 speakers, auxiliary input jack ad USB Connection Port for iPod® and other compatible devices, Nissan Intelligent Key® with Push Button Start, power windows with driver’s window one-touch auto up/down, power door locks with auto locking feature, remote charge door release, two cupholders, two bottle holders, variable intermittent windshield wipers, 12-volt power outlet and remote keyless entry system with remote windows down and hatch release.

The Nissan LEAF SL model includes a photovoltaic solar panel spoiler, fog lights, auto on/off headlights, cargo cover, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver, RearView Monitor and Quick Charge Port.

A Roadside Assistance program is offered for 36 months at no charge, as is service for the CARWINGS telematics system. The advanced lithium-ion battery pack carries an industry-competitive warranty of 8 years or 100,000 miles.

The 2012 Nissan LEAF will cost $2,420 more but will have more standard features then previous model. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price of the 2012 Nissan LEAF is $35,200 for the SV trim level, and $37,250 for the SL trim level.

Including the $7,500 federal tax credit for which the 2012 Nissan LEAF will be fully eligible, the consumer’s after-tax net value of the vehicle will be $27,700.

Lease payment for the 2012 Nissan LEAF SV goes up $20 to $369 per month for 36 months, while SL lease goes up $30 to $409. Lease down payments rise to $2,599 from $1,995.

A Dedicated EV Platform, Innovative Battery Design
The front-wheel drive Nissan LEAF utilizes a dedicated EV platform with batteries housed in the floor for optimum vehicle packaging and weight distribution. The highly rigid body design includes a rigid-mounted battery frame, which helps provide greater body rigidity compared to a conventional compact car. LEAF rides on a 106.3-inch wheelbase, with a 175.0-inch overall length, 69.7-inch width and 61.0-inch height.

Dimensionally, the Nissan LEAF falls in between the Nissan Altima and Nissan Versa, and like those vehicles provides room for five adults and a good-sized cargo area. Placing the batteries in the floor of the vehicle provides optimum weight distribution to help enhance handling and allows for five-passenger seating by not intruding into the cabin space.

Nissan LEAF’s 24 kWh lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery is comprised of 48 compact modules of four cells each, which allows a high degree of packaging flexibility. The batteries are designed to maximize drive time and minimize charging time. The battery was developed by the Automotive Energy Supply Corporation (AESC), a joint venture of Nissan and NEC. Unlike conventional cylindrical batteries, the thin, compact laminated cells offer more flexibility in design applications.

The battery powers a high-response 80kW AC synchronous motor, rated at 107 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque, which drives the front wheels through a single speed reducer. Unlike a conventional internal combustion engine, Nissan LEAF delivers 100% of its torque from start, delivering smooth, consistent acceleration and the driving feel similar to a conventional V6 engine.

Range is rated at 100 miles/charge based upon US EPA LA4 City cycle conducted in laboratory tests. (Battery capacity decreases with time and use; actual range will vary depending upon driving/charging habits, speed, conditions, weather, temperature, and battery age.)

The Nissan LEAF offers a number of charging options. A charge port is located in the front body for the 200V charger and portable trickle charge cable (110V). The available Quick Charge Port (standard on SL) allows charging to 80% capacity in 30 minutes at public charging stations. There’s also a standard photovoltaic solar panel spoiler on SL models, which supports charging of the 12-volt battery for car accessories.

The Nissan LEAF utilizes an independent strut suspension with stabilizer bar in front and a torsion beam rear suspension with integrated stabilizer bar. Responsive steering is provided by a vehicle-speed-sensitive electric power steering system. Braking is provided by power-assisted front vented disc/solid rear disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).

Nissan LEAF’s standard regenerative braking system helps increase range. By applying the brakes or reducing speed by letting off the accelerator, the electric motor acts as an electric generator, converting energy that would otherwise be wasted into battery energy. To increase regenerative braking, there’s a driver-controlled Eco mode setting, which can also be used to reduce air conditioning and thus improve driving range when driving in urban areas.

Because Nissan LEAF does not have an internal combustion engine, Nissan has incorporated an “Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians” system, which is designed to alert pedestrians that a vehicle is approaching. When driving at low speeds, the system emits a sound from a speaker at the front of the vehicle. When the vehicle’s speed reaches 19 mph, pedestrians are able to hear the car moving and the “approaching sound” automatically turns off. If the vehicle speed drops below 16 mph, the sound comes on again.

Distinctive “EV Touch” Interior
The roomy Nissan LEAF interior offers a pleasingly modern design created to provide a unique “EV touch” with “simple and human flow.” The bright, welcoming atmosphere starts with the wide, high tech instrument panel design – which is dominated by a twin combination meter display in front of the driver and a center “floating” piano black C-stack with a 7-inch information display.

The digital “eyebrow” display at the top of the instrument panel provides high visibility for the Eco indicator and speedometer, while the lower liquid crystal meter display houses the power meter, battery temperature gauge, multi-function display, remaining energy gauge, capacity level gauge and distance to empty display.

The flat panel center C-stack cluster continues the “EV touch” feel with the color monitor for the standard navigation system, available RearView Monitor and control of the audio and climate systems.

The display also provides access to the CARWINGS telematics system, which is connected to a global data center, (subscription required, no charge for 36 months). Through CARWINGS, Nissan LEAF drivers are able to use mobile smart phones to turn on air conditioning and set charging functions remotely, even when the vehicle is powered down. The system also displays “reachable area,” as well as showing a selection of nearby charging stations. An on-board charging timer can also be programmed to start the charging event whenever desired.

The Nissan LEAF interior also includes comfortable heated front bucket seats and a 60/40 split folding heated rear seat and rear HVAC duct. The seat fabric is made with partially recycled materials. Recycled materials are also used for the back door trim, roof trim and headliner, carpeting and a number of other interior pieces such as the door panels and center console storage cover.

The center console area includes the palm shifter (inspired by a PC mouse) for the “by wire” drive selector. The 3-spoke heated steering wheel houses controls for the cruise control, audio system and standard Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System. XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately) is also standard, with HomeLink® Universal Transceiver standard on Nissan LEAF SL models. One interior color is offered, Light Gray.

Five Star Safety Rating
The 100-percent electric Nissan LEAF has earned a 5-star overall vehicle rating for safety as part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Nissan LEAF is the first fully electric vehicle to earn this highest distinction from the program. Starting with 2011 models, NHTSA introduced tougher tests and requirements in order to earn 5-star ratings.

The Nissan LEAF has also been named a “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the first 100-percent electric vehicle to do so. The rating is given to vehicles that achieve the Institute’s highest rating of “Good” in front, rear and side impact protection as well as being equipped with electronic stability control and earn a good rating in roof strength.

Standard Nissan LEAF safety systems include Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and occupant classification sensor, front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags, roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection, 3-point ALR/ELR seat belts (driver’s seat ELR only) with pretensioners and load limiters, child seat upper tether anchor, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system and child safety rear door locks. Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS) are also standard on all LEAF models.

In a statement today, the company said the 2012 Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid is the result of its close cooperation with Swedish utility company Vattenfall.

The Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid promises a fuel economy of 1.9 L/100 km (123.8 mpg US or 149 mpg Imperial) with carbon dioxide emissions below 50 g/km.

The V60 Plug-in Hybrid features a five-cylinder 2.4-liter D5 turbodiesel, which produces 215 horsepower and maximum torque of 440 Nm. The turbodiesel drives the front axle, while the rear axle has ERAD (Electric Rear Axle Drive) in the form of an electric motor producing 70 horsepower, which receives its power from a 12 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The car features a six-speed automatic transmission.

The V60 Plug-in Hybrid can be driven on diesel power alone, as a diesel-electric hybrid, or as an electric-only car – technology that no other manufacturer can currently offer. The driver chooses the preferred driving mode via three buttons on the instrument panel: Pure, Hybrid and Power.

In Pure the car runs only on its electric motor as much as possible. If the battery has been recharged using electricity from a renewable source, the driving range is up to 50 km (32 miles) with zero emissions of carbon dioxide. Battery range varies with terrain, climate and driving style.

Hybrid is the default mode whenever the car is started. The diesel engine and electric motor interact to provide the optimal balance between driving pleasure and low environmental impact. Emissions of CO2 (EU Combined) are 49 g/km, corresponding to diesel fuel consumption of 1.9 l/100 km (123.8 mpg US or 149 mpg Imperial). The car’s total range is up to 1200 km (750 miles). The driver has the possibility to key in the planned route’s distance (short, medium or long) in the car setup menu. The control system calculates the balance between diesel and electric power to obtain the lowest possible CO2 emissions for the given distance.

In Power the technology is optimized to give the car the best possible performance. The diesel engine and electric motor have a combined power output 215 + 70 horsepower and maximum torque of 440 + 200 Nm. The electric motor’s lightning-quick torque delivery contributes to the car’s 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time of 6.9 seconds.

Volvo claims the car has an overall range of up to 1200 km (750 miles), a top speed of 200 km/h or 125mph (100 km/h or 62mph in all-electric mode) and will cover the 0-100km/h (0-62mph) dash in 6.9 seconds.

Save battery power for later
The V60 Plug-in Hybrid offers the driver the option to save battery capacity in order to have enough charge for driving on clean electricity later, for instance in an urban low emission zone.

When Save For Later is activated, the car makes sure that the battery has a sufficient charge level for another pure drive. If necessary, the High Voltage Generator recharges the battery in order to maintain a sufficient charge level for another “Pure” drive.

The aim is that the Save For Later mode should secure enough battery capacity for approximately 20 kilometers drive on pure electricity.

The two-step braking system is another intelligent feature in the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid. When the driver pushes the brake pedal, the system initially brakes the car by controlling the rear axle motor. This braking energy is used to regenerate the car’s battery pack.

The mechanical brakes are only activated when the situation requires more braking power than the rear axle can handle.

Recharging at home
The Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid is recharged via a regular power socket (230V/6A, 10A or 16A) at home or in a parking lot. The charging time depends on the level of the current. A full 10A charge takes 4.5 hours. The time is shortened to 3,5 hours with 16A, while a charge in a 6A socket takes 7.5 hours.

To get a comfortable start of the journey, the car driver has the possibility to preheat or cool the passenger compartment during the recharging process. This also means that more battery capacity can be used for powering the car.

The pre-conditioning also includes the possibility to cool the batteries. The battery pack has an ideal working temperature of 20-30°C. This means that the pre-cooling is highly important for maximizing the charging capacity and thereby the driving range on each charge. The timing is programmed via the car’s setup menu or remotely via a smart phone application.

The V60 Plug-in Hybrid has two heating possibilities. When running on electricity a PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) air heater is used. The car also has a Fuel Operated Diesel heater.

Smart mobile applications
On the outside the car has several additional features that emphasise its CO2-lean profile, such as lightweight wheels with exceptionally low air drag and tyres designed for low rolling resistance.

The instrument panel in the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid has been modified to give the driver a full range of important information about diesel and electricity consumption, battery charge level, remaining range and so on.

It will also be possible to communicate with the car via a mobile application. This gives the owner access to a number of smart features, such as climate conditioning, both pre cooling and pre heating, a reminder to plug in the charging cable if this hasn’t been done at a certain and pre-set time for charging.

The Prius Plug-in Hybrid represents the latest development of the Toyota’s modular Hybrid Synergy Drive platform – credible, trusted and reliable full hybrid technology with a proven track record garnered over more than 200 billion kilometers of driving worldwide.

Offering a considerable expansion of the Hybrid Synergy Drive system’s capabilities, Prius Plug-in Hybrid incorporates a lithium-ion battery to offer an EV driving range of approximately 14.3 miles (target figure). Beyond the electric driving range, it can be used as a conventional full hybrid with all the efficiency of a standard Prius, and fully recharged from a domestic source when convenient, in just an hour-and-a-half.

With a total HSD system power output of 134hp, Prius Plug-in Hybrid will accelerate from nought to 62mph in 10.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 112mph.

Its EV cruising range enables it to achieve remarkable fuel efficiency of 87 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) and achieve unprecedented CO2 figures of 49g/km (target figures).

Weighing approximately 1,420kg, Prius Plug-in Hybrid is only 50kg heavier than the regular Prius, and no heavier than any comparable diesel or petrol car in its segment.

Prius Plug-in Hybrid addresses the specific needs of drivers commuting to urban areas, and so will appeal to very similar customers to those who were early adopters of the first generation Prius.

Sales will start in early 2012, mainly in Japan, the USA and Europe, with anticipated annual sales of approximately 50,000 units.

New Prius Plug-in Hybrid, the Hybrid Synergy Drive Technology Flagship
The wealth of real-world user feedback generated by the global limited lease projects has enabled Toyota to re-evaluate every aspect of Prius Plug-in Hybrid’s performance. As a result, the production vehicle benefits not only from several key technological improvements over its lease project counterpart, but also considerable improvements to its everyday practicality and usability.

Prius Plug-in Hybrid features a new lithium-ion battery with a high capacity of 4.4kWh and a weight of only 80kg. This compares favourably to the nickel-metal hydride battery of the latest generation Prius, which has a capacity of 1.3kWh and weighs 42kg.

Using a battery charger inlet now relocated beneath a discreet, flush-mounted panel in the production vehicle’s right-hand rear wing, the battery pack can be fully recharged in 1.5 hours from a standard, 230V household outlet, with no need for an expensive fast-charger.

Driving Modes
Prius Plug-in Hybrid offers the driver three switchable, ‘on-demand’ drive modes: HV, EV and EV-City.

With HV mode selected, Prius Plug-in Hybrid functions like a standard Prius. It delivers the classic, highly efficient Toyota HSD driving experience, seamlessly engaging the petrol engine as appropriate. The vehicle’s switchable EV mode range is preserved for use in urban environments.

With EV mode selected, Prius Plug-in Hybrid is able to draw upon the full capacity of the battery and will remain in electric drive mode, allowing for urban driving with minimal noise and zero CO2 and NOX emissions, for up to approximately 14.5 miles at speeds of up to 53mph.

The petrol engine will still start if the system judges that additional power is necessary, however the use of light to medium throttle inputs keeps it switched off throughout EV mode operation.

With EV-City mode selected, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid matches the EV mode’s characteristics. Increased electric operation is ensured by allowing more forceful use of the throttle before the petrol engine kicks in.

Switched separately, ECO mode may be independently activated when the Prius Plug-in Hybrid is operating in HV, EV or EV-City modes. In any drive mode, throttle response to accelerator pedal inputs is reduced and air-conditioning control adjusted for improved fuel economy. Depending on driving conditions, ECO mode can help drivers achieve a perceptible reduction in fuel consumption.

Exclusive design with practical and technologically advanced interior
In recognition of its status as the next generation eco car from the Toyota hybrid stable, several subtle exterior detail changes differentiate Prius Plug-in Hybrid from the standard Prius.

The front of the car features an exclusive grille and front bumper design. To the rear, a clear lens combination lamp design further differentiates the new vehicle from the standard Prius. A high-brightness silver finish has been adopted for the door handles, licence plate trim and battery charger lid, and the vehicle features Plug-in Hybrid badging on the front wings and tailgate.

Following lease customer feedback, the battery charger inlet has been relocated from the left front wing to a discreet, flush-mounted panel in the right-hand rear wing. Every aspect of the charging operation itself has also been reconsidered.

The Charge Circuit Interface Device (CCID) has been made more compact, and a 25 per cent lighter, more flexible charging cable that does not stiffen in cold weather has been developed. The battery charger lid has been incorporated into the cover for easier, single-operation closing, and it now features a battery charger indicator and LED illumination for better night-time visibility. As an additional safety measure, Prius Plug-in Hybrid cannot be started when the charging cable is connected.

On board, the quality of the interior has been raised through a new color scheme with silver inserts, a revised centre console design, and an improved multi-information display with improved EV driving support meter functions.

The air conditioning is coordinated with the standard front seat heaters. This enables the system to reach a comfortable temperature for the driver and passenger more quickly and efficiently, further improving the vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

The installation of the new, more compact lithium-ion battery has allowed for a loadspace deck that is on a par with the standard Prius, and a luggage capacity of 443 liters. Under-boot storage of 40.5 liters means there is ample space to store the charging cable beneath the loadspace floor.

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With total production amounting to a five-figure number, from the spring of 2012 the further developed smart fortwo electric drive will start winning wide-ranging buyers in more than 30 countries for an innovative and forward-looking drive concept.

The third generation smart fortwo electric drive features a 55 kW magneto-electric motor – the first product from the EM-motive joint venture founded together with Bosch – which ensures that it is as agile and lively as ever.

With torque of 130 Newton metres it accelerates powerfully and immediately from 0 to 60 km/h (0 to 37 mph) in 5 seconds and thanks to better acceleration in the higher speed range it can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in less than 13 seconds as it has much more tractive power than its predecessor. This makes for speedy driving and overtaking. The battery-electric two-seater smart fortwo now also has a higher top speed of more than 120 km/h (75 mph), putting it on a par with the combustion-engined smart.

A battery supplied by Deutsche ACCUmotive, a joint venture between Daimler and German alternative energy specialist Evonik, is fitted in the new smart fortwo electric drive for the first time. With capacity of 17.6 kWh the lithium-ion battery from the joint venture with Evonik Industries provides for well over 140 kilometers (87 miles) of pollutant-free driving fun. In addition to the higher battery capacity clear improvements have been made to the efficiency of the drive system, resulting in a greater range. When completely empty it takes a maximum of eight hours to fully charge the battery at a household socket or charging station on the electricity systems of most countries i.e. overnight.

For the greater freedom of quick charging it is possible to optionally equip the vehicle with a quick-charging function. The 22 kW on-board charger enables a completely empty battery to be fully charged in less than an hour. A power cable is needed for this which is used to connect the vehicle to a public quick-charging station or a wallbox at home or work.

A comparison of the two smart fortwo electric drive generations

With a larger radiator grille featuring the electric drive logo, stylish LED daytime driving lights below the headlamps, wider door sills and several modifications to the rear the new model is much more dynamic than its predecessor.

The new smart fortwo electric drive comes in all smart colors and color combinations that are also available for the diesel and petrol models.

As to be expected the new smart fortwo electric drive features extensive equipment. A highlight is the fully automatic air conditioning with pollen filter and pre-air conditioning. As with the second generation the vehicle can be pre-cooled or pre-heated as required for a programmed departure time when it is connected to the power network. A new feature is the possibility to start the pre-air conditioning via the internet or a smartphone at any time.

The standard equipment furthermore includes electric windows and electrically adjustable door mirrors, a leather steering wheel, leather gear knob, the entry line radio, power steering, 9-spoke alloy wheels and a luggage compartment cover. As with the predecessor model in addition to the standard solid roof a glass roof and a cabrio version are available. The trip computer – also a standard feature in the electric smart – shows journey information including the remaining range. And like the predecessor model the two round instruments show the charge status of the battery and the energy used and recuperated. In addition, the smart fortwo electric drive can be equipped with a navigation system and a 3-spoke leather steering wheel.

The smart fortwo electric drive can be connected to the internet at home via a standard powerline adapter (Homeplug AV) for SmartCharging. After entering the planned departure time in the vehicle or the web portal the vehicle will be fully charged in a battery-saving and economical way, and pre-air conditioned if required so that it is ready to start. The pre-air conditioning can also be conveniently activated online shortly before setting off.

Smart also plans to add a plug-in electric bicycle to its lineup. The Smart Ebike will be unveiled in near-production form at the Frankfurt Show.

It uses a 250-watt brushless electric hub motor, produced by BionX and mounted within the rear 26-inch wheel, to supplement the pedal power. A handlebar-mounted control unit offers four different levels of electric assistance. Energy is stored in a 400-watt-hour lithium-ion battery mounted within the bike’s frame.

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According to Gordon Murray Designs, the T.27 is 36 percent more efficient than the Mitsubishi i-MiEV and 29 percent more than the Smart car thanks to the car’s lightweight structure.

The design and development program for T.27 is a £9 million project, made possible through a £4.5 million investment from the government-backed Technology Strategy Board.  From a clean sheet of paper to a running prototype the program has taken just 17 months including the design and build of a completely new electric powertrain by Zytek Automotive Ltd, one of the Consortium partners.

The 2.5 meters long T.27 can carry three adult passengers. The weight of the car is 680kg including the battery.

The T.27 features a 25 kW (33-horsepower) electric motor powered by 12.1 kWh lithium-ion batteries.

Despite the relative small size of the powertrain, the car is capable of reaching 62mph in less than 15 seconds and has a top speed of around 60mph. Driving range is estimated at 100 miles over the New European Drive Cycle (limited to 100km/h) and 130 miles on the European Drive Cycle (ECE15).

The lightweight iFrame geometry in the T.27 allowed every aspect of the vehicle to be optimized including Zytek Automotive’s integrated powertrain.

The total weight of the motor, inverter and gearbox is less than 50 kg (110 lbs), approximately 45% of that of a comparative, current production, water-cooled drivetrain with its associated radiator, cooling fluid, pumps etc. This light weight contributes to the low overall vehicle weight while the highly compact size means that luggage space can be increased compared to the regular internal combustion engined vehicle.

With low vehicle weight being a primary project target, every effort was taken to design and integrate the battery into the vehicle, and as such a single structure has been used, improving on the more traditional “box within a box” approach, Zytek said. This yielded a total battery weight of 129 kg (284 lbs).

Gordon Murray Design recently achieved first class results in a second crash test on the vehicle—the EuroNCAP 50 km/h mobile deformable barrier (MDB) protocol, confirming the structural integrity of an iStream manufactured chassis during a side impact.

The T.27 could be on the market in little more than two years and would cost £14,000 to £15,000 not counting the £5,000 UK Plug-In Car Grant, according to Autocar.

The T.27 is an electric version of the gasoline-powered T.25 and will make its public road debut at the RAC Future Car Challenge on November 5, 2011.

The Opel Ampera is GM’s version of the Chevrolet Volt for European market, but with a significantly higher price tag.

The Opel Ampera goes on sale later this year with starting price at €42,900 in most European markets (that’s about $59,000 USD), but it includes Europe’s costly Value Added Tax, which adds about 20 percent to the purchase price.

Opel says it has taken in over 1,000 reservations for the Ampera across Europe, with half of those being corporate customers.
Opel claims the revolutionary Ampera will be the first emission-free, electrically driven car in Europe suitable for everyday driving. Unlike a conventional battery-electric vehicle, the Ampera eliminates range anxiety. It gives drivers the confidence and peace of mind that a depleted battery will not strand them.

The battery is recharged in about four hours at 230V by plugging the vehicle’s on-board charge system into a standard household outlet. Because the battery can be recharged conveniently, without the need for special charging equipment, most Amperas are likely to be driven in battery mode all the time. Independent research shows that around 80 percent of Europeans drive less than 60 kilometers per day, so the Ampera easily meets their requirements.

For the first 40 – 80 kilometers (depending on terrain, driving style, and temperature), power is supplied by the electricity stored in the 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery. While driving on electricity delivered by the battery, the Ampera moves free of gas and tailpipe-emissions. If a longer trip is required, the gasoline-fueled engine can seamlessly extend the total driving range to more than 500 kilometers on a full tank. This full-performance, range-extending technology makes the Ampera the first electric car with the everyday convenience of a conventional automobile.

The extremely quiet 111 kW/150 hp electric motor delivers 370 Newton meters torque from a standstill. It accelerates the Ampera from zero to 100 km/h in around nine seconds and enables a maximum speed of 161 km/h.

Via a “Drive Mode” button in the center stack, the driver can choose Normal, Sport, Mountain or City modes. These modes optimize energy management according to the prevailing driving and road conditions.

The Normal mode is the default setting for the Ampera and is expected to be used most of the time to provide maximum efficiency. When the energy level of the battery drops below its state-of-charge operating window, the Ampera enters extended-range operation, during which the gasoline engine automatically runs to sustain the charge and enable extended-range travel. The battery’s state-of-charge is sustained by regenerative braking, allowing the gasoline generator to rest during long downhill stretches.

The Sport mode automatically reconfigures the accelerator pedal to provide a quicker response. While Sport mode doesn’t provide a higher power output, it does provide a more sensitive reaction to driver inputs.

The Mountain mode automatically adjusts the system to provide necessary power in mountainous environments, when the performance of conventional electric vehicles could be compromised. Mountain mode enables the range-extender to switch on, before the battery reaches its minimum state-of-charge. Drivers should select this mode after a full charge or 10 to 15 minutes before entering mountainous terrain to enable full vehicle capability up sustained grades.

The City mode adapts battery management to the demands of modern commuter travel. Selecting City mode engages the range-extender immediately, saving the energy currently stored in the battery. When City mode is switched off, the range-extender stops and the Ampera is then able to use the energy saved in the battery for pure electric driving, for example in urban areas or restricted zones.