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Electric (Battery)
[Due to the increasing size of the archives, each topic page now contains only the prior 365 days of content. Access to older stories is now solely through the Monthly Archive pages or the site search function.]
Smith Electric Vehicles and Wanxiang Group announce investment and joint venture for electric school buses and commercial vehicles in China
February 17, 2012
Smith Electric Vehicles Corp. has signed a letter of intent with Wanxiang Group, a China-based global leader in automotive parts manufacturing and supply. The principal terms include a $25-million equity investment in Smith by Wanxiang and up to a $75-million investment in a joint venture between Smith and Wanxiang to develop, manufacture and commercialize all-electric school buses and commercial vehicles for multiple industries in China.
Under the Smith brand, these vehicles will combine Wanxiang’s EV componentry technologies with Smith’s proprietary platform vehicle designs, including its Smith Drive and Smith Power systems. Both the investment and the joint venture are subject to the execution of definitive agreements and receipt of regulatory and other third-party approvals.
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SPX and Aker Wade partner to develop new low-cost fast chargers for EVs
February 04, 2012
SPX Service Solutions, a business unit of SPX Corporation (earlier post), and Aker Wade Power Technologies, LLC, a designer and manufacturer of advanced fast charging systems (earlier post), signed a letter of intent jointly to develop a new family of practical electric vehicle (EV) fast chargers for the global vehicle market.
These new charge stations will utilize an all-in-one connector from SAE that provides Level 1, 2, and DC Fast Charging for any EV, with a power level that permits fast charging. (Earlier post.) A typical 100-mile range EV with a 25 kWh battery pack can add an additional 50 miles in less than 20 minutes, and deliver a full charge of 100 miles in approximately 40 minutes. The first product, a 30 kW dealership-based unit, will be available in North America and Europe and meet SAE and IEC standards.
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Mercedes-Benz to introduce new Citan urban delivery van; electric drive version being planned
February 03, 2012
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| Sketch of the Citan. Click to enlarge. |
Mercedes-Benz will introduce a new urban delivery van called Citan later this year. The name Citan combines the words “city” and “titan,” indicating that the vehicle is designed for city logistics, the company said during a symposium on brand competence and city logistics held at the Mercedes-Benz Design Center in Sindelfingen.
The drive concept encompasses a broad range of low-emission, fuel-efficient diesel and gasoline engines and includes a BlueEFFICIENCY package. An electric drive version is also being planned.
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New study of emissions and health impacts from EVs in China, including massive e-bike fleet
February 02, 2012
A new study by researchers from the University of Tennessee, University of Minnesota, and Tsinghua University compares emissions (CO2, PM2.5, NOx, HC) and environmental health impacts (primary PM2.5) from the use of conventional vehicles (CVs) and electric vehicles (EVs)—including electric cars, bicycles and light scooters—in 34 major cities in China. The study’s findings highlight the importance of considering exposures—especially the proximity of emissions to people—when evaluating environmental health impacts for EVs, the team said.
In their paper, published in the ACS journal Environmental Science & Technology, Ji et al. note that the focus of their study was motivated in part by the unprecedented rise in popularity of electric two-wheelers in China. The massive upsurge in e-bikes in the country marks “the single largest adoption of alternative fuel vehicles in history, with over 100 million vehicles purchased in the past decade, more than all other countries combined.”
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MIT study concludes V2G-enabled electric commercial trucks could offer lower total operating cost than conventional diesel fleet
February 01, 2012
A new study by researchers at MIT’s Center for Transportation and Logistics (CTL), concludes that electric commercial vehicles can cost 9 to 12% less to operate than trucks powered by diesel engines when used to make deliveries on an everyday basis in big cities and when V2G (vehicle-to-grid) revenue is incorporated.
The CTL study was conducted using data collected by the international office supplier Staples, as well as ISO New England, the nonprofit firm that runs New England’s electric power grid. Using that data, the researchers modeled the costs for a fleet of 250 delivery trucks, and examined alternate scenarios in which the whole fleet used one of three kinds of motors: purely electric engines, hybrid gas-electric engines and conventional diesel engines.
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California’s new ZEV rule introduces the BEVx; ARB staff expects these vehicles to play a longer-term role than plug-in hybrids
January 29, 2012
On Friday 27 January, the California Air Resources Board (ARB) adopted the new Advanced Clean Cars (ACC) package that sets out the regulatory emissions and technology requirements for light-duty automobiles through model year 2025. (Earlier post.) The Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) regulation—one of the three main regulatory packages that constitute ACC—introduces a new regulatory vehicle category: the BEVx, or a battery-electric vehicle with a small “limp-home” range extending engine or APU (auxiliary power unit)—i.e., not a series-hybrid type vehicle such as the Chevrolet Volt equipped with a full-capability engine.
Under the ACC, ARB will award BEVx credits on the same basis as BEVs—i.e., on zero-emission miles (the simplified ZEV credit scheme under the ACC is a linear one based on those zero-emission miles). BEVx vehicles can provide up to 50% of the pure ZEV requirement for manufacturers, and so they may emerge as a significant vehicle type.
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Mitsubishi Heavy, Hitachi and Mitsubishi Corp. to begin $65M project on EV transportation infrastructure for smart community system demo project in Spain
January 28, 2012
Japan’s New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) has selected Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI), Hitachi, Ltd. and Mitsubishi Corporation (MC) as contractors for the Smart Community System Demonstration Project in Spain, as the result of a feasibility study which was conducted from March through October 2011 by the three companies.
The project, which is aligned with the Malaga Smartcity Project currently under way in Malaga, Spain, will demonstrate and verify various businesses necessary for establishing a transportation infrastructure for electric vehicles. The total budget of the demonstration project, to be conducted for a period through March 2016, is expected to be near ¥5 billon (US$65.2 million).
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SAE taskforce J2954 on wireless charging and positioning standards looking to have final draft of guideline this year; significant industry involvement
January 22, 2012
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| Under the emerging J2954 guidelines, communications for wireless charging will use DSRC. Source: J2954. Click to enlarge. |
The SAE Taskforce on wireless charging and positioning of electric vehicles (SAE J2954) (earlier post) is progressing, and is slated to have a final draft of the guideline this year, according to the Society of Automotive Engineers, International (SAE).
The objective of the taskforce is initially to create a guideline for demonstration projects and design verification and later standardize in 2015 with field confirmation.
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California ISO releases five-year strategic plan; grid integration of renewable power, support for electric vehicle charging
January 21, 2012
The California Independent System Operator Corporation (ISO), California’s non-profit grid operator, released its new five-year (2012-2016) strategic plan. Between now and 2020, wind and solar generation will quadruple within the ISO transmission grid at the same time electric vehicle charging increases significantly. Advancements in technology including distributed generation such as storage as well as smart grid developments are also reshaping grid and market operations.
ISO says the changes to the industry are the most significant seen in the past 100 years and bring both tremendous opportunities as well as transitional challenges—the transformation comes just as California’s fleet of ocean-cooled coastal gas-fired plants dwindle due to new water regulations requiring they either retire, repower or be retrofitted to protect marine life.
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Zero Motorcycles, Jiangsu Xinri E-Vehicle score highest in new Pike Research assessment of electric motorcycle and scooter manufacturers
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| Pike Pulse Grid for electric motorcycles and scooters. Click to enlarge. |
According to a new Pike Pulse report published by Pike Research, the two electric motorcycle and scooter manufacturers who are best positioned to take advantage of upcoming shifts in the market are Zero Motorcycles and Jiangsu Xinri E-Vehicle.
The market for electric motorcycle and electric scooters is nascent in most regions of the world, except for Asia-Pacific. The vast majority of e-motorcycle and e-scooter sales in 2011 occurred in that region (17 million vehicles estimated for Asia Pacific, versus just over 30,000 for the rest of the world combined), but the market is on the verge of major competitive changes over the next couple of years, according to Pike. A few large vendors, including Honda and KTM, have entered the market, while competitors such as Brammo, New Vetrix, and Current Motor Company have drastically revised their business plans or developed new products over the last two years.
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Schaeffler showcases eDifferential and eWheel Drive for electric Mobility
January 19, 2012
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| Schaeffler’s eDifferential provides drive power for the vehicle as well as allowing power distribution between the wheels on an axle. Click to enlarge. |
The Schaeffler Group, a leading global supplier to the automotive industry, used the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit to highlight a number of hybrid solutions and electric mobility products as well as products for optimizing conventional drivetrains based on the internal combustion engine.
The Schaeffler eSolutions concept model at NAIAS showcased technologies such as the eWheel Drive electric wheel hub drive and the eDifferential—an electric axle that allows both the specific distribution of the drive torque to individual wheels and torque vectoring to provide enhanced driving dynamics in electric and hybrid vehicles. Schaeffler has applied these and other eMobility technologies in a trio of on-the-road concept vehicles: ACTIVeDRIVE, the Schaeffler Hybrid (earlier post), and the combustion-engine oriented CO2ncept-10%.
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President’s Jobs Council recommends an “All-in” energy strategy; from fossil fuels and pipelines, to efficiency, renewables and vehicle electrification
January 18, 2012
In its 2011 year-end report, Road Map to Renewal, the President’s Council on Jobs and Competitiveness (Jobs Council) made a number of recommendations to create jobs in the short run and improve US competitiveness over the long term. Very broadly, the report lays out an agenda to “Invest in Our Future” through education and innovation, “Build on Our Strengths” in the critical sectors of energy and manufacturing, and “Play to Win” by making overdue tax and regulatory reforms to stay competitive.
More specifically, in the energy sector, the Jobs Council, which defined the challenge there as energy availability and security, recommended what it called an “All-in” strategy. The All-in strategy is intended to optimize all US energy resources while promoting efficiency and driving innovation and investment in new technologies such as renewables and vehicle electrification.
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UK government extends Plug-In Car Grant to vans for up to $12,300
January 17, 2012
Van buyers in the UK will be able to receive 20%—up to £8,000 (US$12,300)—off the cost of a plug-in van, UK Transport Minister Norman Baker and Business Minister Mark Prisk announced. This is an extension of the Plug-In Car Grant which offers 25%—up to £5,000 (US$7,700)—to motorists buying a new plug-in car. Ministers have also re-confirmed there is funding secured for this grant until 2015.
There are currently 10 cars eligible for the Plug-In Car Grant—5 of which came onto the market in 2011, with the other half expected to be available to purchase this year. During the first year of the scheme, 1,052 eligible vehicles were registered and, up to 31 December 2011, 892 applications were made for the Plug-In Car Grant (Quarter 1; 465; Quarter 2 215; Quarter 3 106; Quarter 4 106). Manufacturers apply for the grant following the purchase of the car hence the lag between registrations and grant applications.
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First fleet of 100 Mercedes-Benz Vito E-Cell electric vans covers 650,000 km in customer use; more model variants planned
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| Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL. Click to enlarge. |
The 100 battery-driven electric Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL vans (earlier post) in use in Berlin and Stuttgart have covered 650,000 km (404,000 miles). The two projects, each with 50 Vito E-CELLs, are intended to run over a period of four years. A total of 230 Vito E-CELL vans are now in use in several model regions.
Mercedes-Benz delivered the first vehicles for field testing to testing partners in Berlin at the beginning of September 2010, and in Stuttgart in January 2011. The areas of application are diverse: courier, express and package service providers (KEP, in German: Kurier-, Express- und Paketdienstleister); plant transportation in large corporations; service vehicles for plant maintenance, customer service, and assembly and internal transport within companies.
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Quimera, IMSA and ALMS aim to launch international Electric Vehicle motorsport series in 2013
January 14, 2012
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| Quimera all-electric GT prototype. Click to enlarge. |
Strategic sustainability project specialists Quimera, the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) and the American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón (ALMS) are collaborating to develop an international Electric Vehicle motorsport series.
Beginning this year, the partners will take steps to prepare investors, the general public, media, sponsors and other interested parties for the impending series, with the goal of being ready to launch the EV series by 2013. The clean technology professional motorsport championship will include various categories and remain open to any OEMs desiring to showcase and develop their own green credentials in a cost-controlled environment.
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Drayson Racing and Lola unveil battery-electric Le Mans prototype; application of structural composite batteries
January 13, 2012
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| The Lola-Drayson B12/69EV Click to enlarge. |
Drayson Racing Technologies and Lola Group unveiled the anticipated electric-powered Le Mans prototype racing car, the Lola-Drayson B12/69EV, at the 2012 Low Carbon Racing Conference at the NEC. (Earlier post.) The car showcases technologies such as inductive charging, moveable aerodynamics, structural composite batteries and electrical regenerative damping.
Traction power for the Lola LMP is provided by three Li-ion battery packs manufactured by Mavizen comprising li-ion battery cells made by A123 Systems. Additionally, the car features structural composite batteries (earlier post) from BAE systems—i.e., multifunctional structural composite material which can store and discharge electrical energy and which is also strong and lightweight enough to be used for car parts.
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Another cut at US electric vehicle range requirements and usage patterns; fully-charged LEAF could handle 83-95% of all driving days
January 12, 2012
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| Cumulative distribution curve for daily driven distance by cars that were used on the Travel Day (representing 61% of all cars owned by the participating households). Data source: NHTS 2009. Click to enlarge. |
In an effort to calculate what percentage of daily trips in the US could be covered with a fully charged electric vehicle, two Columbia doctoral candidates recently conducted a statistical analysis using the National Household Travel Survey of 2009 on distances driven by the US population. They projected the results on typical range bins seen in the portfolio of electric cars that are available as of 2011.
The second part of their study, Assessment of Electric Cars’ Range Requirements and Usage Patterns based on Driving Behavior recorded in the National Household Travel Survey of 2009, covers car usage patterns on an hourly basis for weekdays and weekends, which are in turn used to assess when cars are connected to the grid and available for charging.
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Tata Technologies displays eMO low-cost city EV engineering study at Detroit Show
January 11, 2012
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| The eMO study. The front seats are mounted atop the 18.4 kWh air-cooled battery pack. Click to enlarge. |
Tata Technologies, a global provider of engineering services and product development IT, was selected by Michelin to display its electric MObility (eMO) engineering study EV as part of the Michelin Challenge Design display at the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.
The 4-passenger study is equipped with an 18.4 kWh battery pack, and has an estimated range of 100 miles (161 km). Top speed is 65 mpg (105 km/h), and acceleration form 0-20 mph (0-32 km/h) takes 3.4 seconds. Although there are no plans for production of the study, as part of the process, Tata Technologies Vehicle Programs & Development (VPD) Group engineered a manufacturing solution and completed an assembly plant study with targeted MSRP of $20,000, before rebates.
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KSPG shows new compact two-cylinder range extender for EVs, variable valve system
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| The KSPG-FEV two-cylinder range extender. Click to enlarge. |
Automotive supplier KSPG Automotive (formerly Kolbenschmidt Pierburg), a subsidiary of Rheinmetall AG, and FEV have jointly developed a concept for a compact, 30 kW range extender for battery-electric vehicles. KSPG is showcasing the unit, along with other of its engine efficiency technologies such as the UniValve variable valve system, at the Detroit Auto Show.
The new power unit consists of a two-cylinder, 800 cc V-type gasoline engine with a vertically positioned crankshaft and two generators with gear wheel drive. The use of two generators (2 x 15 kW) serves to provide balance for the two-cylinder V-configuration to help to reduce NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) from the engine—especially important in a range-extending application for a battery-electric vehicle, which normally is quiet.
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Nissan e-NV200 Concept debuts, previewing multi-usage zero emissions small van
January 10, 2012
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| e-NV200 concept. Click to enlarge. |
Nissan introduced the Nissan e-NV200 Concept at the 2012 North American Auto Show in Detroit. Based on the Nissan NV200 multi-usage vehicle, the Nissan e-NV200 Concept previews a near-future production version of a full electric vehicle.
The 24 kWh battery pack will support a driving range similar to the Nissan LEAF, while payload and cargo space will offer the same level as the current NV200. The production version would be targeted mainly at businesses, but also at private users or families in major regions, said Hideto Murakami, corporate vice president, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
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VW premieres Jetta Hybrid and E-Bugster concept with Combined Charging System; Blue-e-Motion electric drives to go into production units as early as 2013
January 09, 2012
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| E-Bugster. Click to enlarge. |
Volkswagen staged two world premieres at the Detroit Auto Show: the new Jetta gasoline-electric Hybrid and the E-Bugster battery-electric concept derived from the Beetle. Volkswagen calls the complete electric drive unit featured in the E-Bugster “Blue-e-Motion”. As early as in 2013, drive systems under this name will go into production in vehicles such as the Golf.
E-Bugster. The central electric module of the E-Bugster weighs 80 kg. The energy for powering the 85 kW (114 hp) electric motor is stored in a 28.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack housed in a space-saving location behind the front seats. Volkswagen says the range is 110 miles (180 km) in the city. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes 10.9 seconds.
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KPMG survey: global auto execs expect slow growth in electrified vehicle sales; intensified investment coming in the face of current modest demand
January 05, 2012
Despite continued heavy investment by automakers in electric propulsion technologies, 65% of global automotive executives don’t expect sales of electrified vehicles (from full-hybrids to fuel cell electric vehicles) to exceed 15% of annual global auto sales before 2025, according to the 13th annual global automotive survey conducted by KPMG LLP, the US audit, tax, and advisory firm.
In polling 200 C-level executives in the global automotive industry for the 2012 automotive survey, KPMG found that executives in the US and Western Europe expect even less consumer adoption, projecting e-vehicles will only account for 6-10% of global annual auto sales.
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GM makes modifications to Chevrolet Volt vehicle structure and battery coolant system to further protect from delayed electrical fire after severe crash
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| The structural enhancements more evenly distribute the load to further protect the battery and the coolant lines in the event of a severe side crash. Click to enlarge. |
General Motors announced modifications to the vehicle structure and battery coolant system in the Chevrolet Volt that would further protect the battery from the possibility of an electrical fire occurring days or weeks after a severe crash. The enhancements come in response to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Preliminary Evaluation to examine post-severe crash battery performance. (Earlier post.)
NHTSA opened its Preliminary Evaluation on 25 November 2011 following a severe-impact lab test on a battery pack that resulted in an electrical fire six days later. The test was conducted to reproduce a coolant leak that occurred in a full-scale vehicle crash test last May that resulted in an electrical fire three weeks later.
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Pike Research survey finds strong fundamental US consumer interest in EVs; price remains a significant barrier
December 29, 2011
To assess consumer demand, preferences, and price sensitivity for plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, Pike Research conducted a web-based survey of 1,051 US consumers in the fall of 2011 using a nationally representative and demographically balanced sample. The survey found that, based on Americans’ driving and commute patterns, PEVs should be a strong fit for a large number of consumers.
Likewise, survey respondents indicated strong fundamental interest in PEVs, with 40% of participants stating that they would be “extremely” or “very” interested in a plug-in hybrid or all-electric vehicle with a range of 40 to 100 miles and an electricity cost equivalent of $0.75 per gallon. However, price sensitivity remains a significant issue, as survey participants’ willingness to pay was much lower than the prices currently planned by automakers.
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DOE report finds some materials for EVs and other clean energy technologies at risk of supply disruptions in the short term; risks decreasing in medium- and long-term
December 24, 2011
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| Materials in clean energy technologies and components. Source: DOE. Click to enlarge. |
Several clean energy technologies—including electric vehicles, wind turbines, PV thin films and fluorescent lighting—use materials at risk of supply disruptions in the short term, with risks generally decreasing in the medium- and long-terms, according to the newly released 2011 Critical Materials Strategy report from the US Department of Energy (DOE).
According to the report, supply challenges for five rare earth metals (REEs)—dysprosium, terbium, europium, neodymium and yttrium—were found to be critical in the short term (present–2015). These five REEs are used in magnets for wind turbines and electric vehicles or phosphors in energy-efficient lighting. Other elements—cerium, indium, lanthanum and tellurium—were found to be near-critical. Between the short term and the medium term (2015–2025), the importance to clean energy and supply risk shift for some materials.
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Report finds that total transportation energy demand in California in 2050 could be reduced 30% relative to 2005
December 23, 2011
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| Total transportation fuel use in California broken down by subsector and fuel type for each scenario: business-as-usual (BAU); plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs); and combined PEVs and fuel cell vehicles (FCVs). Source: Yang et al. Click to enlarge. |
Without policy intervention, total travel demand in every transportation subsector in the state of California is projected to increase between 50 and 100% from 2005 to 2050 due to population growth and increasing travel demand per capita, with the most growth occurring in light-duty, heavy-duty and aviation sectors, according to a new report from the California Council on Science and Technology. The report, authored by Christopher Yang, Joan Ogden, Dan Sperling and Roland Hwang, was commissioned by the California Energy Commission (CEC).
However, total transportation energy demand in California could be reduced 30% relative to 2005 levels in 2050 through improving overall vehicle efficiency (which includes the use of advanced electric-drivetrains such as plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs). Additional reductions in energy use would accrue if options to control travel demand were also included.
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Kia introduces Ray EV in Korea; 2,500 units to be produced in 2012 for use by government agencies
December 22, 2011
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| The Ray EV. Click to enlarge. |
Kia Motors has introduced Korea’s first production electric vehicle from a major manufacturer. At the Frankfurt Motor Show earlier this year, Yang Woong-chul, vice president of the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group, said that within the group, Kia will focus on electric cars, while Hyundai will work on plug-in hybrids and hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles. (Earlier post.)
The new Kia Ray EV is an electric city car with a range of up to 139 km (86 miles) on a single charge. For supply exclusively to the domestic Korean market, the Kia Ray EV is a close relative of Kia’s 1.0-liter gasoline powered Ray CUV, which went on sale in Korea last month. It shares that model’s major dimensions and can share a production line with conventional combustion-engine cars.
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Pike forecasts $1.4B market for EV telematics by 2017
December 19, 2011
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| Cumulative light-duty PEV deployments by segment, world markets: 2011-2017. Source: Pike Research. Click to enlarge. |
Nearly nine out of ten plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) sold this year will include at least a basic telematics package, and that percentage will likely grow to 94% by 2017, according to a new report from Pike Research. Annual revenue from worldwide sales of electric vehicle telematics will total $1.4 billion by 2017, Pike forecasts.
The report segments telematics systems for PEVs into two varieties: basic telematics provide simple data connections for emergency services, charging equipment locations, and diagnostics/vehicle monitoring; connected vehicle telematics provide live traffic, weather, streaming content, and cloud computing-based applications.
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Ford begins production of 2012 Focus Electric at Michigan Assembly, C-MAX models on deck
December 14, 2011
Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant is starting production of the 2012 Focus Electric (earlier post)—a five-passenger, battery-electric car Ford expects will achieve more than a 100 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) fuel economy rating. By comparison, the Nissan LEAF carries a 99 MPGe (combined) EPA rating, while the smaller i-MiEV carries a 112 MPGe (combined) rating. (1 gallon of gasoline=33.7 kWh).
A limited number of Focus Electrics will first be available in California and the New York/New Jersey areas. Availability of the Focus Electric will expand in 2012 to the remaining 15 launch markets as production ramps up.
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California Air Resources Board releases proposed Advanced Clean Car package: LEV III, GHG and ZEV rules to transform the California fleet; ZEVs and TZEVs to be 15+% of new vehicle sales by 2025
December 08, 2011
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| Annual sales of Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEVs) and Transitionary ZEVs (TZEVs) under the new ACC proposal are projected to reach 15.4% by 2025, compared to 4% under the current ZEV regulation. Source: ARB ZEV ISOR. Click to enlarge. |
The staff of the California Air Resources Board (ARB) has posted the proposed Advanced Clean Car (ACC) package of regulations in advance of the Board’s meeting on 26 January 2012 to consider adopting the new rules. ARB staff had posted a summary of the rules package in November. (Earlier post.)
The Advanced Clean Cars program combines the control of soot, smog-causing pollutants (LEV III) and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions into a single coordinated package of requirements for model years 2017 through 2025. ACC also incorporates the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) regulation as the “technology-forcing piece” of the package. The ZEV regulation—along with new LEV III criteria pollutant and GHG standards—can be the catalyst to the process of transforming the California light-duty fleet, ARB staff suggests. More specifically, the proposed Advanced Clean Cars package of regulations is designed to deliver:
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Honda outlines technology for fuel efficiency push; engines, transmissions, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric powertrains
November 30, 2011
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| Newly developed 2.4L-class gasoline engine. Click to enlarge. |
In Tokyo, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. outlined its plans for next-generation automotive technology—which it is labeling “Earth Dreams Technology”—comprising a series of measures to improve the efficiency of gasoline and diesel engines, transmissions, hybrid and plug-in hybrid systems and electric powertrains.
Through applications of the new technology first in the mini-vehicle N BOX—the first model of the new mini-vehicle N Series—and gradually in other vehicle models, Honda is targeting top-of-industry fuel efficiency for every category within three years, while simultaneously setting a timeline of 2020 to reduce by 30% CO2 emissions for all products sold worldwide, relative to emission figures for 2000.
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GM outlines further steps on battery safety, customer satisfaction initiatives for the Volt; the importance of de-powering the battery after a severe crash
November 28, 2011
General Motors today announced initiatives for customer satisfaction and outlined its steps in battery safety research to ensure ongoing confidence in the safety of Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle.
On Friday, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened a formal safety defect investigation to assess the risk of a battery-related fire in Chevy Volts that have been involved in a serious crash. (Earlier post.) The NHTSA investigation and GM’s initiatives follow six months of joint research and testing designed to induce electric vehicle battery failure after severe crash situations.
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Study finds no alternative to widespread switching of direct fuel uses to electricity to meet 2050 California GHG targets; putting detail in climate wedges
November 27, 2011
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| Emission reduction wedges for California in 2050. Williams et al. Click to enlarge. |
Technically feasible levels of energy efficiency and decarbonized energy supply alone will not be sufficient to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80% below 1990 levels by 2050, according to a detailed modeling of the California economy performed by a team from Energy and Environmental Economics, the Monterey Institute of International Studies, University of California, Berkeley and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.
According to their new paper published in the journal Science, after other emission reduction measures are employed to the maximum feasible extent, there is no alternative to widespread switching of direct fuel uses (e.g., gasoline in cars) to electricity in order to achieve the GHG reduction target.
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NHTSA opens formal safety defect investigation of post-crash battery-related fire risk in Chevy Volts
November 26, 2011
The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened a formal safety defect investigation (NHTSA Action Number PE11037) to assess the risk of a battery-related fire in Chevy Volts that have been involved in a serious crash.
In May, NHTSA performed a New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) side pole impact test, followed by a post-impact rollover test on a Chevrolet Volt. In connection with that testing, NHTSA identified the potential for intrusion damage to the battery which may result in a substantial thermal reaction and fire. Twenty-one days after the 12 May 2011 testing, delayed thermal heating and pressure release resulted in a fire that consumed the Chevrolet Volt and three other vehicles in close proximity at the test facility.
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Toyota, Honda, Mitsubishi and 6 other Japanese companies to establish organization for membership-based EV quick charging services
November 24, 2011
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| Overview of Charging Network Development Organization, LLC charging service. Click to enlarge. |
Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC); Honda Motor Co., Ltd.; Mitsubishi Motors Corporation; ULVAC, Inc.; Kanematsu Corporation; Kandenko Co., Ltd.; Suzuyo Shoji Co., Ltd.; Chubu Electric Power Co., Inc.; and the Development Bank of Japan Inc. are establishing an organization to provide membership-based quick-charging services for users of electric vehicles (EVs).
The organization, named the Charging Network Development Organization, LLC, aims to encourage increased and widespread use of EVs by helping to expand the scope of charging infrastructure. As of the end of October, approximately 800 quick chargers have been installed in Japan, a number still viewed as insufficient from a users’ standpoint.
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Joint venture between Daimler and BYD to reveal EV design concept at Auto China 2012 in Beijing
November 21, 2011
Shenzhen BYD Daimler New Technology Co. Ltd. (BDNT), the 50:50 R&D Joint Venture between Daimler AG and BYD Company Limited, is going to show a design concept of the future joint venture electric vehicle to the public for the first time during next year’s Auto China in Beijing.
BDNT will be present at the motor show in April 2012 with its own appearance, showcasing its vision, the new brand’s identity, including brand name, logo and positioning as well as the concept car’s exterior and interior design. The Concept Car is going to give a first outlook on BDNT’s fully electric vehicle that is scheduled to be launched in 2013.
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Volkswagen unveils eT! electric delivery van research vehicle with capability to drive semi-automatically on command
November 18, 2011
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| The eT! research vehicle. Click to enlarge. |
Volkswagen unveiled the eT! electric delivery van research vehicle at the Design Center in Potsdam. The all-electric eT!, which is equipped with wheel hub motors, can be operated semi-automatically in certain situations.
The van can follow the delivery person from house to house (“Follow me”), or the van can return to the delivery person on command (“Come to me”). As an alternative, the driver can direct the car’s movements via a “drive stick” from the passenger’s side that also offers a standing seat and quick access to the vehicle.
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California’s Advanced Clean Cars program: transforming the light-duty fleet to zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell and electric vehicles with an eye on 2050
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| The cumulative on-road passenger vehicle fleet mix for one scenario developed by ARB staff that achieves the 2050 GHG emission reduction goal. ZEV sales must constitute nearly 100% of new vehicles in 2040 for ZEVs to constitute approximately 87% of the on-road fleet by 2050. Click to enlarge. |
Prior to the full release of its proposed Advanced Clean Cars (ACC) program in December (earlier post), the California Air Resources Board (ARB) has posted a detailed summary of the program’s package of light-duty vehicle regulations that combines control of greenhouse gases (GHG) and tailpipe criteria pollutants (LEV) for model years (MY) 2015 through 2025 with technology mandates via the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) program to spur the development of advanced zero-emission vehicles over the same time period.
The longer-term purpose of the ACC program, according to ARB, is to shape the development of light-duty transportation to contribute to meeting the state’s 2050 GHG reduction goal of 80% below 1990 levels. Beyond 2025, ARB notes, the driving force for lowering emissions in California will thus be climate change. To meet the 2050 target, the new vehicle feet will need to be primarily composed of advanced technology vehicles such as battery electric and fuel cell vehicles by 2035 in order to have nearly an entire advanced technology fleet—that is, both new and used vehicles—by 2050. Accordingly, ARB is coordinating the goals of the ACC’s component regulations programs to lay the foundation for the commercialization and support of these vehicles.
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Honda unveils 2013 Fit EV; expects about 1,100 units in US over next 3 years
November 17, 2011
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| The 2013 Fit EV. Click to enlarge. |
Honda unveiled the all-new 2013 Fit EV at the Los Angeles Auto Show, and announced plans to begin leasing the battery electric commuter vehicle in the US in the summer of 2012. 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 Price (MSRP) is $36,625 with an estimated lease priced of $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.
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Ford and Azure Dynamics introduce Transit Connect Electric passenger wagon
November 16, 2011
Ford Motor Company and Azure Dynamics Corporation are introducing a passenger wagon version of the Ford Transit Connect Electric. The wagon is a logical next step for Azure and Ford which first introduced an electrified Transit Connect in December 2010. (Earlier post.)
To create the Transit Connect Electric wagon, Azure integrates its Force Drive electric powertrain into the Ford Transit Connect XLT Premium Wagon. Using a liquid-cooled 28 kWh lithium-ion battery from Johnson Controls, Transit Connect Electric wagon can achieve a range of 55 to 80 miles (86 to 129 km) on a single charge depending on driving conditions and ancillary power usage. The wagon has a top speed of 75 mph (121 km/h).
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Toyota unveiling new hydrogen fuel cell concept vehicle indicative of 2015 production model at Tokyo Motor Show; Aqua hybrid and FT-EV III
November 15, 2011
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| The FCV-R concept. Click to enlarge. |
Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) will stage the world premiere of the FCV-R, a practical sedan-type next-generation hydrogen fuel-cell concept vehicle, at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show. Toyota calls this concept model “a highly practical fuel-cell vehicle” that is planned for launch in about 2015.
With the fuel-cell unit located beneath the specially designed body, the vehicle can accommodate up to four passengers and offers what Toyota calls “impressive” luggage space. The fuel cell system, along with a 70 MPa high-pressure hydrogen tank, has been improved to provide a cruising distance of approximately 700 km (435 miles) or more under the JC08 test cycle, according to TMC.
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IEA World Energy Outlook view on the transport sector to 2035; passenger car fleet doubling to almost 1.7B units, driving oil demand up to 99 mb/d; reconfirming the end of cheap oil
November 13, 2011
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| Change in primary oil demand by sector and region in the central New Policies Scenario, 2010-2035. WEO 2011. Click to enlarge. |
The International Energy Agency (IEA) last week launched the 2011 edition of the World Energy Outlook (WEO), the current edition of its annual flagship publication assessing the threats and opportunities facing the global energy system out to 2035. At a high level, the report notes that there are few signs that the urgently needed change in direction in global energy trends is underway.
Under the WEO 2011 central scenario, oil demand rises from 87 million barrels per day (mb/d) in 2010 to 99 mb/d in 2035, with all the net growth coming from the transport sector in emerging economies. The passenger vehicle fleet doubles to almost 1.7 billion in 2035. Alternative technologies, such as hybrid and electric vehicles that use oil more efficiently or not at all, continue to advance but they take time to penetrate markets.
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Better Place closes $200M Series C financing; valuation now $2.25B
November 11, 2011
Better Place, a developer and provider of electric car networks—including battery switch stations, batteries and public/personal charge spots (earlier post)—worldwide, has secured $200 million through a Series C equity financing from a consortium of top-tier investors and partners, nearly doubling the company’s valuation to $2.25 billion (post money valuation on a fully diluted basis) since the last financing in January 2010.
New investors in the Series C round include GE and UBS AG, among others. Existing shareholders, including Israel Corp., HSBC Group, Morgan Stanley Investment Management, VantagePoint Capital Partners, Ofer Group and Maniv Energy Capital, also joined the round. The Series C financing transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2011.
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SEAT unveils first all-electric car and PHEV
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| the Altea XL Electric and the Leon TwinDrive Ecomotive vehicles. Click to enlarge. |
SEAT, a member of the Volkswagen Group, is unveiling the prototype Altea XL Electric Ecomotive as well as the prototype Leon TwinDrive Ecomotive, a plug-in hybrid. SEAT envisages the launch of its first electric plug-in hybrid car in 2015, to be followed a year later by an all-electric vehicle.
The Altea XL Electric Ecomotive features an 85 kW motor with 270 N·m of torque and a limited top speed of 135 km/h (84 mph). The batteries are located under the rear seats and in the trunk; there is no intrusion into the passenger compartment. When the electric Altea XL is parked in the sun, rooftop photovoltaic cells recirculate fresh air inside the passenger compartment, reducing the energy needed afterwards by the climate control system.
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Honda to show 7 electromotive concept models at Tokyo show
November 10, 2011
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| AC-X concept plug-in hybrid. Click to enlarge. |
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. will display a lineup of seven next-generation electromotive concept models at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show, including two-, three- and four-wheeled commuter vehicles designed for future cities; mid-to-long distance commuters; and sporty models.
Further, as a part of “Smart Mobility City 2011”, a themed project the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc. (JAMA) will hold at the motor show venue, Honda will showcase the FCX Clarity advanced fuel cell electric vehicle, EV-neo electric scooter, EV-MONPAL electric cart, as well as the Honda Smart Home System which features several Honda-developed energy production technologies, including a gas engine cogeneration unit and a solar powered system to reduce household and mobility CO2 emissions. The progress Honda has been making in testing program of these technologies also will be showcased.
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Tesla receives Letter of Intent from Daimler for full electric powertrain program for a Mercedes vehicle
November 03, 2011
In its letter to its shareholders reporting Q3 performance, Tesla Motors said that it had received a letter of intent from Daimler for a full powertrain program for a vehicle in the Mercedes line. Details of this deal remain confidential, Tesla said, but will be announced in the coming months.
Tesla’s existing production agreements with Daimler and its development services agreement with Toyota produced combined revenue of more $29 million in the third quarter; total Q3 revenues were $58 million. Powertrain component related sales accounted for almost $15 million, a new quarterly revenue high. Tesla said that it expects to complete all deliveries under the Smart fortwo and A-Class programs on schedule by the end of this year.
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Renault wins first lot of UGAP tender for electric vehicles; companies ordering more than 15,600 Renault Kangoo electric vans over 4-year period
October 28, 2011
Renault has won the first lot of a call for bids for electric vehicles in France initiated by French public authorities and organized by the public procurement organization UGAP (l’Union des groupements d’achats publics). A total of 15,637 Kangoo Z.E. (earlier post) electric light commercial vans will be ordered over a 4-year period by 19 of France’s largest companies taking part in the call for bids, including 10,000 for La Poste, 1,500 for ERDF, 1,200 for UGAP, 510 for Veolia Environnement, 450 for GDF-Suez and 330 for Spie.
The bid tender was initiated a year and a half ago. (Earlier post.) La Poste chairman Jean-Paul Bailly was charged with forming a group of orders from large companies interested in acquiring electric vehicles. The invitation to tender was entrusted to the public procurement organization UGAP. UGAP estimates a total value for the project, which will lead to the acquisition of some 50,000 EVs, of about €1 billion (US$1.4 billion) over four years.
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Daimler’s car2go launches large-scale all-electric vehicle car-sharing fleet in Amsterdam
October 27, 2011
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| Part of the Amsterdam car2go EV fleet. Click to enlarge. |
Daimler subsidiary car2go launched one of the first large-scale all-electric vehicle car-sharing fleets in Amsterdam. Beginning 24 November, 300 smart fortwo electric drive vehicles will be available for on-demand mobility, without the necessity of returning them to a fixed rental station. Recharging of the electric vehicles is not mandatory after each rental, because the range of the smart fortwo electric drive is eight to ten times higher than the average operating distance of a car2go rental.
Amsterdam will be the fifth city with a car2go service globally, but the first in Europe with an all-electric fleet. Amsterdam’s electric vehicle charging infrastructure only uses energy from renewable resources. The launch of car2go Amsterdam also will introduce a new pricing structure for car2go, not only for Amsterdam but also for existing and future car2go locations throughout Europe.
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Pennsylvania DEP awards more than $4.4M in alternative fuels grants to 12 projects; bulk for natural gas
October 26, 2011
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will award more than $4.4 million in Alternative Fuels Incentive Grants to 12 projects across the state. The bulk of the funding is flowing to natural gas projects, with additional funding for electric vehicle infrastructure and a biodiesel project.
The grants, funded by a portion of the state’s annual utilities gross receipts tax, are intended to encourage new markets for alternative fuels, fleets and technologies across Pennsylvania. The projects are:
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Study concludes that sugar cane-based biorefineries producing ethanol and electricity could power a global auto fleet of hybrids and EVs using only 4% of available cropland
October 24, 2011
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| Number of cars (world and US), amount of gasoline consumed, amount of ethanol equivalent required for a neat ethanol fleet, ethanol and electricity to power hybrid fleet, and sugar cane area for hybrid fleet. Credit: ACS, Pacca and Moreira. Click to enlarge. |
If sugar cane is used as the feedstock to produce ethanol and electricity for the same final use—fueling vehicles for personal mobility—only 4% of the world’s available cropland area would be sufficient to produce fuels that would power a global car fleet consisting of hybrids and electric vehicles, according to a new study by Sergio Pacca and Jose Moreira at the University of Sao Paolo, Brazil.
In their study, they assess the benefits and drawbacks of the joint production in a sugar cane-based biorefinery—using technology that is currently available and cost-competitive—of ethanol and electricity for fueling privately-owned automobiles. Their findings indicate that the amount of land required to power current automobile needs is less than what is typically stated; their analysis also shows that the harvested energy density of sugar cane is 306 GJ/ha/yr—1.7 times the value usually reported in the literature for biofuels.
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Nissan announces Green Program 2016; targeting cumulative sales of 1.5M zero-emission vehicles across Alliance; new fuel cell electric vehicle with Daimler, new Nissan PHEV
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced its new six-year environmental plan, Nissan Green Program 2016 (NGP 2016). This new plan will focus on three areas: reduction of carbon footprint; shift to renewable energy; and an increase in the diversity of resources used by Nissan. The company said it will spend 70% of its annual research and advanced engineering budget on environmental technologies.
Nissan Green Program 2016, the company’s third environmental mid-term plan, aims to deliver the following by the end of fiscal year 2016:
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DOE seeking input on analysis methodology and assumption for estimating total cost of ownership of future advanced vehicle technologies
October 19, 2011
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| DOE analysis of ownership costs for future mid-size car. Error bands indicate technology uncertainties (red solid lines) and fuel price uncertainties (green dashed lines).Click to enlarge. |
The US Department of Energy (DOE) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) (DE-FOA-0000592) seeking input from the public on its analysis methodology and assumptions used for estimating the total cost of ownership (TCO) of various advanced vehicle technologies within DOE’s portfolio that have the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas GHG) emissions and petroleum consumption.
The information collected by this Request for Information will be used for internal DOE analysis, including assisting DOE in estimating the benefits of its Research, Development and Demonstration (RD&D) portfolio. Interested parties to this RFI might include, but are not limited to: automobile technology developers or manufacturers; components suppliers (e.g., suppliers of batteries, fuel cells, motors, power electronics, etc.); fuels suppliers; electric utilities; independent power producers; industrial gas companies; state and local government; research laboratories; academics; and other public, private, or non-profit entities.
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Chevrolet to produce Spark battery electric vehicle for US and global markets starting in 2013 with A123 Systems pack; EN-V gets a Chevrolet badge
October 12, 2011
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| Cutaway of the Chevrolet Spark all-electric vehicle. Click to enlarge. |
Chevrolet announced it will produce an all-electric version of the Chevrolet Spark mini-car—the Spark EV. It will be sold in limited quantities in select US and global markets starting in 2013, including California. A123 Systems will supply the advanced nanophosphate lithium-ion battery packs that will power the Spark EV.
Feedback from participants in Chevrolet’s electric vehicle demonstration fleets (earlier post) in Shanghai (Sail EV), Korea (Cruze EV) and India (Beat EV) are being incorporated into the Spark EV. GM will announce details on specific markets, range, quantities and pricing announced later.
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Mitsubishi to begin offering customers test drives of North American spec i-MiEV in November
October 10, 2011
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| North American spec i-MiEV. Click to enlarge. |
Mitsubishi’s North American-spec i-MiEV battery electric vehicle (earlier post)—available in either an ES base model or upgrade SE trim package —will be available to test drive at US dealerships beginning in November 2011 with the first scheduled customer vehicle deliveries set to commence in early 2012.
Mitsubishi is positioning the North American i-MiEV electric vehicle as the most affordably-priced mass-produced EV available in the US. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is $29,125—$6,075 less than electric vehicles produced by other mainstream automobile manufacturers—for the base ES model before a federal tax credit of $7,500 and available state financial incentives (subject to availability of funding).
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Deloitte Survey finds only 4% of global consumers likely to be satisfied with current EVs despite increasing consideration and willingness to buy; higher ICE fuel economy reduces interest in EVs
October 08, 2011
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| The Deloitte survey found global consumer interest in EVs is high. Click to enlarge. |
Consumers’ expectations around the performance and purchase price of electric vehicles are so divergent from the actual offerings available today, that no more than 2–4% of consumers worldwide would have their expectations met, according to a new survey from Deloitte.
The survey, “Unplugged: Electric vehicle realities versus consumer expectations,” canvassed more than 13,000 consumers in 17 countries across the Americas, Asia and Europe and revealed a general desire among consumers to buy electric vehicles, but a strong unwillingness to compromise on key performance criteria and especially price.
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ECOtality awarded $26.4 Million for advanced vehicle testing & evaluation by DOE
October 06, 2011
ECOtality, Inc. subsidiary ECOtality North America has been awarded a $26.4-million dollar contract by the US Department of Energy (DOE) to conduct the DOE’s Advanced Vehicle Testing and Evaluation (AVTE) project. The award is for a 5-year term to conduct vehicle evaluations with the Department of Energy’s Advanced Vehicle Testing Activity (AVTA).
The primary goal of the Advanced Vehicle Testing and Evaluation project is to provide key data for technology modeling, and research and development programs, by benchmarking and validating the performance of light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles.
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Lux Research: smart grid, energy storage, and EV M&A hits $2.4B in 1H 2011; start-ups selling at bargain prices
October 04, 2011
Merger and acquisition (M&A) deals in the smart grid, energy storage, and electric vehicle (EV) sectors during the first six months of 2011 already totaled twice those made during all of 2010, and many more cash-starved start-ups are due for the auction block, according to a new report from Lux Research.
After reaching an all-time six-month high of $1.79 billion in H1 2010, venture funding for these start-ups had all but dried up in the subsequent twelve months. From July 2010 to June 2011, the three sectors landed only $1.54 billion from venture capitalists (VCs)—72% of which was channeled into Series D and later-stage rounds.
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NASA awards Green Flight Challenge Prizes; electric-powered winners fly 200 miles on .5 gallon fuel equivalent per passenger
October 03, 2011
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| the Pipistrel Taurus G4 in flight. Click to enlarge. |
NASA has awarded the largest prize in aviation history, created to inspire the development of more fuel-efficient aircraft and spark the start of a new electric airplane industry. (Earlier post.) The first place Green Flight Challenge prize of $1.35 million was awarded to team Pipistrel-USA.com of State College, Pa, for the Taurus G4. The second place prize of $120,000 went to team eGenius, of Ramona, Calif.
The winning aircraft had to fly 200 miles (322 km) in less than two hours and use less than one gallon of fuel per occupant, or the equivalent in electricity. The winning aircraft also had to take off from a distance of less than 2,000 feet to clear a 50-foot obstacle and deliver a decibel level below 78 dBA at full power takeoff, as measured from a 250-foot sideline.
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DOE ARPA-E awards $156M to projects to 60 projects to accelerate innovation in clean energy technologies
September 30, 2011
The Department of Energy’s Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) has selected 60 research projects for up to a combined $156 million in funding from the Fiscal Year 2011 budget. The new ARPA-E selections focus on accelerating innovations in clean technology while increasing US competitiveness in rare earth alternatives and breakthroughs in biofuels, thermal storage, grid controls, and solar power electronics.
The projects selected are located in 25 states, with 50% of projects led by universities, 23% by small businesses, 12% by large businesses, 13% by national labs, and 2% by non-profits. Prior to today, ARPA-E has awarded $365.7 million in funds to approximately 120 energy projects within seven program areas. This most recent round of selections brings the total to 180 projects, 12 program areas and $521.7 million in awards at ARPA-E. The technology areas (earlier post) receiving funding are:
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Inaugural Quadrennial Technology Review report concludes DOE is underinvested in transport; greatest efforts to go to electrification
September 28, 2011
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| The QTR frames 6 strategies to adress US energy challenges. Source: QTR. Click to enlarge. |
The US Department of Energy released its inaugural Quadrennial Technology Review report (DOE-QTR)—an assessment of the Department’s energy technology research and development portfolios. The DOE-QTR establishes a framework for the Department’s energy technology activities, including principles it can use to prioritize its technology research and development.
The DOE-QTR defines six key strategies: increase vehicle efficiency; electrification of the light duty fleet; deploy alternative fuels; increase building and industrial efficiency; modernize the electrical grid; and deploy clean electricity. Broad findings of the DOE-QTR include:
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CMU study finds that HEVs and PHEVs with small battery packs offer more emissions and oil displacement benefits per dollar spent than large pack PHEVs and BEVs; policy implications
September 27, 2011
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| Value of life-cycle emissions externality damages and oil premium costs from vehicles in 2010 $. Michalek et al. Click to enlarge. |
Strategies to promote adoption of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) with small battery packs offer more social benefits (i.e., air emissions and oil displacement benefits) in the near term per dollar spent than PHEVs and battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) with large battery packs providing longer electric range, according to a new study by Carnegie Mellon University’s Jeremy J. Michalek and colleagues.
A paper presenting the results of the group’s latest year-long study on the lifecycle air emissions and oil displacement benefits of plug-in vehicles was published this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
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NCM Li-ion battery pack developed by Axeon-led consortium offers 35% improvement in range for same weight as LFP
September 22, 2011
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| Overview of the project from a 2010 Axeon presentation. Click to enlarge. |
A project led by advanced battery manufacturer Axeon, involving partners Ricardo and Allied Vehicles, and co-funded by the UK Technology Strategy Board has developed a new higher energy-density Li-ion battery pack for use in electric cars that offers a more than a 35% improvement in range compared to a Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry for the same weight.
The battery uses Nickel Cobalt Manganese (NCM) electrochemistry [Li(NiCoMn)O2], which theoretically requires 50% less volume and 30% less mass when compared to Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry (at the cell level). Axeon, which is Europe’s largest independent Lithium-ion battery systems supplier and works with a variety of Li-ion chemistries, notes that NCM Li-ion batteries are a compromise of electrochemical performance, combined with lower cost.
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GE and GM to partner on deploying EV infrastructure in China; focus on Shanghai
General Electric and General Motors signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to accelerate jointly the deployment of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in China. The MOU was announced at the 2011 China International Electric Power and Electric Engineering Technology Exhibition in Shanghai.
The main piece of the co-operation centers on Shanghai, which was selected by the Chinese government as the country’s first EV pilot city earlier this year and home to both GE’s and GM’s China headquarters. The two companies agreed to install GE’s WattStation and DuraStation charging systems at a government-assigned international EV demonstration zone in Shanghai’s Jiading District and at the GM Headquarters office in the city.
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UK consortium to develop new drivetrain technology for hybrid & electric vehicles to reduce dependency on rare earth metals
September 21, 2011
UK-based motor control specialist Sevcon Ltd (earlier post) is leading a collaborative project that includes Cummins Generator Technologies and Newcastle University’s Power Electronics and Drives Research Group to develop a new type of electric traction drive for use in hybrid and pure electric vehicles that will use steel to replace the rare earth magnets used in motors.
The project being undertaken by the Sevcon-led group will work on the development of a novel “no rare earth metals” electric drive system for EVs using advanced high torque density switched reluctance motor technology.
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BRUSA supplying complete electric drivetrain for at least 250 Volvo C30 Electrics
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| BRUSA drive system for the C30 Electric. Click to enlarge. |
Volvo Car Corporation has ordered more than 250 electric drivetrain systems to power the C30 Electric (earlier post) from BRUSA Elektronik AG; more may be built, based on market interest.
The 111 hp (83 kW) electric motor from BRUSA that will power the C30 Electric delivers an instant torque of 220 N·m (162 lb-ft) leading to an acceleration from 0 to 50 km/h (31 mph) in 4 seconds and to 100 km/h in under 11 seconds. The car has a top speed of 130 km/h (80 mph). BRUSA not only provides the hybrid-synchronous motor, but also supplies all other drivetrain components such as the motor controller and battery charger.
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SAIC and GM to co-develop new electric vehicle architecture; Shanghai-based PATAC the engineering lead
September 20, 2011
SAIC Motor Corp., Ltd. (SAIC) Chairman Hu Maoyuan and General Motors Co. (GM) Chairman and CEO Dan Akerson signed an agreement today in Shanghai for the co-development of a new electric vehicle architecture in China. The electric vehicle architecture will be the first to be co-developed by the two companies; their Shanghai GM joint venture introduced the Sail electric concept vehicle late last year. (Earlier post.)
Under the agreement, the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC)—SAIC and GM’s engineering and design joint venture in Shanghai&madsh;will serve as the development center for the architecture. Teams of SAIC, GM and PATAC engineers will work together to develop key components, as well as vehicle structures and architectures.
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Carbon-fibre composite transmission tunnel key element of lightweight design of Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell
September 19, 2011
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| On display in Frankfurt. The transmission tunnel made out of lightweight carbon-fibre composite material (CFRP) is structurally integrated into the aluminium body shell and firmly bonded with it. Click to enlarge. |
A key element in the lightweight design of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell electric vehicle (earlier post) is a transmission tunnel made out of lightweight carbon-fibre composite material (CFRP), which is structurally integrated into the aluminium body shell and firmly bonded with it. The high-strength and stiff CFRP component helps to reduce weight, while also serving as a monocoque housing for the battery modules.
The carbon-fibre battery monocoque in the SLS AMG E-CELL forms an integral part of the body shell and acts as the vehicle’s “spine”.
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CODA acquires EnergyCS
September 15, 2011
CODA Holdings, a California-based developer of electric vehicles, EV propulsion systems and stationary energy storage applications, has acquired EnergyCS, a leading developer of battery management systems (BMS). CODA had worked with EnergyCS on the development of the CODA Sedan, earlier post. EnergyCS had earlier developed one of the first commercial plug-in hybrid conversion kits for the Prius. (Earlier post.)
Located 30 miles east of CODA’s Los Angeles headquarters in Monrovia, EnergyCS brings assets to the merger including high voltage management and isolation detection, optimized circuit and wiring design, an adaptable base architecture and long-term performance management of battery systems.
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Volkswagen premiers six New Small Family concepts at Frankfurt, at least two slated for production: CNG (2012) and battery electric (2013) versions
September 14, 2011
Volkswagen’s world premiere of the two-door production up! (earlier post) marks the beginning of an entire series of cars: Volkswagen’s New Small Family. At the IAA, Volkswagen is demonstrating how this family could develop in upcoming years through 6 concept cars: the eco-up! natural gas drive (due to be in production by next year’s Frankfurt show); the electric e-up! (production version slated for 2013); the NILS single-seat electric vehicle; buggy up! concept based on the Beetle; up! azzura sailing team for marinas; cross up! with customized and rugged design; and GT up! with a higher powered engine.
eco up! – the up! for natural gas. With its natural gas engine (EcoFuel) and BlueMotion Technology (Stop/Start system and battery regeneration), the eco up! emits 79 g/km CO2/ So far, no one has documented such low emissions in a small car with CNG natural gas drive, Volkswagen says.
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BRABUS, Boston-Power and Protean Electric team to deliver high-performance EV and hybrid cars based on Mercedes-Benz E-Class
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| The BRABUS 4WD Full Electric. Click to enlarge. |
Boston-Power, Inc. (earlier post) and Protean Electric (earlier post) are working together to provide the lithium-ion battery systems and electric in-wheel motor solutions for two new advanced BRABUS vehicles based on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. (Protean CEO Bob Purcell is also on Boston-Power’s Board of Directors.) BRABUS, the largest independent automobile tuner in the world and manufacturer of exclusive high-performance automobiles, unveiled the new high-performance vehicles at the Frankfurt Auto Show.
The first BRABUS sedan based on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is the 4WD Full Electric. It features an all-new EV system developed to demonstrate a peak combined 320 kW and 2,350 lb-ft (3,200 N·m) torque from pure electric power using four direct-drive Protean Electric motors, one in each wheel. A 56-kWh lithium-ion battery pack provides an operating range of up to 350 kilometers (217 miles). There are plans for a small-series production run of this automobile.
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Mercedes-Benz F125!: fuel cell plug-in hybrid with Li-sulfur battery and structure integrated hydrogen storage with MOFs
September 13, 2011
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| Mercedes-Benz F 125! research vehicle. Click to enlarge. |
Mercedes-Benz presented the F125! research vehicle (the “125” marking 125 years of the automobile), a fuel-cell plug-in hybrid with a range of more than 1,000 km (621 miles) that anticipates more than two generations of vehicles to 2025 and beyond.
The F125!, intended to demonstrate emission-free individual mobility in the luxury segment in the future, incorporates already well-proven concepts and technologies which are not yet available today, but for which basic research has shown great future promise, and therefore a realistic chance of implementation in future series-production cars, according to Mercedes-Benz. The decisive innovations are:
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Mercedes-Benz presenting Concept B-Class E-CELL Plus extended-range electric vehicle
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| The Concept B-Class E-CELL PLUS. Click to enlarge. |
Mercedes-Benz is presenting its first electric vehicle with Range Extender at the 2011 Frankfurt International Motor Show: the Concept B-Class E-CELL PLUS. Equipped with a Li-ion battery pack from Deutsche Accumotive (a joint venture of Daimler and Evonik), the E-CELL PLUS has a battery-only range of up to 100 km (62 miles). A 50 kW (67 hp), 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine range extender delivers a total range of up to 600 km (373 miles).
The electric drive generates a peak power output of 100 kW and a continuous output of 70 kW. At low speeds, the engine charges the battery via a generator. At higher speeds—e.g., on prolonged highway stretches—it additionally serves as a driving engine, acting on the front wheels together with the electric motor via a newly developed automatic transmission. In combined driving mode the vehicle emits 32 grams of CO2 per kilometer.
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Nissan develops new quick charger for electric vehicles
September 12, 2011
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| New quick charger, standard specification. Click to enlarge. |
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. revealed its new quick charger and plans to begin sales of the technology in November 2011 at Nissan parts companies throughout Japan. The newly-developed quick charging unit retains the high performance of the current quick charger manufactured by Nissan (earlier post), which is now on sale with a suggested retail price of ¥1.47 million yen including tax (US$19,000), but is nearly half the size (by volume).
The new charger unit’s smaller size will take up less space and enable easier installation. The unit will cost “significantly” less than ¥1 million (US$13,000), according to Nissan, while the base specification unit will cost only below one half the price of the current unit.
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Audi introducing electric 1+1 urban concept at Frankfurt with support for wireless charging; more detail on electric A2 concept
September 11, 2011
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| Audi urban concept with support for wireless charging. Click to enlarge. |
Audi is introducing a 1+1 urban concept technology study for urban and metropolitan areas. The electric-powered show car has four wheels, combines elements of a racecar, a roadster, a fun car and a city car, and weighs just 480 kilograms (1,058.22 lb). The cabin of the Audi urban concept offers slightly offset seating for two; the roof slides back for entry, and the canopy can remain open in good weather.
Audi says the technology study is targeted toward people who are interested in technology and are enthusiastic about new approaches to mobility, independent of their age and status. In particular, it addresses an urban public whose lifestyle both reflects the car’s modern concept and the driving pleasure associated with it and is a good fit for a possible innovative leasing system.
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Pike Research forecasts global hybrid medium- and heavy-duty truck sales to surpass 100,000 vehicles annually by 2017; about 2.1% of total MD/HD sales
September 07, 2011
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| MD/HD HEV Truck Sales as percentage of ICE trucks, World Markets: 2011 and, 2017. Source: Pike Research. Click to enlarge. |
A new report from Pike Research forecasts that sales of medium- and heavy-duty (MD/HD) hybrid trucks—including hybrid electric (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), battery electric (BEV), and plug-in electric power take-off (EPTO) variations—will surpass 100,000 vehicles annually by 2017.
The global truck market is about 3.7 million vehicles in 2011 and is expected to grow at a rate of 4.1% annually to reach 4.7 million by 2017. In the United States, trucks represent approximately 13% of the total fleet market (in number of vehicles). Overall, Pike Research forecasts that the market for hybrid and plug-in trucks will grow at an annual rate of 47.2% between 2011 and 2017 to reach 100,746 trucks, or about 2.1% of global sales. The Asia Pacific market, spurred on by governmental economic development activities, will be the largest market with 41,657 HEV/PHEV/BEV trucks sold in 2017, followed by North America with 25,952 vehicles.
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Antonov study of multi-speed transmission for EVs finds improved efficiency over different drive cycles
September 06, 2011
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| Antonov’s study found that its multi-speed electric vehicle transmission can deliver 10% better efficiency compared with a single speed gearbox. Click to enlarge. |
Automatic transmission specialist Antonov reports that its comparative studies of an electric vehicle equipped with its multi-speed transmission over eight different drive cycles suggest that the transmission delivers typically 10% better cycle efficiency than a single-speed solution. (Earlier post.)
Antonov has been invited by the Technology Strategy Board (TSB) to present its findings at the LCV2011 event being hosted by Cenex this week at the Rockingham Motor Speedway in Corby, Northamptonshire. The TSB has helped fund several transmission research and development projects with the company’s involvement.
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On-road testing of new multi-speed transmission for EVs from Oerlikon Graziano/Vocis begins; potential for increased range or reduced pack size
September 05, 2011
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| The red region shows the most efficient speed range for a traction motor. By keeping the motor operating in, or close to, this region, the new multi-speed transmission developed by Vocis could increase the range of electric vehicles with very little impact. Click to enlarge. |
Prototypes of a novel, multi-speed transmission for electric vehicles (EVs) have begun on-road testing with a European vehicle manufacturer. Designed and manufactured by Italian drivetrain specialist Oerlikon Graziano with UK control systems specialist Vocis (itself part-owned by Oerlikon Graziano), the concept is intended to increase vehicle range or to allow reduced battery pack size, as well as providing improved low-speed pull away and higher-speed cruising.
The wide operating range of a typical electric motor, which provides maximum torque from zero RPM, has led most EV producers to use a single transmission gear ratio. While reducing cost and packaging volume, the compromise is reduced efficiency and performance, according to the partners.
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BMW Group / SGL Group JV opens new Moses Lake carbon fiber plant
September 02, 2011
SGL Automotive Carbon Fibers (SGL ACF)—a joint venture of SGL Group and the BMW Group (earlier post)—officially opened its new carbon fiber manufacturing plant in Moses Lake, WA. The new facility is strategic for the manufacture of ultra light-weight carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) for use in the new BMW i vehicles (earlier post).
The two parent companies will invest approximately $100 million in their Moses Lake plant. In order to prepare the large-scale production start of BMW i vehicles in 2013, carbon fiber manufacturing needs to begin now, BMW says. All electricity needed for the production of carbon fibers will come from local hydropower.
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Daimler and BASF jointly develop smart forvision concept electric vehicle; energy efficiency, temperature management and lightweight design
September 01, 2011
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| Hexagonal, transparent solar cells on the roof of the smart forvision. Click to enlarge. |
Daimler and BASF have developed a new joint concept electric vehicle that combines both companies’ ideas for holistic electric mobility. The smart forvision, which will have its world premiere at the 64th International Motor Show in Frankfurt, was developed with a special emphasis on energy efficiency, temperature management and lightweight design.
The smart forvision is intended to showcase technologies for electric mobility of the future. Some of the materials and technologies are still at a laboratory stage, while others have a realistic chance of entering series production. The use of advanced materials and technologies allowed new concepts to be implemented in the electric car that generate power as well as save it. The resulting increase in range contributes to further improving the performance and economy of electric vehicles—the partners estimate that with maximum energy efficiency, intelligent temperature management and consistent lightweight construction it is possible to increase EV range by up to 20%.
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Siemens and Volvo Car Corporation launch electric mobility partnership
August 31, 2011
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| The permanent magnet synchronous motor from Siemens has its first application in the Volvo C 30 Electric. Click to enlarge. |
Volvo Car Corporation and Siemens intend to jointly advance the technical development of electric cars through an extensive strategic cooperation. The focus is on the joint development of electrical drive technology, power electronics and charging technology as well as the integration of those systems into Volvo C30 Electric vehicles (earlier post).
The first electric cars of this model fitted with Siemens electric motors will be on the test tracks as early as the end of this year. Beginning in late 2012, the Swedish carmaker will deliver a test series of up to 200 vehicles to Siemens, which will then be tested and validated under real-life conditions as part of a Siemens internal test fleet.
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Hitachi Cable develops smallest compact connectors yet for use in power harnesses for hybrid and electric vehicles; some 40% reduction in connector volume
August 30, 2011
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| Comparison of the volume of a newly developed connector to that of a traditional connector. Source: Hitachi Cable. Click to enlarge. |
Hitachi Cable, Ltd. has developed what it says are the world’s smallest compact connectors (as of 28 June, based on its research) for use in power harnesses for hybrid electric vehicles and electric vehicles.
The drive systems of these vehicles consist of electric motors, inverters, batteries, and AC and DC harnesses connecting these electrical devices. Given the limited space for wiring and high-temperature conditions inside engine compartments, these harnesses must provide outstanding high-temperature resistance and flexibility.
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GM and LG jointly to develop EVs; expanding corporate partnership in multiple areas
August 25, 2011
General Motors and LG Group will jointly design and engineer future electric vehicles, expanding a relationship built on LG’s work as the battery cell supplier for the Chevrolet Volt and Opel Ampera extended-range EVs. The definitive agreement signed Wednesday will help GM expand the number and types of electric vehicles it makes and sells by using LG’s proven expertise in batteries and other systems.
For LG, the arrangement represents a widening of its portfolio as an automotive solution provider. LG has a number of subcompanies with technology and products beyond batteries, power electronics and electric machines that might be of interest in vehicles, said Micky Bly, GM executive director, electrical systems, hybrids, electric vehicles and batteries. A short list includes instrument clusters, telematics inside the vehicle (LG supplies OnStar modules), heat exchangers, and air conditioning systems.
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Pike forecasts cumulative plug-in vehicle sales to reach 5.2M units worldwide by 2017
August 22, 2011
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| Annual light-duty electric vehicle sales, world markets: 2011-2017. Source: Pike Research. Click to enlarge. |
Pike Research forecasts that cumulative sales of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs), the category that includes both plug-in hybrid and battery-electric vehicles (PHEVs and BEVs), will reach 5.2 million units worldwide by 2017, up from just under 114,000 vehicles in 2011. By the same year, cumulative sales of hybrid-electric vehicles (HEVs) will represent an additional 8.7 million vehicles, for a combined total of 13.9 million units in all electrified vehicle categories.
Overall, the market for electrified vehicles will grow at a CAGR of 19.5% between 2011 and 2017 (this compares to a CAGR of 3.7% for the vehicle market overall during the same period), according to Pike. The plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) will see substantial growth (48.4% CAGR) because it is currently still in its infancy.
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ANSI report on electric drive vehicle standards calls for better coordination and harmonization, public-private partnership
August 17, 2011
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI), coordinator of the US voluntary standardization system, has submitted to the US Department of Energy (DOE) a report outlining priority areas where standards and conformance activities are needed to facilitate the safe, effective, and large-scale deployment of electric drive vehicles (EDV) in the United States.
The report details findings from the ANSI Workshop held in April, Standards and Codes for Electric Drive Vehicles, which ANSI convened on behalf of DOE and the Idaho National Laboratory. The overarching conclusion of the April workshop was a call for better coordination and harmonization of standardization efforts, and for a public-private partnership to move this work forward quickly and effectively.
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Morgan Motor Company and British technology partners to build a high-performance electric sportscar concept; Zytek drive through a manual gearbox
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| A derivative of Zytek’s production 70kW 300N·m E-Drive will be installed in the transmission tunnel with just three additional connections. Click to enlarge. |
The Morgan Motor Company and a consortium of British technology specialists are developing a new, high-performance electric sportscar prototype. The Morgan +E program is to deliver two engineering concept vehicles early in 2012. Both will be based on a development of the proven Aero Supersport’s aluminum chassis with the 4.8-liter BMW V8 replaced by a new derivative of Zytek’s high power-density electric powertrain driving through a conventional manual gearbox.
The collaborative research and development project is being part-funded by a £100,000 (US$166,000) grant from the Niche Vehicle Network CR&D Programme, which is managed by CENEX to provide support and grant funding to groups of companies active in the niche vehicle sector. It promotes the development and application of new technology to take advantage of the increasing market opportunities for lower carbon vehicles.
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Third-generation smart fortwo electric drive to launch worldwide in spring 2012; first use of battery packs from Daimler JV Deutsche Accumotive and motor from JV EM-motive
August 16, 2011
Daimler will introduce the third-generation smart fortwo electric drive beginning in the spring of 2012, with a “five-figure” planned production level. The new generation of EVs will be available in more than 30 markets worldwide.
The new generation marks the first application of battery packs from Deutsche Accumotive—the automotive lithium-ion battery joint venture formed in 2008 by Daimler AG and Evonik Industries AG (earlier post). (Tesla is providing the battery packs for the second generation.)
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CODA to develop EVs with China’s Great Wall Motors for worldwide distribution
CODA Holdings, a California-based developer of Lithium-ion battery systems for its all-electric CODA Sedan, EV powertrain and stationary energy storage applications entered into a Letter of Intent to develop electric vehicles with China’s Great Wall Motor Company Limited, using Great Wall models, for distribution worldwide.
The partnership would blend technology capabilities from China’s fastest growing and greatest profit margin automotive producer (according to Great Wall) and CODA’s purpose-built Lithium iron phosphate battery system. The agreement also expands CODA’s strong relationships with Chinese automakers in the world’s largest auto market.
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GM awards A123 Systems production contract for batteries for future EVs
August 11, 2011
General Motors has awarded a production contract to A123 Systems, a developer and manufacturer of advanced Nanophosphate lithium-ion batteries and systems, for batteries to be used in future GM electric vehicles to be sold in select global markets.
The contract includes advanced Nanophosphate cells and fully integrated electronic components. The specific vehicles and brands will be announced at a later date. All of the battery packs will be assembled at A123’s plant in Livonia, Michigan.
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Gartner study finds BEVs face market adoption challenge in Germany; recommendations for the government
August 07, 2011
A Gartner, Inc. study found that German consumer purchase considerations for fully battery-operated electric vehicles (EVs) remain relatively low compared to other powertrain technologies and that most current EV offerings miss consumer’s EV purchase and ownership requirements.
The analysis of Gartner’s latest EV readiness study conducted in Germany in the first and second quarter of 2011 showed that the majority of German consumers prefer a gasoline-powered vehicle for their next vehicle purchase, followed by hybrid technology which saw consumer interest increasing compared to 2010.
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Belfer Center discussion paper explores potential for electric vehicles to transform US market
August 05, 2011
A recent discussion paper published by the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, Harvard Kennedy School, concludes that significant penetration of electric cars into the US marketplace will only occur if the vehicles are competitive with conventional vehicles, not only on a cost basis, but also on an attribute basis.
Authors Henry Lee, Director, Environment and Natural Resources Program, and Grant Lovellette suggest that for this to occur: (1) gasoline prices will have to increase to or beyond $5 per gallon; (2) the government will have to accelerate such an increase by placing a price on those externalities—pollution, imported oil, or greenhouse gases—that it wishes to reduce; and (3) the industry must develop a battery technology that will permit electric cars to travel greater distances at lower costs, probably with aggressive government support in the research, development, and deployment of these new technologies.
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BMW Group releases results of UK-supported EV trial
The BMW Group released the data from the MINI E field trial in the UK. (Earlier post.) With 62 members of the public and 76 pool users running the battery-powered hatchbacks over two six-month periods, the Government-supported trial is the most in-depth of its kind in the UK to publish its findings.
An large amount of data was collected electronically by data-loggers in the car and the home charging points, and also from extensive driver research carried out by Oxford Brookes University. The early findings have already informed the development of the 2011 BMW ActiveE car, a four-seat car based on the BMW 1 Series Coupe, but the biggest beneficiary will be the BMW i3, the first purpose-built EV from the BMW Group, set for launch in 2013. The information has also helped to inform UK policy-making decisions and other EV market stakeholders, BMW said.
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BMW unveils i3 BEV and i8 PHEV Concepts
July 29, 2011
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| The i8 (left) and i3 Concepts. Click to enlarge. |
BMW unveiled the i3 and i8 Concepts in Frankfurt, providing a look at first electrically powered production cars from the new BMW i sub-brand, due to be launched as the BMW i3 in 2013 and the i8 in 2014. (Earlier post.)
The rear-wheel drive battery-electric (BEV) i3 Concept has been specifically developed for use in an urban environment and features a 125 kW electric motor with torque of 250 N·m (184 lb-ft) and a range of approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles). (An optional gasoline-powered range extender can provide further range.) With its LifeDrive architecture (earlier post) featuring a carbon passenger cell, the BMW i3 Concept combines an extremely low weight of 1,250 kilograms with optimal interior space and the highest crash safety levels. The 4-seat i3 Concept has a 200-liter (7 ft3) luggage compartment.
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Canada awards C$4.5M to two electric drive research projects; part of C$53M in new funding for 17 clean tech projects from SDTC
Canada will invest C$17M (US$17.9 million) from Sustainable Development Technology Canada’s (SDTC) SD Tech Fund in 17 new clean technology projects in the areas of agriculture, transportation, mining and energy. The awards include C$3.1 million (US$3.3 million) to a consortium led by TM4 Inc. in Boucherville to develop a new electric drive system for a bus, and C$1.2 million (US$1.3 million) to a consortium led by LaCima Corp in Vancouver to develop and ultracapacitor/Li-ion battery hybrid energy storage system for electric vehicles.
TM4. The TM4-led consortium, which includes Centre National du Transport Avancé and Nova Bus, will develop a mid-sized, 200 kW drivetrain and NEURΦ control system that builds on its current technology. This new drivetrain will have almost twice the energy density of current incumbent induction-based motors, while having the potential to be cost competitive with any leading induction or permanent magnet motor alternatives.
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HaloIPT partnering with Drayson Racing Technologies to bring dynamic wireless charging to electric vehicle motorsport
July 26, 2011
HaloIPT, a provider of Inductive Power Transfer (IPT) systems for wirelessly charging electric vehicles (earlier post), has entered a strategic partnership with Drayson Racing Technologies, the green R&D racing organization founded by Lord Drayson, former UK Minister for Science and Innovation. The partnership will use HaloIPT’s wireless charging technology to power high-performance cars as they race around the track.
The partnership with Drayson Racing, which develops and races green motorsport technology, including electric vehicles, aims to pioneer the deployment of dynamic (in-motion) charging of electric vehicles. The racing cars, fitted with HaloIPT technology, will pick up power wirelessly from transmitters buried under the surface of the road or race track, transferring power directly to the vehicle’s electric battery, ensuring that the vehicle receives constant charging on the move.
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MIT team synthesizes all carbon nanofiber electrodes for high-energy rechargeable Li-air batteries
July 25, 2011
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| Gravimetric Ragone plot comparing energy and power characteristics of CNF electrodes based on the pristine and discharged electrode weight with that of LiCoO2. Source: Mitchell et al. Click to enlarge. |
A team at MIT, led by Carl V. Thompson and Yang Shao-Horn, has synthesized carbon nanofiber (CNF), binder-free electrodes for lithium-air batteries that yield high gravimetric energies up to ~2500 W h kgdischarged-1 at powers up to ~100 W kgdischarged-1—among the highest values reported for Li–O2 batteries to date (including carbon-only and catalyst containing electrodes).
This translates to an energy enhancement ~4 times greater than the state-of-the-art lithium intercalation compounds such as LiCoO2 (~600 W h kgelectrode-1, the researchers said. They report on their study in a paper published in the RSC journal Energy & Environmental Science.
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GM and OnStar launching real-world smart grid pilot with ATOMS-based services
July 22, 2011
General Motors and OnStar are launching a real-world pilot of smart grid applications for electric vehicles. Starting this quarter, hundreds of employees of regional utilities will drive leased Chevrolet Volts as their everyday vehicles and participate in the pilot.
Through the OnStar Advanced Telematics Operations Management System (ATOMS), a utility will be able to accurately monitor and manage the energy used by the vehicles. ATOMS is a backend platform running in OnStar centers; electric vehicles such as the Volt communicate with OnStar; utilities can then access OnStar-based ATOMS services either via a web front-end, or via integration into their or third-party software (such as Comverge’s IntelliSOURCE) via ATOMS APIs (application programming interface), says Paul Pebbles, OnStar’s Electrification Services Product Manager.
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BMW to partner with Coulomb Technologies in Boston; Coulomb offering new cloud-based service plans, new dual-port charging stations
BMW of North America and Coulomb Technologies announced that drivers of the BMW ActiveE all-electric vehicle (earlier post) will be able to take advantage of the expansion of the ChargePoint Network into the Boston Metro area. More than 150 charging stations for EVs are now being installed in the State through Coulomb’s $37-million ChargePoint America Department of Energy program.
The charging stations will be located in the Boston metropolitan area, primarily within the Route 495 Beltway. Drivers of the BMW ActiveE will be able to recharge their electric vehicle at any ChargePoint Network-enabled electric vehicle charging station in the US. Drivers have access to the ChargePoint Network’s 24/7 driver support and mobile phone applications, which include station location and real-time availability, turn-by-turn navigation, and charging status.
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MTI report finds consumers receptive to alt-fuel vehicles, but still prefer gasoline; quantifying the trade-offs
July 20, 2011
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| Importance of AFV characteristics in ranking decision. “Concerns about GHG emissions” polled the largest “not important at all” results at 9%. Data: Nixon and Saphores. Click to enlarge. |
A new survey of consumer preferences among four different types of alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) by Hilary Nixon and Jean-Daniel Saphores of The Mineta Transportation Institute (MTI) finds that while consumers in general still prefer gasoline-fueled vehicles over AFVs, there is strong interest in AFVs.
None of the four types of AFV examined—hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell (HFC) vehicles, and battery-electric vehicles (EV)—was overwhelmingly preferred, although HEVs seem to have an edge, the authors said in their study,Understanding Household Preferences for Alternative-Fuel Vehicle Technologies. Full EVs were ranked last in preference by 40% of the respondents.
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Virginia Tech professor proposes simple biomass-to-wheel efficiency analysis to inform decisions on biomass/biofuel/powertrain combinations; the advantage of sugar fuel cell vehicles
July 15, 2011
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| Comparison of biomass-to-wheel (BTW) efficiency for different biomass utilization scenarios. Sugar Fuel Cell Vehicles and BEVs charged with electricity from a fuel cell (green bars) were the most efficient. Huang and Zhang. Click to enlarge. |
The potential role of biomass-derived fuels as a substitute for petroleum has engendered a great deal of research into different fuel pathways and possible powertrain combinations. Numerous life cycle analyses (LCAs) have attempted—and continue to—gauge the potential sustainability and impacts of these possible pairings.
However, notes Virginia Tech Prof. Y-H Percival Zhang in an open access paper published in the journal PLoS ONE, such analyses rely heavily on numerous assumptions, uncertain inputs (e.g., fertilizers, pesticides, farm machinery), energy conversion coefficients among different energy forms and sources, system boundaries, and so on. As a result, conflicting conclusions have been made even for well-known corn ethanol biorefineries, he points out. Zhang proposes using a simple biomass-to-wheel (BTW) energy efficiency analysis to help make a more informed decision for how to utilize (limited) biomass resources more efficiently.
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Virginia Governor signs legislation and executive order beginning transition of state vehicles to natural gas, electricity or other alternative fuels
July 13, 2011
Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell has signed two pieces of legislation that promote the use of natural gas, electric or other alternative-fueled vehicles in the Commonwealth. He also signed a new executive order setting out the state alternative fuel plan required by House Bill 2282.
The Virginia Office of Fleet Management Services oversees approximately 4,000 passenger-type vehicles, used by more than 175 state agencies and institutions. Fourteen alternative fuel vehicles and two vehicle chargers were also on display at the signing ceremony.
