The Koenigsegg CCX is a mid-engined roadster from Swedish car manufacturer Koenigsegg. The CCX has been engineered to comply with the US regulation and market demands and is an evolutionary design that replaced the Koenigsegg CCR.
CCX is an abbreviation for Competition Coupe X; the X commemorating the 10th anniversary, (being the Roman numeral for ten), of the completion and test drive of the first CC vehicle in 1996.
The CCX was first unveiled on February 28, 2006 at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show although its existence was announced earlier. The CCX is also available as the CCXR, the difference being that CCXR's engine is tuned to run on biofuel. The different fuel and tune allows the CCXR to produce 25% more power than the CCX.
The Koenigsegg CCXR is an "environmentally-friendly" version CCX powered by essentially the same twin-supercharged V8 engine but converted to use E85 ethanol fuel. The engine tune in the CCXR is more powerful than that of the CCX, putting out 1018 bhp (760 kW) at 7200 rpm and 781.8 ft·lb (1060 N·m) of torque at 6100 rpm, 25% more power than the CCX, also making it the second most powerful production car in the world, behind the SSC Ultimate Aero TT.Christian von Koenigsegg said that "Our engineers couldn't quite believe the figures when we tested the car". The increased power is a result of the cooling properties of ethanol in the engine's combustion chambers allowing for a higher pressure in the cylinder and the biofuel having a higher octane rating of 113 RON compared to 95 RON for gasoline in North America and 100 RON for gasoline in Europe, although the CCXR burns slightly more fuel than the CCX with 15 mpg (17L/100km). The only changes to the engine are modified fuel injectors, upgraded fuel lines and piston rings and a higher boost setting on the superchargers. Koenigsegg stated that CCX owners will be able to have their cars converted to the same engine specification as the CCXR for approximately US$100,000 (€80,000) extra, although the CCX remains available for purchase as biofuel for the CCXR may not be available in some locations.
Manufacturer Koenigsegg Production 2006–present Predecessor Koenigsegg CCR Class Sports car Body style(s) 2-door roadster Layout Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel drive Engine(s) 4.7 L twin-supercharged V8 Transmission(s) 6-speed manual Wheelbase 2660 mm (104.7 in) Length 4293 mm (169 in) Width 1996 mm (78.6 in) Height 1120 mm (44.1 in) Curb weight 1180 kg (2601 lb) Designer Sven-Harry Åkesson
Performance :
The CCX can accelerate from stationary to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.2 seconds and 100 miles per hour (160 km/h) in 7.7 seconds.It can complete a standing quarter mile in 9.9 seconds with an end speed of 146 miles per hour (235 km/h). According to Koenigsegg it has a top speed of 395 km/h (245 mph), but it has not officially been tested on a long enough straight to confirm its maximum speed. The CCX has a turning circle of 36 ft 1.1 in (11 meters) and can turn at 1.3 lateral gs (13 m/s²).
Engine :
While the previous Koenigseggs were powered by a Ford Modular V8 engine sourced from the U.S., the engine of the CCX was designed by Koenigsegg based on the Ford Modular architecture, and assembled for them by Grainger & Worrall, a British company that produces drivetrain components for Formula One cars.The engine is a 4.7 litre (4712 cc, 287 cu in) V8, with dual overhead camshafts and 4 valves per cylinder. The engine block is made of 356 Aluminium that has undergone a T7 heat treatment, a form of accelerated precipitation strengthening.The aluminium alloy is stronger than the previous engine and allows a thinner, thus lighter, engine block that will withstand higher cylinder pressures. The engine is boosted by two centrifugal superchargers that increase the compression to 17.5 psi (120 kPa) with an 8.2:1 compression ratio. The engine produces 806 hp (601 kW) at 6900 rpm and 678 lb·ft (919 N·m) of torque at 5700 rpm on 91 octane (U.S. rating) gasoline. The engine is lubricated with a dry sump system with a separate oil pump, the pistons are cooled by oil sprayed onto them and the oil itself has an external cooler.The CCX engine burns 14 mpg–U.S. / 17 mpg–imp (17 Liters per 100 kilometers)
Transmission :
The CCX has a six speed manual gearbox made for Koenigsegg by Cima with a twin plate clutch of diameter 8.46 in (215 millimeters) as default but a sequential manual transmission option is available. The power is fed to the wheels through a torque sensitive, limited slip differential. The option to select gear ratios is available, but the default ratios of the 2007 CCX are in the table.
The Bugatti Veyron 16.4 is a mid-engine sports car produced by Volkswagen AG subsidiary Bugatti Automobiles SAS introduced in 2005. It is the quickest accelerating and decelerating street-legal production car in the world, and was the world's fastest street-legal production car until the introduction of the SSC Ultimate Aero Twin Turbo produced by Shelby SuperCars.
Powered by a 1,001 PS (987 hp/736 kW) W16 engine, it is able to achieve an average top speed of 407.47 km/h (253.19 mph). The car reached full production in September 2005, and is handcrafted in a factory Volkswagen built near the former Bugatti headquarters in Château St Jean in Molsheim (Alsace, France). It is named after French racing driver Pierre Veyron, who won the 24 hours of Le Mans in 1939 while racing for the original Bugatti firm.
Specifications:
Manufacturer Bugatti Automobiles SAS Parent company Volkswagen AG Production 2005–present (approx. 300 to be produced) Assembly Molsheim, Alsace, France Predecessor Bugatti EB110 Body style(s) 2-door coupe Layout Mid-engine, all-wheel drive Engine(s) 8.0 L quad-turbocharged W16 Transmission(s) 7-speed Direct-Shift Gearbox sequential manual Wheelbase 2710 mm (106.69 in) Length 4462 mm (175.67 in) Width 1998 mm (78.66 in) Height 1204 mm (47.4 in) at normal position Curb weight 1888 kg (4162.33 lb) Fuel capacity 100 L (26 US gal/22 imp gal) Designer Hartmut Warkuss, and Jozef Kabaň
The Veyron features a W16 engine—16 cylinders in 4 banks of 4 cylinders, or the equivalent of two narrow-angle V8 engines mated in a "W" configuration. Each cylinder has 4 valves for a total of 64, but the narrow V8 configuration allows two camshafts to drive two banks of cylinders so only 4 camshafts are needed. The engine is fed by four turbochargers and displaces 8.0 L (7,993 cc/488 in³) with a square 86 mm (3.4 in) by 86 mm (3.4 in) bore and stroke.
Putting this power to the ground is a dual-clutch Direct-Shift Gearbox computer-controlled manual transmission with 7 gear ratios via shifter paddles behind the steering wheel boasting an < 150 ms shift time, designed and manufactured by Ricardo of England. The Veyron can be driven by full automatic transmission. The Veyron also features full-time all-wheel drive based on the Haldex system. It uses special Michelin run-flat tires designed specifically for the Veyron to accommodate the vehicle's top speed. Curb weight is estimated at 1,888 kg (4,160 lb). This gives the car a power to weight ratio of 529 bhp/ton.
The car's wheelbase is 2710 mm (106.7 in). Overall length is 4462 mm (175.7 in). It measures 1998 mm (78.7 in) wide and 1204 mm (47.4 in) tall.
The Bugatti Veyron has a total of 10 radiators. 3 radiators for the engine cooling system. 1 heat exchanger for the air-to-liquid intercoolers. 2 for the air conditioning system. 1 transmission oil radiator. 1 differential oil radiator. 1 engine oil radiator. 1 hydraulic oil radiator for the spoiler
It has a drag coefficient of 0.36 , and a frontal area of 2.07 m2. This gives it a CdA ft² value of 8.02.
Performance :
Power :
According to Volkswagen (and approved by TÜV Süddeutschland) the final production Veyron engine produces 736 kW (987 hp) which is equivalent to 1001 PS (metric horsepower) and 922 ft·lbf (1,250 N·m) torque. However, the car is advertised as producing "1001 horsepower" in both the US and European markets.
Top Speed :
Top speed was initially promised to be 407 km/h (253 mph) but test versions were unstable at that speed, forcing a redesign of the aerodynamics. In May, 2005, a prototype Veyron tested at a Volkswagen track near Wolfsburg, Germany recorded an electronically limited top speed of 400 km/h (249 mph). In October, 2005, Car and Driver magazine's editor Csaba Csere test drove the final production version of the Veyron for the November 2005 issue. This test, at Volkswagen's Ehra-Lessien test track, reached a top speed of 407.5 km/h (253.2 mph). The top speed was verified once again by James May on Top Gear, again at Volkswagen's private test track, when the car hit 407.9 km/h (253 mph), which equated to precisely one-third of supersonic speed at sea level. When getting close to the top speed during the test he said that "the tires will only last for about fifteen minutes, but it's okay because the fuel runs out in twelve minutes." He also gave an indication of the power requirements, at 249 km/h (155 mph) the Veyron was using approximately 270 bhp (201 kW), but to get to its rated 407 km/h (253 mph) top speed required far more from the engine.
Aerodynamic friction or drag is proportional to the square of the speed; for example doubling speed quadruples drag. Work is a product of force applied over a distance travelled. Comparing a vehicle travelling at 100 mph (160 km/h) with one travelling at 200 mph (320 km/h), over a given period of time (e.g. 1 second), the faster vehicle must overcome 4 times the aerodynamic drag, and travel twice the distance of the slower one. Thus it does 8 times the work of the slower vehicle in that period of time. As power is work done / time taken it follows that the faster vehicle, travelling at twice the speed requires 8 times the power of the slower one. German inspection officials recorded an average top speed of 408.47 km/h (253.8 mph) during test sessions on the Ehra Lessien test track on April 19, 2005.
The car's everyday top speed is listed at 375 km/h (233 mph). When the car reaches 220 km/h (137 mph), hydraulics lower the car until it has a ground clearance of about 8.9 cm (3½ inches). At the same time, the wing and spoiler deploy. This is the "handling mode", in which the wing helps provide 3425 newtons (770 pounds) of downforce, holding the car to the road. The driver must, using a special key (the "Top Speed Key"), toggle the lock to the left of his seat in order to attain the maximum (average) speed of 407 km/h (253 mph). The key functions only when the vehicle is at a stop when a checklist then establishes whether the car—and its driver—are ready to enable 'top speed' mode. If all systems are go, the rear spoiler retracts, the front air diffusers close and the ground clearance, normally 12.5 cm (4.9 inches), drops to 6.5 cm (2.6 inches).
Acceleration :
The Veyron is one of the quickest production cars to 100km/h (62mph) with a proven time of 2.5 seconds[citation needed]. It reaches 60 mph (97 km/h) in approximately 2.46 seconds. This is an average acceleration of 1.18 g.
The forward acceleration in a Veyron may also be strong enough to cause head-up illusion, which gives passengers the impression of driving up a slope, very much like what is commonly experienced in a jet liner that accelerates for take off. This could arguably lead to false perception of stopping distances.
The Veyron reaches 200 and 300 km/h (124 and 186 mph) in 7.4 and 16.7 seconds respectively. And according to the February 2007 issue of Road & Track Magazine, the Veyron accomplished the quarter mile in 10.2 seconds at a speed of 142.9 mph (230.0 km/h). Other tests, however, have the Veyron hitting 150 mph (240 km/h) in 9.8 seconds (see below), so the quarter mile time is actually faster, making the Veyron the most rapidly accelerating production car in history.
Fuel Consumption :
The Veyron consumes more fuel than any other production car, using 40.4 L/100 km (6.99 mpg imp/5.82 mpg US) in city driving and 24.1 L/100 km (11.7 mpg imp/9.76 mpg US) in combined cycle. At full throttle, it uses more than 115 L/100 km (2.46 mpg imp/2.05 mpg US), which would empty its 100 L (26 US gal/22 imp gal) fuel tank in just 12 minutes 46 seconds. This is a safety measure studied by the engineers because after 15 straight minutes at 253 mph the tires would melt.
Braking:
The Veyron's brakes use unique cross-drilled and turbine-vented carbon rotors which draw in cooling air to reduce fade. The front calipers have eight titanium pistons and the rear calipers have six pistons. Bugatti claims maximum deceleration of 1.3 G on road tires. Prototypes have been subjected to repeated 1.0 g braking from 194 to 50 mph (312 to 80 km/h) without fade. With the car's acceleration from 50 to 194 mph (80 to 312 km/h), that test can be performed every 22 seconds. At speeds above 124 mph (200 km/h), the rear wing also acts as an airbrake, snapping to a 55-degree angle in 0.4 seconds once brakes are applied, providing 0.68 g (4.9 m/s²) of deceleration (equivalent to the stopping power of an ordinary hatchback). Bugatti claims the Veyron will brake from 400 km/h (249 mph) to a standstill in less than 10 seconds. The Veyron's performance was tested by Top Gear's Richard Hammond in a race against a Eurofighter Typhoon.
The Silverado Hybrid is Chevrolet’s gasoline-electric hybrid half-ton pickup that was added to the Silverado line for 2005 and is the first full-size truck with hybrid propulsion technology for improved fuel economy. The Silverado Hybrid is powered by a standard Vortec 5300 5.3-liter V8 engine and a 4-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission coupled with the hybrid propulsion system which replaces the traditional starter motor and alternator with a compact 14-kw electric induction motor or starter generator integrated between the engine and transmission. The starter generator provides fast, quiet starting power and allows the gasoline engine to automatically start and stop under certain conditions to conserve fuel. The Silverado Hybrid also offers four 120-volt/20-amp electrical auxiliary power outlets located under the rear seat and in the pickup bed.
The Mercury Mariner compact SUV was introduced in 2005. It is a sibling of the Mazda Tribute and Ford Escape, although it is slightly more upmarket than the other two. Mechanically, it is identical to the Ford Escape (with the exception of being offered with only an automatic transmission). It also includes stylistic differences, such as a two-tone interior, European-style turn signal repeaters, monotone cladding, and the signature Mercury "waterfall" front grille. The Mariner is Mercury's first car-based SUV, and is slotted below the Mountaineer in the lineup.
Specifications:
Manufacturer Ford Motor Company Production 2005-Present Class Compact SUV Body style(s) 4-door SUV Layout Front engine, front-wheel drive / four-wheel drive Platform Ford CD2 platform Engine(s) 2.3L 153 hp (114 kW) I4 3.0L 200 hp (150 kW) V6 Transmission(s) 4-speed automatic Wheelbase 103.1 in (2619 mm)
Hybrid :
In 2006 the Mariner Hybrid hit dealer lots. It is mechanically identical to its sibling, the Ford Escape Hybrid. Like the Ford Escape Hybrid, The Mariner Hybrid is a "full" hybrid electric system, meaning the system can switch automatically between pure electric power, pure gasoline engine power, or a combination of electric battery and gasoline engine operating together, for maximum performance and efficiency at all speeds and loads. When braking or decelerating, the Mariner's hybrid system uses regenerative braking, where the electric drive motor becomes a generator, converting the vehicle's momentum back to electricity for storage in the batteries. With 155 hp (116 kW), the Mariner Hybrid has nearly the same acceleration performance as the conventional 200 hp (150 kW) V6 Mariner.
Second generation : (specifications)
Production 2008-Present Assembly Claycomo, Missouri Length 175.2 in (4450 mm) Premier: 175.5 in (4458 mm) Width 71.1 in (1806 mm) Height 68.8 in (1748 mm)
For the 2008 model year the Mariner was significantly updated with a new look although built on the Ford CD2 platform used by the previous generation Mariner.
The changes included a new seats, headlights, taillights, a new liftgate, a higher beltline and new doors and wheels.
The interior was also significantly updated with higher quality materials and more refined features.
The engines remained the same but the 3.0L Duratec V6 has been modified to reduce fuel consumption by 10%
The first 2008 Mercury Mariner was unveiled at the South Florida International Auto Show on October 6, 2006 and was touted as a new direction for the Mercury Brand.
Manufacturer Toyota Production 2007–present Assembly Georgetown, Kentucky Toyota City, Japan Class Mid-size (2007-present) Body style(s) 4-door sedan Engine(s) 2.4 L I4 2AZ-FXE Atkinson cycle gasoline engine Transmission(s) Continuously variable transmission Wheelbase 109.3 in (2776 mm) Length 189.2 in (4806 mm) Width 71.7 in (1821 mm) Height 57.5 in (1461 mm) Fuel capacity 65.1 L (17.2 U.S. gallons)
The Toyota Camry Hybrid is a hybrid version of the Camry sedan. The Toyota Camry Hybrid was introduced in May 2006 and has estimated U.S. sales of 60,000 per year, or 15 percent of total Camry sales.
The Camry Hybrid was voted 2007 Car of the Year in the Family Sedan (over $30k) category by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC).
Specifications
Powertrain
The Toyota Camry Hybrid utilizes a four-cylinder gasoline engine, 650V electric motors with 105 kW (140 hp) and 270 N·m (199 ft·lbf) and a NiMH 245V traction battery with a maximum output of 30 kW (40 hp) to produce a peak of 192 hp (140 kW).
EPA fuel economy estimates for the 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid are 40 MPG (City) and 38 MPG (Highway). EPA’s revised method of estimating fuel economy for 2008 and subsequent model years, which now considers the effects of air conditioning, rapid acceleration and cold temperatures, estimates 33 MPG (City) and 34 MPG (Highway).
Unique Features
In addition to the Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD), the Toyota Camry hybrid has several features not available on non-hybrid Camry models; for example: LED tail lights Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management [VDIM] Climate Control (HVAC) system which can function when ICE (internal combustion engine) is off. "ECO" button which can limit energy consumption of the HVAC system. Coefficient of aerodynamic drag (Cd) reducing wheel spats and underbody pans (Cd for Camry Hybrid is 0.27) "HYBRID" emblems on front fenders and HSD emblem on the rear decklid
The majority of these features are meant to reduce energy consumption (e.g. LED lights and "ECO" button) and thereby improve fuel economy.
Manufacturer Honda Production 2005–2007 Assembly Sayama, Japan SuccessorHonda FCX Clarity,Honda Accord Diesel Class Mid-size Body style(s) 4-door sedan Layout FF layout Engine(s) 3.0L V6 Transmission(s) 5-speed automatic Wheelbase 107.9 in (2741 mm) Length 2005: 189.5 in (4813 mm) 2006-07: 191.1 in (4854 mm) Width 2005: 71.4 in (1814 mm) 2006-07: 71.7 in (1821 mm) Height 2005: 57.0 in (1448 mm) 2006-07: 57.2 in (1453 mm)
The Honda Accord Hybrid is a Hybrid vehicle version of the North American Honda Accord. It became the company's third hybrid when the 2005 model was introduced in late 2004, following the Honda Insight and Honda Civic Hybrid. The Accord Hybrid is priced US$3,000 higher than the EX V6 model Accord, and retains the same trim and feature levels (with the deletion of the power sunroof). Honda has positioned the Accord Hybrid at the top of its (non-Acura) lineup.
While this new vehicle shares the same displacement as the regular seventh generation Accord V6 powerplant, the engine in the Hybrid is derived from the 2005 Honda Odyssey minivan and can shut off 3 of the 6 cylinders under certain conditions for better fuel economy (a technology that Honda calls Variable Cylinder Management (VCM)). The new engine features iVTEC technology and drives a new compact transmission. Power is up from 240 to 255 hp (179 to 190 kW) and torque rose from 212 to 232 ft·lbf (287 to 315 N·m). Fuel economy was originally estimated at 29 mpg (8.1 L/100 km) city and 37 mpg (6.4 L/100 km) highway, but was later changed to 25 city, 34 highway, after Honda's addition of standard sunroof and spare tire (not included on the 2005 model) bumped the car to a higher weight class for EPA mileage testing. The 2006 model has also been rated an AT-PZEV vehicle. AT-PZEV (Advanced Technology-Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle) is an emissions standard created by the California Air Resources Board.
Honda puts the emphasis on performance and targets high-end buyers. Unlike traditional hybrid designs, the new Accord hybrid uses a more powerful engine than its non-hybrid counterpart. Together with the Integrated Motor Assist, the hybrid version is a slightly higher performance car than the conventional V6-engined Accord.
2006 US-spec Accord Hybrid
The 2005 Accord Hybrid Sedan is also 4 inches (102 mm) longer than the 2005 Accord Sedan. The 2005 Accord Hybrid Sedan comes in four colors: Graphite Pearl, Desert Mist Metallic, Silver Frost Metallic, and Taffeta White. For 2006, the Accord Hybrid comes standard with Vehicle Stability Assist, and like the conventional US-spec Accord, received a minor exterior facelift. Accord Hybrids from model year 2006 and up can be identified by the amber rear turn signals whereas their fully gasoline counterparts have red rear turn signals.
According to Consumer Reports, the Accord Hybrid only averages 1 MPG better than the regular Accord in their fuel economy tests.
Honda has announced that there will be no hybrid version when the next generation is launched in 2008; instead, there will be a diesel model. Another replacement for the Accord Hybrid is the mid-size Honda FCX Clarity, with the production model to debut at the 2007-08 Los Angeles Auto Show. Both the FCX Clarity and Accord Diesel will debut as 2009 models. The Accord hybrid sold 25,000 since 2004, and 6,100 of the 2007 model
The Lexus RX 400h is a hybrid crossover SUV assembled since 2005 for Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota Motor Corp. The RX 400h uses Lexus Hybrid Drive technology and the Lexus RX model design. An equivalent model is called the Toyota Harrier Hybrid in Japan. First introduced in January 2004 at the North American International Auto Show, the RX 400h became the world's second mass-produced hybrid sport utility vehicle, after the Ford Escape Hybrid. The RX 400h was also the first luxury hybrid.
Production 2005–present Assembly Kyūshū, Japan Engine(s) 3.3 L 3MZ-FE V6 hybrid system Transmission(s) Continuously variable transmission Wheelbase 106.9 in (2715 mm) Length 187.2 in (4755 mm) Width 72.6 in (1844 mm) Height 2006-07: 68.5 in (1740 mm) 2008-09 AWD: 66.4 in (1687 mm) 2008-09 FWD: 66.1 in (1679 mm) Fuel capacity 17.20 US gallons (65.1 L/14.3 imp gal)
Lexus debuted the RX 400h at the North American International Auto Show in 2004, with plans to launch the vehicle in the U.S. market. The equivalent Harrier Hybrid debuted in Japan on 22 March 2005, the same day as the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The Lexus RX 400h made its U.S. sales debut in mid-2005, with over 9,000 pre-orders at launch. The RX 400h's arrival in the U.S. had been delayed by several months; Lexus had announced in November 2004 that the American launch of the hybrid Lexus SUV would occur for the 2006 model year (with European and Asian launches during 2005).
Since its launch, the all-wheel drive RX 400h/Harrier Hybrid has been sold at a substantial premium over the non-hybrid RX 300/RX 330/RX 350/Harrier. In the U.S., the initial base price was US$49,185, which was a $5,600 premium over a similarly-equipped RX 330/RX 350. A front-wheel drive version of the RX 400h debuted in 2006, with a base MSRP approximately $1,400 less than the all-wheel drive RX hybrid. For 2007, along with the reduction of the federal hybrid tax credit for its hybrids, Lexus lowered the base price of the RX 400h to $42,580 and $41,180 for the respective all-wheel and front-wheel drive versions. The list price in Japan for the Harrier Hybrid ranges from 4.095 million Yen to 4.62 million Yen.
Powertrain
The gasoline-powered part of the RX 400h engine system is a 3.3 L 3MZ-FE V6, very similar to the one found in the RX 330. It produced, in the case of the Harrier Hybrid, 211 hp JIS (155 kW) and 288 N·m (212 ft·lbf). The gasoline engine is aided by a maximum of two additional electric motors, one driving the front wheels, producing 167 hp JIS (123 kW) and 333 N·m (245 ft·lbf) and connected to the CVT gearbox, and the other driving the rear wheels, producing 68 hp JIS (50 kW) and 130 N·m (95 ft·lbf). The whole system, called Lexus Hybrid Drive (also Hybrid Synergy Drive), produces a maximum of 272 hp JIS (200 kW). With Lexus Hybrid Drive, under normal driving conditions, only the front motor and gasoline engine are used. The rear motor is only used under full-throttle acceleration or when the front wheels lose traction. The gasoline engine switches off automatically and the car runs completely on electricity when either stationary, decelerating, or being driven at slow speeds (0 to 40 miles per hour). An Ni-MH battery is responsible for powering the motors, and is charged by generators during deceleration or sharp cornering.
Not only does the hybrid drive in the RX 400h improve fuel economy, with the assistance of the electric motor, the 400h/Harrier Hybrid can reach 60 mph (97 km/h) in less than 8 s, quicker than the gasoline-only RX. Despite the increased performance, the RX 400h/Harrier Hybrid consumes roughly the same amount of gasoline as a compact four-cylinder sedan and it qualifies as a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) in America. Under the Japanese "10.15 mode" fuel consumption standard, the Harrier Hybrid can run 17.8 km per litre of fuel (compared with the standard coil-sprung V6 3.0 L Harrier, which returned 9.4 km/L). In Japan, it qualifies as a "4-star" LEV-car, where it produces 75% fewer emissions than the standard specified in Heisei 17 (i.e. year 2005). In the U.S., the RX 400h is certified with a revised 2008 EPA fuel economy rating of 26 mpg city, 24 highway for the AWD model. Because of the hybrid system's ability to shut off the gasoline engine at slower speeds or at idle, its fuel economy is better in city driving, in contrast with conventional petrol and diesel drivetrains.
Differences from the RX 350
Compared to the standard Lexus RX, the RX 400h features a different front grille and round foglights, and also differently-styled LED tailights in place of the conventional LED ones on the RX330/RX350. Different exterior colors are offered. When launched in 2005, the RX 400h came exclusively with brushed aluminum interior accents, in place of the wood trim offered in the standard RX. This changed in 2006, when the RX 400h became available with Bird's Eye Maple wood trim. Additional changes for 2007 included the addition of Hybrid badging on the rear side doors. A hybrid information display on the navigation screen shows electrical motor, gasoline engine, and regenerative braking activation in real time. Some RX 400h models without navigation screens display the information on a small monochrome display on the instrument panel, similar to Toyota Camry Hybrid models without navigation systems.
The Honda Insight is a two-seater hybrid automobile manufactured by the Japanese automaker Honda.
The Insight was the first mass-produced hybrid automobile sold in the United States, introduced in 1999. At its height, it achieved nearly 70 miles per gallon (3.4 L per 100 km). (In Japan, the first generation of the Toyota Prius was launched in 1997.) According to the EPA, the 5-speed manual transmission variant of the Insight was the most fuel-efficient mass-produced automobile sold in the United States. The Insight also features low emissions: the California Air Resources Board gave the 5-speed model a ULEV rating, and the CVT model earned a SULEV rating. (The 5-speed's lean-burn ability is a trade-off which increases efficiency at the expense of slightly higher NOx emissions.)
Specifications:
Manufacturer Honda Production 1999–2006 Assembly Suzuka, Mie, Japan Class Subcompact Body style(s) 2-door hatchback Layout Front-engine, front-wheel drive Engine(s) Gasoline: 0.995 L lean-burn I3 12-valve SOHC Electric: 144 volt 10 kW Transmission(s) 5-speed manual Continuously variable transmission Wheelbase 2400 mm (94.5 in) Length 3945 mm (155.3 in) Width 1695 mm (66.7 in) Height 1355 mm (53.3 in) Curb weight Manual w/o AC 838 kg (1847 lb) Manual w/ AC 852 kg (1878 lb) CVT w/ AC 891 kg (1964 lb)
History
Upon its introduction to the United States in December 1999 (as a year "2000" model car), the Honda Insight was the first mass-produced hybrid automobile sold in the country. The first generation of the Toyota Prius, however, had gone on sale in Japan in 1997. Hybrid technology, which combined two different power sources -- in the Insight's case, a regular internal combustion engine and an electric motor powered by Nickel-Metal Hydride cells -- was unproven on the American market, and at the time of release was not considered viable. Previous efforts to make environmentally-friendly cars had focused on electric cars. The primary argument against hybrids was that the cost and weight of having two different motors would make the vehicles impractical.
Design
The Honda Insight was a subcompact hatchback 3945 mm (155.1 in) in length with a wheelbase of 2400 mm (94.5 in) a height of 1355 mm (53.3 in) and a width of 1695 mm (66.7 in). The Insight was only available as a two-seater. Only three different trims were available: a manual transmission without air-conditioning, a manual transmission with air-conditioning, and a continuously variable transmission with air-conditioning. Although produced until 2006, the only major change was the introduction of a trunk mounted, front controlled, multiple CD changer.
One key in increasing the vehicle's fuel efficiency was reducing the mass via the extensive use of aluminium and plastic. Honda built the insight with aluminum front brake calipers and rear brake drums; the fuel tank was plastic; the engine mounts are aluminum; and the exhaust was a small, thin wall pipe. The entire weight of the Insight was only 1847 lb (838 kg) for a manual transmission or 1964 lb (891 kg) for the CVT with air conditioning.
The flat back of the Insight was similar to the CRX, while the broad, rounded hood resembled the design of the Honda Civic. The shape of the Insight was considered too unusual by some drivers, much like GM's EV1. The New York Times wrote that the Honda Insight and the EV1 "suggested Popeye's pal, Olive Oyl, in her ankle-length dress. The rear fender skirts seemed frumpy. The Insight, however, was introduced at a price of just under US $20,000. Other hybrids soon followed, with the Toyota Prius arriving in June of 2000. Honda rolled out a hybrid version of the Honda Civic in 2002, followed by Toyota's relaunch of the Prius in 2003. In the fall of 2004 Ford became the first American automotive manufacturer to bring a hybrid to market with the Ford Escape hybrid.
The car remained the highest mileage machine while it was produced and is still the leader of any current car. The Insight earned an EPA mileage estimate of 70 miles per gallon in highway driving, 61 mpg city. With air conditioning it was 66/60. With a CVT it was 57/56. Some drivers wind up with worse mileage; others routinely report real world mileage close to, and often exceeding, the EPA numbers. Insight aficionados, the more extreme of whom are called "hypermilers", compete to eke out as many miles as possible from a tank.
Upon the Insight's release, Honda challenged several automotive magazines to a competition to see who could obtain the best mileage on the 195-mile (314 km) drive from Columbus, Ohio to Detroit. The contest was won by Car and Driver magazine, which rigged a box behind an SUV, and had the Insight drive within the confines of the box. Without any wind resistance, the Insight made the trip with mileage of 121.7 miles per gallon, while averaging 58 miles per hour. A two-year test of an Insight with air conditioning, driven 40,000 miles (64,000 km), averaged 48 miles per gallon. Total global sales for the Insight amounted to only around 18,000. When the Insight debuted, gas cost only $1.39 a gallon.
Under the Energy Policy Act of 2005 in the United States, the Honda Insight was eligible for a $1,450 tax credit.
The gasoline engine is a nominal 70 hp, 1-liter, 3-cylinder unit. The electrical motor assist adds in another 10 kW (approx 12 hp) when called on, and similarly provides significant deceleration when used in regenerative mode for braking. (This both improves mileage and also dramatically extends the lifetime for the brake shoes).
The Insight addressed many problems of electric vehicles, such as their extremely limited range. When the car is not driving the engine shuts off. The digital displays on the dashboard display mileage instantaneously. On the manual transmission up and down arrows suggest when to shift gears. In California, the state with the most-stringent fuel economy standards, the manual-transmission Insight was rated as an ultra-low-emission vehicle and the CVT transmission was rated Super-ultra-low-emission vehicle.
Until 2003 Honda and Toyota sold roughly similar numbers of hybrids, but in 2004 the Prius sales doubled. Sales of hybrids in Europe were even lower than in America because of the popularity and infrastructure to support diesel cars in Europe. The Economist wrote: "The beauty of hybrids is that they do not require changes in driver behaviour or fuel infrastructure."
In 2006, Honda decided to cancel production on the Insight because of dwindling sales and rising sales of the Honda Civic Hybrid. Hybrid insiders also noted the fact that the Insight was only a 2-seater made the Toyota Prius the preferred choice for those desiring to drive green.
Technology
Honda Insight IMA
The Insight uses the first generation of Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid technology. (The next generation, used in the Honda Civic Hybrid, is much more space-efficient.) The Insight has a 3-cylinder 1.0 Liter engine and a brushless 10-kWelectric motor located on the crankshaft. Buried behind the driver's and the passenger's seats are a set of commercial grade "D" sized NiMH batteries wired up to provide a nominal 144 V DC.During heavy acceleration, the electric motor provides additional power; during deceleration, the motor acts as a generator and recharges the batteries using a process called regenerative braking. A computer control module regulates how much power comes from the internal combustion engine, and how much from the electric motor; in the CVT variant, it also finds the optimal gear ratio. The current battery charge is shown on the dashboard, as is the instantaneous fuel efficiency and current state of the electric motor — whether it is (so to speak) resting, assisting the engine or charging the batteries.
Additional mileage enhancements are courtesy of high pressure, low rolling resistance tires and the use of extremely slippery "0w-20" synthetic oil.
Unlike the Toyota Prius, which has a planetary gearset, the original Insight had a conventional manual transmission. Starting with the 2001 model, a CVT variant of the Insight was available; the CVT is similar to that used in the Honda Civic Hybrid and the Honda Logo. The Insight is not considered a "full" hybrid vehicle because it cannot run on the electric motor alone, whereas its competitor, the Prius, can be operated solely on the electric motor. A feature shared by the two hybrids (and now appearing in others) is the ability to automatically turn off the engine when the vehicle is at a stop (and restart it upon movement). Since it is more powerful (10 kW) than most starters of conventional cars, the Insight's electric motor can start the engine nearly instantaneously.
The Integrated Motor Assist is run by an "Intelligent Power Unit (IPU)", a desktop computer-sized box. The Intelligent Power Unit, the Power control Unit, the Electronic Control Unit, the vehicle's batteries, converter and a high-voltage inverter are all located under the cargo floor of the vehicle, behind the seats. Also to maximize mileage, the Insight was very aerodynamic. The Insight had one of the lowest coefficients of drag of any car on the market, although its 0.25 coefficient was not as low as the EV1's 0.19.
The Insight was available with a manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). A traditional transmission shifts between a fixed set of engine-to-wheel ratios; however, a CVT allows for an infinite set of ratios between its lowest gear and its highest. The CVT transmission was classified as a super-low emissions vehicle
The Ford Escape Hybrid, launched in 2004, is a gas-electric hybrid powered version of the Ford Escape SUV developed by the Ford Motor Company. Built in Kansas City, Missouri, it was the first hybrid SUV to hit the market. A similar vehicle, the Mercury Mariner Hybrid is sold by Ford's Mercury marque. A third variation, the Mazda Tribute Hybrid, is expected to arrive in the fall of 2007 as a 2008 Model Year vehicle with a limited production run for the California market.
Hybrid versions can be identified by the "Hybrid" badges on the front driver's and passenger's doors as well as on the tailgate. In addition, the driver's side window in the cargo area is smaller in size in order to accommodate a ventilation slot for the high voltage battery. There was also a "Special Appearance Package" available as an option on the 2005-2007 Hybrid models. This package replaced the traditional lower cladding of the Escape with a silver finish .
The Escape hybrid is a "full" hybrid electric system, meaning the system can switch automatically between pure electric power, pure gasoline engine power, or a combination of electric battery and gasoline engine operating together, for maximum performance and efficiency at all speeds and loads. When braking or decelerating, the Escape's hybrid system uses regenerative braking, where the electric drive motor becomes a generator, converting the vehicle's momentum back to electricity for storage in the batteries. With 155 hp (116 kW), the Hybrid Escape has nearly the same acceleration performance as the conventional 200 hp (150 kW) V6 Escape.
Ford built 17,000 Escape Hybrids in the second half of 2004, four times as many as it had originally planned
Specifications Second generation
Engine(s) 2.3L I4 Transmission(s) Continuously variable transmission Wheelbase 103.1 in (2619 mm) Length 174.7 in (4437 mm) Width 71.1 in (1806 mm) Height 67.7 in (1720 mm)
The Escape Hybrid uses technology similar to that used in Toyota's Prius. Ford engineers realized their technology may conflict with patents held by Toyota, which led to a 2004 patent-sharing accord between the companies, licensing Ford's use of some of Toyota's hybrid technology in exchange for Toyota's use of some of Ford's diesel and direct-injection engine technology. Both Ford and Toyota state that Ford received no technical assistance from Toyota in developing the hybrid powertrain, but that some hybrid engine technologies developed by Ford independently were found to be similar to technologies previously patented by Toyota. Aisin Seiki Co. Ltd., a Japanese automotive components supplier belonging to the Toyota Group, supplies the hybrid continuously variable transmission for the Escape Hybrid. While Toyota produces its third-generation Prius transmission in-house, Aisin is the only supplier of hybrid transmissions to other manufacturers. Friction has arisen concerning Aisin's allocation of limited production capacity and engineering resources to Ford.
Sanyo Electric Co., which first produced hybrid car batteries in a joint venture with Honda,[9] built the 50 kg (110 lb),330V[10] 5.5 Ah (would make it 1.8kWh storage) , 250-cell nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack for the 2005 Escape Hybrid.
Performance
The Escape Hybrid's 133 horsepower (99 kW) gasoline I4 engine and 94 hp (70 kW) electric motor combine to give performance similar to the 200 hp (150 kW) V6 engine commonly used in the regular Escape. The hybrid is said to give approximately 75% greater efficiency, with about 33 to 36 mpg (U.S.) (6.5-7.1 L/100 km) in city traffic, (and has demonstrated it can travel 400–500 miles (644-805 km) on a single 16.5 gallon (62.4 L) tank of gasoline in city driving), and 29 to 31 mpg (U.S.) (7.6L-8.1 L/100 km) on the highway. Unlike conventional vehicles, hybrids often achieve better figures in the city because they do not waste power idling and can recover some power when stopping (by using regenerative braking) that would be wasted on a conventional vehicle.
The Escape Hybrid can accelerate up to approximately 39 miles per hour (63 km/h) on electric,[citation needed] with a gentle acceleration. A maximum distance of 1.5 miles (2.4 km) - 1.8 miles (2.9 km) can be performed on electric before the batteries will discharge and the gasoline will restart.[citation needed] When coasting, if the brake is gently tapped when passing below 40 mph (64 km/h), the gasoline engine will cut off, and the coast will continue with no gasoline being consumed.[citation needed] Electric mode does not perform as well when below 50 degrees F (10 °C), and performance degrades further as outside temperature drops further.[citation needed]
The Escape Hybrid gives a top speed of 102 mph (163 km/h).
Performance
The Escape Hybrid's 133 horsepower (99 kW) gasoline I4 engine and 94 hp (70 kW) electric motor combine to give performance similar to the 200 hp (150 kW) V6 engine commonly used in the regular Escape. The hybrid is said to give approximately 75% greater efficiency, with about 33 to 36 mpg (U.S.) (6.5-7.1 L/100 km) in city traffic, (and has demonstrated it can travel 400–500 miles (644-805 km) on a single 16.5 gallon (62.4 L) tank of gasoline in city driving), and 29 to 31 mpg (U.S.) (7.6L-8.1 L/100 km) on the highway. Unlike conventional vehicles, hybrids often achieve better figures in the city because they do not waste power idling and can recover some power when stopping (by using regenerative braking) that would be wasted on a conventional vehicle.
The Escape Hybrid can accelerate up to approximately 39 miles per hour (63 km/h) on electric,[citation needed] with a gentle acceleration. A maximum distance of 1.5 miles (2.4 km) - 1.8 miles (2.9 km) can be performed on electric before the batteries will discharge and the gasoline will restart.[citation needed] When coasting, if the brake is gently tapped when passing below 40 mph (64 km/h), the gasoline engine will cut off, and the coast will continue with no gasoline being consumed.[citation needed] Electric mode does not perform as well when below 50 degrees F (10 °C), and performance degrades further as outside temperature drops further.[citation needed]
The Escape Hybrid gives a top speed of 102 mph (163 km/h).
Plug-in hybrids
Three companies have converted Ford Escape Hybrids to Plug-in under a contract with the NYSERDA and delivered them in 2007: Electrovaya of Toronto Canada HyMotion also of Toronto Canada Hybrids Plus of Boulder Colorado USA
Ford has converted a Ford Escape Hybrids to Plug-in and delivered it to Southern California Edison (SCE) in December 2007 to examine the future of plug-in hybrids in terms of how home and vehicle energy systems will work with the electrical grid. Under the multi-million-dollar, multi-year project, Ford will convert a demonstration fleet of Ford Escape Hybrids into plug-in hybrids, and SCE will evaluate how the vehicles might interact with the home and the utility's electrical grid. Some of the vehicles will be evaluated "in typical customer settings," according to Ford
The Toyota Kluger, known as the Toyota Highlander in North America, is a crossover SUV assembled by Toyota under the Toyota brand name in its Kyūshū, Japan assembly plant and its Ikeda, Osaka, Japan assembly plant during 2008 and present. It was announced in April 2000 at the 2000 New York Auto Show and introduced as a 2001 model, arriving in late 2000 in Japan and in January 2001 in Canada as a 2001 model. American Highlander sales began as a 2002 model. The Kluger is the crossover counterpart to the 4Runner and has become Toyota's best-selling SUV until the RAV4 outsold it in 2006.
Specifications :
Production 2001–2007 Assembly Kyūshū, Japan Engine(s) 2.4L 155 hp (116 kW) I4 3.0L 220 hp (160 kW) V6 3.3L 230 hp (170 kW) V6 Transmission(s) 4-speed automatic 5-speed automatic w/3.3L 5-speed manual Wheelbase 106.9 in (2715 mm) Length 2001-03: 184.4 in (4684 mm)
2004-07: 184.6 in (4689 mm) Hybrid: 185.6 in (4714 mm) Width 71.9 in (1826 mm) Height 2001-05 4WD: 66.5 in (1689 mm) 2001-05 Limited 4WD: 68.7 in (1745 mm) 2003-05 FWD: 66.1 in (1679 mm) 2003-05 Limited FWD: 68.3 in (1735 mm) 2006-07 FWD: 67.9 in (1725 mm) 2006-07 4WD & FWD Hybrid: 68.3 in (1735 mm) 4WD Hybrid: 68.9 in (1750 mm) Curb weight 3784 lb (1716 kg) Fuel capacity 19.2 US gallons (72.7 L/16.0 imp gal)
First generation (2001-2007)First generation
Under the hood of a Highlander
Called the Highlander in North America, the Kluger shared the Toyota Camry platform with its Lexus RX/Toyota Harrier cousin and came in five and seven-seat configurations. It came standard with front wheel drive, with optional all wheel drive. The Kluger was not meant for serious off roading, unlike competitors such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, and Toyota's own 4Runner. It remained a sales success for Toyota in a number of markets across the world. Originally, it was longer than the 1996-2002 4Runner, but the 4Runner surpassed the Kluger in length for 2003.
The Highlander was available in three trim lines in the United States: the Base model, the Sport model, and the Limited model. The Base and Limited models were present when the Highlander was initially introduced, while the Sport model was introduced in March 2006.
The Kluger was available in three trim lines in Australia: the CV model, the CVX model, and the Grande model. A limited edition CV Sport model was also released in 2006. There is currently no hybrid model available in Australia. The only engine offered is the 3.3L 3MZ-FE V6.
Engines: 2001-2003 2.4 L 2AZ-FE I4, 160 hp (119 kW) 2001-2003 3.0 L 1MZ-FE V6, 220 hp (164 kW) 2004-2007 3.3 L 3MZ-FE V6, 230 hp (172 kW)
The 3.0 L engine was able to propel the Kluger from 0-60 mph in approximately 8.8 seconds. In 2004 the Kluger was given a new 3.3L V6 engine to compete with the more powerful V6 offerings from its competitors, mainly the Nissan Murano and the Honda Pilot. The 3.3L engine made it possible for the Kluger to reach 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 7.8 seconds.
In addition to the 3.3L engine, 2004 V6-powered models were equipped with a new 5-speed automatic transmission, replacing a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the 4-cylinder models continue to use the old 4-speed automatic transmission. This year also saw the introduction of the optional third row seat. The unibody was slightly modified behind the second row seats to include a depression on the trunk floor to accommodate the optional third row seating. On models without third row seating, the depression on the trunk floor was made into a storage compartment. (Prior to 2004 the spare tire was accessible from inside the vehicle where the third row seating would subsequently be located; beginning in 2004 the spare tire is accessible from underneath the vehicle.) Subtle changes to the front grille, front and rear bumpers, and headlights round-out the major changes for 2004.
The Sport and hybrid models each had a distinctive grille design, differentiating themselves from the non-Sport, non-hybrid models. Wheel styling also serves to differentiate the various models -- the hybrid sports a unique twin-spoke design.
The Kluger was available with front-wheel drive or full-time four-wheel drive. Beginning in 2006, Highlanders sold in Canada are offered only in a V6 four-wheel drive configuration. Hybrid models are available with part-time four-wheel drive which Toyota refers to as "4WD-i" where the rear wheels are powered by the separate electric motor.
Base models are equipped with a limited slip differential, while upscale models have a stability control system.
The Japanese Kluger was released with a center console integrated with the dashboard, while the North American Highlander initially lacked this integrated center console. The integrated center console was introduced in all U.S. Highlanders and in Canadian Limited Highlanders in the 2002 model year, and in all Canadian Highlanders in the 2003 model year. However, for these early Highlanders without the integrated center console, a smaller non-integrated stand-alone center console was available as an option, which was installed at the factory or could be installed by the dealer.
Typical fuel economy using the Australian standard testing regime is 12.3 L/100 km.
Second generation (2008-)Second generation
Production 2008- Assembly Miyawaka, Fukuoka, Japan Blue Springs, Mississippi (2011-, North America only) Engine(s) 3.5L 270 hp (200 kW) 2GR-FE V6 Transmission(s) 5-speed automatic Wheelbase 109.8 in (2789 mm) Length 188.4 in (4785 mm) Width 75.2 in (1910 mm) Height 69.3 in (1760 mm) Hybrid: 68.1 in (1730 mm) Curb weight 4045 lb (1835 kg)
Toyota revealed the second-generation Kluger and Kluger Hybrid at the 2007 Chicago Auto Show. The sole powertrain in the ‘08 Kluger is a 270-horsepower 3.5-liter 2GR-FE V6 mated to a five-speed automatic (the 155 horsepower (116 kW) four-cylinder model with manual transmission has been discontinued). While the 3.5-liter has 55 more horses than the previous Kluger’s optional 3.3-liter V6, the dimensional increases add a claimed 500 pounds to the new Kluger’s curb weight which we expect to be around 4500 pounds. Despite the increase in power and weight, Toyota promises that fuel economy will be nearly on par with the previous Kluger which was 19 city/25 highway for front-wheel drive models, 18/24 for all-wheel drive. A new production facility is being built in Blue Springs, Mississippi, which will begin producing Highlanders for the North American market in the 2011 model year.
Three trim levels are offered (Base, Sport, and Limited) and buyers will also be able to choose between front-drive or all-wheel drive. Sport and Limited models get a standard rear-view camera that does not require purchasing the optional navigation system. Major options include leather seats, heated seats, a touch-screen navigation system, an upgraded stereo, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, and a towing package that increases towing capacity to 5000 pounds. The five-passenger version was dropped, replaced by the 2009 Toyota Venza.
In Australia, the new generation Kluger was launched in August, 2007. There are three grades available, KX-R, KX-S and Grande. All grades are available with either 2WD or AWD. The base model KX-R is also available with either five or seven seats, whilst the latter grades are seven seaters only. Specifications are mostly similar to the US Highlander, sharing the same 3.5 litre V6 2GR-FE engine and five-speed automatic transmission. However, there are no plans at present to introduce a hybrid version of the Kluger into the Australian market.
The stylish 2008 Civic Hybrid is for those with the foresight to improve the future, and the spirit to enjoy the moment. The Civic Hybrid features a lightweight, low-friction 4-cylinder 3-stage 1.3 litre i-VTEC engine. The engine is complemented by a powerful DC electric motor that's less than 2.5” wide. Power for the motor is stored in a compact battery pack behind the rear seat. And the Civic Hybrid Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) battery pack comes with an 8-year/80,000-mile limited battery warranty for even more peace of mind
Engines & Power : CVT AT-PZEV CVT AT-PZEV w/ Nav Standard Engine 1.3L I4 1.3L I4
Horsepower : Gas............. 110 @ 6000 RPM 110 @ 6000 RPM Electric........ No data No data
The Toyota Prius is Toyota’s gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle and was the first mass-produced gasoline-electric hybrid when it went on sale in Japan in 1997. Since that time, the Prius has become the best-selling hybrid vehicle in the U.S. and the world. The Toyota Prius entered the U.S. market in 2000, and the second-generation 2004 Prius debuted in the fall of 2003 as the first Toyota product to use Hybrid Synergy Drive, Toyota’s third-generation gas-electric hybrid powertrain technology.
Latest news:
The 2006 Toyota Prius receives updates that include restyled headlights, chrome finish on the center bar of the grille, a front lip spoiler, and new taillight clusters. On the inside the Prius features new darker seat fabric, black texture for the center of the instrument panel and the rear seat is repositioned for improved headroom. Leather seating, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a rear back-up camera are offered for the first time. New audio system upgrades feature MP3-capability and a mini-jack port located in the center console. A Tire Pressure Monitoring System is now standard equipment on Prius.
Pricing:
4-Door Liftback Kelley Blue Book Price $20,300 - $20,900 Original Retail Price (MSRP) $21,725 Original Invoice Price $20,006
Engines & Power:
4-Door Liftback Standard Engine 1.5L I4 Horsepower Gas 110 @ 5000 RPM Electric No data Torque (lb-ft) Gas 82 @ 4200 RPM Electric 295 @ 0-1200 RPM
Here's the top 10 most fuel efficient cars, according to the 2008 Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy's fuel economy guidebook, published this Saturday. Prius tops the charts.
2008 Model Year Overall Fuel Economy Leaders Class Model City/Highway MPG
10. Honda Fit (manual) 28/34 9. Toyota Corolla (manual) 28/37 8. Ford Escape Hybrid 4WD 29/27, Mercury Mariner Hybrid 4WD ", Mazda Tribute Hybrid 4WD " 7. Toyota Yaris (automatic) 29/35 6. Toyota Yaris (manual) 29/36 5. Toyota Camry Hybrid 33/34 4. Ford Escape Hybrid FWD 34/30, MazdaTribute Hybrid 2WD ", Mercury Mariner Hybrid FWD " 3. Nissan Altima Hybrid 35/33 2. Honda Civic Hybrid 40/45 1. Toyota Prius (hybrid-electric) 48/45
If you want to save on gas, hybrids are the way to go.
Lowest Fuel Economy by Vehicle Class for 2008 Model Year
Class Model City/Highway MPG
Two Seater Lamborghini Murcielago (manual) 8/13 Minicompact Car Aston Martin DB9 Coupe, Volante (manual) 10/16 Subcompact Car Bentley Continental GTC 10/17 Compact Car Bentley Azure 9/15 Midsize Car Ferrari 612 Scaglietti (auto) 9/16 Large Car Bentley Arnage RL 9/15 Small Station Wagon Audi S4 Avant (manual) 13/20 Midsize Station Wagon Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Wagon 12/18 Sport Utility Vehicle* Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG 11/13 Minivan* Toyota Sienna 4WD 16/21 Pickup Truck* Rousch Performance Stage3 F150 11/15 Van (Passenger and Cargo)* Passenger Chevrolet G1500/2500 EXPRESS 2WD 12/16 " Chevrolet H1500 EXPRESS AWD " " GMC G1500/2500 SAVANA 2WD " " GMC H1500 SAVANA VAN AWD " Cargo Chevrolet G15/25 VAN CONV 2WD " " Chevrolet H1500 VAN CONV AWD " " GMC G15/25 SAVANA 2WD CONV " " GMC H1500 SAVANA AWD CONV "
*Trucks over 8500 pounds gross vehicle weight rating are currently exempt from federal fuel economy requirements Highest Fuel Economy Models by Vehicle Class for 2008 Model Year
Class Model City/Highway MPG
Two Seater Audi TT Roadster (2 liter engine,auto) 22/29 Minicompact Car Mini Cooper Convertible (manual) 23/32 Subcompact Car Toyota Yaris (manual) 29/36 Compact Car Honda Civic Hybrid 40/45 Midsize Car Toyota Prius (hybrid) 48/45 Large Car Honda Accord 4Dr Sedan (manual) 22/31 Small Station Wagon Honda Fit (manual) 28/34 Midsize Station Wagon Passat Wagon (manual) 21/29 Sport Utility Vehicle Ford Escape Hybrid FWD 34/30 Mazda Tribute Hybrid 2WD " Mercury Mariner Hybrid FWD " Minivan Dodge Caravan 2WD 17/24 Chrysler Town & Country 2WD " Pickup Truck Ford Ranger Pickup 2WD (manual) 21/26 Mazda B2300 2WD (manual) " Van (Cargo&Passenger)Chevrolet G1500/2500 Van 2WD 15/20 (4.3 liter engine) GMC G1500/2500 Savana 2WD Cargo " (4.3 liter engine)
Lowest Overall Fuel Economy Models* for 2008 Model Year
Japanese car major Suzuki Motor Corporation unveiled its fifth global car “A-Star” in New Delhi on Tuesday. Suzuki will manufacture A-Star in India and the car will be showcased at auto expo. Suzuki Chairman, Osamu Suzuki said that A-Star will be manufactured in India only and will be promoted under Suzuki’s “family theme”.
A-Star will be a compact car and will be powered by Euro V engine with a capacity of 1 litre manufactured by Maruti Suzuki India. Presently, Suzuki will sell A-Star in a petrol variant only. Suzuki Powertrain India will manufacture the manual transmission for the car. Suzuki also plans to launch Splash in India in near term. Splash will be available in Diesel and Petrol variants. Suzuki plans to sell 1 lakh units in Europe and 50 thousand in India.
Regarding Tata’s Rs 1 lakh car, Mr. Osamu Suzuki expressed his view that the safety should not be compromised. If the car maker sacrifices safety and emission norms to create a cheap variant, it will be quite irresponsible behavior from an auto major from India.
Suzuki will invest Rs 9000 crore in India under expansion plans. The company has plans for upgradation of Gurgaon plant and R&D facility in Haryana.
Suzuki will use its Indian manufacturing facility to make A-Star units to be exported to Europe. The production is expected to start by autumn 2008. Suzuki Splash will be launched for Indian markets only while A-Star will be for both Indian and European consumers.
Mr. Osamu Suzuki didn’t mention a specific date of launch of vehicles in India. He informed that Splash will be launched in Europe in spring of 2008.
Manesar manufacturing facility will produce 1.5 lakh units of A-Star. The company is already expanding its plant to double the capacity by 2010.
Specifications:
length :3580 mm
996 cc petrol engine
EURO-V compliant with a 1.0-litre aluminium petrol engine
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