A Ferrari Enzo on a London Street. Image: Ed Callow

The original Ferrari Enzo, built from 2002 until 2004, was a no-compromise hypercar that borrowed heavily from Ferrari’s Formula One experience. It used a carbon-fiber monocoque, a carbon-fiber body, an electrohydraulic shift transmission and carbon-ceramic brakes. Power came from a mid-rear mounted 6.0-liter V-12 engine, good for 651 horsepower, and the handling was refined by none other than Michael Schumacher.

In the day, you couldn’t even walk into a Ferrari dealer and buy one, regardless of your bank account. Purchase was by invitation only, and the right to buy the Enzo was extended to F40 and F50 owners first. Performance was the only concern of the Enzo, and such trivial matters as fuel consumption and carbon emissions never impacted the car’s design.

Those days are, apparently, over. A Ferrari Enzo successor has been discussed for quite some time, and Inside Line caught some inside info at the release of the Ferrari 458 Italia Spider. Per Ferrari CEO Amedeo Felisa, the Enzo replacement will also use a carbon-fiber monocoque and will still be powered by a V-12 engine, but Ferrari is testing hybrid prototypes for possible inclusion in its new supercar.

If Ferrari were going the route of a performance hybrid, this could make sense. After all, the characteristics of electric motors (peak torque at zero rpm) make them ideal to supplement internal combustion performance. Design a light enough hybrid system, and you’d have a car that out-performs a conventional, combustion engine equivalent.

Sadly, that’s not the path that Ferrari’s going down. Instead, Felisa advised that any future Ferrari hybrid system, “must focus on improving efficiency and not just be about performance.”

It’s a sad day when the world’s premier manufacturer of performance automobiles is concerned with the fuel economy of its upcoming halo car. Building the California, or even the 458 Italia, in a hybrid version is one thing, but building an Enzo replacement with anything other than performance in mind is a sin, and it doesn’t bode well for the future of performance cars and motorsports. Maybe Jeremy Clarkson was right after all.

Toyota's 2007 A-BAT concept.

It’s no secret that Toyota will be expanding their Prius model line to include a five door minivan (the Prius V) and, eventually, a compact hatchback based on the Prius C shown at this year’s Detroit Auto Show. In the “truth is stranger than fiction” category, Pickup Trucks.com is reporting that Toyota could revive their A-BAT concept and stuff a hybrid drivetrain under the hood. The A-BAT (for Advanced Breakthrough Aero Truck) was shown at the 2007 Detroit Auto Show, and featured a lightweight unibody construction and hybrid power train. It was quite a bit smaller than the current Toyota Tacoma, so the A-BAT would revive a long dormant segment of the truck world: the subcompact pickup truck.

Don’t start haunting your Toyota dealer just yet, as the speculation is based on a comment from Bob Carter, Toyota’s Group VP and general manager. When asked if a pickup could join the Prius family in the future, Carter was vaguely ambiguous in saying, “It’s not off the table, but nothing is decided at this point.” To clarify his statement, Carter added, “The pickup truck has been very volatile over the past few years. We’re trying to understand what pickup truck consumers are going to want in the future. Right now with the Tacoma in the compact truck market, we have nearly a 45 percent market share. The consumer says for that truck market that they still want a rugged body-on-frame.”

Given that Ford has abandoned the declining compact truck market in the United States, I’d be surprised if Toyota spent the R&D money necessary to create a compact, hybrid pickup. Truck buyers want capabilities that hybrids simply don’t provide, and hybrids aren’t designed for the kind of punishment truck owners dish out. Is it possible? I suppose, but I’d call it as likely as Lamborghini building an electric urban commuter.

Source: Pickup Trucks

‘The 2011 Chevy Volt Is As Good As The Hype’

There appear to be two camps when it comes to the Chevy Volt; on the one hand, detractors cry, “it’s just another hybrid”, while discussing conspiracy theories about government subsidies for electric vehicles.  On the other hand, those who’ve driven it, myself included, come away pretty damn impressed.  How impressed?  Motor Trend just named the 2011 Chevy Volt the “Car of the Year”, and not two hours later Automobile magazine followed up with the “Automobile of the Year” award.  I’ll tell you flat out: the Chevy Volt is perhaps the most significant automobile of the past 50 years, and it’s the launching pad for a whole new generation of high-tech vehicles.  You can love it or you you can hate it, but you certainly can’t ignore it.

Before I tell you about my own experience driving a Volt from NYC to Detroit, here’s a little background on me.  I grew up as the son of a mechanic and garage owner, and learned to spin wrenches at an early age.  I’ve got 10w40 in my veins, and I consider the hybrid and the CVT to be among the worst inventions of mankind.  Really, in my book both rank up there with bubonic plague and telemarketing, since they are diametrically opposed to everything that makes a car fun to drive.  Give me superior handling with reasonable horsepower and light weight, then let me row my own gears.  Don’t give me a power train that combines the worst of a low-power internal combustion engine with the inefficiencies of battery power, and don’t give me a transmission that thinks it’s smarter than I am but sounds like a slipping Powerglide.  When the decline of Western Civilization is said and done, history will mark the rise of the hybrid and CVT as the beginning of the end, I’m sure of it.

Biases aside, I was willing to give the Volt a fair shot at impressing me.  It is, after all, an extended range electric vehicle, a term that I find much more palatable than “serial hybrid”, which is how the Society of Automotive Engineers defines the Volt.  My trip began under less than ideal circumstances, since a breaker had tripped in the hotel parking garage overnight, leaving us with a battery range of just six miles.  Had we been driving an EV from the competition, we would have checked back into the hotel, then gone out drinking for the day.  As it was, we soldiered on through the wet streets of Manhattan, pelted by a wintry mix of rain, sleet and hail.

In traffic, the Volt takes some getting used to.  It’s utterly silent and vibration free until you step on the gas.  Do so, and you’re magically thrust forward (the maximum torque of an electric motor coming at zero RPM), accompanied only by the click of some relays and the hum of the motor.  Braking takes some getting used to, as the Volt uses both regenerative braking and conventional braking.  A light brake pedal effort slows the car, while slightly more effort seems to induce a negative-two-G panic stop.  You get used to it quick enough, but I don’t recommend taking your first Volt test drive with a cup of hot coffee in your hands.

The transition from battery power to gasoline generator power is seamless and transparent to the driver and occupants.  Tax the depleted batteries by climbing a pass or accelerating hard from a standing start, and the Volt’s 1.4 liter gasoline engine will rev to redline.  It’s OK, since it’s supposed to do this to generate sufficient power for the batteries and motors.  It’s an odd sensation to be at a partial throttle setting and hear the engine at redline, and I’m sure Chevy will get a few phone calls from customers concerned with slipping transmissions (relax, since the Volt really doesn’t have a transmission).  You won’t hear the motor unless it’s at full song, which means that the Volt’s normal soundtrack consists of wind noise and tire noise.  Even that is muted, thanks to the Volt’s slippery aerodynamics and low rolling resistance tires.  In fact, the most remarkable thing about the Volt is what you don’t FEEL; since there’s virtually no vibration from the drivetrain, even long days behind the wheel are relatively fatigue free.  I’d equate eight hours behind the wheel of a Volt to about five hours behind the wheel of a conventional car, and that’s no minor achievement.

I was prepared to like to Volt, but I was astonished at how much I wound up liking it.  It’s not a sport sedan, so get that idea out of your head.  With that clarified, the Volt will still run from zero to sixty in under 9 seconds, and will pull reasonably hard up to it’s mechanically limited top speed of 100 miles per hour.  On the road, it feels like a real car, not some science fair experiment, and that’s another major plus.  Steering is nicely weighted, and turn-in at reasonable speeds is crisp.  Push the Volt hard in a corner, and it reminds you that 3,800 pounds worth of motors, engines and electronics on skinny 215/55-17 tires won’t win you any SCCA Solo championships.  Understeer is the order of the day, but it’s easily controlled and I couldn’t get the platform to exhibit any quirky handling traits, though not for lack of trying.  The Volt is no BMW 3 Series, but it’s no worse than any other front drive family sedan on the market.

The Volt is a remarkably comfortable car for long distance travel.  The leather seats are supportive and even feature seat heaters, should you wish to tax the Volt’s battery-only range.  My co-driver was six foot four, and he had no problem getting comfortable as a driver or a passenger.  My five foot, ten inch frame fit just fine in the back seat, which is also all-day-long comfortable.  Drop the twin rear seats (the battery pack splits them and precludes a three passenger bench seat) and cargo room is ample, with a rear hatch allowing easy loading.  The Volt gives you the hauling ability of a small SUV or crossover, adding to its do-it-all versatility.

It’s not perfect, since there are a few things I’d change before taking the Volt to market.  The center stack is poorly designed, and contains controls for the nav, HVAC, audio system and information displays.  There’s no color coding, so figuring out which button controls which function is like learning to fly a 747 without instruction.  Worse, the buttons are touch sensitive; brush the wrong one and you lose the map, change the radio, reset the temperature or call up some obscure display showing the Volts “electrons per furlong” usage.  Another gripe was the interior graphics: unless you’re going for the Fisher Price set, squiggles and random geometric patterns do not make for a peaceful, relaxing cabin.  One of the Volts we drove had a fluorescent green interior, with a graphic pattern reminiscent of the microorganisms that cause dysentery.  I offered to fix this, at my own expense, but the GM engineers wouldn’t let me stop for a roll of masking tape and a rattle can of paint.

After two long days behind the wheel, that was the extent of my complaints, which makes the Volt a huge achievement in my book.  Our fuel economy of 38.8 mpg on batteries and gasoline-fired generator will only serve to give critics another rally point, but you’ve got to remember that we were auto journalists let loose on the highways of America.  It was our moral obligation to test things like acceleration, top speed and whether or not we could beat an Acura TL in a 70 to 85 mile per hour roll on. We did, but that’s beside the point.  The remarkable thing is that three adults drove a Volt some 700 miles in supreme comfort and reasonable style, stopping only for lunch, bio breaks and (occasionally) gas. Had we driven like normal, responsible adults (and had we started both days with fully charged batteries), I’m certain our fuel economy would have been better.

That the Volt is a supreme cross-country vehicle is vaguely ironic, since it was never designed for that purpose.  The Volt is a commuter car, designed to carry the 90% of American workers who live within 20 miles of their office to and from work on battery power alone.  Unlike other EVs, you can hop in a Volt and drive cross country tomorrow without stopping to recharge the batteries at 100 mile intervals, which makes the Volt the first practical electric car to come on the market.  I’d call that revolutionary, not just evolutionary as some critics have claimed.

It’s not perfect, but it’s a damn good first attempt.  You need to drive one when you have a chance, because this is the start of a whole new breed of automobiles.  If the future is as promising as the Chevy Volt, there may be hope yet.

2013 Nissan GT-R Artist Rendering

Just about every car enthusiast loves the Nissan GT-R but as far as ownership goes, well, that’s another story. Either way, car enthusiasts love to hear the latest buzz about the infamous Godzilla “supercar” from Japan. The recent rumors that have been circulating for some time now will tell you that the next generation Nissan GT-R (2013 model year) will be a Hybrid. According to InsideLine, the 2013 Nissan GT-R will still use the same 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 plus a new battery powered electric drive powertrain as found in the 2009 Infiniti Essence Concept.

The total power from the new GT-R Hybrid should be about 600hp and the added weight from the setup of 2 electric motors would be shed in other places to keep the GT-R a worthy sports-car that can still shatter performance records.

It is also speculated that the Nissan GT-R Hybrid would cost upwards of $100,000usd and get 25 to 30 miles per gallon. With coupling in the electric drivetrain in the next GT-R, we expect performance numbers to only get better considering the added/instant torque you get from electric motors.

Do you think this is a good idea? What are your thoughts on a Nissan GT-R Hybrid?

[source: InsideLine]

The all-new 2010 Lexus HS250h hybrid will keep more of your money in your pockets as you pass gas stations, and will also have you seated in a Lexus with all of the luxury, convenience and safety that you expect from a Lexus.  The Lexus HS250h is the first luxury hybrid to achieve an EPA Estimated Rating of 35mpg combined and is the first luxury car to come standard with a supplemental restraint system with 10 airbags.

Hybrid efficiency is at the core of the new HS250h and Lexus’s first four-cylinder gas engine and latest hybrid system take advantage of the company’s continuous engineering advances to maximize fuel economy, minimize emissions and deliver driving pleasure.

A highly efficient engine design, an exhaust heat recovery system, major efforts to reduce parasitic losses, a new evaporative emissions system and driver-selectable driving modes all make notable contributions.  Significant efforts were also made to minimize engine noise.

An Atkinsion-cycle engine design was chosen for its high efficiency and compatibility with hybrid operation in the new HS.  The twin-cam engine uses four-valves per cylinder and Variable Valve Time with Intelligence on the intake side.  The engine is undersquare, with an 88.5mm bore diameter and 96mm stroke, and has a relatively high compression ratio of 12.5:1.  Peak output equals 147hp and in combination with the hybrid drive motor, the HS generates 187 total system horsepower.  That is the most of any other dedicated hybrid motor.

Careful design of the intake system reduces engine pumping losses and its twin resonators minimize intake noise.  The cooling system uses a modular construction that combines an aluminum engine radiator, hybrid system radiator, AC condenser and fan into a single assembly for minimal weight.  Plus, the electric fan speed is controlled via Pulse Width Modulation to reduce energy consumption and noise.  Careful ducting of the cooling system helps prevent hot engine air recirculation that tends to occur at low speeds and while idling, further enhancing efficiency.

One of the keys to lower fuel consumption involves heat.  Similar to the Lexus RX450h luxury SUV, the HS employs an Exhaust Heat Recovery system that captures the heat of spent exhaust gases to speed engine coolant warm-up and allow the hybrid system to stop the engine earlier, and more often in the driving cycle when it’s not needed, for example in lower power demand conditions in city driving.  Overall, the system can improve fuel efficiency by as much as 7% in low ambient temperatures.

Using a two-motor hybrid system, the new HS uses a 141hp drive motor that combined with the 147hp gas engine.  A second motor in the hybrid system serves as both engine starter and generator to charge the hybrid battery pack.

The efficient two-motor system also uses an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) that is a model of efficiency, simplicity and compact size with extremely smooth and quiet operation.  A motor speed reduction planetary gear unit helps provide high power output in this small package.  The HS also uses an easy-to-operate shift-by-wire system that eliminates the need for bulky shift cables, saving space and weight while allowing much more design freedom in placing the shift lever in the interior.  An electric transmission oil pump eliminates another source of parasitic loss to further increase efficiency.  Electronic operation allows a control strategy that invokes the oil pump only when needed, and since the oil also flows over the drive motor, overall efficiency of the motor and transmission are improved.  I was truly impressed with the smooth and quiet operation of the motor and CVT.

The HS also incorporates a drive-mode switch that allows you to select between four modes: Normal, Power Eco and EV.  Each switch position changes the rate of throttle opening for a given throttle-pedal angle.  Normal mode has an essentially linear throttle response that gives naturally progressive power.  Power mode can be selected for a more responsive feel when desired, such as when merging onto fast moving freeways or when you want to quickly maneuver around slow city traffic.  In Eco mode, AC settings are adjusted and the throttle response is reduced relative to the pedal angle to emphasize fuel economy, such as when you are in rush hour traffic or on short trips around town with little traffic.  Under certain circumstances, the EV mode can allow the vehicle to be driven short distances using only the electric motors.  Acceleration from 0-60mph was surprisingly quick at 8.4sec.  Responsive passing acceleration benefits from the instant torque of the electric motor and the CVT’s ability to quickly find the optimal gear ratio to enhance your driving experience.

The HS250h body design received considerable attention to aerodynamics.  Ambitious goals were set requiring designers to work closely with aerodynamics from the outset to create a low-drag form in an attractive, spacious, yet compact package.  Their work yielded a coefficient of drag of 0.27, among the best, enhancing fuel economy at highway speeds.

The low nose encourages airflow while also helping enhance vehicle dynamics.  Smooth transitions along the front fender and A-pillar avoid disturbance of the airflow.  Subtle front-and-rear bumper spoilers and an available rear-lip spoiler contribute to low drag and minimize lift.  The body sides taper from the center pillar to the rear where they meet the slightly kicked-out tail lamps, helping reduce drag-inducing wake turbulence.  Also, a gull wing-shaped roof panel enabled designers to lower its profile to reduce air resistance and with a shape that is naturally stiffer than a conventional curved roof, engineers were able to reduce its thickness for further weight reduction.  These improvements also lessen noise as the HS cuts through the air at speed.

Several measures were also taken under the car to promote airflow and reduce drag.  Airflow resistance in the engine compartment was improved by optimizing the duct profiles around the radiator.  Careful positioning of numerous underfloor covers plus added diffuser fins on the rear covers further reduce drag while enhancing straight-line control.

Underlying the HS250h’s forward-think interior design is the implementation of bioplastic material.  Known more formally as Ecological Plastic, the bioplastic uses plant sources as raw material and is used for parts of the interior upholstery in the car.  Ecological Plastics are used in a number of injection-molded, foam and board components throughout the car, including trunk compartment trim, cowl side trim, door scuff plates, seat cushions and package tray.  Overall, approximately 30% of the combined interior and trunk are covered in Ecological Plastic.

From the driver’s perspective, several important developments inside the HS250h transform the driving experience, making it easier and more enjoyable while also helping to enhance the driver’s attention to the road ahead.

The standard Lexus Premium Audio system offers a comprehensive suite that includes voice recognition, Bluetooth technology, an integrated satellite radio receiver, and USB/iPod connectivity operated via steering wheel controls or from the display screen.

A multi-informational display situated in the instrument cluster keeps you informed of the numerous actions controlled by the steering wheel-mounted switches.

The car’s next-generation navigation system is optional and features Lexus’s exclusive Remote Touch controller with user-adjustable haptic feedback.  The innovative controller, similar to a computer mouse, eliminates the need for touch screen controls, allowing the pop-up navigation system to be mounted further up the center stack and away from the driver.  The driver benefits with a clear, high-resolution screen, improved site lines and reduced eye movement.  These advances combined with the physical feedback provided by the controller make the system extremely easy to use.  Just point and click.

Voice command, a casual-language-based voice recognition feature, is standard on navigation-equipped vehicles.  This new technology allows you to give fewer and more flexible, conversational commands in a specific order for easier access to audio, climate, and navigation system functions to help you focus more on the road ahead.

Another driver-inspired development is an optional Heads-Up Display (HUD).  This system projects a miniature display on a small portion of the windshield in front of you, significantly reducing eye movement to see frequently viewed information such as vehicle speed.  The display has been developed for maximum visibility, with crisp, high-contrast white lighting that makes it possible to see even in difficult lighting conditions such as driving on snow-covered roads.  In addition to speed, the system also displays turn-by-turn navigation arrows and driver-assist warnings, as well as audio information and Touch Tracer (sensors on steering-wheel switches will show an image of switch layout in the HUD) both of which can be turned off separately from the rest of the display.

The high-visibility, electro-luminescent instrument cluster offers new ideas of keeping track of the various systems in the car and helps the driver to conserve fuel.  A hybrid system indicator displays the hybrid system output and regenerative charging status, simultaneously indicating the efficiency of the system related to your driving style.  An auxiliary Eco Drive Indicator light further assists you in maintaining the most economical use of system power.

The multi-information display resides in the center of the hybrid system indicator.  It uses high-contrast organic light-emitting diode (OLED) technology for maximum visibility and indicates various conditions such as fuel consumption, ambient temperature and cruising range.  Also, several vehicle functions can be customized through use of the display with the multi-information switch.

Like most Lexus vehicles the HS250h has an optional navigation system equipped with a back-up monitor.  In addition, the new HS250h offers an available Wide-view Front Monitor to help enhance your ability to see in the traditionally blind areas around the front of the car.  The front grille-mounted camera has a maximum 190-degree lateral field of view and allows you to see as close as 24in. in front of the car within an 83-degree vertical field of view.  Images from the two monitors feed into the available park assist ECU which processes and sends them to the navigation system display at separate times depending on whether the vehicle is moving forward or backward.  The front monitor operates in either of two modes.  Normal mode allows you to manually operate the camera with a switch on the lower left of the dashboard area.  In auto mode, images from the front monitor automatically displays when the vehicle slows to about 6mph or less and automatically shuts off when speed rises above 7.5mph.  You can also toggle from the front monitor on or off while in the auto mode.  To other items related to visibility of your surroundings when driving is the slim A-pillar structure that helps improve visibility when pulling out of a parking space, inside or outside.  HS250h engineers were able to create a relatively slim A-pillar structure to help improve visibility without degrading the structural integrity.  Also, the HS250h uses side glass with a water-repellant coating that improves wet weather visibility and aids defrosting performance.

As it is with ride, handling, noise and vibration, the body structure plays a key role in the fundamental safety characteristics of the new HS250h.  To help protect you and your passengers, the body is designed to be strong but strategically resilient to help absorb and distribute energy in the event of a crash.  High tension steel components are carefully located in the body structure, doors, and other areas to help ensure strength in key areas.

All HS250h hybrids come with a class-leading 10-airbags with dual-stage and knee airbags up front, side curtain airbags and both front and rear seat-mounted side airbags to help protect front and rear passengers in certain types of severe frontal and side collisions.  The front passenger is equipped with a twin-chamber airbag that further helps provide occupant protection.  Additionally, front and outer rear seatbelts incorporate pretentioners with force-limiters to help further protect occupants in certain collisions.  Active front head restraints are also standard.

An optional Pre-Collision system (PCS) with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Driver Monitor uses millimeter-wave radar to measure and maintain a pre-set following distance from a vehicle traveling ahead.  The radar sensor is designed to detect certain obstacles in front of the car, and a PCS computer with vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw-rate inputs, helps to determine whether a collision is highly possible.  In such a situation, PCS alerts you with an audible and visual warnings, preemptively retracts front seatbelts and pre-initializes Brake Assist (BA) so that increased braking will be applied the instant you depress the brake pedal.  All of these safety systems only enhance the driving pleasure and enjoyment, never getting in the way of your regular or current driving style.

The interior of the HS250hp was designed to communicate the high level of innovation inherent in the car with the craftsmanship expected from Lexus products.  Lexus’s exclusive Remote Touch navigation system controller is a focal point of the interior design because of the many times that you will be using it.  As a real Lexus luxury car, the HS250h is comfortable with plenty of room for five people; as such the designers were intent on creating a fresh, appealing design befitting the brand that is also hybrid-distinct.

Comfortable, supportive, 10-way power adjustable leather trimmed seats are standard (8-way power-adjustable front passenger seat), and special soft touch stitched details on the center stack and instrument hood provide an extra premium touch in the cabin.  There are two levels of the new HS250h, standard and premium.  Interior trim color include black leather, new light gray leather, parchment leather, and for the optional touring package, a distinctive black/light gray two-tone leather trim.  A high-finish dark gray trim is featured on the standard model while the premium model has brown walnut wood trim.  Front door trims also mimics the shape of the center stack and armrest providing a comfortable symmetry.  The steering wheel center pad appears to float on the wheel, surround by control switches that also mimic the design and color of those on the center stack.  The sporty leather-wrapped steering wheel also feature powered tilt/telescoping adjustments for the perfect placement in you hands.

Comfort, quietness and convenience are a hallmark of all Lexus interiors so the HS250h comes with a host of each.  When more than one driver uses the HS250h, an available new memory system allows individual driver settings to be recalled automatically by individual keys.  There are three keys and each set the steering wheel position, seat position, exterior mirror positions and AC settings. The leather front bucket seats with the  premium model get heated and ventilated seats that are trimmed with semi-aniline leather.

Climate control in the HS250h is designed to provide comfort and clean air for all passengers.  A dual temperature control system is used for front occupants and a dedicated rear blower is mounted in the center console promoting quick cool down in the rear.  A plasma cluster ion generator, A/C clean air filter and a pollen removal mode help clean air inside the cabin.  The interior gets a little extra help from the windshield, which has infrared-ray reduction properties that help keep the interior cool, allowing a smaller size A/C system than would be required.  A 10-speaker, 137-watt Lexus Premium audio system features a six-disc CD changer, a subwoofer and center speaker standard.  The system uses two-way woofer and tweeter systems in both front and rear for rich, clear sound quality.  Real audiophiles will appreciate the optional Mark Levinson 5.1 channel Premium Surround Sound system that features 330-watts at only 0.1% total harmonic distortion and the system uses 15-strategically placed speakers for outstanding audio performance and sound quality.  I loved the sounds coming from the speakers; it is one of the best factory installed systems.

Nimble handling, excellent body control, smooth ride and low noise in the HS250h are the best of any dedicated hybrid vehicle that I have tested, and they begin with a stiff body structure.  The HS body is designed with superior stiffness overall with added focus in strategically-located areas that have the greatest effect on ride, handling and noise.

Designed to balance handling, ride and NVH at high levels, the HS uses a rigid and compact MacPherson strut front suspension.  The setup employs a 24mm stabilizer bar plus large diameter pistons and rebound springs in the shock absorbers to help provide superior ride control at high speeds or when driving on curving roads getting off a freeway or in the mountains.  The steering rack is directly mounted (no rubber bushings) to create an unfiltered connection between it and the suspension members to help accurately communicate what is happening where the rubber meets the pavement.  Both setups reacted quickly to my inputs and I was surprised how easy it was to slice through the curving roads in the mountains.

The double-wishbone rear suspension also balances performance and comfort and is important to its overall handling.  Its compact design uses low-mount coil springs that also help improve cargo space.  As in the front suspension, rebound springs are used to aid both handling and ride, and all mountings and bushings are optimized to help provide an excellent combination of ride, handling and low noise.  I was amazed how well the HS250h handled during my test drive.  Unlike other dedicated hybrids, I looked forward to driving the car as much as I could.

The new HS rides on standard 17X7in. alloy wheels and are wrapped with 215/55R17in. all-season tires.  The premium model comes with 18X8in. alloy wheels wrapped with larger 225/45R18in. all-season tires.  All wheels feature the direct-type Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

Getting back to the fun and pleasure of driving the new HS250h is the improvement in the electric power steering (EPS) system.  The vehicle-speed sensitive steering has been optimized to provide you with the ideal steering feel at any speed.  Inertia compensation control, friction feedback and recovery control assist in tailoring the steering feel and effort that is most effective for a majority of drivers.  I thought that the feedback and on center feel were superb.

Like all Lexus vehicles, the new HS250h braking system is comprehensive, and as a Lexus hybrid it is augmented by regenerative braking which also helps recharge the hybrid battery pack and improve fuel economy.  The HS uses a newly developed electronic controlled brake (ECB) system actuator that is managed by the ECB computer and acts on the system’s hydraulic brake components.  The ECB computer also controls the interaction between the for-wheel disc friction brakes and the regenerative brake system.  The new ECB actuator is smaller, lighter and consumes less electrical current than previous systems, making additional contributions to fuel economy.  Enhancements in the system design also help improve brake feel and controllability.  To my foot the feeling was always linear and always direct reacting to the force I applied.

The HS features 10.8in. vented discs up front and 11.1in. solid discs in the rear.  Braking control is enhanced with standard ABS and Brake Assist.  Further enhancing of your control during braking is standard all-speed traction control and electronic stability control to help you maintain your desired direction under severe braking maneuvers over slick pavement.

Standard features not mentioned above include: vehicle theft-deterrent system, courtesy lights mounted on the doors, illuminated glove box, front dual cupholders, rear seat center pull-down armrest with dual cupholders, front map lights/rear cargo light, LED foot lights, two-12-volt power outlets, programmable garage door opener, manual front seatbelt adjustment, power windows/door locks with all express up/down and anti-lock-out, four grab handles, dual sliding/illuminated sun visors, electric fuel door and trunk releases, center console with storage bin and dual cupholders, front/rear door cupholders can hold 20oz. water bottles, tool kit, first aid kit, coat hooks, cut pile carpeting, carpeted floor mats, five separate manually adjustable headrests, scheduled maintainance indicator light, exclusive chrome-accented hybrid front grille design, blue highlights added to front and rear ‘L’ logo, engine cover, headlamp, rear combination lamps clusters, LED brake and tail lights, color keyed lower front and rear spoilers to improve fuel economy, turn signal lamps integrated into side mirrors, puddle lamps integrated into the side mirrors, moonroof, aluminum hood, sound insulation placed in door panels, instrument panel and floor mats, SmartAccess key system for entry and push buttons start/stop, variable intermittent wipers, self-dimming inside mirror with compass, auto on/off headlamps, heated outside mirrors, foglamps.  The Premium model gets above and rain-sensing wipers.

The all-new 2010 Lexus HS250h is on the cutting edge of hybrid energy driven automobiles and is injected with the Lexus knowhow of quality, workmanship, and engineering.  It is the first ‘purpose’ built luxury hybrid and is perfect for the family that is used to the finer things in life that want to keep their driving ‘footprint’ as small as possible.

Prices start at just $34,650.00 for the standard model and up to $37,420.00 for the premium model.  The new HS250h is another ‘industry first’ for Lexus.

COPYRIGHT:2009:HARVEY SCHWARTZ

SPECIFICATIONS

Price: Base $34,650 MSRP $37,420 As-Tested $44,975

Type: Midsize Sedan
Where Built: Japan
EPA Class: Midsize Cars

Dimensions

Exterior
Length: 184.8 in.
Width: 70.3 in.
Height: 59.3 in.
Wheel Base: 106.3 in.
Ground Clearance: 6.1 in.
Curb Weight: 3770 lbs.
Gross Weight: 4685 lbs.
Interior
Front Head Room: 38 in.
Front Hip Room: 52.8 in.
Front Shoulder Room: 53.8 in.
Rear Head Room: 36.8 in.
Rear Shoulder Room: 54.2 in.
Rear Hip Room: 51.2 in.
Front Leg Room: 42.6 in.
Rear Leg Room: 34.5 in.
Luggage Capacity: 12.1 cu. ft.
Maximum Cargo Capacity: 12 cu. ft.
Maximum Seating: 5

Performance Data

Base Number of Cylinders: 4
Base Engine Size: 2.4 liters
Base Engine Type: Inline 4
Horsepower: 187 hp
Max Horsepower: 6000 rpm
Drive Type: FWD
Turning Circle: 37.4 ft.
0-60 mph: 8.4 seconds

Fuel Data

Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gal.
EPA Mileage Estimates: (City/Highway/Combined)
Automatic: 35 mpg / 34 mpg / 35 mpg
Range in Miles:
Automatic: 507.5 mi. / 493 mi. / 507.5 mi.

Toyota Prius Hybrid – ‘THE ORIGINAL AND STILL THE BEST’

First introduced in 1997 as the world’s first mass-produced hybrid automobile, the all-new, third-generation Prius hybrid sedan sets new standards for innovative hybrid design and technology, raising its level of convenience features and performance to new heights, including a combined EPA estimated fuel efficiency rating of 50 miles per gallon.

The third-generation midsize 2010 Prius offers better mileage ratings, enhanced performance, and innovative design features.  The patented Hybrid Synergy Drive system in the 2010 Prius is 90% newly developed, with significant improvements over previous models.  The new Prius is quieter and roomier than before as well.  It comes equipped with advanced standard and available features such as a moonroof with solar panels, four driving modes, bigger tires/wheels, rearview TV camera, Lane Keep Assist, Intelligent Parking Assist (IPA) and steering wheel touch buttons that display on the instrument cluster.

Credited with establishing hybrid technology as a foundation for future vehicles, the three generations of the Prius model have delivered superior fuel mileage and ultra-low emissions for more than 1.3 million owners worldwide.

There are five trim levels offered starting with Prius 1 all the up to Prius V.  I tested a nicely loaded Prius IV.

The heart of the new Prius is, of course, its Hybrid Synergy Drive system, first introduced in 2004 on the second-generation Prius.  The system is 90% new and was developed by Toyota engineers increasing both power and fuel mileage.  The larger, 1.8 liter, all-aluminum, DOHC 4-cylinder engine features VVT-i to flatten the torque band and further increase fuel economy.  It generates 98hp at 5,200rpm and 105lbs.ft. of torque at 4,000rpm.  Together with the electric motor, power is increased to 134 net horsepower.

Acceleration is quicker with 60mph from standstill coming in only 9.8sec.  New features include a redesigned electric fuel pump and a new gas recirculation system that improves fuel efficiency.

The new 1.8 liter engine is Toyota’s first engine not to need an accessory belt reducing maintenance costs and increasing efficiency.  The Prius is a ‘full-hybrid’ allowing you  to drive on the engine alone, the battery alone, or a combination.  There are four driving modes-Normal, EV (battery alone for up to 1 mile), Power mode increasing sensitivity to throttle input for quicker acceleration and a more sporty feel), you can really feel the difference, and an Eco mode that helps to achieve the best of both and works best in heavy traffic or at high speeds on the freeway.

However you want the Prius to drive, you have a choice, and you will save money on fuel costs, any which way.

The engine is hooked up to a front-wheel-drive, electronically controlled, continuously variable transmission that is quiet and smooth.  There are no pauses between shift changes for smooth acceleration.

The new stylish looks preserve the dynamic triangle form of the current model but made alterations to the overall profile such as changing the pillar position and angle, keeping the overall height but moving the peak 3.9in. to the rear maintaining the wedge shape and increasing rear headroom and improving aerodynamics.  The front and rear corners are sharper giving it a more sporty look and enhancing aerodynamics.  A strong character line rises from the front to the rear that defines the smooth aero shape.  In the rear you’ll notice a wider track giving the new Prius a solid, firmly rooted stance.  The 1.06in. wheelbase remains the same.  The overall length is increased by 0.06in. by moving the front cowl forward.  Many hours were spent in the wind tunnel focusing on the shape of the body, underfloor, wheelhouse liner, and wheel face design.  With a coefficient of drag of only 0.25, the new Prius is one of the most aerodynamic in the industry.    There is a lip spoiler on the edge to the rear hatch to enhance downforce and increase stability.

The Prius has its own unique design and doesn’t look like any other Toyota, or any other vehicle on the market.

Driving the all-new 2010 Prius was more fun and enjoyable that I expected.  With the new Power mode you can accelerate with the rest of the gasoline only powered vehicles that are usually more powerful.  I was totally impressed with how fast initial acceleration was.  Top speed is now governed at 112mph, 9mph more than last year.

That fact is the result of the more powerful engine and the use of lightweight aluminum for the hood, rear hatch, front stabilizer bar and brake calipers, and by using super high-tensile strength steel in the inner rocker panel, center pillar and roof reinforcement.  The new Prius weighs in at just 3,042lbs.

Underpinning the chassis is a third-generation platform that enables improved control and quieter operation.  The suspension employs front MacPherson struts and in the rear an intermediate torsion beam design and a stabilizer bar as before, but smoother handling is increased by improving the stabilizer bar layout, utilizing a higher caster angle and tuning the bushing characteristics.  The ride is always smooth over well paved road surfaces and the electric power-assisted rack & pinion steering system works very well with a very feel for the road, and fast reaction to your inputs.  Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control work in conjunction work together to help you stay on your chosen path.  The cabin is much quieter using higher-performing sound insulation, working with improved vibration damping, that have been installed in various locations to reduce road noise.

Quickly and safety slowing the Prius down from speed are new, standard hydraulic with power assistance and an integrated regenerative brake system to charge the batter when applied.  Up front are 10in. vented rotors, and replacing last year’s rear drums are 10.2in. solid discs.  Enhancing braking power and controls are ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution and Brake Assist.

The new Prius rides on standard 5-spoke, 15X6in. wheels, wrapped with 195/55R15in. tires, or you can option, for the first time, a set of 5-spoke,17X7in. aluminum alloy wheels, wrapped with 215/45R17in. all-season radial tires.

The overall handling and performance is much improved from last year with the Power mode enabling you to easily slip through slow city traffic and the Eco mode is just right for heavy traffic at rush hour.  Gas prices are rising again and you’ll smile as you pass gas stations with an EPA mileage rating of 51mpg/city and 48/mpg highway.

You’ll also smile when you open the front door and check out the new interior design. Sit back in the more comfortable and supportive front bucket seat and you can see that the center cluster smoothly flows from the instrument panel to the console and is slightly canted to you.  All controls are within easy reach and fully illuminated.  Handy storage space has been added under the shift lever by taking advantage of the shift-by-wire system.  The padded center console also slides and contains a large bin for storage as well as dual cupholders.  You’ll also find extra storage in the dual-level glovebox and door pockets.  Simple, fin-type air vents are consistent with the cabin’s efficient appearance.  Lots of silver accents add a finished, technical look and feel.  A new Touch Tracer Display features touch sensors on the sporty, tilt/telescoping, leather wrapped steering wheel switches that are designed to reduce driver eye movement for better concentration on the road.  When you touch the audio or info switch located on the steering wheel, a duplicate image is displayed on the instrument panel, directly in front of you.  Touch Tracer is the first display system in the world to allow steering wheel controls to display in the instrument panel.  The Eco indicator on the Multi-Informational Display provides driver feedback to encourage more economical driving.  For a more sporty feel and look the stick shifter was moved from the dashboard onto the center console.

In pursuit of new technologies for sustainable mobility, Toyota uses plant-derived, carbon-neutral plastics in the 2010 Prius.  Known as ‘ecological plastic’, the new material is used in the seat cushion foam, cowl side trim, inner and outer scuff plates, and deck trim cover.  Ecological plastic emits less CO2 during the production process than conventional plastic; it also helps reduce petroleum use.  The rear, 60/40 split, folding bench seatback has a pull-down armrest and dual cupholders.

The cargo area was made 0.4in. longer and 2.2in. wider by using a new an improved layout for the battery cooling unit.  Rear seat legroom is enhanced by a new space-saving contoured front seat design.

An optional sliding glass sunroof is packaged with solar panels that are located over the rear seating area that power the new ventilation system.  This solar powered ventilation system helps keep the interior air temperature near the outside ambient temperature, when parked directly in the sun.  Cool-down time is shorter when you return to the vehicle, thus reducing the use of air conditioning.  The new Prius also offers a remote air conditioning system.  It is the first system in the world to function on battery-power alone, and allows remote operation so you can cool the interior temperature for comfort before getting into the car.

LEDs, optional in low beam headlamps, and standard in tail and stop lamps, help reduce the vehicle’s power consumption.  Air conditioning, a major energy drain, has been re-engineered to increase efficiency and cool-down performance.  Additionally, an exhaust heat recirculation system reduces heat waste by warming engine coolant during cold startup, for improved performance.  It also heats up the passenger cabin more efficiently.

Standard equipment inside the all-new Prius not mentioned above include a JBL AM/FM/MP3/6-disc CD with 8-speakers and satellite radio, Bluetooth, auxiliary audio jack, smart key to automatically unlock the doors when approaching, push button engine start/stop, grab handles above each door, 6-way manual adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar adjustments, cruise-control, auto climate control system with Plasmacluster air filtration, power door locks, power windows with all express up/down, heated front seats, heated/power-remote sideview mirrors, auto-dimming reaview mirror, dual map lights, dual vanity mirrors with lights, thick cut-pile carpeting and floor mats.

Options not mentioned above include Toyota’s DVD navigation system with touch screen, XM NavTraffic/USB port with iPod connectivity, dynamic radar cruise control, lane keep assist, intelligent parking assist, pre-collision system and parking assist.

Standard safety systems aboard include driver/front passenger 3-point safety belts with load limiters/pretensioners, 3-3-point seats belts in the rear, driver/front passenger front airbags/side airbags, front/rear side curtain airbags, driver’s knee airbag, steel beams in each door, front and rear crumple zones, active headrest up front, child protector rear door locks, adjustable front seatbelt shoulder anchors, engine immobilizer, and the LATCH system for child seats.

The all-new 2010 Prius is still the best of all of the hybrid vehicles it competes against.  This purpose-built hybrid sedan comfortably seats five persons, is fun to drive and contains all of the latest in comfort, ergonomics, automotive high tech and advanced safety systems in a package that no other manufacturer can match.

If you are looking to save money on gasoline purchases as prices continue to rise,

and want to help making a small footprint on the environment, then you have to test drive the all-new 2010 Toyota Prius.

COPYRIGHT:2009:HARVEY SCHWARTZ

SPECIFICATIONS

Price: MSRP $26,200 As-Tested $29,959.00 IV Model

Type: Compact Sedan
Where Built: Japan
EPA Class: Midsize Cars

Dimensions

Exterior
Length: 175.6 in.
Width: 68.7 in.
Height: 58.7 in.
Wheel Base: 106.3 in.
Ground Clearance: 5.5 in.
Curb Weight: 3042 lbs.
Interior
Front Head Room: 38.6 in.
Front Hip Room: 52.7 in.
Front Shoulder Room: 54.9 in.
Rear Head Room: 37.6 in.
Rear Shoulder Room: 53.1 in.
Rear Hip Room: 51.2 in.
Front Leg Room: 42.5 in.
Rear Leg Room: 36 in.
Luggage Capacity: 21.6 cu. ft.
Maximum Cargo Capacity: 40 cu. ft.
Maximum Seating: 5

Performance Data

Base Number of Cylinders: 4
Base Engine Size: 1.8 liters
Base Engine Type: Inline 4
Horsepower: 134 hp
Max Horsepower: 5200 rpm
Torque: 105 ft-lbs.
Max Torque: 4000 rpm
Drive Type: FWD
Turning Circle: 34.2 ft.
0-60mph: 9.8 seconds

Fuel Data

Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.9 gal.
EPA Mileage Estimates: (City/Highway/Combined)
Automatic: 51 mpg / 48 mpg / 50 mpg
Range in Miles:
Automatic: 606.9 mi. / 571.2 mi. / 595 mi.

Lexus, or as Autoblog calls it, Toyota’s Buick, has performed a little cosmetic surgery on the Lexus LS600h and GS450h. At the same time they have introduced an IS250 F-Sport edition that is suppose to make the IS250 “more sporty” I guess. Is this how Lexus is going to celebrate their 20 years of making some of the most reliable and luxury cars on the road? Probably!

I have said it before and some people bashed me for saying it, Toyota and Lexus are plain boring. And now, I will say it again… “Toyota and Lexus are boring!” Take it how you want to take it but that is just a fact with just the slight exception of the IS-F, but that’s a whole other story.

Lexus has made a name for themselves 20 years ago and all else has been history. Even today, Lexus still continues to chase the Germans in the performance arena but they have excelled past others in the quality arena a long time ago. The newest LS600h and GS450h have received a slight facelift that make them look more Toyota-ish in my opinion. The official images released just recently, reveal more of the same boring styling that we have been accustomed too when it comes to Toyota and Lexus.

Along with the facelifts, Lexus promises some major changes and upgrades to equipment specs and seating configuration. Supposedly the driving dynamics have changed as well. Maybe I spoke too soon, Lexus may actually drive like BMW for the 2010 model range. HA, I think that is just wishful thinking.

Details on the Vision EfficientDynamics Concept come out ahead of the Frankfurt Motor Show coupled with a new video. There has been a wide open speculation as far as the powerplant found in this new concept but now is known to be compromised of a plug-in hybrid system with a 3-cyl turbo-diesel engine. That astonishing factor of the equation is that BMW plans to get “M” (Motorsport) performance out of this plug-in hybrid claiming a 0-60 time of 4.8 seconds while still able to get hybrid fuel saving figures at the same time.

Below is a new video and full press release of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept.

Press Release – source: BMW

THE BMW VISION EFFICIENTDYNAMICS CONCEPT

The latest BMW Concept Car for the EfficientDynamics philosophy.

Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, 29 August 2009, 6pm Eastern… For decades, BMW has made the reduction of emissions and fuel consumption a key part of its product development strategy, just as enhancements to the dynamic ability of each BMW have been a lasting, sustained brand value. BMW’s EfficientDynamics engineering philosophy – the pursuit of an enhanced, athletic driving experience while simultaneously lowering the consumption and emissions of each vehicle – resulted in the most dramatic drop in fleet consumption of any automaker from 1990 through 2005, according to an Environmental Defense study.

Now, the BMW Vision concept car clearly demonstrates that the EfficientDynamics objectives are fully compatible when applied to a sports car. Conceived as a 2+2-seater with plug-in full-hybrid technology, this unique car combines the performance of a BMW M vehicle with a standard of fuel efficiency and emission management that exceeds even the current levels achieved by the latest small cars. This outstanding result is made possible by the combination of BMW ActiveHybrid components with an extremely economical combustion engine, and outstanding aerodynamic qualities.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is the result of a “clean-sheet” development process to ensure that the correct achievements were made in the areas of efficiency, driving pleasure, technology, and emotional design. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is the most comprehensive implementation of the EfficientDynamics philosophy seen so far. The powertrain provides a top speed limited electronically to 155 mph, with acceleration to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 3.76 liters/100 kilometers, equal to 62.6 mpg, and the CO2 emission rating is 99 grams per kilometer. CO2 emission management is even more outstanding when driving in the all-electric mode after charging the battery from a plug-in source: Taking all emissions in the generation of electricity into account, as prescribed by the EU formula, the car’s emission rating is just 50 grams per kilometer.

Through this unique balance of driving pleasure and fuel efficiency, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car clearly demonstrates the potential of BMW ActiveHybrid technology, which makes its world debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show in the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and BMW ActiveHybrid 7 production models.

The power and performance are made possible by combining a fuel-efficient 3-cylinder turbodiesel with one electric motor on each axle. The intelligent combination of these units, together with precisely controlled energy management, simultaneously enhances the dynamic performance and the efficiency of the car. Overall system output is 356 horsepower, and peak torque is 590 lb-ft. The special arrangement of the two motors and diesel engine allows all-wheel drive when driving in all-electric mode. The result is minimum power loss and a harmonious transmission of the power available under all conditions.

In its design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics for the first time conveys the dynamic look of a BMW sports car to a hybrid vehicle. Developed with decades of experience in Motorsport, the body of this unique sports car is a result of intelligent lightweight technology and aerodynamic efficiency. In the design of the interior, the focus was likewise on both the fascinating driving experience and, in particular, on transparent, hands-on technology and maximum reduction of weight.

Turbodiesel engine with unprecedented specific output.

The combustion engine is a cutting-edge turbodiesel featured for the first time in the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car. Displacing 1.5 liters on three cylinders, the engine consistently follows the downsizing principle of using a relatively small engine combined with a turbocharger to reduce fuel consumption.

Through its compact dimensions, the 3-cylinder fits conveniently in front of the rear axle like in an agile mid-engine sports car, despite the two seats at the rear. Fuel is injected by the latest generation of High Precision Direct Injection, and the turbocharger features variable intake geometry for maximum efficiency. Engine output is 163 hp with peak torque of 214 lb-ft.

The specific output of 109 hp per liter sets a new benchmark in diesel technology. The power delivered by the turbodiesel is conveyed to the rear axle by means of a double-clutch transmission (DCT). This advanced transmission technology, which already offers a particularly dynamic driving experience in BMW’s M3 and Z4 Roadster, allows the driver to shift gears without the slightest interruption of power. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics features a newly-developed version of BMW’s DCT with six speeds for maximum efficiency and flexibility.

Two electric motors for full-hybrid drive.

The combustion engine is supplemented by two electric motors. Consistently applying the BMW ActiveHybrid philosophy, development engineers followed the principle of “Best of Hybrid,” choosing the optimum combination of a hybrid synchronous motor on the front axle and a full-hybrid system at the rear.

In this concept, the driver benefits from the efficiency of the electric motors over a far wider speed range than with a conventional hybrid car. The rear axle comes with a second-generation full-hybrid system corresponding to the technology in the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 production model. The compact electric motor positioned between the diesel engine and the DCT outputs a consistent 33 horsepower and is able to reach a peak of up to 51 hp. Maximum torque for the rear electric motor is 214 lb-ft, the power, either supporting the diesel engine or in all-electric motoring. When coasting or applying the brakes, the electric motor acts as a generator and feeds electric power to the lithium-polymer battery in the car. The electric energy developed in this way is therefore captured without any additional consumption of fuel through the principle of Brake Energy Regeneration. Energy wasted on the brakes of a conventional car is thus saved within the new power system for subsequent use in driving the car.

A second electric motor acts on the front axle. This engine, a hybrid synchronous motor, offers continuous output of 80 horsepower and peak torque of 162 lb-ft. Extra power of 112 horsepower is available for a period of up to 30 seconds, and, for a 10-second “burst,” the electric motor is able to develop 139 horsepower. The power is transmitted through a 2-stage, single-speed reduction gearbox.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to run completely under electric power, with the power of the turbodiesel engine alone, or through an infinite combination of the three power sources. Depending on driving conditions, the two electric motors may be used both for accelerating and for regenerating energy when applying the brakes and while coasting. This principle ensures efficient energy management, with the charge status of the lithium-polymer battery constantly remaining within the optimum range. When accelerating, the electric motors help to boost the car for even greater performance, ensuring immediate response and a significant reduction in fuel consumption. For a short time, such as in passing maneuvers, the cumulative maximum output of all three engines increases to 356 hp, with maximum torque generated by the three engines reaching 590 lb-ft.

Lithium-polymer battery for electrical energy.

The energy cells featured in BMW Vision EfficientDynamics are housed in a chassis element running from front to rear through the middle of the car. The front unit is the lithium-polymer complex, an ongoing development of the lithium-ion battery. Overall, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with a total of 98 lithium-polymer cells, each offering a capacity of 30 amp/hours and developing continuous output of 600 Amps at a voltage of 3.7 V. For a period of 30 seconds, each cell is even able to develop maximum output of 1,200 Amps.

Serial arrangement of the lithium-polymer cells serves to generate nominal voltage of 364 volts, the gross storage capacity of the battery is 10.8 kW/h. With an unusually high discharge capacity of 80 percent, the battery delivers 8.6 kW/h for driving the car. This superior performance comes on overall weight of the entire energy storage system of just 187 lb. A further advantage is that through their optimum dimensions tailored to the specific qualities and features of the car, the lithium-polymer cells, together with the operating strategy chosen with a concept of “forward looking” energy management, reduces the thermal load acting on the battery to such an extent that there is no need for active cooling.

Plug-in solution: convenient charging of the electric power system from a conventional power socket.

Brake Energy Regeneration captures electric power generated while driving without additional fuel consumption, which is subsequently used to supply power to the electric motors and on-board network. A further option is to connect the lithium-polymer cells to a conventional power socket for a simple and efficient charge process, using a plug-in connector in the front-right wing of the car. Connected to a standard EU power outlet (220 V, 16 Amps), the system requires a maximum of 2 ½ hours to fully charge the lithium-polymer cells. And wherever a power source with higher voltage and amperage (380 V, 32 Amps) is available, the charge time is an even shorter 44 minutes.

In addition to electrical energy storage, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with a conventional fuel tank at the rear end of the central chassis tunnel, offering a capacity of 6.6 gallons. Running on diesel fuel alone, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to cover a distance of approximately 400 miles with its combustion engine. Benefitting from an extra range of up to 31 miles in the all-electric mode, the car offers an overall range of approximately 431 miles. As a result, this unique concept car offers all the requirements for using energy with maximum efficiency and at the same time experiencing the dynamic performance typical of BMW without any restriction of everyday driving qualities.

Performance, fuel efficiency and emission management opening new dimensions in hybrid technology.

The power delivered by the two electric motors and single diesel 3-cylinder engine gives the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept a level of performance superior to anything provided so far by a hybrid vehicle. Acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h, for example, comes in just 4.8 seconds and the car could exceed its electronically-limited 155 mph top speed.

At the same time fuel efficiency and emission management now reach a standard only achieved, if at all, by far less powerful small cars conceived for city traffic and short distances. Applying the criteria of the EU test cycle, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics offers average fuel consumption equal to 62.6 mpg. CO2 emissions, in turn, are 99 grams per kilometer. These consumption and emission figures are measured on a consistent internal power balance, meaning that the batteries and storage media for electrical energy maintain the same charge level throughout the entire test cycle (with the same level at the beginning and end) and are charged while driving only by the car’s on-board systems.

As a plug-in hybrid, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to cover the entire drive cycle for measuring fuel consumption also with its combustion engine completely switched off. Then, to subsequently charge the lithium-polymer cells to the same status as when setting off, all the driver has to do is connect the car to an external power grid. To determine the consumption of electric power, the only requirement is to compare the charge level of the battery before and after the test cycle. Applying this measurement process, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car consumes 17.5 kW/h per 100 kilometers, equal to a CO2 emission rating of just 50 grams per kilometer in the EU test cycle.

To determine the total volume of CO2 emissions when driving in the all-electric mode, new legal standards for measuring the level of fuel consumption are currently being prepared for hybrid and electric cars with a plug-in power supply. Applying this calculation method, the CO2 emission ratings generated by BMW Vision EfficientDynamics are reduced further to just one-third of the original figure of 99 grams per kilometer. Clearly, this significant reduction of emissions opens up a new dimension in BMW’s EfficientDynamics development strategy in this unique concept car.

Aerodynamic qualities reflecting BMW’s Motorsport experience.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics also takes a new approach in its design and streamlining, the body and the interior clearly expressing the unique combination of supreme efficiency and the sporting performance of the brand. Following BMW’s design language, this concept car visualizes both highly efficient aerodynamics and intelligent lightweight construction.

In its design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics differs from the usual low-emission car concepts. The principle of “form follows function” is not just for the overall look of the car, but embraces each and every detail. Measuring 48.8″ in height and boasting a sweeping, arch-like roofline, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics offers the slender silhouette of a classic Gran Turismo. With the combustion engine fitted in front of the rear axle, the designers have succeeded in giving the car a very low front end, with the flow of air being further smoothened by active louvers in front of the radiator, which close completely when the need for cooling air is low. This efficient function follows in the footsteps of the active air flap control already used as a feature of BMW EfficientDynamics in some of BMW’s current production models. As a further highlight, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics guides air smoothly and exactly as required into the car through an active air intake at the front.

Numerous details in the design of the body are based on the know-how BMW has gained in Motorsport, a number of body elements serving as air deflectors and guide vanes. Designed as ducts, for example, the A-pillars serve to channel the flow of air in the same way as the rear lights with their wing profile. The floor of the car is fully covered from front to rear and from one side to the other, thus maintaining a smooth surface to avoid any air swirl liable to increase fuel consumption. Slender openings around the front air dam guide the air flowing specifically into two closed ducts leading inside the front air dam to the wheel arches where the air comes out again through a very slim aperture at high speed, flowing just next to the outer wheel flanks. This air jet rests on the front wheels like a curtain and is therefore referred to most appropriately as the “air curtain.” It provides a highly stabilizing effect.

Overall vehicle concept for a drag coefficient of just 0.22.

To further optimize the aerodynamic qualities of the entire vehicle and keep rolling resistance to a minimum, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with tires and wheels of quite unusual size on a sports car. The tires measure 195/55, while large 21-inch wheels provide a contact surface on the road otherwise offered only by a much wider tire. In combination with the sophisticated axle geometry, this ensures agile driving behavior.

The extra-large wheel covers extending over part of the tire flanks add to the unique, very different look of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics from the side. The blade profile integrated in the wheels serves furthermore to reduce the negative effect of the turning wheels on the overall aerodynamics of the car. In all, these features optimizing the aerodynamic qualities of the car give the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car a very low drag factor (CX) of just 0.22.

Technological look as a strong impression of intelligent lightweight construction.

In both exterior and interior design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics stands out clearly as a strong spearhead in technology. Many components of the vehicle are presented in full view expressing the “transparent” character of the car as a powerful visual feature of lightweight technology. The chassis and suspension of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics are made completely of aluminum; the roof and the outer skin on the doors are made almost completely of a special polycarbonate glass automatically darkening as a function of the light shining on the car.

Measuring 181.1″ in length, 74.8″ in width and 48.8″ in height, this unique concept car offers ample space for up to four passengers and their luggage. Thanks to the consistent lightweight construction strategy applied on the car, curb weight is 3,076 lb, with the center of gravity remaining very low. In its power-to-weight ratio, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is far superior to all other hybrid cars, achieving the same standard as extremely dynamic sports cars with a conventional combustion engine.

Carrying a maximum payload of 981 lb, this unique 2+2-seater is fully suited for everyday traffic. Luggage capacity of 5.3 cu ft, in turn, allows the driver and passengers to conveniently take along two golf bags. And to meet additional loading requirements the backrests of the two rear seats may be tilted down individually to provide extra storage space.

Emotional design through sculptural shapes and layering technology.

Reflecting the innovative drive concept of this unique car, the design of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics likewise takes a new approach in combining functional progress with a most powerful emotional impact.

This has been achieved through the close cooperation of BMW’s Design and Technical Development Divisions starting at an early point and continuing consistently throughout the entire development process. The result is a brand-new vehicle architecture with the drive components as well as the body and interior elements perfectly coordinated and matched to one another with maximum flexibility and individual style.

A fully integrated design philosophy also provided new options in using harmonized design principles connecting the exterior and the interior and providing an interacting effect between the two areas.

Sculptural design language giving BMW Vision EfficientDynamics a fully harmonized, complete look ensures the proportions typical of a BMW sports car. The front, side, rear and roof areas, for example, flow smoothly into one another. Dynamically contoured surfaces and shapes, in turn, create highly attractive light and shade effects accentuating the light and sporting character of the car in an emotional manner.

Layering technology developed by the BMW Group Design Division acts as the fundamental guideline in designing the exterior and interior. Applied for the first time in exterior design, this technology layers one surface on top of the other, creating very smooth seams and joints to reduce the number of components and, accordingly, the weight of the car. As a result, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics meets the most demanding aerodynamic requirements without using any additional body elements, simply through the structure of the surfaces optimized for a smooth flow of air.

Interior: innovative lightweight construction and unprecedented orientation to the driver.

In the design of the interior, innovative layering technology provides an unprecedented symbiosis of function and stylish shapes intentionally reduced to a minimum, consistently implementing and visualizing the lightweight principle also inside the car.

Specific components such as the central air vent not only serving to enhance motoring comfort but also acting as part of the cockpit, perform several functions in one. This multi-functionality is then presented visibly within the car, the use of particularly sophisticated materials providing a highly attractive combination of innovation in technology and quality clear to the eye and the touch of the surface.

This interaction of lightweight construction and individual well-being also comes out clearly in the design of the controls and switches, with a leather band, for example, running round the aluminum gear selector lever on the center console. Materials combining lightweight technology and all the qualities required are also to be admired all round the cockpit of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics, giving the car an unusually generous feeling of space for a 2+2-seater. The body-contoured seats, for example, are made up of a kevlar shell, a backbone structure, and seat padding with personalized fillings. Clearly, this combination alone ensures comfort at a minimum weight. The driver’s and front passenger’s seats are connected firmly to the center console to form a joint interior “landscape”, while the rear seats anchored on the floor would appear to be hovering in space. Natural materials and light colors on the seat upholstery and all interior linings underline the light, sophisticated and sustainability-oriented atmosphere within the passenger compartment.

The instrument panel is deliberately padded only where technical components have to be appropriately covered, thus making an important contribution to passenger safety in the event of a collision. The instrument cluster played a fundamental role right from the start in the design process, serving as the starting point for all surfaces within the interior and thus creating a particularly powerful rendition of that driver orientation typical of BMW.

Innovative light technology: providing clear signals to the outside and offering soothing ambient illumination inside in a unique symbiosis.

LED lights at both the front and rear end of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics provide an innovative combination of the symbols typical of the brand and clear design language oriented towards trendsetting technology. The distinctive look of the dual round headlights characteristic of a BMW is emphasized in particular by the use of LED technology. The rear lights are integrated also in their function into the design of the entire rear section, forming part of the rear air deflector and thus merging completely into the rear contour.

Extremely flat and compact, the rear lights are made up of innovative LED units forming a smooth and consistent red surface when not in use. Only when used do the respective light chambers take on the appropriate color such as yellow on the direction indicators. This innovative light technology also provides an intense symbiosis of the exterior and interior, again promoting and further refining the driving experience.

This is also why the ambient illumination of the interior comes with new features and qualities, the light sources within the passenger compartment being fed from the positioning lights at the side, the rear lights and the brake lights, thus changing the atmosphere created by the lights within the car as a function of driving conditions.

The optical impression conveyed by BMW Vision EfficientDynamics also results in other areas from the symbiosis of the exterior and interior, eliminating the conventional barriers between the two. The lines within the interior, for example, continue on to the innovative design of the engine compartment lid, while in its shape the third brake light positioned higher up on the car follows the structure of the glass roof and tapers to the outside where the roofline moves down gently to the rear.

Overhead doors for convenient access to all seats.

The doors on BMW Vision EfficientDynamics open up like bird’s wings, turning on pivots in the front roof column at the level of the side direction indicators. Since the car has no B-pillars, the large door cutouts ensure convenient entry also to the rear seats. The pivots on the doors also provide the base for the exterior mirrors, thus forming an ideal combination of function and aesthetic design. The structure of the doors is also characterized by several layers of materials on top of one another and the optical and functional symbiosis of the interior and exterior this technology is able to offer. Made up of three layers, the overall structure comprises the outer glass surface, an interim load-bearing layer, and the interior cover with its particularly smooth shapes and fl owing forms clearly visible to the passengers, layering technology again, therefore, opening up new perspectives.

The large glass surfaces extending far down on the body also provide a strong optical impression of the low seating position close to the road. And at the same time a stable sidebar ensures the body stiffness and crash safety naturally required on every vehicle. Flowing to the inside at its central point, this safety element also serves as an armrest. This interplay of the three layers also helping to minimize the weight of the car continues on the trim bar running along the door and extending out of the armrest, finally flowing into the outer door opener on its path from inside to outside.

Clear focus on the essential: 3-dimensional Head-Up Display.

Layering technology is also used on the displays in the instrument cluster and in the Head-Up Display developed to an even higher standard on BMW’s new concept car. The Display now creates a powerful impression of three dimensions, at the same time providing the option to present various signals more in the front or more in the background, depending on their relevance and current driving conditions.

The Head-Up Display projects information important to the driver on to the windscreen. Indeed, innovative presentation technology even allows the superimposed presentation of several views in three dimensions, keeping, the gauge graphics visible in the background while the latest information on route guidance or warning signals from BMW Night Vision, for example, are shown in the foreground.

The sequence in which such signals appear depends on the driving mode chosen by the driver, the display technology, again depending on the driver’s personal preference, enhancing a particularly sporting, a more comfort oriented, or an efficiency-based style of motoring. Through its design alone, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car clearly shows that highly efficient individual mobility may by all means be presented in emotional style. BMW already offers models in all vehicle segments which, compared with the competition, ensure the lowest level of fuel consumption and emissions combined with superior power and performance.

And now BMW Vision EfficientDynamics confirms BMW’s commitment to offer a perfect combination in future of unique driving pleasure and optimum qualities in the responsible use of natural resources.

In the design process the need for sustainable management is borne out most clearly by the GINA (Geometry and Functions in N-fold Augmentation) concept developed by the BMW Group. In this case maximum creative freedom sets the foundation for innovative solutions challenging the conventional and meeting the requirements of the future. This makes the GINA principle particularly well-suited for developing visions for the future reflecting both the wish for emotional style and individual character as well as the quest for sustainable management and efficiency. From the dimensions of its wheels through the design of the rear lights and all the way to the configuration of the cockpit, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics therefore boasts a number of details both outside and inside which, going far beyond conventional solutions, open up a new approach to maximum efficiency and that Dynamic ability typical of BMW.

Forward-looking energy management adjusting to individual requirements.

With the individual system components on board BMW Vision EfficientDynamics being networked with one another, conditions are perfect for implementing a forward-looking system of energy management using information gathered by the sensors of the driver assistance units fitted in the car. Data provided, for example, by the rain sensor or Active Cruise Control with its Stop & Go function as well as by the navigation system, and subsequently evaluated by the central control unit, offers an overview of current and upcoming driving conditions. Then, evaluating such data, the on-board computer is able to forecast driving conditions on the stretch of road immediately ahead, such calculations serving to prepare the car for upcoming requirements and make efficient use of the energy available through optimum operation of all systems.

Should the high-performance central computer establish, for example, that the driver is about to take the motorway, the power used for running the cooling system is reduced for a certain period in advance, on the assumption that the short increase in coolant temperature resulting from such an energy-saving measure will quickly be set off by the higher speed of the car on the motorway. Another example of such pre-conditioning is the regeneration of energy from the air conditioning, from Electronic Power Steering and the Brake Assistant.