[Autocar]

Think of it as a smaller, more efficient Hummer capable of traveling long distances without waking up the economy thanks to the AWD Q-Force system. Specs are impressive: achieves a sustained 80 MPH, climbs 60-degree grades, and fuel consumption 25% above similar vehicles. There's even a special weapons ring designed to help the gunner throw down serious fire across rough terrain.

The CREV is undergoing testing at Michigan's TARDEC to see if the military is ready to go olive Green.

[CNET]

[via CreativityOnline]

2010 Ford Taurus by Tommy Z Design
The Ford Taurus lends itself quite easily to the Superlux Youthful Styling and yet it remains sophisticated. Tommy Z embellished this great vehicle with his own classic VIP luxury style and components.

2010 Ford Taurus SHO by Mobsteel
The Ford Taurus SHO and Mobsteel are both committed to being anything but ordinary. So it's no surprise that the Taurus SHO by Mobsteel is one extraordinary vehicle. The trademark black-on-black Mobsteel paint job, custom fascias, and a host of trim touches and details give this 2010 Taurus SHO a tough menacing look, whether coming or going. And that's just the beginning, as this SHO has the goods both inside and out.

The bad boy rides on massive 22-inch Mobsteel forged two-piece wheels and super-low-profile Pirelli PZero Nero tires. A completely customized chassis with Air Runner front struts and Mobsteel adjustable rear air ride provide attitude to the max. The Magnaflow Performance cat-back exhaust and JL Audio equipment make this Taurus SHO sound as tough as it looks. (Ed. - We're actually really looking forward to this one and might try a visit to Mobsteel to take a spin.)

2010 Ford Taurus "Best of SHO" by MRT-Direct
MRT-Direct gives its signature classy touches to this Taurus SHO by adding subtle ground effect treatment, and a black cherry roof and custom vented hood. Increased performance is achieved through turbo system efficiencies, an exhaust upgrade, and wheel, tire and suspension modifications. The cabin is designed to be sporty and comfortable, while a Kicker sound system delivers the final beat.

2010 Ford Fusion Sport by Aaron Vaccar Signature Series
Young custom car designer Aaron Vaccar, most noted for his work with modern and sport compact vehicles, has taken his knowledge of next-generation styling and applied it to the new Ford Fusion Sport. Speed, style and sound – quite simply, this Fusion reveals that such a balance does exist in a sport-tuned street car. Upgraded with the thrills of a turbocharged motor, this Fusion now packs even more power to back up its stunning looks.

Noting that function needs to meet form, the entire audio and trunk enclosures have been designed to seamlessly integrate into the vehicle's styling and practicality. Tastefully mix the right combination of modifications, a bit of unique style combined with an already impressive platform, and what you get is this Aaron Vaccar Signature Series Fusion Sport.

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid by M&J Enterprises
This Ford Fusion Hybrid by M&J Enterprises showcases a variety of eco-friendly accessories and aerodynamic parts. These range from air splitters to heat-reflective paint, window film and a vehicle data display. All items are either lighter in weight than the factory items, increase fuel economy or eliminate petroleum-based products. The data display helps increase the consumer's environmental awareness. The whole package delivers a desirable, eco-friendly Ford Fusion aimed at consumers who like to customize their vehicles and are concerned with environmental issues.

2010 Ford Fusion "T4" by MRT
This custom version of the fun, sporty, fuel-efficient Ford Fusion successfully combines the best of all worlds. MRT started with clever but subtle appearance changes to the exterior trim and paint. Next, they brought the same sport feel and style to the interior with revised seating and interior trim accents. The fun-to-drive factor is kicked up a notch with a single intercooled turbocharger and Street Performance coil-over suspension. To unleash the full potential of the awesome turbocharged powerplant, MRT skillfully exhaust-balanced the system with a high-performance stainless-steel Max-Flow™ h-pipe and back half exhaust system using the finest CNC Mandrel bend tube and high-flow components. The result is a system that delivers enhanced power and truly satisfying performance-car sound. Twenty-inch wheels and tires add a final touch to set off the look and give this Fusion an even smarter, sportier stance. On the inside, a kickin' audio system from Kicker provides the perfect balance of amped-up entertainment.

2010 Ford Transit Connect by Azentek and Grant Products
Azentek and Grant Products teamed up to build this unique "Travel Inn" Ford Transit Connect van. Designed for people who are always on the go, it comes complete with the Azentek in-vehicle computing and navigation radio, and a Concept DVD for watching movies. You can cook while tailgating with your mini pull-out kitchen and even sleep in complete comfort in the upper bunk bed. You also will drive in style with the Grant Products body kit, race-inspired steering wheel and GAC interior. The vehicle features 18-inch BBS wheels with a Winona PVD chrome finish and Bridgestone Firestone tires.

2010 Ford Transit Connect by Ford Vehicle Personalization
This 2010 Transit Connect was developed by the Ford Vehicle Personalization team and it features Genuine Ford Accessories, Ford Licensed Accessories and various personalization concepts. Inspired by West Coast beaches, the vehicle is presented in a soft anodized Metallic Gold exterior paint with a large energetic side graphic depicting young people playing sports and having fun on the beach. Various racks and carriers on the exterior secure your favorite outdoor gear.

The interior is the main focus of this custom Transit Connect, showcasing the flexibility of space in the cargo area and the ability to create a realm of personal use around this vehicle rather than strictly commercial/business usage. Shown with two seats, the cargo area will house an audio wall with a custom audio/video system, a skateboard rack displaying four skateboards and a rear-mounted LCD flip-out flat-screen monitor with video game console.

2010 Ford Edge "RallyE" by Santini Paint
Santini Paint, combined with the talent of Steve Stanford Design, has taken the Ford Edge crossover to a level of design utilizing influence from the old-school British racing era, tuner cars and a little rally car, so that this "soccer mom" grocery-getter becomes the "cool" car for the family. With a few inches out of the suspension, the big wheel and tire combination, 3dCarbon body kit, British Racing Green color and an asymmetrical competition stripe paint scheme with some interior accents added in, Santini's Ford Edge becomes a "Coolover."

2009 Ford Focus by FSWerks
In its constant search for more power, the FSWerks crew has taken a 2009 Ford Focus Coupe and pushed it to the edge. Utilizing many years of racing, fabricating and powertrain experience, this transformed Ford Focus is now pushing more than 500 horsepower, making it one serious track Focus.

2009 Ford Focus by Creations n' Chrome
Creations n' Chrome has taken green technology to the extreme with its 2009 Ford Focus. The exterior starts with an outrageous green chrome finish using Cosmichrome water-based spray-on plating technology, 3dCarbon Euro Series six-piece body kit and lightweight Work Emotion wheels. To increase engine efficiency and aerodynamics, an FSWerks turbo kit and H&R coil-over suspension are added. The interior was custom refinished from top to bottom with House of Color paint and custom Katzkin leather.

2010 Ford Flex by Falken Tire
Breaking the mold of cookie-cutter project vehicles on oversized chrome rims, Falken Tire has envisioned the perfect blend of traditional "lowrider" styling and a 2010 platform while utilizing today's finest full-size CUV, the Ford Flex. Rolling on 22-inch Falken S/TZ04 tires and wire- spoke Dayton wheels, this ride will surely earn the respect of everyone from old-school purists to new-age tuners. Break the mold and Flex Your Style.

The Lexus LF-CH comes complete with all the marks of a concept vehicle: hybrid drive, expensive lighting, metaloflourescent paint, hand-cut tires, tiny mirrors, and metallic trim everywhere. Underneath all that is a clear look at where the company is heading, hoping to pick up market share in Europe's competitive premium compact marketplace where the Audi A3, BMW 1-Series and Mercedes B-Class currently dominate.

While it's possible the five-door hatch will eventually be offered with a hybrid powertrain, expect an entire suite of four-cylinder diesel and petrol varieties.

Lexus LF-Ch
* Premium compact concept with Lexus Hybrid Drive
* Practical 5-door body, meeting the core needs of customers in the premium compact market
Reinforcing Lexus' position as the only manufacturer to offer a range of hybrid vehicles, the LF-Ch concept will make its world premiere the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show.
LF-Ch combines stylish design and full hybrid technology in a practical 5-door compact package to fulfil the needs of the most demanding premium compact segment customers.
Benefiting from an electric-only driving capability, a key feature of Lexus Hybrid Drive, LF-Ch will allow for virtually silent urban driving with zero emissions.

[AutoBlog.it via World Car Fans]

While the concept wears hybrid badges, expect the production vehicle to offer a range of powertrains starting with a plain-old earth-killing inline-four and ending with a full hybrid capable of limited-range and low-speed electric-only operation. We'll get a better idea of which Toyota platform this is based on when we see it live later this month.

The press release follows:

Lexus LF-Ch

* Premium compact concept with Lexus Hybrid Drive
* Practical 5-door body, meeting the core needs of customers in the premium compact market

Reinforcing Lexus' position as the only manufacturer to offer a range of hybrid vehicles, the LF-Ch concept will make its world premiere the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show.

LF-Ch combines stylish design and full hybrid technology in a practical 5-door compact package to fulfil the needs of the most demanding premium compact segment customers.

Benefiting from an electric-only driving capability, a key feature of Lexus Hybrid Drive, LF-Ch will allow for virtually silent urban driving with zero emissions.

We're fairly sure at least one VW Jetta TDI owner drove by swearing to himself.

Photo Credit For All Photos: GABRIEL BOUYS/AFP/GETTY IMAGES

We don't know if the SZ will reach retirement communities in the US or be confined to elderly Japanese drivers only, but it's black honeycomb grille and unique wheels add visual aggression to the big Lexus, while paddle shifters appear to be the only genuine performance enhancement.

The 2010 Lexus LS 600h receives a Lexus HS 250h-style grille, new wheels, turn signals integrated into the mirrors and revised taillights and headlights. Inside, there now appears to be a night vision system integrated into the instrument cluster.

The 2010 Lexus LS 460 doesn't get that hybrid grille, but does receive the rest of the tweaks. [via Lexus Enthusiast]

The volt will come standard with a portable 120-volt charger that'll work with standard home outlets. Just plug it into the wall, connect it to the car and come back six to eight hours later for a complete charge.

For impatient owners, GM is also talking about offering an optional 240-volt home charge unit that'll need to be hardwired into your garage, car port or whatever you high falutin suburbanites keep your cars in these days. Expect the price of the unit and the installation to be wrapped into one bundle that'll be appealing priced and available straight from dealers. A coil cord will extend from that wall unit to the car and can complete a full charge in just three to four hours. It's expected that the vast majority of owners will use this setup and carry their 120-volt portable chargers for on-the-go or emergency recharges.

The reason the 240-volt charger isn't portable is due to national electric codes which require the device to be hard wired and the nature of the 240-volt plug (think of the big three pronger that hooks your dryer up to the wall), which isn't designed to withstand repeated plug-ins/unplugs. Speaking as someone who has electrocuted himself with 240-volt electricity several times, hardwiring is probably for the best.

Both types of charger will connect to the car with a universal J1772 plug that's capable of withstanding the full weight of the car should your wife run it over, can shut the car off if she tries to drive away with it plugged in and "talks" to the batteries to regulate the flow of juice should the level of amperage being drawn threaten to trip circuit breakers or similar.

GM hopes to offer hardwired 240-volt quick chargers in the parking garages of major companies and retails outlets and at other popular commuting destinations at some unspecified date in the future.

GM has gone so far as to consider and then rule out the use of automatic plug winders, finding that they're prone to breakage and the tightly wound extension cords can generate dangerous levels of heat. Instead, a variety of cord lengths will likely be offered to suit individual needs.

How safe is all this? According to Volt vehicle line director Tony Posawatz the recharging system is idiot proof. He even went so far as to say, "You could dunk this in a bucket of water and you'd be ok." [via Edmunds]

The speculation on the future of the Vue platform in the face of the Saturn brand's impending death has been announced, and it's going to Buick. It won't be just a shave and haircut though, it'll also be introduced with the previously announced plug-in 2-mode hybrid system which was destined for the Vue. The new system is a modified version of the previous 2-mode hybrid mating the 3.6L V-6 flex-fuel engine to a new battery pack with the same technology as the Chevy Volt, but with half the capacity. As a result the compact SUV will charge on standard 110V power in four to five hours and run in all-electric mode for at least ten miles.

The BuiVues (Vueicks?) will all get upgraded interiors, but the standard IC models will include a standard powertrain of the 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder or optional upgrades of a 3.0L direct-injected V-6 and all-wheel-drive. The actual name of the vehicle and price point have yet to be announced, but we're very interested to see just what kind of fuel economy that 2-mode plug in will be capable of.

[GM Inside News]

Indeed, the rumor has it development's been killed on the world-ending 600 HP 5.5-liter V10, and instead Honda will drop an advanced new engine into the car, a "valveless throttle" 3.5-liter V6 which gets hybridized with the system from the next-gen Acura RL for a total of around 450 HP. The resulting car wouldn't have quite the colossal performance as the previous version would have, but it will hold that sadly important green trump card against its competition. Since this is a major powertrain change, obviously, the timing on the car will inevitably be pushed back to match the development cycle.

We've got mixed feeling here. Should this rumor prove true, the return to a Honda V6 puts the car right back into the NSX tradition and it'll be potentially lighter weight and more nimble as a result. But at the same time, we already miss the notion of a high-strung Japanese V10 wailing away under the hood. Then again, we shouldn't be looking a gift horse in the mouth. (Thanks for the tip Morgan)
[7Tune]

In April, the Insight became the best selling car in Japan, with 10,481 units being sold. With the launch of the new Prius in May, that figure dropped to just 8,183 cars.

Of course, in America, many more Prius vehicles are sold, with 12,998 finding their way into the smug hands of new owners in May compared to just 2,079 Insights.

Starting at just $19,800 and averaging 41 MPG combined in the EPA cycle, the Insight is cheaper, yet considerably less fuel-efficient than the $21,000, 50 MPG combined Prius. Perhaps more importantly, the Prius is larger and has driving dynamics that are far superior to the Insight.

Autocar reports Honda is expected to boost fuel-efficiency on the revised Insight as well as increase its dynamic ability and improve its much-maligned ride.

These type of refreshes typically come halfway through a model's five- to seven-year life-cycle. Even if it's rushed through, don't expect to see a revised Insight before the 2012 model year. [via Autocar]

Honda sources announced today their decision, confirming a rumor we've previously reported. Details are scarce, but it's safe to assume it will draw some inspiration from the Honda CR-Z concept car, which is a CRX-style three-door hatch, and feature a hybrid system similar to the one found in the current range of Honda hybrids.

We're just hoping the "sporty" in "sporty hybrid" extends beyond the bodywork and you know, into the powertrain.

If you'll remember, the Namir features a 0.8-liter rotary engine used to power four electric motors — one for each wheel. The combined motors will give the eco-supercar a top speed of 187 MPH, all-wheel drive, a 0-to-62 MPH time of 3.7 seconds and a 1,200-mile range (though probably not all at the same time). We've learned a bit more about the Namir in its current prototype form:

• For Goodwood, the car just used two motors out back powering the rear wheels.
• In EV-only mode the car can travel about 60 miles depending on driving conditions.
• Using the charger you can travel the full 60 electric miles without using the gas engine.
• All the hardware was developed in-house
• It's not purely vaporware as they intend to build and market a few of these vehicles, though the ultimate goal is to demonstrate the technology

According to a report by the LA Times, the cash-strapped state pays a monthly allowance to California state legislators for car expenses. This comes to about $3.2 million over the last three years. To top it off, a whopping eight of the ten most expensive legislator cars are hybrids. And not just any hybrids. Half are Lexus or Chevy SUV hybrids that cost upwards of $45,000 each.

The state did vote to cut the allowance by 18%. But wouldn't that money be better spent on rail within the state rather than token environmentalist plays by politicians? Some of Amtrak's busiest and highest revenue-generating train lines are within California and four of them pass through Sacramento. Maybe the legislators should be taking Amtrak rather than driving on the taxpayer dime in this time of crisis?

[Los Angeles Times via Straightline]

Photo Credit: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Seriously, we've driven all three and the new Prius makes these two cars look bad when it comes to fuel economy. Now a mid-size, it rivals the Fusion for space, practicality and driving dynamics, and starting at $21,000 it even gets close to the Insight on price. It does this all while boasting a 50 MPG combined fuel efficiency figure, something both its two main competitors can't get anywhere near. Having said that, we realize not everyone wants to risk looking like a whiny eco-celeb just to save some money on gas. So what about the other two choices? Let's find out. Yes friends, it's time for the Hybrid Car Wars.

As with our Muscle Car Wars comparison last week, we'll keep the game simple — add up the stars and the car at the end wins. Let's play.

Exterior Design

Insight: ***
Captures mainstream America's idea of a "hybrid" in a compact, appealing, well-detailed package. Unfortunately, this grey looks terrible in photos next to the Fusion's bright blue. View the Insight in person and the dumpiness in the rear 3/4 view isn't as apparent as it is in photos, mostly because the whole thing's just 4 1/2 feet tall.

Fusion Hybrid: ****
The 2010 Ford Fusion is probably the most handsome mid-size sedan on sale and the Hybrid's no different. Solid proportions, neat details and a shiny grille make it look more expensive than its $27,270 price tag.

Interior Design

Insight: ***
The interior doesn't feel as tight as it actually is thanks to a high ceiling and airy glass house. All the materials are cheap, but pull off the traditional Honda trick of looking good, being easy to use and feeling as if they'll last a long time. The sloping rear limits your ability to haul large items and the back seat is cramped. Not as practical as the cheaper Honda Fit.

Fusion Hybrid: ***
Very spec-sensitive. Check the box for leather and Nav and things are positively fancy, the fabric seats and Nav-less dash much less so. The rest is utterly conventional, if relatively roomy.

Acceleration

Insight: *
With a 0-60 time of 11-ish seconds, acceleration isn't the Insight's strong point. You can keep up with traffic, but you have to work hard to do so. The raucous sound and the CVT's constant revs makes the Insight feel slower than it is.

Fusion Hybrid: ***
Strong acceleration adds to the Fusion Hybrid's conventional driving experience. 0-60 MPH takes about 8.5 seconds, meaning you can actually overtake other cars, especially Honda Insights.

Braking

Honda Insight: ***
Where earlier hybrids had wooden brake pedals thanks to undeveloped regenerative braking systems, the Insight's is totally conventional to use. The soft suspension dives significantly, which can be a bit alarming since the brakes aren't immensely powerful.

Fusion Hybrid ****
What all hybrid brakes should be like, strong but easily modulated. That enables delicate brake use for batter charging at all possible opportunities.

Ride

Insight: *
Very harsh, yet also wobbly. It's like normal suspension in reverse; small bumps are met with harsh response, while large ones send the Insight bouncing along like a Jello mold.

Fusion Hybrid: ****
Feels like a much more expensive car, the ride is cushy yet controlled, isolating occupants from all sorts of bad surfaces.

Handling

Insight: **
This, more than anything else, defines the Insight's character. Objectively, the handling is pathetic, feeling overwhelmed as it yaws alarmingly through everyday challenges like highway off ramps and around minor corners. Having said that, it's fun, involving and challenging to try and hustle something with such low limits, turning every commute into an adventure. Think worn out ‘80s hatchback, but with stability control and you won't be far off.

Fusion Hybrid: ***
Like the regular Fusion, the Hybrid is a competent handler, if not all that involving. Try pushing things and you're met with terminal understeer, but its limits of adhesion, unlike the Insight, lie beyond the realm of the everyday.

Gearbox

Insight: *
As intrusive and annoying as a CVT could possibly be, it's strangely fitted with a "Sport" mode and wheel-mounted paddles that don't do an awful lot beyond raising the cabin's already loud noise level.

Fusion Hybrid: ***
In contrast, the Fusion's CVT is utterly unremarkable. You'll never notice it once you put it in "Drive."

Audio

Insight: **
The optional 6-speaker 160-watt audio system incorporated into the Nav unit is easy to use, but sounds tinny. It adds to all the noise coming from the road and engine rather than drowning those out.

Fusion Hybrid: ***
The base stereo is weak and the LCD interface isn't great. Start ticking options and you can get a really good Sony 12-speaker system and Sirius radio.

Toys

Insight: ****
Well, the whole car kind of feels like a toy, but is also comes with a seriously informative set of gauges that enable drivers to understand how to drive efficiently. The speedometer, which hovers in your peripheral vision, glows dark green when you're behaving and fades to dark blue when you're not. That's much more immediate than Ford's system. Add to that the Gameboy graphics that give you ridiculous medals for fuel-efficient driving and an "Eco" button that smooths out the peaks and troughs of power input to boost efficiency and frugal drivers have all the tools they need to save money.

Fusion Hybrid: *****
If you think the Insight's got some cool gauges, you'll be floored by the slick graphics and massive level of information available in the Fusion. Easily the best-looking gauges in the industry, Ford's SmartGauge with EcoGuide system redefines a driver's interaction with the car by showing you how to maximize energy recovery during regenerative braking, enabling you to maintain EV mode up to 47mph with a display showing the amount of throttle available in that mode. There's so much here it can be overwhelming and very distracting, but Ford's thought of that too, allowing you to switch through four levels of information.

Fuel Economy

Honda Insight: ***
Hit or miss. The EPA numbers are 40 MPG city, 43 MPG highway, 41 MPG combined. We averaged 37 MPG over a week of mostly city driving. Hypermilers can get figures exceeding 60 MPG over mixed routes. So which is it? Sadly, in our hands, the fuel economy just isn't impressive for such a compromised car. Your results may vary.

Fusion Hybrid: ****
We averaged 38.5 MPG over a week of mixed highway and city driving in the Fusion Hybrid. For a relatively large car that's pretty fast and pretty luxurious, that's really good. Official EPA numbers are nearly identical to the Insight's: 41 MPG city, 36 MPG highway, 39 MPG combined, but the record-breaking fuel economy we achieved when we hypermiled the Fusion Hybrid in LA was only 43.8 MPG.

Value

Honda Insight: ****
It depends on how you look at it. The Insight offers decent fuel economy in an unpractical package resulting in a fairly unimpressive value proposition. At $19,800 it is, however, the cheapest hybrid car on the market, meaning it lowers the barrier of entry into the exciting world of hybrid ownership. Believe it or not, that actually matters to some people. Although we'd stick with the much more practical, better-to-drive 2009 Honda Fit, which starts at $14,750 and manages 27 MPG city and 33 MPG highway, we do have to admit, as far as Hybrids go, this one's got the win.

Fusion Hybrid: **
An impressive car for a reasonable price, but the base-spec Fusion S starts at $19,270 and returns 25 MPG combined. Even though the Fusion Hybrid brings with it all the SEL options, $27,270 creates an $8,000 premium that you'll never make up in fuel savings.

Overall

Honda Insight
Average score: 2.5
Living up to every negative hybrid stereotype ever, the Insight asks you to make enormous sacrifices in the driving experience and practicality to achieve fuel mileage that just isn't all that impressive for a car this small. It'd make a pretty decent first car or first new car, but the Fit would make a much better one.

Ford Fusion Hybrid
Average score: 3.5
Ford's Fusion hybrid delivers a spacious, technologically-advanced car asking you to make no sacrifices to achieve similar fuel economy to the Insight. Well, except the price, which is understandably a bit more than its no-batteries brethren. The most complete hybrid we'd driven, well, until we drove the 50 MPG 2010 Toyota Prius, that is.

The Chevy Cruze-based development mules will slowly be replaced by these close-to-production Volt bodied prototypes, marking a huge leap forward in the step to electrified propulsion. GM's says that it will build up to 80 Volt prototypes for testing out on public road over by October which will help engineers sort out all the little issues with the vehicle before it goes on sale to the public.

Andrew Farah, GM's Chevy Volt Vehicle Chief Engineer wrote in a Volt blog post;

We're producing a few Volts per week now, but we'll quickly ramp up to 10 per week and will have approximately 80 pre-production vehicles built by October. By exceeding our own pre-production deadlines it allows us additional time to refine the vehicle. We've already discovered a few small tweaks we need to make, but nothing out of the ordinary for this stage of development.

With pre-production Volts now running around Metro Detroit, who's up for a game of Volt-spotting?

Let's look at the time-line: a year ago, McCain admitted he didn't know how to use a computer. Yesterday, he tweeted his planned purchase of a hybrid. At this rate he'll be teleporting by October. senjohnMcCain @ Twitter]

Remember you can help us satisfy our ego complex by following us on Twitter here, or following the entire team here.

The news is buried deep in a press release about solar panels on factory roofs, using recyclable implants in booth babe's breasts and all sorts of nonsense about CO2. But here's the key paragraph for ADD-addled readers.

At this point, Research & Development activities will continue in the following directions:

- decreasing vehicle mass
- improving combustion
- reducing friction
- Start-and-Stop systems
- hybrid drive train solutions
- biofuels

The Italian supercar maker has previously discussed the possibility of future hybrid powertrains, most likely on the Lamborghini Estoque, should it reach production. At last year's Paris Motor Show, Lambo President and fashion icon Stephan Winkelmann said about the Estoque, "a particularly economical, but nevertheless dynamic, variation would be a V8 with a hybrid module or an extremely high-performance TDI."

Since Lamborghini is owned by Audi, it's reasonable to assume that hybrid technology could be borrowed or adapted from cars like the Audi A1 Concept while a diesel engine would likely come from the Audi Q7 V12 TDI.

The reason both Ferrari and Lamborghini are suddenly hoping on the hybrid bandwagon is increasing pressure from US and European governments to raise Corporate Average Fuel Economy Standards for all automakers over the next decade. Even though Ferraris and Lamborghinis make up only a fraction of one percent of vehicle miles driven and therefore don't contribute significantly to pollution, they could get factored in to the overall average of their parent companies Fiat and VW, respectively. Like the performance-oriented Ferrari Hybrid, we'd expect any eco-friendly Lambo to be big on badass and short on the emasculated wimpyness of cars like the Toyota Prius.

The press release follows:

LAMBORGHINI ANNOUNCES NEW, AMBITIOUS PROGRAMS FOR REDUCING CO2

• 35 million Euros investments
• The construction of a large photovoltaic plant, combined with an energy-saving project, will achieve a 30% reduction in the factory's CO2 emissions by 2010
• Modifications to vehicles will result in a 35% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2015

Automobili Lamborghini announces its intention to complete its program of environmental sustainability in record time by presenting new plans which will enable the company:

• to achieve a 30% reduction, by the year 2010, in the CO2 emissions produced by its factory
• to achieve a 35% reduction, by the year 2015, in the CO2 emissions produced by its vehicles

The plans for reducing emissions will thus involve two areas: modifications to the Lamborghini factory in Sant'Agata Bolognese, and development in vehicle design.

To redefine its industrial processes in accordance with its policy of environmental sustainability, Lamborghini has just begun a project to complete installation of a large photovoltaic system by the end of 2009.

The roof-top plant will produce 1,582 Megawatt hour (MWh) of "green" energy per year, which translates into a 20% reduction in CO2 emissions (-1,067,820 Kg/year) by 2010.

The photovoltaic systems will have a total installed power rating of 1,4 Megawatts and will extend over 17,000 m2 throughout the entire industrial area. The new system will be built by Sinergia Sistemi S.p.A.

At the same time, an equally important energy conservation project involving insulating the production facility's whole roof, improving lighting and heating and introducing destratification systems for heated air will be completed, thus resulting in a 10% energy usage reduction by 2010.

These projects represent the next step in a program that began last year with the opening of the new Lamborghini
Logistics Center. The Center has already contributed to diminishing the impact caused by heavy truck traffic on the roads between Anzola and Sant'Agata Bolognese. It is calculated that this facility has achieved a reduction of emissions by over 75 kg per annum, and nitrogen oxide by over 750 kg (Sources: Standard Euro 3).

In April 2009 Lamborghini obtained the UNI EN ISO 14001 certificate, meeting the international environmental standards. It is also the first firm in the Italian automotive sector to be close to registering for the EMAS environment certificate, having successfully completed the program: EMAS regulations are set by the European Union to support organisations in their effort to evaluate and improve their own environmental efficiency.

These recent achievements support Lamborghini's commitment to protecting the environment in which it operates, and its desire to make all stakeholders aware of its actions in a transparent manner.

With regard to Lamborghini vehicles, the CO2 reduction plan aims for an additional 35% decrease in emissions by the year 2015.

The program reached its first milestone with the Gallardo LP 560-4. Introduced last year, the new car's technical advancements resulted in an 18% reduction in CO2 emissions.

At this point, Research & Development activities will continue in the following directions:

- decreasing vehicle mass
- improving combustion
- reducing friction
- Start-and-Stop systems
- hybrid drive train solutions
- biofuels

Lamborghini's commitment and its sense of social responsibility regarding the environment is evidenced by the numbers and by the sheer size of the investments that are planned. 35 million Euros will be appropriated over the next five years for this purpose.

Stephan Winkelmann, the President and CEO of Lamborghini, has said, "Despite the difficult situation in today's global economy, Lamborghini is committed to its policy of environmental management, since we are well aware of the great opportunities that derive from it. We have an objective to reduce CO2 emissions to the greatest possible degree. We have also set compulsory annual goals that are part of an integrated approach both considering the automobile as an element which is more considerate of the environment, in terms of emissions and the use of resources, to the accomplishment of a series of corresponding measures such as modifications to our factory. This is an important action for Lamborghini and a central opportunity for our long term corporate and product development."

European Parliamentarian Guido Sacconi, President of the European Commission on Climate Change, recently paid a visit to Lamborghini headquarters in Sant'Agata. At that time, he said that, "The commitment shown by Lamborghini with its efforts to reduce environmental impact and develop vehicles with less polluting technologies confirm the company's goal of following the right path toward complying with the directives of the European Union. To safeguard the DNA, history and technology of niche car manufacturers on a European level, a series of exceptions have been passed for manufactures of 'specialty' vehicles (with fewer than 10,000 new cars made per year) who run their own production facilities and design centres, even though they are part of a group of associated producers. This is the exact situation in which Lamborghini finds itself. We have been particularly satisfied with the actions it has taken thus far, because they illustrate this company's desire to embrace a new industrial vision which combines competitiveness and performance with social responsibility."

[source: Lamborghini]

These six patent filings are variations on a theme, with the constant thread being a gas engine powering the rear wheels separately from an electric motor or motors driving the front wheels. While such an arrangement will necessarily bring with it the added weight of the batteries, it eliminates the transfer case and driveshafts normally used on AWD cars.

Speaking to some guy at Car and Driver named Eddie Alterman, Ferrari CEO Amedeo Felisa said to expect a Ferrari hybrid concept "Not at Frankfurt, but shortly thereafter, probably at an American show." Ferrari isn't just developing a hybrid to recapture the lucrative celebrity market from the Toyota Prius, but to enable it to meet draconian new Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards from the US and Europe. Ferrari's current range understandably sucks at sipping gas, with the new Ferrari California only averaging 15mpg in the EPA cycle.

While the hybrid system should be capable of operating on electricity-only at very low speeds, Ferrari has said it wants the system to be a performance aid before anything else. Potentially allowing customers to select between two and AWD at the flick of a switch, the electric motors powering the front wheels could increase speed and safety in slippery conditions or alleviate part of the douche bags crashing expensive cars pandemic.

In addition to eliminating mechanical complication, this arrangement could also do away with frictional losses associated with AWD as the gas engine would never have to power anything but the rear wheels (as it does in all Ferraris now) and presumably recharge the batteries when its power wasn't required for posing.

While the idea of a hybrid Ferrari initially saddens our purist hearts, we're actually pretty happy with how this system appears to be coming together. If it means we can keep our high-strung Italian engines in an age of increasing pressure for high economy, they have to be a good thing. The prospect of adding performance and control through AWD, while retaining the character of RWD is also encouraging. A Ferrari Hybrid? We think we could live with that.

European Patent Office via Car & Driver and MotorAuthority

Bob Lutz, who just dumped all his GM stock, is apparently taking issue with Letterman's mockery of the Chevy Volt's 40-mile EV range. Two weeks ago, Tesla CEO Elon Musk used the advanced technology of his home planet to holographically project a 3D image of the Tesla Model S onto the Late Show's stage, tricking Letterman into believing that it was real. The comedian then drew upon his encyclopedic knowledge of the auto industry to rail against automakers for failing to bring an electric vehicle to market and disparaged the usefulness of the Volt's range, failing to mention the hybrid drivetrain.

Lutz, who had to surrender custody of Chevy Volt when he announced he would quit GM, got special permission from its new guardian, Barack Obama, to take it all the way to the Big Apple to appear on television.

Excluding Kei cars, the Honda Insight and Honda Jazz (Fit) took the top two spots with 10,841 units and 9,443 units, respectively. The Insight is just starting to show up on dealer lots here in the U.S., so we'll soon see if the cheap and modern-looking ecorider does as well on this side of the Pacific. [AP]

The NYPD acquired 40 of the Altima hybrids for active duty as part of a new green initiative from Mayor Bloomberg, of which 22 will be used as unmarked patrol cars. Given how few Nissan Altima Hybrids have been produced, if you're driving around Brooklyn and being tailed by an Altima Hybrid you might as well just assume it's the heat.

MAYOR BLOOMBERG AND POLICE COMMISSIONER KELLY INTRODUCE HYBRID CARS TO FLEET OF POLICE RESPONSE VEHICLES

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly today deployed 40 Nissan Altima Hybrids as the first alternative fuel vehicles to be used as marked and unmarked patrol cars in the Police Department's fleet. The Altima Hybrids have been assigned to areas of the city where their fuel efficiency presents the greatest economic and environmental benefit – both in precincts with a large coverage area and smaller precincts prone to heavy stop-and-go traffic. The 40 hybrid vehicles, 18 marked and 22 unmarked, will be used in patrol precincts and other units in all five boroughs. The hybrid Altimas are partially funded by the intra-agency Energy Conservation Steering Committee, created by Executive Order signed by Mayor Bloomberg in 2007 and chaired by Deputy Mayor for Operations Edward Skyler.

"These new patrol cars will help fulfill the PlaNYC goal of reducing City government's carbon footprint," said Mayor Bloomberg. "Through savings in fuel, these Altimas can quickly cover their additional cost, from then they will save taxpayers money – another example of how going green is good for our environment and our pocketbooks."

"The NYPD embraces innovation when it doesn't compromise performance or safety to our personnel and the public," said Commissioner Kelly. "We want to get the most mileage out of technology where it makes sense – with the addition of these hybrids, we're doing that literally."

While the Altima hybrids are the first alternate fuel vehicles to be used as regular police cars, the NYPD already uses hybrid vehicles in its parking enforcement fleet as well as electric scooters. The Police Department also has 10 GMC Yukon Hybrid SUVs employed by NYPD Duty Captains for marked patrol. Additionally, police officers utilize T-3 personal movers in city parks, stadiums and beaches. The Nissan Altima Hybrids account for 40 of over 100 total hybrid vehicles the Department is expected to deploy this year.

The Nissan Altima Hybrids were acquired earlier this year following evaluation and testing by the Police Department's Fleet Services Division and Driver Training Unit. At $25,391 per vehicle, the Altima hybrids cost about $1,500 more than the conventional Impala. At 35 miles per gallon for city driving, the hybrid Altima gets double the gas mileage of the Impala, which gets only 16 miles per gallon. The Altima hybrids, manufactured in Smyrna, Tennessee and outfitted with equipment specialized for patrol, will be used in addition to the Chevrolet Impala and the Ford Crown Victoria. The Department also uses Dodge Chargers, mainly for highway patrol. As with all hybrid technology vehicles, the Altima switches between gasoline engine and electric motor. After a year of monitoring the vehicles performance the Department will determine whether to further expand them into the fleet. The Nissan Altima Hybrids will bring to over 170 the total number of hybrid vehicles the Department is expected to deploy this year.

In July 2008, Mayor Bloomberg put forth a long-term action plan to achieve the PlaNYC goal of reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from the City's municipal buildings and operations by 30 percent by 2017. The long-term plan, available on nyc.gov, is a comprehensive guide to reducing the City's carbon footprint, through making City buildings more efficient, improving preventative maintenance, capturing energy potential at wastewater treatment plants, and more. To meet its 30 percent reduction goal by 2017, the City must produce 1.68 million fewer metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e) annually compared with 2006 levels. This will be achieved through an aggressive capital improvement program for the City's facilities, and significant enhancements to its current operations and maintenance practices. The projects in the long-term plan, including the purchase of some of the Nissan Altima hybrids, will be partially funded by an annual commitment of 10 percent of the City's energy budget, which in fiscal year 2009 is $100 million. City government accounts for approximately 6.5 percent of New York City's total energy usage and 10 percent of its peak electricity demand.

[NYPD via AutoFiends]

That aux-in jack that can be found in every GM product is the same aux-in jack you'll find in every Toyota product. But more to the point of supposed technological superiority — find me a Toyota or Honda-branded vehicle with a plug-in-play system that works as effortlessly as Ford's Sync system.

Tell you what — Kneale can send us an e-mail (ray-at-jalopnik-dot-com) and we'll stop by Englewood Cliffs in a fully-optioned Toyota Camry hybrid and a similarly-equipped Ford Fusion hybrid and you can tell me which one is more technologically advanced. Hell, we could show up in a Sync-equipped Ford Focus and it'd kick the Camry's ass in techie goodness. So until Kneale learns a bit more about what equipment comes in what model, we'd suggest he stick to doing what he does best — blathering on about things that aren't cars. We'd suggest perhaps maybe class warfare. See the full clip below:

We're actually told Edwards ended up going 1,445.8 miles as he jumped out of the car after it ran out of gas and sprinted another tenth of a mile.

The 1,000-Mile Challenge started at 8:15 a.m. on Saturday, April 25, from Mount Vernon, Va., and ended this morning in Washington, D.C. The stunt raised funds for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and wasn't too shabby of a show of fuel economy. True it doesn't beat hypermiler Sean Welch, who's able to get 106.2 MPG in his Honda Insight, but it's pretty impressive fuel economy for a car that's as weighty as the Fusion. Full press release:

ONE THOUSAND MILES AND COUNTING: FUSION HYBRID BREAKS 1,000 MILES ON SINGLE TANK, PRESSES ON

* The Ford Fusion Hybrid team has achieved more than 1,000 miles – over 47 continuous hours – on a single tank of gas, raising funds for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
* Passing the 1,000 mile mark at 9:08 a.m. this morning, the team will continue as their unmodified, regular production Fusion Hybrid has nearly one-third of a tank of fuel remaining
* The most fuel-efficient, mid-sized sedan in America – the Fusion Hybrid – driven by a team of Ford hybrid engineers, a fuel efficiency expert and a NASCAR star, achieved more than 80 miles per gallon using Eco-Driving techniques

WASHINGTON, April 27, 2009 – At 9:08 a.m. this morning, the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid team hit the 1,000-mile mark on a single tank of gas, and is continuing its ultimate fuel-efficiency challenge with nearly one-third of a tank of fuel remaining.

The 1,000-mile mark was achieved with the Fusion Hybrid 1,000-Mile Challenge team leader and NASCAR driver, Carl Edwards, behind the wheel. Other team members include world-record breaking hypermiler Wayne Gerdes and several Ford hybrid engineers.

The 1,000-Mile Challenge started at 8:15 a.m. on Saturday, April 25, from Mount Vernon, Va., and is expected to end on Tuesday, April 28 in Washington, D.C.

A regular production version of the Fusion Hybrid – the most fuel efficient mid-sized sedan in America – delivered over 80 miles per gallon over the course of 47 hours of continuous driving. The team will continue to drive until the fuel tank is depleted.

The vehicle is being put to the test to demonstrate Ford's commitment to be the best, or amongst the best, in fuel economy in every vehicle segment in which it competes and to raise funds for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in the process.

As part of the event, the team is conducting clinics for media and customers in the Fusion Hybrid, providing interviews and vehicle demonstrations on how simple techniques can make a significant difference to real world fuel economy numbers. The team also is uploading regular images and video of the challenge to YouTube, Flickr, Facebook, Twitter, and www.media.ford.com.

Mileage-maximizing techniques that the Ford team used and recommend to consumers include:

* Slowing down and maintaining even throttle pressure;
* Gradually accelerating and smoothly braking;
* Maintaining a safe distance between vehicles and anticipating traffic conditions;
* Coasting up to red lights and stop signs to avoid fuel waste and brake wear;
* Minimize use of heater and air conditioning to reduce the load on the engine;
* Close windows at high speeds to reduce aerodynamic drag;
* Applying the "Pulse and Glide" technique while maintaining the flow of traffic;
* Minimize excessive engine workload by using the vehicle's kinetic forward motion to climb hills, and use downhill momentum to build speed; and
* Avoiding bumps and potholes that can reduce momentum

Click here for more Eco-Driving tips.

###

Toyota isn't releasing details on which equipment that $21,000 base model will bring you, but all the important stuff - 50 MPG combined and room for five adults - will still be present. Spending more buys you added luxury, technology and driving competence.

When I reviewed the 2010 Prius I found the standard, 15" wheel model had a much improved driving experience, on par with the 2010 Honda Insight, but it's really the 17" wheel Prius V, with its revised steering ratio and firmed up dampers that questions the traditional poor-driving hybrid stereotype. It's actually fun to drive and will set you back $27,270.

Buyers can add three option packages: the $1,500 Navigation Package, which does what it says on the tin; the $3,600 Solar Roof Package, which includes navigation and the ambient-temperature controlling solar sunroof in addition to remote A/C; the $4,500 Advanced Technology Package, which also includes Nav, but adds Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Pre-Collision System, Lane Keep Assist and Intelligent Parking Assist — basically it drives for you. None of the options packages are available on the base Prius, the Solar Roof isn't available on the Prius V.

The $750 destination and delivery fee is not included in any of the above MSRPs.

If we were to spec a Prius, it'd be the 17" wheel Prius V with nothing but the Navigation Package. That includes all the bells and whistles we'd want - leather, LED lights, fog lamps, nice stereo - but most importantly, it drives like a European hatchback while returning far greater fuel mileage.

TOYOTA ANNOUNCES PRICES FOR 2010 PRIUS

Prius I: $21,000
Specs: TBA

Prius II: $22,000
1.8-liter Atkinson cycle engine
P195/65 R15 all-season tires with alloy wheels & covers
Smart Key (driver's door) and Push Button start
EV, Eco, and Power modes
Multi-Informational Display with energy monitor and fuel
consumption history
AM/FM/MP3 CD player with six speakers and
satellite radio capability and auxiliary audio jack
Cruise control
STAR Safety System and active front headrest
Seven airbags including driver knee airbag
Four-wheel disc brakes
Tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio and HVAC
Controls with Touch Tracer Display
Six-way adjustable driver seat
Auto up/down on all windows
Color-keyed foldable power heated side mirrors

Prius III: $23,000
JBL AM/FM/MP3 six-disc CD changer with eight speakers
Integrated satellite radio capability
Hands-free phone capability via Bluetooth® wireless
Technology

Prius IV: $25,800
Three-door Smart Key system
Leather-trimmed interior
Heated front seats with driver lumbar support
Driver and front passenger water repellant windows
Plasmacluster™ ionizer
Auto dimming mirror with HomeLink®

Prius V $27,270
17-inch alloy wheels and P215/45 R17 tires
LED headlamps with auto leveling and washers
Integrated foglamps

Navigation Package: $1,800
Voice-actived touch-screen
DVD navigation system with
JBL AM/FM/MP3 four-disc CD
changer, eight speakers, integrated
satellite radio capability, XM
NavTraffic capability, hands-free
phone capability and music
streaming via Bluetooth wireless
technology and integrated backup camera

Solar Roof Package: $3,600
Includes Navigation Package equipment
plus power tilt/slide moonroof with
Solar Powered Ventilation System
and Remote Air Conditioning System

Advanced Technology Package: $4,500
Includes Navigation Package equipment
plus Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
(DRCC), Pre-Collision System (PCS),
Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Intelligent
Parking Assist (IPA)

TORRANCE, Calif., April 21, 2009 - - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc.,
announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) today for the all-new
2010 Prius midsize hybrid, scheduled to go on sale beginning in late May at Toyota
dealers nationwide.
The third-generation Prius will be available in one grade with a starting MSRP
of $21,000. The Prius will be offered with five levels of popular standard equipment
combinations.
"The 2010 Prius delivers outstanding mileage, performance and advanced
technology at a great price," said Bob Carter, group vice president and general
manager of the Toyota Division.
Carter sees the most popular model starting at an MSRP of $22,000,
equipped with a high level of standard features, "This model provides more than
$2,000 added value, including the features most buyers want, at the same price as
the current base model" he said.
A new base model with a lower level of standard equipment is scheduled to
be available later this year. It is designed to appeal to the most cost-conscious
businesses and consumers.
Celebrated as the benchmark for cars of the future, the Prius has delivered
superior fuel economy and ultra-low emissions to more than 1.2 million owners
worldwide for over 10 years. When it goes on sale, the 2010 Toyota Prius will once
again set new standards for innovative hybrid design and technology, raising its level
of convenience features and performance to new heights, including EPA fuel
economy estimates of 51 mpg city, 48 mpg highway and 50 mpg combined (EPA
MPG estimates, actual mileage will vary).

The third-generation 2010 Prius will offer enhanced performance and
innovative design features. It will be quieter, roomier, and equipped with advanced
standard and available features such as four driving modes, steering wheel touch
controls that display on the instrument panel, a moonroof with solar panels, and
Intelligent Parking Assist (IPA).
The Prius is equipped with Toyota's industry-leading Hybrid Synergy Drive
and certified as an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-
PZEV), emitting over 70 percent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average
new vehicle. A larger and more powerful yet more efficient 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle,
four-cylinder engine produces 98 horsepower at 5,200 rpm. Together with its
electric motor the hybrid system in the new Prius will generate a combined net
horsepower of 134, an increase of 24 horsepower over the previous generation.
All Prius models offer Toyota's Star Safety System™ as standard equipment,
which includes enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control
(TRAC) Systems, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Force
Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). Other standard features include electric
power steering and four-wheel disc brakes.
Starting fall 2009, select Prius models will include Toyota's all-new telematics
service, Safety Connect™, which will offer four safety and security features:
Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location, Emergency Assistance
Button (SOS), and Roadside Assistance. Safety Connect will be available by
subscription, with an included one-year trial subscription.
Adding to the appeal of Prius is an additional array of standard convenience
features on most models that include automatic air conditioning equipped with an
electric air compressor; AM/FM/MP3 CD player with six-speakers and satellite radio
capability; driver door Smart Key system with Push Button Start and remote
illuminated entry; a Multi-Informational Display with an energy monitor and fuel
consumption history; six-way adjustable driver seat; power door locks; auto
up/down on all windows with window jam protection; cruise control; tilt/telescopic
adjustable steering wheel with audio and HVAC controls; color-keyed foldable power
heated side mirrors; dual sun visors with vanity mirrors; and tonneau cover.

Prius also brings many new firsts to the Toyota lineup. To help increase fuel
efficiency, the 1.8-liter engine is beltless, uses an electric water pump, a new
exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, and an exhaust heat collection system.
Other Toyota firsts include a new Touch Tracer Display, which features touch
sensors on the steering wheel switches that are designed to reduce driver eye
movement for better concentration on the road; an available sliding glass moonroof
is packaged with solar panels that power a new ventilation system; a remote air-
conditioning system functions on battery-power alone, and allows remote operation
so the driver can cool the interior temperature for comfort before getting in the car.
Also new to Toyota is an available Dynamic Radar Cruise Control system that
uses advanced millimeter wave radar. The system also enables Lane Keep Assist,
which helps the driver stay safely within the lane, and the Pre-Collision System,
which retracts seatbelts and applies the brakes in certain conditions when a crash is
unavoidable.

Base MSRPs do not include a delivery, processing, and handling (DPH) fee
of $750. The DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf
States Toyota (GST) may vary.

The Press Release Follows:

Mercedes-Benz ML 450 HYBRID: The perfect hybrid powertrain

*Compact 288-volt battery with high power density
*Sophisticated management system computes the most fuel-efficient operating mode in real time, 160 times a second with up to 50 million computing operations
*Consumption-optimised Atkinson V6 petrol engine developing 205 kW (279 hp)
*Classic benefits of the M-Class such as economy of space, high active and passive safety, ride comfort or the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive system are fully retained

In the search for the optimum hybrid system for the premium motor car, the engineers were already sure of one thing right from the concept phase: a Mercedes-Benz SUV with a hybrid drive would have to share the same typical brand attributes as any other Mercedes vehicle. Essential elements such as the greatest possible active and passive safety, optimum ride comfort and ease of operation, uncompromising reliability over a long period and high-quality workmanship with select materials would have to be on a par with a comparable, conventionally powered standard-production vehicle. And all combined with the greatest possible efficiency. At the same time, the drive system should be testimony to the company's innovative strength and cutting-edge technology. These objectives demanded a complete development cycle – the kind of process any new model family developed from scratch would undergo. Until the Mercedes-Benz ML 450 HYBRID reached series-production maturity, the engineers and technicians clocked up a total of four million kilometres, taking in some of the world's most extreme climatic conditions to prove the system's reliability, be it in the sub-zero Arctic circle, the searing heat of arid desert regions or in the sweltering, humid temperatures of the tropics. The work was supplemented by an extensive test-rig programme and detailed simulations as part of the "Digital Prototype". An important aim during development was to optimally match the various subsystems within the powertrain. System matching enables the various drive modes to be easily used while the customer is driving.
The two-mode hybrid technology in the ML 450 HYBRID, whose drive architecture supports purely electric operation and purely combustion engine operation or any combination of the two, takes its lead from the fundamental work undertaken by the "Global Hybrid Cooperation". This group brought together research and development work undertaken by the companies Daimler AG, BMW Group, General Motors and Chrysler.
Superior technology: two-mode hybrid for the most efficient drive system
Thanks to two-mode hybrid technology the ML 450 HYBRID boasts tangible benefits: its performance figures are on a par with a conventional eight-cylinder SUV with permanent all-wheel drive while fuel consumption and emissions have been reduced by up to 60%. The vehicle designed specifically for the US market delivers 'city' fuel consumption of 21 mpg and 'highway' consumption of 24 mpg, making it the most efficient vehicle in its segment. With its SULEV (Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle) classification, the SUV meets the most stringent emissions standard for vehicles with a combustion engine currently applicable in the US. At the same time, the ML 450 HYBRID with a system output of 250 kW (340 hp) and a combined torque of 517 newton metres guarantees a superlative driving experience combined with an enhanced level of ride comfort. The driver can concentrate fully on the traffic and enjoy the ML 450 HYBRID driving experience without having to select additional functions as the drive management system is fully automatic. The functionality of the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive system is also fully retained.
At the heart of the two-mode hybrid drive is the transmission unit with two compact electric motors, three planetary gear sets and four clutches. This configuration enables the power to be split into an electrical and a mechanical path. Conventional one-mode hybrid systems tend not to have mechanical ratios. As such, this kind of system transfers the bulk of the power via the electrical path with high electrical output and hence lower efficiency. It works efficiently principally at lower loads and speeds. If power also needs to be transferred at higher loads and speeds, an accordingly larger electric motor would be required. Having to power and find space for this engine would only be possible at the expense of efficiency. In response to increasing engine loads and higher speeds, two-mode technology, by contrast, variably shifts the power transfer from the electrical path to the mechanical drive path. As a result, the system is much more efficient in all situations, both in inner-city stop-and-go traffic as well as on fast motorway journeys, while also enabling smaller electric motors to be used. The efficiency boost – both in urban traffic as well as on motorway journeys - is therefore where "two-mode" technology gets its name from.
The four clutches are used to distribute the driving force generated by the electric motor and combustion engine via four fixed ratios and two electric variable ratios to all four wheels on the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive system, depending on the driving situation. Various strategies ensure the best possible fuel consumption and performance, depending on the traffic situation or the driver's requirements:

*When moving off or at low speed up to the second fixed gear, the ML 450 HYBRID operates in ECVT 1 mode (Electric Continuously Variable Transmission), delivering a very comfortable, smooth ride.
*At higher speed from the second fixed ratio, ECVT 2 mode is used. Depending on the optimum operation point, a combined or continuously variable mode is selected.
*In the first and third fixed gear both electric motors work synchronously, providing either additional energy for acceleration (boost) or storing the braking and coasting energy (recuperation).
*In the second and fourth fixed gear, one electric motor is switched off to improve efficiency. The second electric motor is used for the booster function and recuperation.

The two compact electric motors boast a high power density and are fully integrated into the transmission housing. The limited installation space means the two electric motors have to be configured differently. The first electric motor - positioned nearer to the combustion engine - develops 62 kW (85 hp) and 235 newton metres of torque and has been designed with power output and minimal losses firmly in mind. The electric motor placed at the end of the transmission develops 60 kW (82 hp) and 260 newton metres and is thus the ideal solution for moving off solely under electric power and providing the booster function.
Compact 288-volt battery with high power density
The electrical energy in the ML 450 HYBRID is stored in a compact, liquid-cooled high-voltage nickel-metal hydride battery. Battery data at a glance:
Type

Liquid-cooled high-voltage nickel-
metal hydride battery
Mounting location

Vehicle rear
Weight (kg)

83
Modules / cells (quantity)

24 / 240
Electrical output (kW)

45
Capacity (kWh)

2.4
Voltage (V)

288

A battery management function monitors and controls the various charge flows during electric motoring, boost or recuperation to ensure a stable charge state. The entire high-voltage onboard network complies with the most stringent safety standards.
Sophisticated management system computes the most fuel-efficient operating mode in real time
Operation of the two external rotor magneto motors and the management of the entire high-voltage onboard network requires complex control electronics housed in the engine compartment of the ML 450 HYBRID. Waste heat from the electronics is dissipated via a separate cooling circuit to increase efficiency. An integrated Auxiliary Power Module enables power to be exchanged between the 288-volt battery and the 12-volt onboard network.
A powerful computer controls the hybrid system with up to 50 million computing operations a second. The electronic control unit calculates the most efficient operating mode 160 times a second, thus ensuring the lowest possible fuel consumption. The management system also supports new functions and comfort/convenience features:

*
The transmission's coordinated shift strategies ensure judder-free manoeuvring
*
"Chill down" mode enables the battery to recover during overload or high temperatures*
*
An adaptive drive mode learns the driving style of the driver or the particular route profile to optimise the agility of the drive mode
*
The "Power Launch Control" supports optimum acceleration in boost mode*
*
The "Traffic Jam" feature enables the vehicle to be driven entirely under electric power in stop-and-go traffic even with a low battery charge status*

* exclusive features of the ML 450 HYBRID

Consumption-optimised Atkinson V6 engine
The modified 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine has been optimised in accordance with the Atkinson process, delivering substantially better fuel consumption and emissions figures with an output of 205 kW (279 hp) and a maximum torque of 350 newton metres. The development engineers utilised some of the benefits of the Atkinson principle whereby the expansion phase is longer than the compression phase. The intake valve is kept open slightly longer between the intake and compression phases, which improves the engine's thermal efficiency while reducing the specific fuel consumption and untreated emissions. This process is not used with conventionally powered vehicles because Atkinson engines - apart from the lower fuel consumption and emissions - tend to deliver lower torque at lower revs and thus inferior response particularly at low engine speeds. On the ML 450 HYBRID this drawback is more than offset through the use of the electric motors when moving off normally, accelerating or using the booster function. The M-Class thus offers superb responsiveness and agility.
Compared with the conventional 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, the Atkinson version features a modified cylinder head, pistons and camshaft. The camshaft timing has also been modified. The newly developed regulated oil pump adjusts the flow rate to the engine's actual requirements, thus minimising the necessary delivery rate and helping reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Since the alternator and starter functions are integrated in the two electric motors, these two components, which are now surplus to requirements, no longer need to be connected up to the belt drive on the combustion engine. The air conditioning compressor and the steering servo pump are another two components that do not need to be powered via the belt drive. These are driven electrically on the ML 450 HYBRID and can be run independently of the combustion engine.
Operating strategies of the two-mode hybrid drive
The ML 450 HYBRID offers the full range of extra functions offered by a hybrid drive. These include variable hybrid mode for city and motorway driving, silent, purely electric moving off and motoring, the "booster function" for fast acceleration, recuperation and the start/stop function. These functions are activated depending on the operating state and traffic situation:

*
While at a standstill, the combustion engine is switched off. The air conditioning and power steering functions are fully retained thanks to the electric drive of the air conditioning compressor and the steering servo pump.
*
Manoeuvring, for instance when parking, only uses the electric drive.
*
If the driver presses the accelerator from a standstill, the ML 450 HYBRID moves off solely using electric power. If the accelerator is pressed rapidly, the management system recognises the need for increased acceleration, activates the combustion engine which it backs up with additional torque from the electric motor (booster effect). This noticeably increases the vehicle's agility without having to use the kickdown feature.
*
When cruising, the operation point is shifted toward lower specific fuel consumption figures to increase the efficiency of the V6 engine while in turn also increasing efficiency particularly under partial loads.
*
Recuperation, the conversion of braking energy into electric power and subsequent storage starts immediately the vehicle is in overrun mode or during normal braking manoeuvres. The service brake is also activated during heavy braking. The ML 450 HYBRID can match where necessary the kind of good maximum deceleration you will find on a conventionally powered M-Class with the same superb handling.
*
The start/stop function deactivates the V6 engine as soon as it is not needed, say when rolling up to a red traffic light. As soon as the driver presses the accelerator, the ML moves off using electric power and then starts the combustion engine.
*
The Silent Start enables the vehicle to be started without creating any noise.

Info display indicates current operating state
The ML 450 HYBRID driving experience offers an impressive mix of high agility and balanced ride comfort under all operating conditions. A specially designed display concept enables the driver to keep track of the particular drive mode. The COMAND system display can be used to either display the current energy flow between the high-voltage battery, combustion engine and electric motors including the percentage charge state of the battery, or a fuel consumption and recuperation energy graphic. The battery charge state can also be called up in the instrument cluster. The conventional rev counter is replaced by a display which illustrates the combined drive system and recuperation output at a given moment.
The choice is yours: Economy or Sport mode
To ensure you can experience the extraordinary agility of the ML 450 HYBRID even more emphatically, apart from Economy mode, the model comes with a Sport mode, which is activated using the "E/S" button in the centre console. This operating mode provides the handling of a conventional automatic transmission with eight fixed ratios and very short shift times. The response is even more spontaneous thanks to the decidedly sporty engine and transmission control unit and the direct through-drive in the powertrain. Sport mode also recognises the driving characteristics of the driver or the particular road profile and adapts the system management function accordingly.
Classic benefits of the M-Class remain unchanged
The Mercedes-Benz M-Class models rank among the most successful premium SUVs and offer the greatest possible active and passive safety, optimum ride comfort and ease of operation, uncompromising reliability over a long period and high-quality workmanship with select materials. These attributes naturally also apply to the ML 450 HYBRID, which in these respects offers performance on a par with the conventionally powered variants. The hybrid version meets the same crash requirements and offers outstanding active safety thanks to the dynamic handling control systems ESP®, ABS or BAS and the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive system. The hybrid technology has been integrated perfectly, without taking up any additional installation space which would compromise comfort or practicality. The space in the passenger compartment is unchanged; the boot capacity is as large as ever. The only external clues on the ML 450 HYBRID are the redesigned bonnet, the BlueEFFICIENCY label on the wings and the HYBRID lettering on the rear.
The ML 450 HYBRID is produced at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, in the United States.

The Press Release follows:

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Benchmark in the luxury segment

* S400 HYBRID: the first series-production Mercedes-Benz passenger car with
* hybrid drive and the world's first car with a lithium-ion battery
* Additional safety thanks to the latest driver assistance systems
* Modern, innovative design

After three years of the current S-Class, Mercedes-Benz is launching the restyled 2010 S-Class in August. With the very latest technology for even greater safety, as well as trailblazing innovations in comfort and drive technology, the Mercedes-Benz flagship is reasserting its leading position as the brand's innovation platform and benchmark for luxury sedans.

In the 2010 S-Class, Mercedes-Benz has improved the renowned safety level even further with a unique combination of innovative camera and radar-based driver assistance systems. These include Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and the PRE-SAFE® brake system linked to the proximity regulating radar, which intervenes autonomously before an impending rear-end collision and acts like an invisible crumple zone. Other innovations in the 2010 S-Class include the ATTENTION ASSIST driver drowsiness monitor and Active Body Control with automatic crosswind stabilization.

The new S400 HYBRID is also celebrating its debut. As the first series-production Mercedes-Benz passenger car with hybrid drive, this S-Class model is the world's most economical luxury car with a gasoline engine. Its estimated combined fuel consumption of 29 miles per gallon sets a new worldwide benchmark in this vehicle segment.

"The S400 HYBRID is a major milestone on our road towards emission-free mobility", says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of Daimler AG and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Cars. "Our first series-production hybrid passenger car exemplifies the long-term, sustainability-oriented development strategy of Mercedes-Benz, which has a clearly defined aim: economical and environmentally compatible premium automobiles, with no compromises in terms of safety, comfort and a superior driving experience." The S400 HYBRID is also a trailblazer where energy storage is concerned: the new luxury sedan is the first series production car in the world to be equipped with the very latest lithium-ion battery technology. "In this way the S-Class and the Mercedes-Benz brand are doing important pioneering work for the electrification of the automobile."

The new hybrid model combines a low fuel consumption and a high level of environmental compatibility with superior performance: the internal combustion engine and the hybrid module develop a combined output of 295 hp, and a combined maximum torque of 284 lb-ft. (The electric motor contributes 20 hp and 118 lb-ft to the powertrain).

With 270,000 units sold world-wide since its launch, the W 221-series S-Class is the world's most successful luxury sedan, and seamlessly continues the success story of the flagship model in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. Since 1951, when the model 220 began the direct lineage of the S-Class, Mercedes-Benz has delivered around 3.3 million passenger cars from this model series to customers.

The U.S. line-up includes the S400 HYBRID, the 382-hp V8-powered S550 and all-wheel-drive S550 4MATIC as well as the high-performance 518-hp S63 AMG. V12 offerings include the 510-hp S600 and the top-of-the-line 604-hp S65 AMG. The 2010 S-Class will be in U.S. showrooms beginning in August.

Unique combination of driver assistance systems

An absolutely unique combination of ultra-modern assistance and protection systems is available for the 2010 S-Class. Many of these systems are also available for the new E-Class, which debuts this summer. The new assistance systems turn the models in the E and S-Class into "intelligent" partners for their driver. The car is able to "see", "feel", respond reflexively and act autonomously to prevent accidents or mitigate their effects. Mercedes-Benz also uses cameras in these systems - these are able to look well ahead, monitor the car's surroundings and interpret typically critical situations. One example is the optional Adaptive Highbeam Assist. This system recognizes oncoming or leading vehicles and then controls the headlamps to ensure the best possible beam range without dazzling other drivers on the road.

The Sindelfingen-based engineers have also developed Night View Assist further – Night View Assist PLUS is equipped with a special pedestrian detection function: as soon as the system detects pedestrians ahead of the car, they are highlighted on the display to make it easier for the driver to see them.

Lane Keeping Assist is another system that "looks ahead" for even safer driving. The system's computer is able to recognize lane markings by evaluating the contrasting images of the road surface and the markings. If the vehicle leaves the lane unintentionally, the driver is warned by short vibrations of the steering wheel. Unlike conventional systems of this kind, the Mercedes-Benz system is able to evaluate the driver's activities as well and can reliably ascertain whether the car is leaving its lane intentionally or not. Therefore, there is no warning if the driver accelerates before overtaking or merging onto a highway, brakes heavily, or enters a curve.

Drowsiness detection on the basis of more than 70 parameters

With the driver drowsiness monitor, ATTENTION ASSIST, the 2010 S-Class has very sensitive monitors for the attention level of its driver and can warn them in time when they becomes drowsy. This innovative technology continuously monitors more than 70 different parameters. Once the high-resolution steering angle sensor recognizes the steering behavior that typically indicates the onset of drowsiness, a warning signal is sounded and "ATTENTION ASSIST. Time for a break!" appears in the instrument cluster.

Mercedes-Benz has also improved the long and medium-range radar used by Brake Assist PLUS and DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control. Both systems assist the driver during emergency braking. If the driver is distracted and fails to recognize the immediate danger of a rear-end collision, the PRE-SAFE®Brake is able to intervene and brake the vehicle independently. For the 2010 S-Class the developers in Sindelfingen have improved this system even further: if the driver fails to react even after an acoustic and visual warning, the PRE-SAFE®Brake is able to activate the maximum braking pressure around 0.6 seconds before what is now recognized as an unavoidable accident — an emergency braking action that can significantly mitigate the severity of the impact. The system therefore acts as something like an "electronic crumple zone".

Detailed fine-tuning has also given the 2010 S-Class better driving dynamics and agility. This is in large measure due to the new electro-hydraulic Direct-Steer system, where the ratio varies with the steering angle.

New: Active Body Control (ABC) compensates for crosswinds

Mercedes-Benz developers have also added a crosswind stabilization function to Active Body Control (ABC) suspension. For this purpose ABC uses the yaw rates and lateral acceleration sensors of the Electronic Stability Program ESP® to vary the wheel load distribution via the ABC spring struts, depending on the direction and intensity of the crosswind. This enables the effects of crosswinds to be compensated, or reduced to a minimum in the case of strong gusts.

S400 HYBRID: the world's most economical gasoline-engined luxury sedan

The 2010 S-Class also plays a pioneering role where its drive system is concerned: "The modular hybrid concept sets the new standard for efficient, clean and superior motoring pleasure in all vehicle segments, and is therefore a driving force for the premium automobile of the future", says Dr. Thomas Weber, the member of the Daimler AG Executive Board responsible for corporate research and development at Mercedes-Benz Cars.

The new S400 HYBRID is the first car to be designed on the basis of the highly intelligent modular concept developed by Mercedes-Benz to give its customers the best hybrid solution for their requirements. The S400 HYBRID, which is a true technological trendsetter with this concept, features all the necessary
components:

* a compact yet powerful electric motor
* the accompanying operating electronics
* a modern lithium-ion storage battery with a high capacity.

The compact hybrid module combines the hybrid functions of an automatic start-stop system and energy recuperation. In several respects this means that the S400 HYBRID sets a new standard in its class, making it the world's most economical luxury sedan with a gasoline engine. Dr. Thomas Weber: "This demonstrates that Mercedes-Benz is able to combine sustainable mobility with the claim of automotive premium positioning - with vehicles that are efficient and environmentally compatible, without having to accept compromises in terms of safety, comfort and superior driving refinement. At the same time the S400 HYBRID dispels the myth that sustainable mobility is only possible with small cars."

The combined fuel economy for the S400 HYBRID is estimated at 29 miles per gallon, a 30-percent increase over the S550.

This figure is accompanied by a truly superior performance potential: the modified 3.5-liter gasoline engine develops 275 hp, while the electric motor generates 20 hp and a starting torque of 118 lb-ft.

The new Mercedes-Benz S400 HYBRID is based on a V6 version of the S-Class and features an extensively modified drive train. This encompasses a further development of the 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, an additional magneto-electric motor, the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission specially configured for the hybrid module, the necessary operating and control electronics, the transformer and a high-voltage lithium-ion battery.

During braking the electric motor acts as a generator and is able to recover kinetic energy by a process known as recuperation. During this process the electric motor works together seamlessly with the engine brake of the internal combustion engine and the conventional wheel brakes. The recuperated energy is stored by a compact but efficient lithium-ion battery in the engine compartment and retrieved when required. Major advantages over conventional nickel/metal hydride batteries include a higher energy density and greater electrical efficiency combined with more compact dimensions and a low battery weight. Thanks to space-saving installation in the engine compartment, the trunk capacity and generous interior dimensions remain unchanged. The hybrid module also has a
convenient start-stop function.

Comfort: the latest multimedia technology

With its 6.5-inch color display screen, the standard COMAND system with GPS navigation has been refined with a forty-gigabyte hard drive as well as an integrated six-disc CD-DVD player and a Music Register for around 1,000 MP3 tracks. HD Digital Radio and Zagat Restaurant ratings are also available.

A new media interface makes it easier than ever to connect an iPod, USB stick, memory card and other devices. Music tracks can be indicated on the COMAND display located on the center console as well as a smaller display in the center of the instrument cluster and they can be selected with the buttons on the multi-function steering wheel.

Any Bluetooth-enabled cell phone will work hands-free – even with the phone in a pocket or purse, the audio is automatically muted when a call is made or received and callers are heard over the audio system speakers. In addition, phone book info can be displayed by the COMAND system.

Design: a muscular, self-assured presence

The modified design reflects the effortless superiority and power of the S-Class sedan. It is characterized by the more pronounced arrow-shape of the radiator grille, plus a new front bumper with a discreet light-catching contour and a chrome strip below the cooling air intakes. Exhaust tailpipes of all S-Class variants are visibly integrated into the rear bumper. The headlamps incorporate bi-xenon technology and LED indicators on the lower edge of the headlamp as standard. Eye-catching highlights on the S400 HYBRID are provided by the two round foglamps and daytime driving lights on each side of the front bumper. Their location at the outer edges of the bumper underlines the muscular character of the S400 HYBRID.

An even more dynamic look is provided by the Premium 1 package, which is standard on the majority of the model line and includes striking LED arrays for daytime driving lights, indicators and marker lights. They lend an unmistakable day-and-night design to the front end. The rear end is characterized by tail lights in an innovative LED design. Here too, a total of 52 LEDs in the form of a double-C form an unmistakable light signature.

Mercedes-Benz also makes more use of light as a styling element in the interior via the standard ambient lighting, now with a choice between three lighting moods: solar (amber), neutral (white) and polar (ice-blue).

Interior: carefully selected materials and first-class finishing

The multifunction steering wheel of the S-Class has also been modified by the Mercedes-Benz designers: the rim and airbag module are lined with soft premium leather as standard. The new, flatter airbag module also lends a sporty touch to the multifunction steering wheel. Mercedes-Benz engineers have also implemented specific aerodynamic measures to reduce wind noise, which also contributes to greater traveling comfort.

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class will be in U.S. showrooms beginning in August 2009.

Honda originally planed to equip future generations of large cars like the Accord and Acura TL, TSX and RL models with diesel engines capable of returning higher fuel economy than the gas-powered engine lineup and cleaner emissions than many. Combine that with excellent drive-ability thanks to gobs of torque, and they'd have had a winner on their hands. Honda Europe's current 2.2 i-CTDi is widely considered one of the best diesel powertrains on the market. Last year, we tested it in a Honda Civic, getting 72.4 MPG in the process. Now, future generations of that engine will be dropped in favor of gas/electric hybrids as fitted to the 2010 Honda Insight.

The company officially cites the difficulty involved in getting diesels through current US and Japanese emissions test, but we think that's a bunch of hot air. Or at least we'll let our oil-burning love cloud our vision enough to see it that way. [via Automobile]

With yesterday's 2010 Toyota Prius Review, we've now driven all three major competitors in the Greener-Than-Thou segment. Let's take a look at how the new Prius stacks up against the bigger, mid-size 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid sedan (which normally would play against Toyota's larger Camry Hybrid, but since the Fusion's already kicked it's tail in fuel economy, we thought we'd move it up from the JV Hybrid Car Wars to the Varsity level), the 2010 Honda Insight and, sort of like a control subject, a 1990 Geo Metro XFi. We'll take a look at how each plays against each other when it comes to fuel economy, size and space, performance, driving dynamics and price. So finally, we can answer the question: Which new hybrid car should you buy?

Fuel Economy:

Adjusted for the new EPA standards, we're amazed that the 19-year old Geo Metro XFI turns in better highway fuel economy than any of the hybrids. Predictably, the Toyota Prius, with its stop/start engine and large battery pack manages to best it in the city cycle, but neither the Insight nor Fusion Hybrid can do the same.

We've tried hypermilling the three hybrids, managing 43.8 MPG in the Ford Fusion Hybrid in city driving, figures in the low 60 MPG range with the Insight and low 70s with the Prius, both in mixed driving. While specific comparisons shouldn't be drawn based on those numbers, they do indicate the ability of each to exceed their official EPA ratings by driving like a grandparent; the Fusion Hybrid can barely manage it, while both the Insight and Prius easily exceed them.

A quick Google search reveals tales of owners averaging 60-70 MPG in Metro XFis in realistic conditions.

Size/Space:

The compact-class Honda Insight has 85.0 cubic feet of passenger space, considerably less than the mid-size Fusion and just-sub-mid-size Prius. They measure 99.8 and 93.7 cubic feet respectively. Since they're hatchbacks, both the Insight and Prius are more flexible for carrying cargo than the Fusion; the Ford only has 11.8 cubic feet of space in its trunk, while the Insight manages 15.8 with its seats up, the Prius measures 21.6. A larger car with more space in the rear seat, the Prius's storage room is noticeably larger than the Insight with the rear seats folded flat.

The Geo is absolutely tiny, at 146.1" it's over two feet shorter than the Insight.

Toys:

All three hybrids have noted that the largest determining factor in fuel economy is the driver and taken steps to give them the tools to drive in the most fuel-efficient manner. The Honda Insight does this with both an "Econ" button that, like Prozac, removes the highs and lows from throttle inputs and an aggregate display of your fuel economy history, complete with Game Boy-worthy graphics and simulated medals for good performance. Supplementing that is a more immediate glowing surround for the speedometer, it turns bright green when you're driving economical, before fading to dark blue when you're not.

Honda's is a more effective system than the equally low-tech display in the Prius, which provides drivers with only a confusing bar graph that tracks from "Charge" to "Power" and a history of your recent fuel economy figures.

The Ford SmartGauge with EcoGuide, on the other hand, provides drivers with a myriad of tools "empowering" them to make full use of the hybridized drivetrain to achieve maximum fuel economy. In addition to a seriously useful sliding indicator of how much throttle opening you can use while remaining in EV mode, it features a section of nicely-animated leaves that whither and die, or bloom and grow depending on your driving habits. It also shows you when you're using regenerative braking and how much charge it's sending to the batteries. Seriously, it's a sexy-looking system that will have a real impact on your fuel economy.

The Metro has a five-speed manual gearbox.

Price:

The Insight's Raison d'être is to offer people who want a Prius a cheaper option. Unfortunately, at $19,800 (before $670 in destination, license and registration) it looks like it'll only be about $2,700 cheaper than the more fuel-efficient 2010 Prius. It's estimated that car will come in around $500 more expensive than the 2009 model, which starts at $22,00. The Fusion Hybrid is considerably more expensive at $27,270, but comes loaded with options.

Then there's the used Metro Xfi, they're hard to find (especially in good condition), but prices have come down from last summer's fuel-crisis high of $7-8,000; expect to pay less than $3,000 for a good one.

Driving Dynamics:

The Fusion Hybrid has a clear performance advantage, hitting 60 MPH a second faster than the 2nd place Prius. While none of these are what you'd consider true driver's cars, both the Ford and Toyota are perversely fun to drive. Sadly we can't say the same of the Insight, which is merely competent. The Insight is also far less refined than either the Prius or Fusion Hybrid; both of those cars ride and isolate noise like luxury cars.

The used Metro is ridiculously slow, unrefined and doesn't come with things like modern tires, suspension or brakes. At 19-years old, it's also likely to be suffering from mechanical problems.

Image:

There's no denying the pop culture resonance of the Toyota Prius. It's the choice of vacuous, eco-friendly image-seeking celebrities everywhere. Buy one and you'll instantly appear to be the greenest family on your block. The Insight, which adopts a similar look, will benefit from riding the Prius's coattails and from the name recognition its first-hybrid-vehicle-ever predecessor lends it. It's a hard case for the Ford, which needs to rely on all its leafy "hybrid" badges to make a case for itself.

Driving a crappy old Metro in front of anyone but an extremely savvy hypermilling enthusiast will simply make you look like you didn't get into Meth production until the market was already flooded.

Which Hybrid Should I Buy:

You may be wondering which car you should buy as your first Hybrid, or which one makes the most convincing case for the current Hybrid owner to trade up to a better vehicle. What about people who don't want to sacrifice driving dynamics in the pursuit of economy or just want a cheap, practical, fuel-efficient vehicle for their commute? The answer for all those people is the 2010 Toyota Prius. Not only is it the most fuel-efficient new vehicle for sale in this country, but it's the most practical vehicle here, at a size larger than the Insight with plenty of room for both people and packages. Combine both those advantages with driving dynamics that are on par with the Ford Fusion Hybrid and what should be a very reasonable starting price and you have an incredibly complete package. Then there's the reputation; this new Prius finally lives up to it, we just wish it had Ford's SmartGauges.

Notes:
- All numbers quoted have been provided by the manufacturers. Exceptions are clearly distinguished by "(Est)" which indicates an educated estimate has been made.
- Fuel economy figures quoted come from the Environmental Protection Agency and are in US gallons. 1 US gallon = 1.2 Imperial gallons.
- The EPA mileage test changed in 2008 to a much more stringent standard. Vehicles tested before the change typically returned xx% better economy than the do now. For example, the 2007 Toyota Prius was rated at 55 MPG combined before and 46 MPG combined after the change. This new standard is widely considered to be more accurate than European tests. For example, the Honda Insight is officially rated at 64.2 MPG combined in the United Kingdom. That's 53.5 MPG in US gallons, 12.5 MPG more than it's rated at here.

Nissan has been slow to the hybrid market and the not-so-popular Altima Hybrid has seen lackluster sales numbers. Rather than going full bore with its hybrid program, Nissan has been watching other manufacturers get their feet wet first. With Toyota getting ready to release its Lexus HS 250h and the potential for the Chevy Volt-based Cadillac Converj concept making it into production, Nissan really needs to step it up if it wants to get into this market.

It's said Nissan will start producing the lithium-ion battery-based gas/electric hybrid by the 2010 model year. We'll see about that. [via asiaone]

Click HERE to see the exclusive video from WXYZ's coverage of the event.

Not only did Obama's auto task force visit GM, but they also traveled down the street to Chrysler's Warren manufacturing plant. Both GM and Chrysler are begging asking for an additional $17.4 Billion in government loans, needing this money to survive throughout the coming months.

We're happy the Arizona Senator and Presidential hopeful, John McCain, isn't in charge based on his quote on CNBC today:

"I think the best thing that could probably happen to General Motors, in my view, is they go into Chapter 11. They reorganize, they renegotiate ... the union-management contracts and come out of it a stronger, better, leaner more competitive automotive industry."

Thanks, Senator McCain, for staying positive.

Both GM and Chrysler released statements regarding President Obama's auto task force visit which you can read below:

GM Statement:

"We were pleased to host the Task Force so they could experience firsthand the new products and technologies that are an integral part of GM's near- and long-term competitiveness. We look forward to continuing to support the efforts of the Task Force as they move quickly to address their critical tasks. We believe today's visit provided a constructive glimpse of GM people, their passion for their work, and the technology solutions that are behind the pages of our viability plan."

Chrysler Statement:

Chrysler was pleased to meet today with the Presidential Task Force on the Auto Industry here at our manufacturing plant in Warren, Michigan. Warren Truck Assembly Plant is home to 2,600 Chrysler employees and produces Dodge pickup trucks, including one of the company's best known products, the
Dodge Ram, winner of Car and Drivers' 2009 truck comparison.

We can confirm that on behalf of Chrysler LLC, the meeting was attended by Chairman and CEO Robert Nardelli, Vice Chairman and President Tom LaSorda, Vice Chairman and President Jim Press, and Chief Financial Officer Ron Kolka. In addition to meeting, the group toured the assembly plant and reviewed Chrysler current and future products, including electric and hybrid vehicles.

Beyond this, we are not commenting on the details of our meetings with the Presidential Task Force.

We're fully engaged with the Presidential Task Force on the Auto Industry, the U.S. Treasury and the White House during this process of ensuring the industry's viability going forward. We look forward to continuing our dialogue.

We'll see in the coming weeks how this visit helps our struggling U.S. automakers. Cross your fingers.

[via WXYZ]