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alternative energy
Another Twist: Tesla Sued By Magna Powertrain
The drama surrounding Tesla continues to unfold as recently discovered court documents show that the debatably legitimate electric automaker is being sued by Magna Powertrain. The lawsuit dates back to February 22 and states that Tesla failed to pay Magna for design of the two-speed transmission used in the Tesla Roadster. The story does have bit of he-said, she-said, unfortunately. More »
novelties
Raytheon HY-DRA Shows Off In-Wheel E-Motors
All the big names in defense are here today hawking their wares and Raytheon has an off road badass-mobile that practically begs to be flogged mightily. The Hybrid-Defense Recon Assault (HY-DRA) shows off some pretty neat tech (which actually is sort of the military version of the Chevy Volt). The HY-DRA is an EV with in-wheel motors, an on-board range extender, a sweet McLaren F1-style three seat layout, and a monster .50 caliber up top. Funny thing about that .50 cal, before they decided to go with the in-wheel motor design, they had inboard mounted motors and half shafts running out to the wheels. When fired perpendicular to the line of travel, the recoil from the gun would actually knock the HY-DRA on its side. Yeah, this is one instance where unpsrung weight and low center of gravity go well together.More »
industry news
GM May Subsidize $10,000 Two-Mode Hybrid Powertrain
Automotive News is reporting the General's new dual-mode hybrid powertrain, which has two electric motors to assist the engine, and is one of what may be up to three new hybrid powertrain systems for the General, costs $10,000. The dual-mode hybrid system is designed to be dropped into the upcoming hybrid versions of the GMT-900 twins, the GMC Yukon and Chevrolet Tahoe. Although considering the Toyota Highlander hybrid costs about $8,000 more than the base model Toyota Highlander, this sounds pretty much in line with the rest of the industry. But, to make a more steal-like deal out of the dual-mode expected to cut 25% of the fuel consumption in the big SUV's, we're also hearing GM's looking to subsidize the cost. Sounds like a smart marketing move to us but we'll see if it translates to a sticker price that'll push big beasts out of dealer lots. More »
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