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Nissan ties up with ABB, 4R Energy, Sumitomo to assess residential, commercial use of lithium-ion battery

Editorial Team — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 04:53:23 +0000

Nissan North America, Inc., (NNA) and ABB, the world’s leading power and technology group, along with 4R Energy and Sumitomo Corporation of America, have formed a partnership to evaluate the reuse of lithium-ion battery packs that power the Nissan LEAF, the world’s first and only all-electric car designed for the mass market, said the company.

It indicates that Nissan wants to use the lithium-ion battery beyond powering its electric car LEAF and to enter the energy storage system segment. Nissan JV is studying the commercial viability of grid storage solution and develop a prototype to effectively reuse Nissan LEAF batteries.

The purpose is to evaluate and test the residential and commercial applications of energy storage systems or back-up power sources using lithium-ion battery packs reclaimed from electric vehicles after use. The team plans to develop a LEAF battery storage prototype with a capacity of at least 50 kilowatt hours (kWh), enough to supply 30 average homes with electricity for one hour.

Electric vehicle batteries, such as those that power the Nissan LEAF, have longer lives than those of personal computers or cell phones, with up to 70 percent capacity remaining after 10 years of use in an automotive application. This longevity allows them to be used beyond the lifetime of the vehicle for applications such as a smart-grid community energy management system or battery energy storage.

Innovative energy storage solutions are expected to become a key component of the smart grid, contributing to greater efficiency, reliability and performance. They will facilitate further integration of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, into the grid. The evaluation of Nissan batteries, through the partnership, will help determine their suitability for the power industry as a cost-effective energy storage solution.

Toyota launches ‘Aqua’ gasoline-electric compact hybrid in Japan

Editorial Team — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 15:59:42 +0000

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) launches “Aqua” gasoline-electric compact hybrid car in Japan.The Aqua hatch is powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 72 horsepower and an electric motor rated at 45 kW as well as fed by additional power from a nickel-metal-hydride battery pack. Aqua gives amazing mileage between 35 kmpl and 40 kmpl, said the company.

Toyota Aqua has a starting price of 1.69 million yen or $21,669 and will be available in three grades namely L, S and G. Aqua combines a comfortable and roomy interior with a stylish body, and displays exciting acceleration and agility.

The Aqua engine provides a combined output of 98 hp providing 0-60 acceleration in less than 10.7 seconds. Aqua will be equipped with Toyota Hybrid System II (THS II) with reduction gear, which offers fuel efficiency of 35.4 km/L under the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism’s (MLIT’s) JC08 test cycle and 40.0 km/L under the MLIT 10-15 test cycle.

A cooled Exhaust-Gas Recirculation (EGR) system improves efficiency in the high-expansion-ratio Atkinson cycle engine. Also contributing to increased engine efficiency is a battery-powered water pump, a friction-reducing beltless design and precise coolant-water-flow volume control.

The hybrid transaxle, which includes the power control unit, the power-generation motor and drive motor, has also been designed to be small and light.

A selectable electric-vehicle mode (EV Mode) enables driving with only the electric motor.

Key Hybrid System Specifications
Engine:
Model                      1NZ-FXE
Displacement               1,496 cc
Maximum output             54 kW (74 PS)/4,800 rpm
Maximum torque             111 N-m (11.3 kgf-m)/3,600-4,400 rpm

Motor:
Maximum output             45 kW (61 PS)
Maximum torque             169 N-m (17.2 kgf-m)

Engine & Motor:
Combined maximum output    73 kW (100 PS)
Battery:                    Nickel-metal hydride

The Aqua exterior offers a bold and modern design with a powerful and refined front mask and a rear silhouette that evokes imagery of brisk yet stable driving performance.

Aqua comes in ten vibrant and stylish body colors, including new Citrus Orange Mica Metallic and Lime White Pearl Crystal Shine.

In the interior, Aqua’s instrument panel structure evokes a great sense of space, while the modern and geometric layout with color-coded, switch-operated areas reflect the pursuit of enjoyment and user-friendliness.

Distinctive and effective accent color placement contributes to a brighter interior and is available in four patterns: Earth Brown, Fresh Green, Cool Blue, and Natural Gray.

Since the hybrid battery has been sized for placement under the rear seat, Aqua has a spacious cargo area of 305 liters.
In addition to a long 2,550 mm wheelbase, the hybrid unit and engine are positioned to create a low center of gravity for superior maneuvering performance.

Engine and motor power combine to provide smooth acceleration from standstill to 100 km/h in 10.7 seconds and also at mid-range speeds, such as from 40 km/h to 70 km/h in 3.6 seconds (all measurements according to TMC).

With a minimum turning radius of 4.8 meters, the Aqua also boasts excellent maneuverability.

Aqua features ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) maximizing braking performance, with the EBD appropriately distributing braking force between the front and rear wheels according to driving conditions.

Vehicle Stability Control controls brake and engine output to maintain vehicle stability if skidding occurs. Traction Control controls wheel spin to simplify acceleration operation.

Hill-start Assist Control reduces anxiety about the vehicle rolling backwards when starting on a steep incline.
Automatic air conditioning comes standard on all models and is equipped with an electric inverter compressor run by the electric motor, enabling a comfortably air-conditioned interior even when the engine is off.

Honda to showcase EV-STER electric small sports concept car at Tokyo Motor Show 2011

admin — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 07:19:32 +0000

Exterior of Honda EV-STER electric small sports concept car

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. will showcase the world premiere of the EV-STER, the electric small sports concept model, at the 42^nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011, which will be held between December 3 and December 11, 2011 at Tokyo.

Featuring a dynamic and innovative styling design and excellent environmental performance, the EV-STER, an electric rear-wheel-drive two-seater convertible sports car, will propose a new way to enjoy a sports type model which is unique to the electromotive mobility. The adoption of carbon materials made it possible to reduce the vehicle weight contributing to the vehicle’s high driving performance and range of approximately 160km. The easy-to-operate twin-lever steering was adopted for the thorough pursuit of the joy of driving. Moreover, the new concept model enables the driver to make his/her own adjustments to some vehicle characteristics such as motor output and suspension settings, to embody the joy of maneuvering to the fullest extent.

Furthermore, the instrument panel features not only meters, but also the vehicle information display which enables the driver to enjoy driving as well as the network display used for the audio and navigation systems and also for the internet access. The well-designed layout of the meters and displays enables the driver to concentrate on driving and enjoy the comfortable space.

Key specifications of the EV-STER

Vehicle length	3,570mm
Vehicle width	1,500mm
Vehicle height	1,100mm
Wheelbase	2,325mm
Maximum speed	160km/h
Acceleration (0-60km/h)	5.0 sec
Maximum range	Approximately 160km (JC08 mode)
Battery	10kWh lithium-ion battery
Maximum battery output	58kW
Charging time	200V: under 3 hours 100V: under 6 hours

2012 Nissan GT-R launched

Editorial Team — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 09:39:34 +0000

Nissan launches the new version of its legendary GT-R, the latest evolution of its signature model, offering even more power and advanced performance.

The 2012 GT-R, revealed to journalists at the Sugo International Race Circuit in Japan’s Miyagi Prefecture, builds on the success of the current model, increasing horsepower, torque and fuel economy.

Nissan 2012 GT-R has a maximum output 404kW (550ps), 6,400 rpm and maximum torque 632n-m (64.5 kgf-m) from 3,200 to 5,800 rmp. The fuel concemption is 8.6 kilometers/litre.

The new GT-R also features an innovative asymmetric suspension system that improves steering responsiveness and enhances cornering stability, says Chief Vehicle Engineer Kazutoshi Mizuno.

“We have a car that has the potential to go from 0-100 km/h (0-62mph) in under 3 seconds, lap the Nurburgring in less than 7 minutes 20 seconds, and cruise at speeds of 300 kilometers per hour,” he said, speaking trackside at Sugo. “But what marks out the GT-R today is that you can drive it on the autobahn at speeds like that with a degree of comfort.”

The 2012 edition retains the “multi-performance supercar” characteristics that set it apart from rivals when it debuted at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2007.

“This is a car everybody can enjoy,” Mizuno says. “As well as the performance, you can get enough clothes in the trunk for a week-long trip, or you can pick up groceries at the local store. It’s a different category of supercar.”

Toshio Suzuki, Nissan’s chief GT-R test driver, put the car through its paces at Sugo last week, after a successful stint testing the new model at Germany’s Nurburgring recently.

“For 2012, the lap time on the track has improved and the speed through corners is better, yet for the driver it feels more comfortable and easier to control. I think we’re getting close to making the ideal car,” he says.

Lamborghini launches Aventador LP 700-4 in India

Editorial Team — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 04:26:00 +0000

Innovative concept and phenomenal performance redefine the pinnacle of the super sports car segment
Entirely new technology package, unique and powerful functional design language
Innovative carbon-fiber monocoque
New twelve-cylinder engine with 515 kW / 700 hp
Super-fast shifting ISR (Independent Shifting Rods) transmission
Pushrod suspension and steering
The very finest equipment and trim, extensive individualization

Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4

Exclusive Motors Pvt. Ltd. the leaders in bringing the finest luxury and sports cars to India launched Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 at company showroom, New Delhi. The new Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 is priced at
Rs 3.69 crore ex showroom and is available at Exclusive Motors Showroom, Samrat Hotel, New Delhi.

With the launch of Aventador LP 700-4, Automobili Lamborghini has redefined the very pinnacle of the world super sports car market – brutal power, outstanding lightweight engineering and phenomenal handling precision are combined with peerless design to deliver an unparalleled driving experience. The car that is named after Aventador, the bull that entered into battle in October 1993 at the Saragossa Arena, earning the “Trofeo de la Peña La Madroñera” exhibits the same outstanding courage and performance. With the Aventador LP 700-4, the future of the super sports car is now part of the present.

The technology package of the Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 is utterly unique. It is based on an innovative monocoque made from carbon-fiber that combines exceptional lightweight engineering with the highest levels of stiffness and safety.

Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 equipped with twelve-cylinder with 6.5 liters’ displacement and 515 kW / 700 hp brings together the ultimate in high-revving pleasure with astonishing low-end torque. Thanks to a dry weight of only 1,575 kilograms (3,472 lb), which is extremely low for this class of vehicle, the weight-to-power ratio stands at only 2.25 kilograms per hp (4.96 lb/hp). Even the fantastic 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration figure of just 2.9 seconds and the top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph) do not fully describe the Aventador’s extreme performance. And yet, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are down by around 20 percent compared with its predecessor, despite the considerable increase in power (+8%).

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Satya Bagla, Managing Director, Exclusive Motors Pvt. Ltd. said, “We are extremely excited as we have achieved yet another milestone with launch of Lamborghini Aventador in India. It’s an exceptional package with a futuristic design, unique and innovative technologies and an overwhelming performance. We are positive that the car will delight the super car connoisseurs in the country with its revolutionary design and performance.”

Speaking on bringing the sports machine to the Indian Market, James Page, Marketing Manager SE Asia and Pacific, Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. explains, “With this launch, the innovation and design in the sports car segment has taken a leap of two generations. India is an emerging market for sports car which is evident from the successful Formula 1 race event. Aventador is a direct and consistent continuation of Lamborghini’s brand values. Excellence of the Aventador LP 700-4 makes it unrivalled in the worldwide super sports car arena.”

The Aventador is a result of an entirely new project, but simultaneously a direct and consistent continuation of Lamborghini’s brand values. It is extreme in its design and its performance, uncompromising in its standards and technology, and unmistakably Italian in its style and perfection. Overall, the dynamics and technical excellence of the Aventador LP 700-4 makes it unrivalled in the worldwide super sports car arena.

Skoda ‘MissionL’ concept at 2011 Frankfurt International Motor Show

Editorial Team — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 04:53:18 +0000

As the world premiere, the Czech-based car manufacturer, SKODA to unveil its new design concept model “MissionL” at 2011 Frankfurt International Motor Show. Close to the series-production design, this concept car reveals the look of the ŠKODA’s new model line that is to become symbolic of the Czech carmaker’s planned “Model Offensive”.

IAA 2011: Skoda 'MissionL' concept

The new compact vehicle “MissionL” will be launched in Europe, Russia, China and India by year end. In line with the internationalisation principles, this compact car will feature specific modifications in each of these regions. All these steps are in line with the goals of ŠKODA’s 2018 growth strategy that were set last year. The brand looks to increase its global annual sales to 1.5 million vehicles by 2018.

This year’s results show that ŠKODA is growing substantially in all relevant areas. The brand’s sales grew by 18.3% year on year over the first eight months of this year, turnover grew by more than 25%, and operating results by 81.5 % in the first half of 2011.

With its new models, ŠKODA continues to grow internationally. The brand set a number of sales records in the first eight months of 2011, including in China, India and Russia. Sales grew by 18.3% year on year over the first eight months of 2011, i.e. 583,600 cars. Sales in China grew by 29.2%, India and Russia grew by 50.4 and 44.0%, respectively. “In line with our growth strategy, we are looking to substantially strengthen our positions in these countries in the years to come,” said Prof. Vahland.

Jaguar releases sketch of “Jaguar C-X16″ concept car

Editorial Team — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 04:29:01 +0000

The Jaguar C-X16 production concept will make its global debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show on September 13.

Designed by the same team that produced the Jaguar XJ, XF and XK – headed by Jaguar Director of Design Ian Callum – the C-X16 concept is a precursor to future Jaguar sports cars that will aim to set new class benchmarks in design, vehicle dynamics and technology.

As the concept neared completion Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar Cars said, ‘Great Jaguars have always been beautiful, innovative and have looked firmly to the future. The finished C-X16 concept has the potential to do these things while retaining the ability to surprise, to excite and invigorate.’

Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director, Jaguar Cars said, ‘Jaguar has set in place bold, ambitious plans for the future. This production concept demonstrates the depth of design and engineering ability we have within Jaguar to make these plans come to life – I look forward to sharing this latest, exciting step at the Frankfurt Motor Show.’

Full details of the C-X16 concept will be revealed on Wednesday September 7 said in a company press release.

2012 Honda CR-V Concept to hit US market by this year-end

Editorial Team — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 04:40:54 +0000

The 2012 Honda CR-V Concept provides the first official glimpse of the styling direction for the all-new, fourth-generation CR-V set to go on sale in the United States by the end of the year, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced.

“The 2012 CR-V Concept introduces the exterior styling for the more sophisticated and dynamic design of the upcoming production model,” said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda. “Long considered the benchmark for packaging and user-friendly design in the small SUV segment, the all-new CR-V will offer an added dimension of style, amazing interior versatility and Honda’s latest technologies for convenience and refinement.”

2012 new Honda CR-V Concept car

The CR-V Concept embraces a distinctive and bold styling direction for the top-selling SUV in the United States. Compared with the current-generation CR-V, the concept model takes on a more aggressive stance with deeper sculpting of the body lines and a bolder front fascia. The front bumper’s smooth-flowing lines are highlighted by a horizontal three-bar grille and deeply set multi-reflector headlights.

The lower front bumper wraps smartly upward to convey SUV capability with a generous approach angle, while the lower front bumper design now integrates more smoothly with the fascia for improved aerodynamics.

The CR-V’s signature vertical rear taillights remain for 2012 with a more three-dimensional style that wraps further into the design of the vehicle. The CR-V Concept’s large 5-spoke machined alloy wheels and bold fender flares emphasise the vehicle’s dynamic presence and capability.

The all-new 2012 CR-V will improve upon the current model in a variety of ways, and will feature a more fuel-efficient engine and reduced body weight. In addition to all-new exterior styling, the 2012 CR-V will have an all-new interior with a more accommodating and spacious design with a lower cargo floor.

The CR-V is the best-selling SUV in the United States by calendar year from 2007 through 2010.

Jaguar Land Rover to build C-X75 hybrid supercar

Editorial Team — Mon, 09 May 2011 04:58:28 +0000

Tata Motors’ luxury car arm, Jaguar Land Rover, will begin the production of C-X75, an exclusive hybrid supercar. Priced from about $1.2 million (approximately Rs 5.28 crore), Jaguar C-X75 will touches the 0-60mph mark in less than 3 seconds and has top speed in excess of 200mph, says the company. Jaguar expects this hybrid supercar to deliver incredibly low CO2 emissions of less than 99g/km.

The road-going supercar will use a state-of-the-art, small-capacity, highly-boosted internal combustion engine with one powerful electric motor at each axle. When C-X75’s motors and combustion engine combine, it will be one of the fastest production cars in the world, with a sub-three second 0-60mph time and a top speed in excess of 200mph. Crucially, this performance will be generated alongside incredibly low emissions, with a target of less than 99g/km CO2, thanks to Project C-X75’s lightweight construction and cutting-edge powertrain technology.

Jaguar C-X75 supercar’s chassis will be made of carbon-fibre to create an incredibly lightweight, yet rigidly strong structure.

Jaguar C-X75, which was displayed at the 2010 motor show in Paris, will be developed in association with Williams F1 who will provide their engineering expertise in areas including aerodynamics, carbon composite manufacture and hybrid technologies. This association will be at the leading edge of British automotive engineering and innovation.
Only 250 Jaguar C-X75 will be built, each costing between pound 700,000 and pound 900,000 depending on market and local taxes.

“People expect Jaguar to be innovators – that is when Jaguar is at its best,” said Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar brand director. “The C-X75 received an incredible reception as a concept car. We’ve been building on that momentum and there is a clear business case for this exclusive halo model. No other vehicle will better signify Jaguar’s renewed confidence and excellence in technological innovation than this.”

“Confirmation of this project signposts Jaguar Land Rover’s continued determination to embrace new technologies,” said Jaguar Land Rover CEO, Dr Ralf Speth. “A supercar like the C-X75 is the logical choice to showcase cutting-edge design, intelligent use of new environmental technologies and motorsport-inspired performance.”

It also marks a new milestone in both company’s histories as Jaguar Land Rover and Williams collaborate for the first time to produce one of the world’s highest performance and environmentally sustainable supercars.

Aiding the transition from concept to production vehicle is the choice of powertrain. Jaguar continues to develop the use of the micro-turbine technology that was showcased in the original concept C-X75. Jaguar’s parent company Tata has taken a significant stake in Bladon Jets, and will develop this very advanced technology as a medium-term aspiration that will play a part in Jaguars of the future.

“The engine’s compact size allows it to be mounted low in the car for optimum weight distribution and to retain the concept’s stunning silhouette. This will make the Jaguar C-X75 a bona fide hybrid supercar capable of silent electric running with an extensive EV range in excess of 50km,” explained Bob Joyce, group engineering director, Jaguar Land Rover.

“Our new association with Jaguar Land Rover provides us with an exciting opportunity to work with one of the motoring world’s most famous and iconic brands,” said Sir Frank Williams, chairman of Williams F1. “Williams has always considered itself an engineering company and so this project will allow us to combine our technical expertise to create something truly exceptional.”

Aston Martin launches luxury sports cars in India

Editorial Team — Sat, 16 Apr 2011 11:45:27 +0000

Aston Martin V8 Vantage "

Anticipating a strong growth in the luxury sports car segment in India, one of the fast growing auto market in the world, British luxury sports car manufacturer Aston Martin has launched its entire range of models including of V8 Vantage Coupe, V8 Vantage Roadster, V12 Vantage, DB9 Coupe, DB9 Volante, DBS Coupe, DBS Volante, One-77 and the four-door sports car; Rapide. The models start from Rs 1.35 crore and top model, One-77, touches the whopping Rs 20 crore-mark. These models will also be joined by the recently launched V8 Vantage S and the new Virage, says the company.

Aston Martin has opened its first dealership in Mumbai through a partnership bringing the company’s most expensive sports cars. Aston Martin will commence its presence in India with a new dedicated facility in Mumbai in partnership with Performance Cars (a division of Infinity Cars Pvt. Ltd.), who have enjoyed a strong reputation in the Indian luxury car market for several years.

Aston Martin’s Chief Commercial Officer, Michael van der Sande said, “India represents a new opportunity for us and as part of our programme of growing the reach of the global Aston Martin dealership network this expansion brings our brand to a different audience in a new market.

“Our decision to bring the Aston Martin brand to India is driven by a strong level of interest and enthusiasm from potential customers in an emerging luxury market. We have taken our time to find the right advocates for Aston Martin and I am confident that we have selected strong partners with whom we look forward to starting a successful relationship.”

On his part Performance Cars, Managing Director, Mr. Lalit Choudary said, “Partnering Aston Martin offers us a unique opportunity to bring one of the world’s iconic brands to one of the world’s most discerning and fast growing markets. We are confident about the brand’s success in India given the range of models, the comfortable ride quality the cars offer on our roads and the exclusivity they accord.”

The Aston Martin dealership in Mumbai is located at Kemp’s Corner at the junction of the ultra premium Peddar and Altamount Roads and will offer customers a premium boutique environment wherein they can custom specify the cars to their exacting needs. The after-sales facility in nearby Worli is a first of its kind dedicated, air conditioned workshop in the high luxury segment. The showroom and after-sales facilities have been specially designed to follow the international design elements that have timelessly identified the elegance of the Aston Martin brand worldwide.

The opening of the Aston Martin Mumbai showroom strengthens the company’s global dealership network to a total of 134 dealers in 42 countries. As part of the company’s ongoing expansion plans Aston Martin has recently entered into Brazil, Chile, Croatia, Czech Republic, Greece, Taiwan and Turkey whilst seeking continued growth in new markets as well as emerging markets including China and the Middle East.