Hybrid

Hybrid, Electric, News, SUV

Hyundai confirms new IONIQ eco-car

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Hyundai has announced a new eco-friendly compact car, due for launch in 2016, will be called the IONIQ.

The car will be available with electric, plug-in petrol/electric hybrid, or petrol/electric hybrid powertrain - the first car from any manufacturer to offer these three powertrain options in a single body type. The IONIQ will combine 'class-leading fuel efficiency with a fun, responsive drive and attractive design, a unique mix not yet achieved by a hybrid vehicle' says Hyundai.

The new car's name references elements of its creation (with 'ion' representing an electrically-charged atom) and is based on an 'exclusive' new platform, made specifically for the car's multi-powertrain options. The chassis is optimised to deliver 'responsive handling' while remaining efficient in each of its three powertrain configurations.

In its fully-electric (EV) form, the IONIQ is powered by a high capacity, ultra-efficient lithium ion battery. The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version combines a fuel-efficient energy with battery power obtained by charging the car with electricity, boosting its range while cutting its emissions. Finally, the hybrid (HEV) utilises the petrol engine and motion of the car to charge the on-board battery, which returns enhanced efficiency by supplementing the engine's power.

Woong-Chul Yang, Head of Hyundai Motor R&D Center said, "Hyundai Motor has a heritage of building innovative, fuel-efficient vehicles, so we are proud to advance our eco-friendly car line-up with the introduction of IONIQ. Our vision for future mobility focuses on choice, with a variety of powertrain options to suit customers' varied lifestyles, without compromising on design or driving enjoyment. IONIQ embodies Hyundai Motor's vision to shift the automotive paradigm and future mobility; IONIQ is the fruit of our efforts to become the leader in the global green car market."

Following its world premiere in Korea in January, the IONIQ is due to be shown at the Geneva Motor Show, followed by the New York Auto Show, both in March 2016.

Diesel, Hybrid, Family Car, Saloon

Kia confirms all-new Optima pricing and spec

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Kia has revealed its all-new Optima will cost from £21,495 OTR.

On sale from today there are four versions available, all powered by an upgraded EU6 version of Kia's 1.7-litre CRDi turbodiesel engine, now paired with either a six-speed manual or a new seven-speed (7DCT) dual-clutch auto transmission.

The 1.7-litre CRDi turbodiesel engine develops an improved 139bhp and increased torque of 340Nm. This represents increases of 5bhp and 15Nm over the previous version. With the Idle Stop & Go (ISG) engine stop/start system as standard, CO2 emissions of manual models are 14 per cent lower at 110g/km, while fuel economy improves to 67.3mpg. An even bigger improvement, says Kia, is the new 7DCT dual-clutch auto gearbox, which replaces the previous six-speed torque converter unit. Emissions drop by 25 per cent, to 116g/km, while fuel economy is now 64.2mpg.

As a result, benefit-in-kind taxation in manuals falls by three tax bands, while for the 7DCT the reduction is 42g/km and eight tax bands. With fuel consumption improved by almost 10mpg for manual models and more than 17mpg for the 7DCT automatics, fleet running costs will be 'dramatically lower'.

A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) Optima, offering a commuter-friendly all-electric drive range with even lower emissions and greater taxation advantages, will be added later in 2016.

The first car in its class with a wireless charger for mobile devices, located in the base of the centre console, the Optima is also available with a 360-degree Around View Monitor for a bird's-eye view when manoeuvring, while a Smart Park Assist System automatically steers the car in and out of parallel or perpendicular parking slots.

There are initially three trim levels - badged 2, 3 and 4 - with GT-Line and GT versions to be added later in 2016. All versions are 'extensively equipped'. ISG - Kia's fuel-saving, emissions-reducing engine stop/start system, is standard.

Prices range from £21,495 OTR for the 1.7 CRDi 6-speed manual ISG 2 to £28,895 for the 1.7 CRDi 7-speed DCT ISG 4.

Hybrid, News, Coupe, Diesel, Supercars

Audi unveils new R18 Le Mans racer

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Audi has revealed its 2016 Le Mans 24 Hours car - the R18.

The most powerful and efficient race car Audi has ever built has been 'fundamentally re-designed' by Audi Sport. Featuring 'innovative aerodynamics' representing the next stage in lightweight design and a modified hybrid system with lithium-ion batteries for energy storage, there is also an efficiency-optimised TDI engine.

"With our new Audi R18, we're setting a clear signal: Audi continues to put the pedal to the metal in motorsport, deliberately relying on TDI - the world's most successful automotive efficiency technology - at Le Mans," says Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich.

In the 2016 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) that will start at Silverstone (Great Britain) on April 17, Audi Sport Team Joest will be fielding two new Audi R18 cars. In the interest of maximum cost efficiency, Audi and its Group sister brand Porsche, have both agreed to each compete in the Le Mans 24 Hours, the WEC season's pinnacle event, with only two instead of the most recent three cars.

"We're proud about being able to again represent the Audi brand in 2016 with such an extensive commitment in motorsport," says Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. "The new Audi R18 marks a major step that we're expecting a lot of at Le Mans and in the WEC. In the DTM, we already had the strongest car in 2015. That's what we'd like to build upon. Plus, the high demand for the new Audi R8 LMS is equally gratifying as the many young talents that are interested in the Audi Sport TT Cup."

Hybrid, News

Mercedes A 45 World Champion Edition unveiled

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Mercedes-AMG has revealed an F1 World Champion Edition A 45 4MATIC.

It follows victory for Mercedes in the Formula 1 constructors' world championship as well as the drivers championship with Brit driver Lewis Hamilton. The exclusive special model - 'MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS 2015 World Champion Edition of the A 45 4MATIC' - blends the Formula 1 look of the victorious Silver Arrows with 'particularly extensive and unique equipment'.

The external characteristic of this exclusive edition is the hallmark 'foiling' with petrol green and black highlights in the design of the winning F1 W06 HYBRID car. There is also a 'streamlining package' - at the front it includes a larger splitter as well as special flics, a roof spoiler and streamlined tail end.

With a maximum output of 280 kW (381 hp) the A 45 4MATIC features standard-fit AMG Performance all-wheel drive and front axle differential lock. The special edition brings power to the road slip-free and 62mph is reached from a standstill in 4.2 seconds.

Available in mountain grey metallic, designo mountain grey magno and polar silver metallic, there are 19-inch cross-spoke wheels painted in titanium grey and accentuated with a petrol green rim flange to match. Further equipment includes the Night package, the AMG Performance seats, the AMG Exclusive package plus the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package.

The interior comes with a model distinguishing badge on the lid of the stowage compartment with the official lettering of the MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team. The electronically adjustable Performance sports seats in leather/Dinamica microfibre offer increased lateral support even in fast, dynamic bends and have an exclusive striped design. The 'fine petrol green' topstitching on the armrests and dashboard, the petrol green rings in the air vents plus the seat belts, also with petrol green highlight strips, round off the motorsport impression. The Performance steering wheel in Dinamica microfibre includes petrol green topstitching and a 12 o'clock mark in the same colour.

On sale now the F1 World Champion Edition A 45 costs 66,818 euros (Approx. £47,000) in designo mountain grey magno matt paint.

Hybrid, News

Volkswagen Beetle Dune set for world debut in LA

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Volkswagen is set to give its new Beetle Dune a World premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The crossover model, which is reminiscent of the Baja California dune buggies, features many off-road accents (although it isn't designed for off-roading), including large 18-inch wheels and a higher ride height, raised 10 millimetres.

The completely redesigned model is making its debut as both a coupe and convertible and features a large central air inlet - with a silver frame - and a black honeycomb screen. In side profile, the black wheel-well and body add-on extensions contrast with the lighter body colours. In addition, black side trim strips - or Beetle running boards - are joined by "DUNE" badging.

A large rear spoiler finished in glossy black/body colour and newly designed bumper with diffuser in "Reflex Silver" are joined by new LED rear lights. A total of nine body colours are available, including a new "Sandstorm Yellow Metallic" and "Dark Bronze Metallic." In addition, the Coupe can be ordered with the roof painted black.

All Cabriolet versions come with a black soft top while on the inside, the 'Dash Pad' (styling panel on the dashboard) is painted in body colour as is the contrasting stitching on the sport seats, leather-trimmed steering wheel and parking brake grip. In contrast, areas of the seat system, door trim panels, roof pillars and headlining are finished in black.

The Beetle Dune features the latest generation of Volkswagen infotainment systems. Voice control can be used to operate the radio, phone and access to connected media and - in the "Discover Media" system - the navigation functionality as well. Volkswagen is also offering an optional high-end sound system by guitar manufacturer Fender. The key component of this sound system is a 10 channel amplifier with Class A/B output amplifiers and 400watts of output power (as well as woofers, tweeters, subwoofer).

In Europe, the new Beetle Dune is available with three turbocharged petrol engines and two turbodiesels. The petrol engines produce 77 kW / 105 PS1, 110 kW /150 PS2 and 162 kW / 220 PS3; the diesel engines develop 81 kW / 110 PS4 and 110 kW / 150 PS5.

The VW Dune coupe will go on sale in the first quarter of 2016, while the Dune Convertible will arrive in showrooms in the third quarter of the year. Prices start at 23,625 euros (Approx. £16,500) for the Coupe and 27,800 euros (Approx. £19,500) for the Cabriolet with UK pricing yet to be confirmed.

The LA Auto Show opens to the public November 20-29, 2015.

Hybrid, SUV, News

Kia confirms new Niro hybrid

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Kia has announced plans for an all-new low emissions vehicle - the Niro.

Representing a new concept from the Korean car brand, the Niro marks the development of Kia's first dedicated eco-car platform, engineered from the ground up as a hybrid vehicle. The new car will maintain 'all the practicality and appeal of a compact SUV, while offering greater fuel economy'.

The Niro's all-new platform has been engineered in isolation from existing Kia models, and is designed to accommodate a specific set of environmentally-conscious technologies and next-generation powertrains.

Hyoung-Keun Lee, Vice Chairman & CEO, Kia Motors Corporation, commented, "Our new model is designed to offer buyers everything they could want from a compact SUV in terms of practicality and styling, while providing the typically low running costs associated with a dedicated hybrid powertrain. By encouraging our engineers to take a 'blank canvas' approach, we have tried to develop a car that will appeal to a broader range of consumers."

The SUV will feature a brand new design, with a 'sporty, aerodynamic body', subtly sculptured surfaces and styling details finishing off the car's modern new look. It will however carrying forward the company's signature 'tiger-nose' grille and a series of other design cues from the latest Kia products. The long wheelbase minimises the size of the front and rear overhangs, while ensuring occupants enjoy the maximum possible interior space.

The main focus of the engineering team was to deliver 'class-leading fuel economy' in the compact SUV segment. The Niro has a target CO2 emissions rating of under 90 g/km (combined, based on the New European Driving Cycle).

The car will achieve its ultra-low emissions levels with a downsized hybrid powertrain, pairing Kia's 1.6-litre 'Kappa' petrol direct injection (GDI) engine (105 ps power output and 147 Nm of torque) with a 1.56 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack and 32 kW electric motor. The powertrain's combined power output and torque will be applied to the road through a 'highly-efficient' six-speed double-clutch transmission. A plug-in hybrid powertrain is due to be added to the car's line-up later in its life-cycle.

The Kia Niro is due to be unveiled next year, with production scheduled to start in late 2016.

Hybrid, Diesel, News

New Toyota RAV4 pricing confirmed

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Toyota has released pricing and specification for the new RAV4.

Introducing hybrid power to the line-up, the new model range includes a choice of powertrains ranging from the 2.5-litre full hybrid, to a new 2.0-litre D-4D diesel and a revised 2.0-litre Valvematic petrol with improved fuel economy and CO2 emissions. Both front-wheel and all-wheel drive versions are available.

At the same time Toyota is upgrading equipment specifications across the board and introducing Toyota Safety Sense - a package of integrated active safety and driver assistance features - as an option on all versions of RAV4 beyond the entry-point model. The new five-grade line-up also introduces Business Edition Plus trim and changes the flagship designation from Invincible to Excel.

The entry level Active grade is powered by the new 2.0 D-4D diesel engine and starts from £23,695 OTR. The RAV4 Business Edition - also powered by the 2.0-litre diesel engine starts from £24,595 OTR. A new Business Edition Plus model launches as a hybrid/front-wheel drive-only grade and comes with LED front and rear lights, a power tailgate, keyless entry and push-button start, priced from £26,195.

All three powertrains and front and all-wheel drive options are offered in Icon trim. Key additional features include 18-inch machined-finish alloy wheels, LED headlamps, combination leather and Alcantara upholstery. The Icon diesel costs £26,995, petrol £28,295 and the 2.5 Hybrid comes in at £29,795 OTR.

The Excel models adopt the full Toyota Touch 2 with Go package, plus leather upholstery, roof rails and front and rear parking sensors with pricing ranging from £27,995 for the diesel and £29,295 for the petrol to £30,795 OTR for the range-topping Excel 2.5 Hybrid AWD. Two new exterior colours are available for RAV4: Blue Crush and Barcelona Red. 

The new RAV4 range is available to order now with first customer deliveries of petrol and diesel models expected from late December. Hybrid versions will arrive from mid-January.

Hatchback, Hybrid, Family Car, News

Toyota confirms new Prius pricing

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The new fourth generation Toyota Prius is available to order now with prices starting at £23,295.

That's for the Prius Active, which is the entry level model in a new grade line-up. Strengthening its appeal for business car drivers, new Business Edition and Business Edition Plus versions have been added.

All Prius models feature LED headlights with Automatic High Beam, electric driver's seat adjustment, Smart Entry with push-button start and the Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system with touchscreen control and DAB radio reception. A new dual-zone air conditioning system is also standard, equipped with a function that detects whether the front passenger seat is occupied and automatically adjusts air vent opening and air flow accordingly, for more efficient and energy-saving operation.

Higher grade models gain more advanced features, such as a colour head-up display, wireless phone charger, blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert, heated front seats and an auto-dimming rear view mirror.

The new Prius also includes the first European appearance of SIPA, Toyota's new Simple Intelligent Park Assist system. As well as providing automatic steering into a parallel or series parking space, the system can also help the driver exit a tight space. An automatic braking system provides a safeguard against colliding with parked vehicles or obstacles.

Key features of Active grade models includes 15-inch alloy wheels, Dual 4.2-inch colour TFT multi-information displays and DAB radio. Prius Business Edition, which costs from £24,195 OTR, features extras including a soft-touch cabin trim, heated front seats and Smart Entry (all doors and boot) while the Business Edition Plus (£25,995 OTR) adds 17-inch alloy wheels, Toyota Touch 2 with Go (satellite navigation and connectivity functions), simple Intelligent Park Assist and front and rear parking sensors.

The range topping new Prius Excel starts at £27,450 OTR and is additionally equipped with leather upholstery, JBL premium audio system, rain-sensing wipers and Toyota 2 with Go Plus (satellite navigation and connectivity with added functions).

Toyota Safety Sense provides an integrated package of safety warning and assistance systems on all versions of new Prius as standard. The new model is available in seven exterior colours, including Hypersonic Red, a new pearlescent shade that offers extra depth and reflective qualities. The interior is available in Cool Grey or Black, with matching trim and cloth upholstery. Leather seats (Excel grade) are in Cool Grey with black shoulder sections, or Black with contrast blue stitching.

The new Toyota Prius is available to order now, with first customer deliveries from 1 March 2016.

Hybrid, News, Electric, Saloon

Volvo details electric car strategy

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Volvo has announced a comprehensive electrification strategy in which plug-in hybrids will be introduced across its entire range.

The Swedish car maker will develop an entirely new range of electrified smaller cars and build a fully electric car for sale by 2019. Volvo says it expects electrified vehicles to account for up to 10 per cent of total car sales in the medium term.

The first phase of the new electrification strategy involves the introduction of plug-in hybrid versions of its 90 series and 60 series larger cars, based on the company's new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA). This process has already begun with the launch of the T8 Twin Engine All-Wheel Drive plug-in hybrid version of its new XC90 SUV and will continue with plug-in hybrid versions of the new S90 premium saloon and other forthcoming models.

Volvo will also broaden the range of plug-in hybrid cars it offers with the introduction of a new front-wheel drive Twin Engine variant.

The Swedish car maker will further deepen its product offering with the introduction of an entirely new range of smaller 40 series cars based on its newly-developed Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) which, like the SPA, has been designed from the outset for electrification.

Further details of the all-electric car for 2019 will be released at a later date.

Electric, Hybrid, Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car, News, Saloon

Boris Johnson confirms hydrogen Toyota for TfL

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Mayor of London Boris Johnson has confirmed the Toyota Mirai, the world's first hydrogen fuel cell saloon, is coming to the capital.

As part of his work to pioneer use of cleaner technology for the future of the capital's transport and infrastructure, Transport for London (TfL) will be in the first group of UK Mirai customers.

The mayor visited Toyota's headquarters today during a three-day trade mission to Japan and took the opportunity to test drive Mirai for himself. He said: "It is fantastic that London will benefit from these new state-of-the-art hydrogen vehicles. By embracing this technology of the future, we aim to consolidate hydrogen's role as a practical alternative fuel for the 21st century and beyond. I am sure that Transport for London will provide the ideal environment for us to see everything Mirai can do and, in doing so, take another great step towards improving air quality in our city and protecting the health of Londoners."

The mayor also discussed London's position as a market for alternative fuel cars, with Toyota senior management. Paul Van der Burgh, Toyota (GB) PLC President and Managing Director said: "We have been delighted to welcome the Mayor of London to our headquarters in Japan to see for himself Toyota's commitment to sustainable mobility. Toyota believes in hydrogen as a key enabler for building a future zero emissions society and we applaud the mayor's commitment to embracing new technology in his mission to make London a leading global city for low-emission, low-carbon transport.

"The success of hydrogen will require constructive dialogue and action, bringing together industry, national governments and city authorities like London to share and develop skills and experience and to communicate the benefits that can be delivered to business and to individuals. Our Mirai fuel cell vehicle is a milestone in the history of the motor car and opens up unprecedented opportunities for cleaner, sustainable transport. Transport for London and the city it serves will provide the ideal environment for Mirai to demonstrate the significant potential of hydrogen as a practical alternative fuel for the next century and beyond."

Transport for London sees Mirai as an exciting opportunity that the mayor is keen to exploit. The TfL Mirai cars and the development of a hydrogen refuelling infrastructure are considered important first steps towards the wider adoption of the technology.

Hybrid, Sports Car, News, Electric, Concept Car

Rinspeed reveals new driverless Etos concept car

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Rinspeed has revealed plans to show a new driverless Etos concept car, at the CES Consumer Electronic Show 2016 in Las Vegas 2016.

The hybrid sports car features a personal autopilot and drone on board. Frank M. Rinderknecht, the boss of Rinspeed said: "The major and especially the disruptive innovations in future automotive engineering will come from the digital realm. That is why all major manufacturers and suppliers are now present at the CES Consumer Electronic Show."

The Swiss company's approached to the topic of 'driverless cars' is largely from the point of view of drivers and passengers, and has generated a number of ideas including an 'intuitive, adaptive autopilot capable of learning'.

The new concept's interior adapts to the particular driving situation 'as if by magic' according to Rinspeed: In autonomous mode, the steering wheel folds up and retracts completely into the dashboard. The two curved widescreens individually move closer to the occupants to provide a better view.

To provide the passengers with a unique infotainment experience, the Etos uses Harman Connected Car technologies. Like a personal assistant, the system operates in a thinking, courteous and anticipatory manner. In addition, it delivers entertainment, connectivity and maximum safety.

The sporty hybrid is also fitted with its own drone that has its a landing pad on the rear end. The Swiss firm says the drone 'could fetch a bouquet of flowers the driver ordered online and even deliver it directly to the lucky recipient. It could also take a video of the wild ride on your favourite road and stream it live to friends'.

The 22nd concept vehicle designed in-house at the brands "innovation lab" also includes innovative surface finishes that are still completely alien to car designers, asking CES visitors to 'touch it, feel it - it's magic!'.

The CES Consumer Electronic Show Las Vegas runs from 6-9 January 2016.

Hybrid, Sports Car, Coupe, News

Order books open for all-new Lexus RC coupe

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Order books have opened for the new Lexus RC coupe.

Described as a 'full-blooded coupe', the two-door RC is available in the UK with two powertrains - the RC 300h full hybrid with 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, and the RC 200t, the latest model to adopt Lexus's 241bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine.

The entry level 'Luxury' grade is exclusive to the full hybrid RC 300h. Although it marks the entry point to the coupe range, it delivers a 'wealth of features' with key specifications including 18-inch alloys, cruise control, LED headlamps and daytime running lights, parking sensors, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, a six-speaker audio system with CD player, seven-inch multimedia screen with Remote Touch controller, power-adjustable front seats, leather upholstery, split-folding rear seat and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.

The safety and driver assistance features include Lexus's Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management, eight airbags, pop-up hood and Hill Assist Control with Brake Hold. The RC further benefits from Lexus's Drive Mode Select, which adjusts performance to suit conditions or driver preference, with Eco, Normal and Sport modes. Prices start at £34,995.

Moving up the range, the 'F Sport' models receive added visual enhancements with a 'stronger iteration of the Lexus spindle grille', plus multi-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels, deep front and rear bumpers and LED headlights in a signature 'triple L' arrangement (with Automatic High Beam function). In the cabin there are F Sport front seats that are power-adjustable with heating/ventilation, driver's side memory setting and automatic 'easy access' function. Other F Sport elements include aluminium scuff plates and sports pedals and LFA-style meters that automatically change appearance according to the drive mode selected.

The F Sport models also feature Adaptive Variable Suspension and, on the 200t F Sport, a limited-slip differential. The Drive Mode Select system adds a fourth, Sport+ mode which introduces additional chassis control for an even sportier drive. Other key equipment features include rain-sensing windscreen wipers, rear-view camera and Lane Keep Assist. Prices start at £36,495 for the RC 200t F Sport.

At the top of the RC range, the 'Premier' grade models go even further, adding to the standard features of Luxury with the addition of 19-inch alloys, Lexus Premium Navigation, 17-speaker Mark Levinson surround audio system, the triple-L LED headlights with Automatic High Beam function, power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats with driver's side memory setting, power steering wheel adjustment, rain-sensing windscreen wipers, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert , Lane Keep Assist and a rear-view camera. Prices start at £39,495 for the RC 200t Premier.

In addition, the RC F, introduced in late 2014, remains available as a high performance iteration of the coupe, powered by Lexus's 471bhp 5.0-litre V8 engine.

The new Lexus RC is available to order now, with first customer deliveries in January 2016.

Electric, Hybrid, News

Nissan LEAF tests eVADER pedestrian recognition software

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Nissan has taken a leading role in the European Union-funded project 'eVADER' - to create an audible pedestrian alert system for electric cars.

With vehicles driven in electric mode, either hybrid or pure electric vehicles considerably quieter than combustion engined cars, they constitute a safety hazard for pedestrians and bicyclists in traffic. The eVADER project was founded to tackle the problem, with the help of many partners alongside Nissan including Renault, the Peugeot Citroen group and Continental tires to name a few.

In a move to assist pedestrian recognition of electric vehicles (EVs), Nissan has collaborated in the creation of a potential next generation pedestrian alert technology which produces effective and targetable audible cues to alert vulnerable road users to the presence of a nearby EV, whilst having minimal impact on noise pollution levels.

Pedestrian alert technology is currently a hot topic, as growing sales of EVs have led to discussions over the pros and cons of quiet EVs. The low sound levels have been heralded as a strong benefit, as they could contribute to a drastic reduction in noise pollution.

In 2010 Nissan introduced its LEAF - the first mass-market, all-electric EV - which has Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians (VSP), fitted as standard equipment. As a leading partner in the eVADER project, Nissan drew on its EV expertise to integrate the range of technologies provided by other consortium members and Nissan into the demonstration vehicle, and worked to ensure that the sounds created were clearly audible, whilst having as little impact as possible on ambient noise levels.

The sound created not only had to be directionally beamed at targeted pedestrians, it also had to keep annoyance levels to a minimum. Siren-like noises were ruled out at an early stage, as they were found to be irritating, loud and, in some cases, emotionally upsetting to other road users.

The final version of the system features a camera built into the windscreen, which is programmed to recognise pedestrians, cyclists and other road users. On detection of a road user, six loudspeakers directionally beam sound at the target to alert them of the presence of the EV. The sound is up to five decibels lower than the sound of a conventional petrol or diesel engine vehicle. Nissan then built this system into a LEAF for real-life trials, and the vehicle was used to showcase the completed alert system at a concluding event in Barcelona in December 2014, where it was well-received by the visually-impaired community.

David Quinn, Nissan's e-VADER Project Leader said: "Pedestrian safety is of the utmost importance to Nissan, which is why we already have a pedestrian alert installed in our EVs as a preventative measure. As leaders in the EV market, we were keen to use our considerable experience to examine possible systems for future development in this field. Our objective has been to find an optimum balance between ensuring the cars are detectable, whilst retaining the reduction in noise pollution, which is one of the great benefits that our EVs offer."

The research and results collated from this project form reference material for future research into this area, and it is likely that it will be utilised to shape future EU legislation on EV pedestrian alert sounds.

Hybrid, Hatchback, News

Toyota Yaris Hybrid gets Active and Sport models

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Toyota has added Active and Sport models to its Hybrid Yaris range.

The Yaris Active becomes the new entry point to Toyota's hybrid technology. The five-door hatch comes equipped with dual-zone climate control, trip computer, power front windows and a split-folding rear seats. With 75g/km CO2 emissions and an official combined cycle fuel economy of 85.6mpg the low emissions mean no annual road tax (VED) to pay and, for London drivers, exemption from the congestion charge.

The Yaris Sport features rear privacy glass, 16-inch alloy wheels, rear spoiler and a rear pillar treatment that creates a floating roof effect. Other key features include climate control, power windows all round and the Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system with DAB radio, Bluetooth, touchscreen control and rear view camera. An optional Skyview panoramic roof can also be specified (£550). Using the larger alloy wheel brings a 'modest change' in the benchmark figures to 82g/km and 78.5mpg but Yaris Hybrid Sport retains the benefit of zero road tax.

The new Yaris Hybrid Active is launched with an on-the-road price tag of £14,995, including a special £300 introductory customer saving. The Yaris Hybrid Sport is priced at £16,695 OTR.

Hybrid, Electric

Terrafugia reveals new flying car

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US-based manufacturer Terrafugia has unveiled plans for its latest flying car - the TF-X.

The company behind 2012s 'Transition' flying car has confirmed its plans for a four-seat, vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) hybrid electric aircraft. The TF-X will be able to recharge its batteries either from its engine or by plugging in to electric car charging stations. Carrying four people in car-like comfort the TF-X is designed to fit in a single car garage and is able to takeoff vertically from a level clearing of at least 100ft in diameter, and will have a non-stop flight range of at least 500 miles.

The company claims that operating a TF-X vehicle 'should be statistically safer than driving a modern automobile' as the flying car will be capable of automatically avoiding other air traffic, bad weather, restricted and tower-controlled airspace.

Terrafugia says learning how to safely operate the car should take an average driver no more than five hours, and that the owner will get significant freedom in flight. Controlled in a manner similar to steering a car, it can fly in either "manual" or "automatic" modes between approved landing zones or airports.

The flying car will have a backup full-vehicle parachute system which can be activated in an emergency if the operator believes the TF-X to be incapable of auto-landing. In an emergency, the TF-X can be landed in non-approved landing zones and will automatically notify authorities of the situation.

The first computer generated images reflect Terrafugia's updated 'Outer Mold Line' (OML) design for the TF-X, developed in collaboration with Ben Schweighart and Transportation/Automotive Designer Vedran Martinek. In addition, a one-tenth scale wind tunnel test model of the TF-X has been successfully developed based on the new OML, and will be tested at the MIT Wright Brothers wind tunnel, the same tunnel that was used to test models of Terrafugia's Transition. The wind tunnel test model will be used to measure drag, lift and thrust forces while simulating hovering flight, transitioning to forward flight and full forward flight.

Terrafugia claims the TF-X will be priced as low as possible - allowing the company to grow support and a customer base, with development of TF-X expected to last 8-12 years. Final pricing will be set much closer to delivery.

Hybrid, News, SUV

Volvo hybrid XC90 qualifies for UK plug-in grant

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Volvo's first petrol plug-in hybrid - the XC90 T8 Twin Engine - has qualified for the UK Plug-in Car Grant (PICG) scheme.

That means the new XC90 is now available with an on-road price of £54,955 including the PICG. The Plug in Car Grant has a designed criteria to encourage manufactures to decrease the level of outputted CO2 exhaust emissions. To achieve this, hybrid vehicles must emit less than 75g/km, a minimal travelling range of 10 miles and must reach a speed of at least 60mph. 

Built on Volvo's SPA - Scalable Product Architecture - the platform is designed to incorporate electrification without encroaching on interior space. With the necessary battery pack concealed in the centre console, the Drive-E powertrain, from its initial concept, was designed to include electrification, with the new XC90 utilising both a 320hp petrol engine and 87hp electric motor.

With a combined output of 407hp, this 7-seat SUV emits a low figure of 49g/km of CO2, at the same time being able to go from stand still to 60mph 5.3 seconds.

The T8 Twin engine allows the driver to choose multiple drive modes: Pure - allows drivers to use electric energy for up to 28 miles with zero exhaust emissions. Hybrid - uses a combination of the electrical and petrol motors to achieve reduced CO2 exhaust emissions and Power - utilises the full power from both the petrol and electric motors allowing the driver to use the full 407hp available.

Companies choosing the XC90 T8 Twin Engine can benefit by writing down as much as 100 per cent of the cost against their income tax liability. Driver who choose the XC90 T8 Momentum pay as little as £99.83 BIK a month (40 per cent tax payer).

The Volvo XC90 T8 is on sale now and available in three trim levels: Momentum, R-Design and Inscription.

Electric, Hybrid, News, Saloon, Estate Car

Volkswagen reveals new Passat GTE plug-in hybrid

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Volkswagen has launched the new Passat GTE plug-in hybrid.

Following the Golf GTE, the new hybrid Passat is available in Saloon and Estate variants. Adding zero-emission to a long-distance touring car, VW describes the Passat GTE as a car with 'superb system output of 160 kW / 218 PS' as well as frugal NEDC fuel consumption of 147mpg and 12.2 kWh/100 km (Estate: 12.4 kWh). The Passat GTE also features an all-electric range of up to 31 miles.

Under normal operating conditions the new Passat GTE begins its journey in all-electric and thus emission-free mode. This E-Mode can also be activated at the push of a button, for example towards the end of a journey as you enter a city. In cities like London, drivers are therefore exempt from the usual congestion charge.

Volkswagen says the Passat GTE is an independent trim line. The high-tech model's 'extensive standard features' include LED headlights (for main and dipped beam), Driver Alert System, Automatic Post-Collision Braking, the Front Assist ambient traffic monitoring system including City Emergency Braking function, a rain sensor, ParkPilot for front and rear, chrome trim on the side windows and comfort seats (in the front).

In addition, there are elements of individualisation that have been conceived solely for the Passat GTE. These include at the front a specific chrome radiator grille unit with an integrated blue stripe (the colour of Volkswagen electric motoring) a completely redesigned bumper with a C-shaped LED daytime running light signature and 17-inch Montpellier alloy wheels.

On the inside, the interior has also been 'conceptually aligned to the new drive system'. The Media infotainment system features a dedicated menu matrix to the functions and displays specific to the plug-in hybrid's drive system while standard details such as the blue ambient lighting, the multi-function leather steering wheel with blue decorative stitching, a GTE-specific gear knob with blue stitching and the seats, likewise with a matching blue basic structure.

The Passat GTE and Passat GTE Estate will arrive on the European market this autumn, prices have yet to be announced.