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All-New 2011 Lexus CT 200h: World’s first compact luxury hybrid, starting below $31,000

All-New 2011 Lexus CT 200h: World’s first compact luxury hybrid, starting below $31,000

Gary Grant ⋅ Car industry news ⋅ , , , , , ⋅ No comments

Fun-to-drive with sport-tuned suspension, CT 200h offers best overall combined fuel economy in luxury segment at 4.6L/100km

TORONTO, ON – (December 15, 2010) – Lexus Canada today announced the all-new 2011 CT 200h, the fifth hybrid in the Lexus lineup, will available starting at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $30,950. The Lexus CT 200h is the gateway into the Lexus lineup, offering the level of refinement, quality and reliability that guests have come to expect from the Lexus brand.

“Lexus continues to offer the industry’s most extensive selection of luxury hybrid vehicles,” said Larry Hutchinson, Director of Lexus in Canada. “The CT 200h proves Lexus guests can have it all: a fun-to-drive vehicle that delivers bold performance and sporty design in a luxury compact hybrid that offers class leading combined fuel efficiency – all at a truly attractive price point.”

The CT 200h can be operated in a switchable EV mode which generates zero emissions. Moreover, the CT 200h emits approximately 60 per cent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average new vehicle, and has estimated fuel consumption ratings of 4.5L/100km in the city and 4.8L/100km on the highway utilizing regular gasoline.

In addition to the EV and Normal drive modes, the CT 200h offers Sport and Eco modes which can help enhance either performance and dynamic ability or driving efficiency, fuel economy and emissions. EV, Eco and Normal drive modes emphasize ride comfort and smooth acceleration.

Sport mode maximizes the CT 200h’s performance and agility. The throttle and Electric Power Steering (EPS) settings are modified. In addition, Sport mode provides less intrusive operation of the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) systems. When Sport mode is selected, instrument panel lighting changes from blue to red and the hybrid power indicator is replaced with a tachometer.

To further enhance the overall driving experience, CT 200h features a sporty, wide-grip steering wheel and drivers sit in a low, 8-way power seat with a long seat cushion, lumbar support, and aggressive side bolsters.

Standard features on the CT 200h include the Smart Key system with push-button Start/Stop and touch sensors on exterior front-door handles; leather-wrapped steering wheel; a six-speaker audio system with steering wheel audio controls, MP3/WMA capability, CD player, and Bluetooth® for phone and music streaming capabilities; integrated XM satellite radio receiver; USB/iPod® connectivity; 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels; heated front seats and dual zone automatic climate control. The CT 200h also incorporates a standard eight-airbag Supplemental Restraint System.

To meet the needs of Canadian drivers, the CT 200h is available with a Touring Package, which includes 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels and a power moonroof. The available Premium Package builds on the Touring Package by adding the following the features:
Drivers seat memory system with mirrors linked to seat memory
Leather seat surfaces
Auto-dimming side view mirrors
Auto-dimming rear view mirror with backup camera and compass
Rain sensing wipers
Garage door opener
10 speakers and 6-disc CD changer

Canadian Lexus guests can also select an optional Technology Package which builds on the Premium Package by adding the following features:
LED headlamps and headlamp washers
Voice-activated HDD Navigation system with Remote Touch (with the Technology Package, the backup camera is displayed in the Navigation screen instead of the rear view mirror)

Improving its environmental performance, several of the CT 200h’s larger components including the loadspace deck sides, deck board and deck board trim have been fabricated from a bioplastic material containing 30 per cent plant-based resin. This helps in the reduction of carbon emissions over the life of the vehicle. New for the CT 200h is the standard NuLuxe seat material that looks and feels like leather to driver and passengers, but is manufactured with the environment in mind.

The optional sixth-generation navigation system features a backup camera and Lexus’ exclusive Remote Touch controller with user-adjustable haptic feedback. The innovative controller, similar to a computer mouse, eliminates the need for touch screen controls, allowing the pop-up navigation system screen to be mounted further up the center stack and away from the driver. This helps the driver benefit with a clear, high-resolution screen, improved sight lines and reduced eye movement.

Nissan Canada bullfrogpowers® its Canadian head office with 100 per cent renewable electricity

Nissan Canada bullfrogpowers® its Canadian head office with 100 per cent renewable electricity

Gary Grant ⋅ Car industry news ⋅ , , , ⋅ No comments

Toronto, December 2, 2010: Bullfrog Power®, Canada’s 100 per cent green electricity provider, announced today that Nissan Canada will bullfrogpower its Canadian head office with 100 per cent locally produced renewable electricity. Building on a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, the company is choosing green power as part of its plan to become an eco-innovator in the automotive industry. Through the decision, the company is reducing its carbon footprint and supporting the development of new wind power in Ontario.

“At Nissan Canada, we strive to provide our customers with innovative products that contribute to the development of a sustainable mobile society,” said Allen Childs, President, Nissan Canada. “Choosing renewable electricity for our head office is an important part of our plan to reduce our environmental impact across all facets of our operations.”

Through the agreement, Bullfrog Power’s generators inject renewable electricity onto the regional grid to match the amount of power Nissan Canada’s head office uses. In Ontario, Bullfrog’s electricity comes exclusively from local wind and hydro facilities that have been certified as low impact by Environment Canada under its EcoLogoM program—instead of from polluting sources like coal, oil, natural gas and nuclear. Across Canada, Bullfrog Power uses the collective demand of its customers to help support the development of new renewable generation.

Since 2006, Nissan has been implementing a number of key initiatives as part of its Nissan Green Program to reduce its environmental impact. Its sustainability plan is centred on three key goals: reducing its carbon dioxide emissions at every stage of its business—from research to disposal; helping to protect air, water and soil by implementing targets to restrict the use of toxic chemicals in its vehicles; and improving its resource recycling both at the production stage and at the end of the vehicle’s lifecycle. Nissan will bring the NISSAN LEAF, its 100 per cent electric vehicle (EV) to Canada in 2011. The organization is also helping to create a mobility system for its EV customers that includes infrastructure for charging and recycling programs for electric vehicle batteries.

“We applaud Nissan Canada for reducing the environmental impact of both its products and its operations, and for supporting green power in Canada, “ said Tom Heintzman, President, Bullfrog Power. “The company is sending a strong message to the automotive industry and its customers about the importance of making green choices that help us improve air quality and address climate change.”

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid Will Offer a Blend of Technology, Efficiency and Design

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid Will Offer a Blend of Technology, Efficiency and Design

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LOS ANGELES, November 17, 2010 – As the latest model in Kia’s design-led transformation, the all-new 2011 Optima midsize sedan lineup included the world debut of the all-new Optima Hybrid at the Los Angeles Auto Show by Kia Motors America (KMA).  With a stunning design, roomy interior and outstanding fuel efficiency, Kia’s first-ever hybrid in North America will attract those looking for a striking and well-equipped sedan that does not sacrifice style, comfort, performance or value for fuel efficiency.  Set to hit showrooms in 2011, the Optima Hybrid employs a Kia-developed powertrain that includes several innovations that enable it to provide exceptional hybrid performance and efficiency.

“The introduction of the Optima Hybrid to the Canadian market in 2011 marks a significant milestone for Kia in our current design-led transformation through the enhancement of world-class technology” said Maria Soklis, Chief Operating Officer Kia Canada Inc. “The hybrid offering also further entrenches our positioning as a responsible car company that will continue to provide Canadians with fuel efficient, world-class vehicles that are also premium in design”.
 
The 2011 Optima Hybrid uses a full parallel hybrid system and can be driven in zero emission mode, and/or in blended gas-electric mode. When the car comes to a stop and the electrical load is low, the engine shuts off to completely eliminate idle fuel consumption and emissions.

Durable Lithium Polymer Battery
The 2011 Optima Hybrid’s outstanding efficiency is due in large part to the use of a lithium polymer battery, which was developed in South Korea with partner LG Chem.  The power and energy density of this new battery type allowed Kia engineers to create a lighter and more compact battery pack, with the 30 kilowatt battery pack weighing just 43.6 kilograms – 1.7 kilograms less than the 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid’s nickel metal hydride pack – which aids fuel economy and also helps to maximize Optima’s cargo space. 

Optima Hybrid’s battery will hold its charge up to 25 percent longer than hybrids with nickel metal hydride batteries, so the battery is more likely to have usable energy available even if it has not been in use.  Both fuel consumption and emissions are cut, allowing more electric starts and drive-aways.  With that improved efficiency, more of the recovered kinetic energy and charging energy from the engine is available to move the car as necessary, which allows the vehicle to provide electric driving assist more often and for a longer period.  Lithium polymer also has less of the self-discharge characteristic found in most rechargeable batteries. 

 Unique Hybrid Architecture
Unlike most current systems on the market, the Optima Hybrid powertrain is configured with a unique architecture.  Compared to the power-split hybrid systems found on vehicles from Toyota or Ford, the Optima Hybrid uses a Transmission-Mounted-Electric-Drive (TMED) layout with the electric motor separated from the transmission gear-set.  Offering several advantages, this modular layout includes more efficient powertrain packaging, use of many “off-the-shelf” components such as the existing six-speed automatic transmission found on the 2.4-liter GDI Optima, and reduced engineering investment.  This also allows for other possible future combinations including the application of more powerful motors and higher capacity batteries.
  
The Optima Hybrid also is among the first full hybrid systems on the market to use a typical step-ratio automatic transmission.  The extremely compact six-speed automatic that debuted on the 2011 Kia Sorento CUV is carried over to the hybrid largely unchanged.  An external electrically-driven oil pump also has been added to provide the hydraulic fluid pressure needed to keep the clutches engaged when the vehicle is in idle stop mode.

The Optima Hybrid’s electric motor is hard-coupled to the input of the transmission and equipped with a permanent magnet synchronous electric traction motor that produces 40.2 horsepower (30 kilowatt) and 151.2 pound-feet of torque when electric only, and an impressive 206.2 horsepower and 195.4 pound-feet of torque when in hybrid mode.  This replaces the torque converter, with a multi-disc clutch fitted between the engine and motor, enabling the gasoline engine to be de-coupled from the powertrain for idle stop and electric drive modes.  Employing this layout allows the entire package, including a torsional damper, to fit virtually within the same area as the traditional torque converter.

Another unique component of the Optima Hybrid is the Hybrid-Starter-Generator (HSG).  This 8.5 kilowatt starter motor-generator is belt-driven off the Theta II engine and operates at the same 270 volts as the electric traction motor and the lithium polymer battery, but does not provide any tractive effort to the vehicle.  In its place, the HSG is used only to start the engine and then to charge the hybrid battery.
 
 One of the main benefits of the hybrid electric powertrain provides is the capability to recover energy lost during braking and store it for use during acceleration and cruising, so when the brake pedal is applied, the engine is decoupled from the traction motor and gives no drag on the vehicle.  The motor is then used as a generator to recharge the hybrid battery.  Converting the kinetic energy into electrical energy rather than thermal energy through the friction brakes also reduces the wear on the brake linings so they last longer.  When conditions require emergency stopping or driving on hills, the extra reliance on regenerative braking allows for the brakes to be more effective. 
 
The Optima Hybrid uses an electronically controlled brake system to determine the driver’s braking needs based on the degree of pedal application, which is then converted to a total brake torque requirement.  The hybrid system control then detects the current level of battery charge, vehicle speed and other conditions to determine how much regenerative braking is possible under current circumstances.  The brake control system then receives the maximum regenerative braking level to manage the friction braking torque so that total net torque is equal to the driver’s needs.

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Like all 2011 Optimas, the hybrid uses an Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system that instantly provides boost and only when it is needed during steering maneuvers.  Reducing the extra weight compared to an engine-driven hydraulic assist, the EPAS is independent of the engine and also provides assistance when the engine is not running, such as during idle stop or electric drive mode.

The Optima Hybrid also features an electrically-driven air conditioning compressor so that climate control can be maintained even when the engine is off.  Like electric power steering, the electrically-driven air conditioning compressor allows for more precise on-demand control reducing the overall load on the powertrain, cutting fuel consumption.
           
Taking advantage of the instant and continuously available torque from the electric motor, Kia engineers modified its popular 2.4-liter Theta II engine to operate on an Atkinson cycle, raising the compression ratio by 20 percent to maximize its efficiency and achieving a 10-percent fuel saving over a regular Theta engine. This cycle generates a little less torque, but the electric motor compensates for any loss and consequently, the Optima Hybrid’s overall power and torque outputs are greater than the gasoline non-turbo model.

The light weight of the Optima contributes to the high performance and outstanding fuel efficiency. The lightweight architecture of the new Optima platform, combined with the lightweight lithium polymer battery pack, brings the Optima Hybrid in at just 1586 kilograms, 104.5 kilograms lighter than the 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid. 
 
Beyond the Optima Hybrid’s innovative powertrain, Kia’s engineers addressed all aspects of vehicle efficiency including aerodynamics and rolling resistance. The Optima Hybrid features unique exterior aero refinements, a lower ride height, an active air flap system, lower drag wheels, and underbody aero tuning to reduce drag, while low rolling resistance tires also help increase efficiency. The Optima Hybrid’s drag coefficient is an exceptionally low 0.26. 

The end result of the Optima Hybrid’s highly-efficient powertrain, low-rolling resistance tires, and clean aerodynamic signature is truly exceptional fuel efficiency.

Ford of Canada dealers work to go green

Gary Grant ⋅ Car industry news ⋅ , , , ⋅ 1 comment

Ford of Canada press release

OAKVILLE, Ontario, June 24, 2010 – Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited expands upon its Millennium Facility Program (facility design program) to include more ‘green’ choices for dealers when renovating or building a new dealership. The goal is simple: collaborate with dealers to implement cost-effective ways to improve the energy-efficiency of their facilities, resulting in a long-term reduction in individual dealership’s carbon footprint as well as overall operating costs.

“We are focused on our plan here at Ford and part of that plan is a commitment to the environment,” said Scott Cauvel, vice president of Sales, Ford of Canada. “As part of our Millennium Facility Program we are providing our dealers with access to expertise and recommendations that will help them further their sustainable efforts.”

Ford of Canada continues to work with Robert Arnone, vice president of R.H. Carter Architects Inc., a licensed architect and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environment Design) accredited professional who has been working with Ford of Canada for approximately 16 years.

“By introducing more sustainable choices into the design and renovation process, we are increasing the positive impact being made by dealers across the country,” said Arnone. “These sustainable options are realistic and cost-effective – and we’ll continue to build on these solutions as new products come to market.”

Sustainable choices include:

  • · Landscaping: Smart choices in plants, trees and flowers that are indigenous to the area and require very little, if any, additional watering.
  • · Paint: All paints used are low VOC paints.
  • · Interior Images: High quality images are printed on recycled fabric and employ a re-useable framing system.
  • · Lighting Controls (for both internal and external lights): Timers can turn lights on and off at specific times, and sensors can monitor movement in order to turn lights down when people are not in the room.
  • · Glass: Obscure glass, shades or glazed glass systems help to control the temperature inside the dealership.
  • · Carpet: Options for carpet include those that are manufactured in a sustainable way and that can be recycled at the end of their lifespan.
  • · Tile: Choices range from tile that contains 30 – 50 per cent recycled content, to others that minimize or eliminate waste during the manufacturing process. In addition, these choices have been selected because of their low permeability characteristics – which almost eliminates staining – and that require less maintenance. They’re also denser than granite, which means they also exhibit superb durability.

Interested dealers simply enroll in the program. A visit to the facility follows enrollment – the focus of the visit is to listen to the needs of the dealer and to tailor a draft design direction for them. The result of this collaboration is a plan for the dealer to move forward with a cost-effective and efficient design solution, including suggestions for sustainable options that make sense for the dealership. The comprehensive support of R.H. Carter Architects Inc. is available to the dealers from the start right through to implementation or renovation

  1. Neil Reeve: This is starting to seem the nuclear arms race among the auto manufactures "The Green Race". Although these infinitives do…

Putting Pirelli green tires to the test

Putting Pirelli green tires to the test

Gary Grant ⋅ Motoring ⋅ , , , , , ⋅ No comments

Recently Pirelli Canada brought out a bunch of journalists to a parking lot in Brampton to show us the differences between their new Verde line of tires and the competition. It was actually part of a week long event aimed at introducing the product to retail tire store staff. That in itself is great, because it means that Pirelli is working to make sure that retailers have the first hand knowledge to properly advise consumers about the tires they are considering.

On hand were the new Scorpion Verde CUV tire and the recently launched P-Zero Nero for performance sedans. We would be comparing the tires side by side with the equivalent Michelin tire on the BMW X3 and 3 series sedan. To guide us through the day there were a team of instructors from the Jim Russell school, led by Philippe Létourneau, lead instructor at the Mont Tremblant based school and Canada’s Worst Driver advisor.

So what makes a tire “Verde”? Pirelli has gone to great lengths to make their production facilities eco friendly and have been recognized by JD Power for their commitment to the environment which means that green awareness is part of the tire development and manufacturing process. The Verde is built with special compounds that release fewer chemicals into the atmosphere than traditional tires. The tires have lower rolling resistance than the competition, which allows for improved fuel economy. In Europe, there is a trend towards more stringent noise laws. The Verde tread is designed to be quieter both inside and outside the vehicle.

Many things green do not perform as well as their traditional counterparts. In the automotive world, this usually equates to boring. Pirelli had brought us to this event so that we could experience first hand the improvements in handling and braking over the more traditional competition.

In the case of both the P-Zero Nero and the Verde, there was a drastic difference in the feel during the handling sections. From a seat of the pants feel, the Michelin shod vehicles felt very squishy around turns and almost loose through the quick transitions. In fact, during the whole day, I didn’t feel the stability control come on in either Pirelli equipped vehicle yet the system would activate on almost every run with the other tires. On the wet braking section, the Pirellis brought the X3 to a stop consistently quicker than the Michelins. Perhaps more importantly, the Verde felt more consistent and controllable as the abs came on.

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It was an interesting day comparing 2 of the top tires on the market. Michelin builds a good product and has been considered the top of the heap for a long time. It was a bit of a surprise to discover that the Pirelli felt that much better at the limit. While most driver’s are rarely at the limit, the one time that they have an emergency is the time they should have confidence in the way their car feels.

Nissan launches Canadian micro site for LEAF

Gary Grant ⋅ Car industry news ⋅ , , , , ⋅ No comments

As they prepare for the 2011 launch of the LEAF, all electric car, Nissan Canada has launched a web site to allow consumers to learn more about Nissan’s entry into the all electric scene.

“The launch of the consumer website is an exciting milestone as we get closer to bringing the Nissan LEAF to the Canadian market next year,” said Mark McDade, Director, Marketing with Nissan Canada. “There has been a lot of interest from Canadians to learn more about electric vehicles and what the ownership experience would be like. This website is a great place to learn more about all aspects of owning and driving the Nissan LEAF.”

The website will be followed up with a 60 second commercial which will air in Canadian movie theaters for the month of May.

You can learn more about the LEAF here.

Toyota Canada’s Top 10 Environmental Leadership Facts

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A little bit of Earth Day positivity from Toyota Canada

We thought we’d take a page out of David Letterman’s book in honour of Earth Day, and take stock of how we’re living up to our environmental commitments with our very own Top 10 list. Our focus on innovation and technology to shape the future of sustainable mobility continues to be a pillar of our organization. Here’s a list of Top 10 Environmental Leadership facts and figures about Toyota:

1. In 2009, Toyota and Lexus introduced 11 new products that deliver on the promise of making things better for our customers and the environment. In 2010, Toyota and Lexus have already each introduced a new more fuel efficient model to their respective vehicle line-ups.

2. As of 2009, and each year moving forward during their life cycle, Toyota vehicles save a minimum 7.5 million litres of fuel and 18,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions through the use of hybrid technology, improved engine and transmission efficiency, smaller engines and 2-wheel drive options.

3. The Lexus RX 450h – with unsurpassed hybrid power, performance and luxury – produces 295 total system horsepower with the same fuel consumption as the 1.8L Corolla.
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VW Canada talks about clean diesel

Gary Grant ⋅ Car industry news ⋅ , , , , , ⋅ No comments

On the TDI Curious site, Anne Sobecki has posted the following interview with Peter Viney, VW Canada’s Director of Public Relations about the past, present and future of clean diesel. Given that nobody does diesel better than Volkswagen, I thought we should share this with our readers:

What does the 2009 Green Vehicle of the Year prize awarded by Auto123 mean for the Golf TDI Clean Diesel?

It is a significant accomplishment considering the hybrid competition that the new 2010 Volkswagen Golf TDI Clean Diesel beat. We have always positioned our TDI Clean Diesel engine as an alternative for Canadian consumers, and we are proud that a group of 10 highly respected and recognized Canadian automotive journalists at Auto123.com have recognized it as such. Green is still considered an alternative in Canada, but we are doing our best to offer it as the mainstream. Our sales results indicate that our customers agree with us.

How do you explain the success experienced by the new-to-Canada Golf TDI Clean Diesel?

Awards are great, but it is the sales results that count. In November 2009, more than 1 in 3 Volkswagens sold were TDI Clean Diesel models. And Canadians recognize value when they see it. At a base price of $20,175, the new 2010 Golf is a premium vehicle in terms of its equipment, appointments, and fun-to-drive abilities without having the premium price. Bringing the TDI Clean Diesel engine to the Golf Family (it is also available with the Golf Wagon) is a natural decision for us.

How does the Golf TDI Clean Diesel stand out from its competitors? More

Honda Delivers FCX Clarity Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle to 2010 Canadian Olympic Hockey Team Captain Scott Niedermayer

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The captain of the 2010 Canadian Olympic hockey team, Scott Niedermayer, has just taken delivery of his new Honda FCX Clarity. Niedermayer, who is also Captain of the NHL’s Anaheim Ducks, is a firm believer in green living. His family home already uses green technologies and Niedermayer actually car pools with his team mates!

Now, that drive will be even greener when they all pile into the FCX!

Honda press release with more photos after the break.
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New Ford Diesel is really quiet

Gary Grant ⋅ Car industry news ⋅ , , , , ⋅ No comments

6.7-Liter Power Stroke(R) V-8 Turbocharged Diesel Engine

DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 23, 2009 – People who know diesel engines are familiar with, and expect, the noisy clatter generally associated with diesels. That is, until now. When Ford’s new 6.7-liter Power Stroke® diesel engine debuts in the 2011 Super Duty lineup, it’s expected to be the quietest, smoothest diesel on the market, outperforming its closest competitors by several decibels.

Engineering and design improvements to the all-new Ford-engineered, Ford-tested and Ford-built 6.7-liter Power Stroke® turbocharged diesel engine – debuting in the 2011 F-Series Super Duty – eliminate the harsh sounds of the typical diesel to make it one of the quietest and smoothest diesels on the market. Significantly quieter than its toughest competitor, the 6.7-liter diesel challenges traditional views about how diesels should sound.

“Historically, consumer perception has been that diesels should sound rough and tough, but from a sound quality perspective they were actually loud and unrefined,” said Scott DeRaad, engine NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) engineer. “At Ford, we approached the new diesel development as though it was more than a work truck and something that people wanted to drive, making ‘quieter’ a reason to buy.”
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