The 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid -- the first General Motors vehicle to use the company's all-new two-mode hybrid system -- has been named Green Car Journal's 2008 Green Car of the Year(R). The award was presented at a press conference this morning at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
"This is a milestone in many respects," says Green Car Journal editor and publisher Ron Cogan. "People don't think 'green' when SUVs are concerned, and for generally good reason since SUVs often get poor fuel economy compared to most other vehicles. Chevrolet's Tahoe Hybrid changes this dynamic with a fuel efficiency improvement of up to 30 percent compared to similar vehicles equipped with a standard V-8."
According to the EPA's 2008 estimated fuel economy ratings, Chevrolet's achievement is even more apparent during city driving where a large percentage of SUVs spend their time every day. In this environment, the 6.0-liter two-mode hybrid Tahoe achieves 50 percent better fuel economy than a Tahoe powered by a standard 5.3-liter V-8. What's equally eye-opening is that the Tahoe's 21 mpg city fuel efficiency rating is the same as that of the city EPA rating for the four-cylinder Toyota Camry sedan.
"We're thrilled to receive this recognition from Green Car Journal for our Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid," says Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "We've felt that the Tahoe Hybrid represents the best of both worlds -- the great utility you'd expect from a Tahoe with fuel economy on par with today's mid-size cars. It's satisfying to receive this validation from such an authority on environmentally-friendly vehicles."
The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid was selected in a majority vote by a jury of high-profile environmental and industry leaders, along with four Green Car Journal editors. Invited jurors this year included Carroll Shelby, Jay Leno, Carl Pope (Sierra Club), Christopher Flavin (Worldwatch Institute), Jonathan Lash (World Resources Institute), and Jean-Michel Cousteau (Ocean Futures Society).
"GM promised they would use hybrid technology, and use it where it would make the most difference -- on their biggest vehicles. They have delivered with the Chevy Tahoe," says Carl Pope, executive director of the Sierra Club, pointing out that this vehicle ends the argument that efficiency and vehicle choice are incompatible. He adds that automakers should now make their entire fleets fuel efficient as fast as they can retool.
The Tahoe Hybrid is the industry's first application of hybrid technology in a full-size SUV. While a few vehicles with V-6 and V-8 engines are offered with hybrid options, most hybrid technology is incorporated into mid-size or smaller vehicles with four-cylinder engines because this is where big fuel economy gains are most readily achieved. It's a different challenge to achieve meaningful mpg increases on large vehicles of greater weight where substantial cargo hauling and towing may be needed, and larger engines are required for the job. For instance, the Tahoe Hybrid features seating for up to eight passengers, a 60 cubic foot cargo volume with the second and third row seats folded, the ability to carry up to 1400 pounds of cargo, and a tow rating of up to 6,200 pounds.
"The importance of GM's accomplishment can't be overstated," says Cogan. "For years, consumers have been buying SUVs in increasing numbers because of their functionality, making them the number one class of vehicle on the market. The problem has been obvious: With larger vehicles generally comes poorer fuel economy because of greater size and curb weight. An 'equalizer' has been needed ... and the two-mode hybrid system in the Tahoe is clearly that equalizer."
Along with the Tahoe Hybrid, the jury considered 2008 Green Car of the Year nominees including the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid, Mazda Tribute Hybrid, Nissan Altima Hybrid, and the Saturn Aura Hybrid. Dozens of 2008 model year vehicles using all technologies and fuels were considered by the Green Car Journal staff in narrowing down the field to five nominees.
Along with their considerable achievements in raising the bar in environmental performance, each of those making the final cut had to meet the requirement of being on sale and widely available to the public by Jan. 1, 2008. "Newness" was also a factor in the nomination process, with nominees ideally in the earlier phases of their production cycle rather than near the end. Other factors that weigh in on the decision making include production volume and the likelihood of a candidate vehicle's environmentally-focused technologies leading to further implementation in other vehicles.
About Green Car of the Year(R)
The GCOY award is an important part of Green Car Journal's mission to showcase environmental progress in the auto industry. Since 1992, Green Car Journal has focused on the intersection of automobiles, energy, and environment, first with an industry newsletter and then with an award-winning auto enthusiast magazine. Today, the magazine is considered the premier source of information on high fuel efficiency, low emission, advanced technology, and alternative fuel vehicles. Green Car of the Year(R) is a registered trademark of Green Car Journal and RJ Cogan Specialty Publications Group, Inc. For more information visit http://www.greencar.com/.
Showing posts with label Los Angeles Auto Show. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Los Angeles Auto Show. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Mitsubishi Unveils All-New Lancer Evolution at The Los Angeles International Auto Show
Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) today debuted to North America the all-new and much-anticipated 2008 Lancer Evolution. Building on the success of the all-new Lancer launched in spring 2007, and the all-new Outlander crossover SUV, Mitsubishi introduces the high-performance 2008 Lancer Evolution, which was recently awarded Popular Mechanic's 2008 Automotive Excellence Award (Fun to Drive category.) Also making their North America debuts are the new Outlander 2.4L SE and the innovative Concept-cX.
The 2007 Los Angeles International Auto Show runs November 16-25 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. In addition to the North American debut vehicles, Mitsubishi is displaying its entire 2008 model line at the show, including the all-new Lancer, Outlander SUV, the exciting Galant Ralliart performance sedan, the highest safety rated SUV the Endeavor and the Eclipse Coupe and Spyder. Also, the WORKS Speed World Challenge Lancer, the 1981 Lancer 2000 Turbo and Lancer World Rally Car (WRC) 05 showcase more than three decades of Mitsubishi motorsports heritage. Another specialty vehicle is the LoudLancer, featuring a custom Rockford Fosgate(R) sound system that will appeal to automotive audiophiles of all ages.
Next-Generation Lancer Evolution
Noted as the pinnacle of Mitsubishi's rally-inspired technology and engineering, Mitsubishi introduces the 2008 Lancer Evolution, the newest and most sophisticated version of the legendary high-performance model series that began in Japan 16 years ago. Lancer Evolution goes on sale in early winter. While remaining true to the core values that have made the Lancer Evolution synonymous with thrilling performance, the next-generation model offers all-around capability and user technology that distinguish the world's best performance models.
The strikingly styled 2008 Lancer Evolution showcases new performance and handling technology, including an all-new 291-hp (est.) 2.0-liter turbocharged/intercooled engine and the Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) dynamic handling system. S-AWC offers an extraordinary level of control at each wheel, going well beyond the capabilities of other all-wheel drive systems.
The Lancer Evolution's S-AWC system regulates drive torque at each wheel by controlling a network of dynamic handling technologies, including: Active Center Differential (ACD) 4-wheel drive, Active Yaw Control (AYC) rear differential, Active Stability Control (ASC), and Sport ABS brakes. Integration of ASC is new for all markets. Exclusive to the Los Angeles Auto Show will be an interactive display for event attendees to experience the razor sharp handling of the Lancer Evolution's S-AWC dynamic handling system designed to emulate driving on tough terrains like a winding mountain roads.
New Outlander ES and Special Edition
For 2008MY, the Outlander ES will feature a new 2.4L 4-cylinder engine. Starting at a base price of $19,990 the new ES offers winning features and a roomy size at a great value. In early 2008, Mitsubishi expands the Outlander lineup with a second 2.4-liter model, the Outlander Special Edition. The Outlander SE combines the economy of the new 4-cylinder engine and CVT with amenities from the premium XLS model, plus exclusive new interior and exterior features. Driving performance in the Outlander SE is enhanced by Sportronic(R) shifting with magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters or console shift, as in the Outlander XLS model. Like the XLS model, the Outlander SE is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels. The FAST Key entry system, standard on LS and XLS models, is also standard on the Special Edition.
The Outlander Special Edition excels in onboard entertainment. A 650-watt (max.) Rockford Fosgate(R) Premium Audio system features digital signal processing and nine speakers, including a rear subwoofer. This high-end audio package, which is optional on the Outlander XLS, includes SIRIUS(R) Satellite Radio with six month pre-paid subscription.
Concept-cX
In addition to the Lancer Evolution, the Concept-cX makes its North American debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The Concept-cX is a model of a running concept from the Frankfurt Auto Show that demonstrates Mitsubishi Motors styling vision of small SUVs. With features like the newly developed 1.8-liter clean diesel engine mated to a Twin Clutch SST (Sportronic Shift Transmission), the Concept-cX achieves high levels of road and environmental performance. The Mitsubishi Concept-cX is the proposal for the kind of off- roader that only Mitsubishi could create.
WORKS Speed World Challenge Lancer & Historic Rally Cars
To represent Mitsubishi's strong racing heritage, Mitsubishi showcases three of the most well-known rally vehicles to Los Angeles, the WORKS Speed World Challenge Lancer, Lancer World Rally Car (WRC) and the 1981 Lancer 2000 Turbo.
Mitsubishi recently teamed up with its development team, WORKS, to create and build the WORKS Speed World Challenge Lancer. WORKS is comprised of a dedicated group of engineers with over 30 years of combined technical expertise in the automotive performance industry and are only Mitsubishi tuner and parts manufacturer in the United States with engineers on staff.
Representing Mitsubishi's long history of obtaining awards at international and national rallies are the world-renowned Lancer WRC 05 and 1981 Lancer 2000 Turbo. The Mitsubishi Lancer WRC underwent months of intense development work and has broken records at the national rallies since its introduction in 2005. The 1981 Lancer 2000 Turbo snagged third place in the 1982 1000 Lakes Rally and seventh in the 1982 Rally San Remo World Rally championships.
Rockford Fosgate LoudLancer
The Rockford Fosgate(R) LoudLancer exhibits a top-notch audio system, featuring plenty of output, clarity and PUNCH(TM). The vehicle builds off a stock Lancer GTS with audio modifications including: six tweeters, eight speakers and two sub-woofers in the trunk. This epic audio system relies on three trunk mounted amplifiers (a 200-watt, 400-watt and 1,000-watt units) to power eight Rockford Fosgate PUNCH P163C 6.5" full range speakers and two Rockford Fosgate PUNCH P3D212 12" sub woofers. The LoudLancer's power is enhanced with a Rockford Fosgate 3Sixty.2 Interactive Signal Processor that helps provide outstanding clarity and sound definition for this powerful compact audio system. Further LoudLancer performance enhancements include modifications to the wheels and suspension.
The 2007 Los Angeles International Auto Show runs November 16-25 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. In addition to the North American debut vehicles, Mitsubishi is displaying its entire 2008 model line at the show, including the all-new Lancer, Outlander SUV, the exciting Galant Ralliart performance sedan, the highest safety rated SUV the Endeavor and the Eclipse Coupe and Spyder. Also, the WORKS Speed World Challenge Lancer, the 1981 Lancer 2000 Turbo and Lancer World Rally Car (WRC) 05 showcase more than three decades of Mitsubishi motorsports heritage. Another specialty vehicle is the LoudLancer, featuring a custom Rockford Fosgate(R) sound system that will appeal to automotive audiophiles of all ages.
Next-Generation Lancer Evolution
Noted as the pinnacle of Mitsubishi's rally-inspired technology and engineering, Mitsubishi introduces the 2008 Lancer Evolution, the newest and most sophisticated version of the legendary high-performance model series that began in Japan 16 years ago. Lancer Evolution goes on sale in early winter. While remaining true to the core values that have made the Lancer Evolution synonymous with thrilling performance, the next-generation model offers all-around capability and user technology that distinguish the world's best performance models.
The strikingly styled 2008 Lancer Evolution showcases new performance and handling technology, including an all-new 291-hp (est.) 2.0-liter turbocharged/intercooled engine and the Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) dynamic handling system. S-AWC offers an extraordinary level of control at each wheel, going well beyond the capabilities of other all-wheel drive systems.
The Lancer Evolution's S-AWC system regulates drive torque at each wheel by controlling a network of dynamic handling technologies, including: Active Center Differential (ACD) 4-wheel drive, Active Yaw Control (AYC) rear differential, Active Stability Control (ASC), and Sport ABS brakes. Integration of ASC is new for all markets. Exclusive to the Los Angeles Auto Show will be an interactive display for event attendees to experience the razor sharp handling of the Lancer Evolution's S-AWC dynamic handling system designed to emulate driving on tough terrains like a winding mountain roads.
New Outlander ES and Special Edition
For 2008MY, the Outlander ES will feature a new 2.4L 4-cylinder engine. Starting at a base price of $19,990 the new ES offers winning features and a roomy size at a great value. In early 2008, Mitsubishi expands the Outlander lineup with a second 2.4-liter model, the Outlander Special Edition. The Outlander SE combines the economy of the new 4-cylinder engine and CVT with amenities from the premium XLS model, plus exclusive new interior and exterior features. Driving performance in the Outlander SE is enhanced by Sportronic(R) shifting with magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters or console shift, as in the Outlander XLS model. Like the XLS model, the Outlander SE is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels. The FAST Key entry system, standard on LS and XLS models, is also standard on the Special Edition.
The Outlander Special Edition excels in onboard entertainment. A 650-watt (max.) Rockford Fosgate(R) Premium Audio system features digital signal processing and nine speakers, including a rear subwoofer. This high-end audio package, which is optional on the Outlander XLS, includes SIRIUS(R) Satellite Radio with six month pre-paid subscription.
Concept-cX
In addition to the Lancer Evolution, the Concept-cX makes its North American debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The Concept-cX is a model of a running concept from the Frankfurt Auto Show that demonstrates Mitsubishi Motors styling vision of small SUVs. With features like the newly developed 1.8-liter clean diesel engine mated to a Twin Clutch SST (Sportronic Shift Transmission), the Concept-cX achieves high levels of road and environmental performance. The Mitsubishi Concept-cX is the proposal for the kind of off- roader that only Mitsubishi could create.
WORKS Speed World Challenge Lancer & Historic Rally Cars
To represent Mitsubishi's strong racing heritage, Mitsubishi showcases three of the most well-known rally vehicles to Los Angeles, the WORKS Speed World Challenge Lancer, Lancer World Rally Car (WRC) and the 1981 Lancer 2000 Turbo.
Mitsubishi recently teamed up with its development team, WORKS, to create and build the WORKS Speed World Challenge Lancer. WORKS is comprised of a dedicated group of engineers with over 30 years of combined technical expertise in the automotive performance industry and are only Mitsubishi tuner and parts manufacturer in the United States with engineers on staff.
Representing Mitsubishi's long history of obtaining awards at international and national rallies are the world-renowned Lancer WRC 05 and 1981 Lancer 2000 Turbo. The Mitsubishi Lancer WRC underwent months of intense development work and has broken records at the national rallies since its introduction in 2005. The 1981 Lancer 2000 Turbo snagged third place in the 1982 1000 Lakes Rally and seventh in the 1982 Rally San Remo World Rally championships.
Rockford Fosgate LoudLancer
The Rockford Fosgate(R) LoudLancer exhibits a top-notch audio system, featuring plenty of output, clarity and PUNCH(TM). The vehicle builds off a stock Lancer GTS with audio modifications including: six tweeters, eight speakers and two sub-woofers in the trunk. This epic audio system relies on three trunk mounted amplifiers (a 200-watt, 400-watt and 1,000-watt units) to power eight Rockford Fosgate PUNCH P163C 6.5" full range speakers and two Rockford Fosgate PUNCH P3D212 12" sub woofers. The LoudLancer's power is enhanced with a Rockford Fosgate 3Sixty.2 Interactive Signal Processor that helps provide outstanding clarity and sound definition for this powerful compact audio system. Further LoudLancer performance enhancements include modifications to the wheels and suspension.
Los Angeles Auto Show: Audi Leads Effort to 'Optimized' CO2 Routes
Audi Engineers at the company's California Electronic Research Labs believe that the next step in reducing carbon dioxide emissions will come through "connected" vehicles.
Ralph Weyler, Member of the Board for Sales and Marketing, Audi AG, announced today at the Los Angeles Auto Show that Audi is working with three California universities on six multi-year research projects. The efforts are aimed at reducing CO2 emissions through more intelligent interactions between driver and car, cars on the road, and in the collection and distribution of real-time traffic patterns. The name of the project is "Clean Air, a Viable Planet." Audi researchers are working with the University of California at Berkeley, the University of California at Riverside, and Stanford University.
Daniel Rosario, Audi manager of Connected Vehicles, in explaining the research said that the shortest route to a destination is not necessarily the optimized CO2 route.
"The path between two points can be measured in distance, but it can also be measured in the amount of carbon dioxide that our vehicles emit," he said. "Through this research we believe that information provided by connected vehicles will allow a driver to decide the best route to achieve the lowest CO2 emissions."
The technology exists today to connect vehicles, now researches and engineers need to integrate these technologies into what Rosario calls an "Intelligent Vehicle Network".
"The goal is sustainable transportation," said Rosario. "Driving behavior can improve fuel efficiency by 20 percent. This initiative could improve that by another 20 percent."
About Audi of America, Inc.
Audi's declared objective is to offer each and every customer driving pleasure and sustainable mobility. Our achievements speak for themselves - sportiness, emotional design, quality and environmental awareness all find a common form of expression in the brand with the four rings. We see CO2 reduction as a social responsibility. Consequently, Audi pursues an all- embracing climate strategy that takes account of all the corporate divisions. It is the expression of the company's enduring commitment to society and environmental protection and is, for this reason, an integral part of the corporate social responsibility. Our products are produced on the basis of a modular efficiency system. This holistic approach takes account of all CO2- related factors, including engine and drive concepts, aerodynamics, body technology and electronic assistance systems. From mid-2008, Audi will offer the cleanest diesel in the world with the all new Audi A4 3.0 TDI with ultra low emission system. Compared to the average fleet consumption of petrol engines typically fitted in the USA, the TDI offers a fuel saving of as much as 35 percent. We are also pursuing new developments in alternative biofuels and hybrid power systems as well as techniques to influence driver behavior. Information regarding the Audi brand and products can be found at http://www.audiusa.com/.
About the Electronics Research Laboratory
Los Angeles Auto Show Announces Volkswagen Slipstream as the Design Challenge Winner
Volkswagen Slipstream design sketch was announced as the winner of the Los Angeles Auto Show's 2007 Design Challenge. This year's theme, RoboCar of 2057, asked eight automotive design studios to form their vision of the future by depicting a vehicle that incorporates artificial intelligence engineered to make life easier and more attractive to consumers 50 years from now.
The Volkswagen Slipstream was chosen for how well it integrated into personal and work life, the level of innovation and technology as well as its unique styling. The Slipstream adapts for city and freeway driving. These two-wheeled, teardrop shaped pods travel in an upright orientation that occupies one-fifth the size of a traditional vehicle and when on the freeway, tilts horizontally to be more aerodynamic.
"Thinking 50 years in the future using autonomous driving and artificial intelligence was challenging for our design team," said Derek Jenkins, Chief of Volkswagen Design. "We truly enjoyed participating in the Design Challenge and winning is a definite plus."
Entries were judged by multi-discipline design professionals who selected the winner based on its originality of creative concept, integration of robotics and level of adaptation to a variety of environmental conditions and consumer needs.
"The scope of the entries was very impressive and in the end it came down to which team had the most innovative and fun design that could be best applied to a daily lifestyle," said Chuck Pelly, director of Design Los Angeles and partner in The Design Academy, Inc. "Volkswagen's designers showed passion and ultimately created a brighter vision of 2057."
Designers entered two-dimensional renderings and concept descriptions predicting how the rapidly advancing field of artificial intelligence will integrate into the automobile to make life safer, more practical and attractive. In the past, participating studios have received impressive amounts of worldwide exposure among peers and media.
The purpose of the Design Challenge is to pit the auto manufacturers' Los Angeles-based design studios against one another. Designers enjoy participating in the challenge because it is a strong venue to showcase their talents and further explore new ideas in automotive design.
About the Design Challenge
The Design Challenge is part of the Design Los Angeles automobile designers' conference that has evolved into an integral element of the Los Angeles Auto Show. Entering its fourth year, Design Los Angeles provides designers with leading design speakers and the opportunity to address common issues. More than 500 designers attended the event.
Los Angeles Auto Show: WealthTV Recognizes the Six Best Automobiles for 2008
Los Angeles Auto Show -- Having difficulty determining what to get that car enthusiast in your life this holiday season? WealthTV and its viewers are ready to help. WealthTV, the premier luxury lifestyle and entertainment network in high definition, recently announced the winners of its prestigious crystal Viewer's Choice Award in six categories at the Los Angeles Auto Show. For a mere $860,000 plus $600 dollars a month, you can purchase five of these incredible cars for that special loved one, but the last one will need to be leased at $600 a month.
WealthTV conducted viewer online polling to determine the finest automobiles for 2008. Only six automobiles have earned the top honors in the hearts and minds of WealthTV's viewers and are receiving the crystal WealthTV Viewer's Choice Award. This top honor award, which more accurately reflex's the passions of loyal automotive enthusiasts, is deemed the top honors in the luxury car market. The six recognized categories and the winners of WealthTV Viewer's Choice Award are:
Most Exciting New Release of 2008 - Audi R8
Most Luxurious SUV of 2008 - Lexus LX 570
Most Luxurious Sedan of 2008 - Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG
Hottest Sports Car under $50k of 2008 - Chevrolet Corvette
Hottest Sports Car no Price Limit of 2008 - Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
Most Advanced use of Hybrid Technology of 2008 - Honda FCX
"These six amazing cars represent the best for 2008. At under $900,000 for five of these cars, the value is tremendous. Recognition by the hearts and minds of true luxury car enthusiasts is the best distinction a fine automobile can receive," stated Charles Herring, president of WealthTV. The Honda FCX Clarity, unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show, is powered by a hydrogen fuel cell and only available on a three-year lease for $600.00.
WealthTV will bring the excitement of the Los Angeles Auto Show to its viewer in high definition during the airing of its Wealth on Wheels series featuring the Best of 2008 from the Los Angeles Auto Show set to air exclusively on WealthTV. In addition to receiving the crystal Viewer's Choice award and being featured on Wealth on Wheels, each category winner will be highlighted on WealthTV's website at http://www.wealthtv.net/
About WealthTV
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