Powertrain supplier GKN has developed a lightweight eAxle that it calls “the world’s most advanced electrified driveline technology.” The system will be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show later this month. GKN says the system is far smaller and lighter than the current range of powertrains on the market, making it ideal for smaller EVs. It has previously been said that the heavy…
Green Car Congress reports that Bosch has developed a new electric axle drive, or e-axle. “The motor, power electronics, and transmission form one compact unit that directly drives the car’s axle. This makes the powertrain not only far more efficient, but more affordable as well,” the article explains. Bosch first introduced electric axle drives in 2012, but the power electronics was not…
The Motley Fool has highlighted nine family-sized sedans that get at least 40 miles per gallon (combined): 2017 Toyota Camry Hybrid ($27,800 / 40 mpg combined) 2017 Kia Optima Plug-in Hybrid ($35,210 / 40 mpg combined) 2017 Ford Fusion Hybrid ($25,295 / 42 mpg combined) 2017 Fusion Energi ($31,120 / 42 mpg combined) 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid ($29,605 / 48 mpg combined) 2017 Toyota Avalon…
Consumer Reports conducted a series of tests to determine themes fuel-efficient hybrid vehicles. And the winners were… 10. Toyota Camry Hybrid (38 mpg combined) 9. Ford Fusion Hybrid SE (39 mpg combined) 8. Hyundai Sonata Hybrid (39 mpg combined) 7. Lexus CT 200h (40 mpg combined) 6. Toyota Prius V Three (41 mpg combined) 5. Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid (41 mpg combined) 4. Toyota Prius C…
HybridCars.com reports that plug-in hybrids are projected to begin outselling hybrids in the U.S. — but it may not be as soon as some people think. Analyst Alan Baum estimates that the sale of plug-in hybrids will match the sale of traditional hybrids in 2021, then pull away. Baum, the report says, weighs things including known automaker product plans, regulatory requirements,…
Ever get confused by all the terminology surrounding hybrid and electric vehicles? Green Car Reports has compiled a useful glossary of terms to help you successfully navigate the world of greens cars. The glossary is divided into several categories: Vehicle Types, Drivetrains, Emissions, Fuels, and Energy Storage. Read more.
When Volvo’s announced that it would electrify every vehicle in its lineup by 2019, many media misinterpreted the German automaker’s plans. John Voelcker, a senior editor at Green Car Congress, wants to set the record straight. Two days after the Volvo announcement, Coelcker wrote an aptly-titled column: Hey, media, get it straight: “electrified” is NOT “electric,” and the difference matters. He…
A recent article in Green Car Congress compares hybrids that use one- and two-motor systems, concluding that two-motor systems deliver a more pleasant experience for drivers. “The challenge with a single-motor system is that one motor-generator can either provide torque to the drivetrain or act as a generator to recapture energy on engine overrun or regenerative braking. But it can’t do both…
A new report indicates that the market for plug-in hybrid vehicles is poised for major growth, predicting that 100 new plug-in hybrid models would be launched by 2021. “Plug-in hybrids have a better market than battery-electric vehicles, due to uncertainty in charging infrastructure,” said a Frost & Sullivan analyst. “The plug-in hybrid market is set for high demand and growth.” Seven new…
U.S. News & World Report has unveiled its “Best Hybrid Cars for the Money” awards, with the Toyota Prius ($24,685) taking top honors. Other highly rated hybrids included the Toyota Camry Hybrid ($26,790), Ford Fusion Hybrid ($25,785) and Chevy Malibu Hybrid ($27,875). Read more.