The Volkswagen Bus has been re-born as an electric vehicle that will run for about 186 miles on a single charge. It is supposed to fully charge in one hour at an electric charging station.
A top speed of 87 mph is electronically controlled.
It also boasts an iPad integration system that fastens to the dashboard of the car.
The ‘VW Bulli’ was introduced at the 2011 Geneva Auto Show.
Ford focus has introduced their new electric version of this popular car. They say it will launch in late 2011. Total range hasn’t been disclosed yet, but an estimate of 100 mile range is suggested.
There are two charging options: 120v standard charging will take up to 20 hours for a full charge. 240v optional charging station will do a complete charge in 3-4 hours, and will be sold and installed by ‘Best Buy’ at an estimated cost of $1,499.
They are using a 23 kwh lithium-ion battery.
A lack of public charging stations is a concern for some. Others say it may force larger cities to make more charging stations available.
Top speed is expected to be about 84 mph (136 kph).
Ford and Microsoft have partnered to bring electric drivers a smart phone app called “My Ford Mobile,” which helps owners plug in remotely, advise drivers when utility rates are lowest and search MapQuest for charging stations.
China has come up with an innovative way to reduce carbon emissions and relieve congested metropolitan areas. They have developed what is being called a “straddling bus” that allows vehicles less than 2 meters tall to pass under the busses. This was first exhibited at the 13th Beijing International High-Tech Expo in May of this year, with hopes of putting a model into pilot use in Beijing’s Mentougou district in the near future.
These large sized busses have a ground clearance of 4 to 4.5 meters and 6 meters wide, and are comprised of two levels- the upper levels will be designated as passenger space, and the lower level will be for the passage of normal sized vehicles.
The “straddling Bus” will be powered by solar energy and electricity with a top speed of 60 km/h (37 mph) carrying a maximum passenger load of 1200 to 1400 in one trip (about 300 per cart). It also has an emergency exit ladder built in, in case evacuation is necessary. It is also estimated that this bus will save approximately 860 tons of fuel each year.
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda and Tesla CEO Elon Musk in front of the Tesla model 'S'
Arnold in front of the Tesla model 'S'.
Tesla model 'S' studio shot
Tesla Roadster
Tesla paid $42 million dollars to purchase the former NUMMI pant (New United Motor Manufacturing Inc) in Silicon Valley, and includes 207 acres which is about 55% of the site and includes all manufacturing facilities there.
As part of the deal with Tesla, Toyota has agreed to buy $50 million worth of stock in Tesla’s IPO (initial public offering).
Of the new electric cars that are making headlines, this car looks very exciting. Think City Electric Car has come up with a design that can travel up to 100 miles on a single charge, and can be charged using an onboard AC charger. It will do an 80% charge in just 15 minutes! It has room for four with optional back seats. It also has electric windows and mirrors, central locking, 2 front airbags, ABS brakes and regenerative braking!
