Ford investing $155 million in Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1 and adding
60 jobs
Investment supports new fuel-efficient 3.7-liter V-6 engine for 2011 Mustang that delivers an expected best-in-class 30 mpg highway and 305 horsepower
The 3.7-liter DOHC Ti-VCT V-6 is one of nine new engines and transmissions Ford is introducing in North America for 2011-model-year vehicles
With Cleveland plant upgrade, Ford already has invested $1.8 billion and added 1,260 jobs in North American powertrain engineering and facilities to support 2011 vehicle launches - with more to come
Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) is investing $155 million and adding 60 jobs at its Cleveland operations to build a new fuel-efficient V-6 engine for the 2011 Mustang, which has expected class-leading highway fuel efficiency of 30 miles per gallon on the highway and 305 horsepower.
The investment and jobs at Ford's Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1 brings the company's investment in powertrain engineering and facility upgrades in North America to $1.8 billion to support its 2011 vehicle launches - with more to come. The total number of jobs being added as part of these investments is 1,260. The new Mustang engine is one of nine new or upgraded engines or transmissions for 2011 model Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles.
"Ford is absolutely committed to delivering class-leading fuel efficiency with every new vehicle we introduce, and this investment in Cleveland provides further proof," said Bill Russo, director of manufacturing for Ford's powertrain operations.
On sale this spring, the 2011 Ford Mustang delivers 305 high-performance horses for V-6 coupe buyers. The all-aluminum dual-overhead cam (DOHC), 3.7-liter Duratec 24-valve V-6 engine delivers a projected 30 mpg on the highway with a six-speed automatic transmission and fun for drivers on nearly every road.
"Mustang is completely transformed with this new engine," said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. "Everything people love about the car is still there and now under the hood is a V-6 engine that uses premium technology to deliver the power, the feel, the fuel efficiency, even the sound of the best sports coupes in the world."
Also available for the 2011-model year are the Mustang GT - with an all-new 5.0-liter V-8 delivering 412 horsepower and projected unsurpassed highway mileage of 25 mpg - and a no-compromises Shelby GT500 powered by a 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 and 550 horsepower.
The new 3.7-liter V-6 is built at Ford's Cleveland Engine Plant 1. The 5.0-liter V-8 engine is built at Ford's Essex Engine Plant in Windsor, Ontario. The 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 is built at Ford's Romeo, Mich., Engine Plant.
Cleveland Engine Plant 1 Retooled
Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1's V-6 engine is expected to represent two-thirds of Mustang's volume this calendar year.
Ford's $155 million investment there includes $121 million in manufacturing investment at the plant and $34 million for launch and engineering. Sixty new jobs have been added to the plant to support the new engine.
Specifically, the $121 million for the manufacturing facility supports continued investment in developing and re-tooling the plant's flexible manufacturing systems in the assembly and component (cylinder block, head and crankshaft) areas.
"The Cleveland Engine Plant is not only building fuel-efficient engines for some of our most popular Ford products, it's becoming a hub for the future of Ford powertrains," Russo said. "This facility has the flexibility and the expertise to help us meet customer demands for fun, fuel-efficient vehicles, and it represents the future of advanced manufacturing in North America."
Ford's investment at Cleveland Engine Plant is supported by Ford's green partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy. This Ohio plant is one of 11 Ford facilities in the U.S. participating in the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Incentives Program initiated by Congress and implemented by the Obama administration. The program is helping to develop advanced technology vehicles and strengthen American manufacturing across the country. This project is also supported by Ford's state and local government partners primarily through training funds.
The investment represents the latest in Ford's ongoing commitment to the Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1. Opened in 1951 as Ford's first engine plant in Ohio, the facility has produced more than 35 million engines.
In 2004, Ford invested $350 million into the plant for redesign and installation of an all-new assembly line as well as block, crankshaft and cylinder head machining lines. The plant also led the way in 2009 with the introduction of Ford's first EcoBoost engines, which use gasoline turbocharged direct-injection technology for up to 20 percent better fuel economy, 15 percent fewer CO2 emissions and superior driving performance versus larger displacement engines.
Nine New or Upgraded Powertrains This Year
Ford is introducing nine new or upgraded powertrains in North America for its 2011 model vehicles, representing $1.8 billion worth of investment in engineering and facilities. Among the nine powertrains are:
-- 6.2-liter V-8 gasoline engine for the F-Series Super Duty
-- 6.7-liter Power Stroke Diesel for the F-Series Super Duty
-- 6R140 heavy-duty TorqShift® automatic transmission for the F-Series
Super Duty
-- 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V-6 engine for the Mustang
-- 5.0-liter Ti-VCT V-8 engine for the Mustang
-- Six-speed automatic transmission for the Mustang
The 2011 Mustang is the most technically advanced model yet of America's favorite sports car. Both V-6 and V-8 models feature Twin Independent Variable Valve Timing (Ti-VCT), double overhead cams, four-valves per-cylinder and free-flowing exhaust systems. Both models are available with six-speed manual or an upgraded 6-speed automatic transmission.
With so much additional horsepower standard, the 2011 Mustang received enhancements to its chassis and suspension to maintain the outstanding driving behavior Mustang owners expect. The addition of new technologies and features, including segment-exclusive electric power assisted steering will mark a new era of driving dynamics for Mustang.
"We're focusing on every single detail of our engine and transmission lineup to speed class-leading fuel efficiency to our customers as quickly as possible, affordably and in high volumes," said Barb Samardzich, vice president, Powertrain Development.
The 2011 Mustang is a strong example of Ford's industry leading fuel economy gains. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Ford's combined car and truck fuel economy has improved nearly 20 percent since 2004 - almost double the next closest competitor.
Additionally, Ford has lowered its tailpipe CO2 emissions more than any other automaker. Ford's fleet-wide average of 434 grams per mile is 37 grams lower than the 2007 total and 25 grams lower than 2008.
About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 198,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company's automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com.
Feb 27, 2010
CODA Automotive Selects goodness Mfg as Advertising Agency of Record to Launch All- Electric Car
CODA Automotive, a California-based electric car and battery company, announced today the selection of goodness Mfg as its Agency of Record. Goodness Mfg's role will be to support the launch of the CODA all-electric car in late 2010 and CODA's on-going strategic and creative brand development. Responsibilities will include strategic planning, creative content development and production, media planning and buying, digital, social media and experiential marketing.
"Goodness Mfg is just as passionate about ending the dependence on oil as we are and preserving the environment for future generations," said Kevin Czinger, President and CEO, CODA Automotive. "We look forward to working together with goodness Mfg to show Americans that there is a fun, safe, and affordable way to accomplish these goals."
Goodness Mfg is known for creating powerful, emotional connections between brands and consumers, which made them a perfect match to help CODA jumpstart the electric car movement.
"There are many exciting challenges in accelerating the adoption of all-electric cars, and we are thrilled to have goodness Mfg along with us for the ride," said Kerri Martin, Chief Marketing Officer, CODA Automotive. "We chose goodness Mfg because of their strategic smarts, creative excellence and an understanding for the need to quickly adapt to the ever changing world, without being weighed down by traditional agency silos. Goodness Mfg's new agency model reflects the same innovative thinking as CODA's model of doing business differently in the auto industry."
As an American automotive company independent of the oil industry, CODA Automotive is leading the charge to accelerate the adoption of the electric car era by taking an unconventional and customer-centric marketing approach. Recognizing the inefficiencies of the traditional automotive business model and the opportunity for reinvention, CODA will sell directly to consumers and deliver a unique customer ownership experience in order to build a community of passionate electric car advocates.
Recently, goodness Mfg was acquired by Trailer Park, one of the largest integrated, digital production companies in North America, forming a new agency model that combines agency creative and services with production, all under one roof. This allows ideas and communication to get to market faster, which is critical as branding becomes more about the hundreds of micro-interactions with consumers versus just one campaign.
"We couldn't be happier or prouder to be teaming up with CODA to end dependence on oil and usher in a new era of electric cars," said Tom Adams, goodness Mfg Executive Creative Director. "To do good is a core tenet of goodness Mfg, and we couldn't think of a more perfect partner and perfect cause to do that with."
Work for CODA Automotive is expected to break this spring.
About CODA Automotive: Headquartered in Santa Monica, Calif., CODA is working to reduce dependence on oil and leading the way to a cleaner future by building 100% electric cars and transportation battery systems. CODA is working in a smart, inter-dependent way with a number of leading global technology and manufacturing companies to quickly and efficiently bring electric drive technology to market and jump start the electric car movement. Through its exclusive transportation and electric utility storage battery joint venture with Lishen Power Battery, CODA is also a leading designer and large-scale manufacturer of power battery systems. The American engineered, globally built CODA all-electric car will be available to consumers in 2010.
About goodness Mfg: goodness Mfg, a Trailer Park Company, is a hybrid agency that combines award winning creative talent with one of the largest digital production studios in the country. Located in Los Angeles, Calif., the agency is housed within a 65,000 sq ft production studio with over 300 full-time employees. Most recently, gMfg received extensive praise for its launch campaign and website for Google's Nexus One phone. Additional clients include Lucas Arts, Pearl Izumi, New Line Cinema, Netflix, and American Cancer Society.
"Goodness Mfg is just as passionate about ending the dependence on oil as we are and preserving the environment for future generations," said Kevin Czinger, President and CEO, CODA Automotive. "We look forward to working together with goodness Mfg to show Americans that there is a fun, safe, and affordable way to accomplish these goals."
Goodness Mfg is known for creating powerful, emotional connections between brands and consumers, which made them a perfect match to help CODA jumpstart the electric car movement.
"There are many exciting challenges in accelerating the adoption of all-electric cars, and we are thrilled to have goodness Mfg along with us for the ride," said Kerri Martin, Chief Marketing Officer, CODA Automotive. "We chose goodness Mfg because of their strategic smarts, creative excellence and an understanding for the need to quickly adapt to the ever changing world, without being weighed down by traditional agency silos. Goodness Mfg's new agency model reflects the same innovative thinking as CODA's model of doing business differently in the auto industry."
As an American automotive company independent of the oil industry, CODA Automotive is leading the charge to accelerate the adoption of the electric car era by taking an unconventional and customer-centric marketing approach. Recognizing the inefficiencies of the traditional automotive business model and the opportunity for reinvention, CODA will sell directly to consumers and deliver a unique customer ownership experience in order to build a community of passionate electric car advocates.
Recently, goodness Mfg was acquired by Trailer Park, one of the largest integrated, digital production companies in North America, forming a new agency model that combines agency creative and services with production, all under one roof. This allows ideas and communication to get to market faster, which is critical as branding becomes more about the hundreds of micro-interactions with consumers versus just one campaign.
"We couldn't be happier or prouder to be teaming up with CODA to end dependence on oil and usher in a new era of electric cars," said Tom Adams, goodness Mfg Executive Creative Director. "To do good is a core tenet of goodness Mfg, and we couldn't think of a more perfect partner and perfect cause to do that with."
Work for CODA Automotive is expected to break this spring.
About CODA Automotive: Headquartered in Santa Monica, Calif., CODA is working to reduce dependence on oil and leading the way to a cleaner future by building 100% electric cars and transportation battery systems. CODA is working in a smart, inter-dependent way with a number of leading global technology and manufacturing companies to quickly and efficiently bring electric drive technology to market and jump start the electric car movement. Through its exclusive transportation and electric utility storage battery joint venture with Lishen Power Battery, CODA is also a leading designer and large-scale manufacturer of power battery systems. The American engineered, globally built CODA all-electric car will be available to consumers in 2010.
About goodness Mfg: goodness Mfg, a Trailer Park Company, is a hybrid agency that combines award winning creative talent with one of the largest digital production studios in the country. Located in Los Angeles, Calif., the agency is housed within a 65,000 sq ft production studio with over 300 full-time employees. Most recently, gMfg received extensive praise for its launch campaign and website for Google's Nexus One phone. Additional clients include Lucas Arts, Pearl Izumi, New Line Cinema, Netflix, and American Cancer Society.
AVIS INTRODUCES ELECTRIC VEHICLES FOR HIRE TOGETHER WITH ITS LONG- TERM PARTNER RENAULT
Building on its long-term environmental heritage, leading car hire company, Avis, has partnered with the Renault-Nissan Alliance to offer electric cars to its customers from 2011.
The partnership will add to Avis' already well-established environmental programme, which has seen the company maintain a CarbonNeutral® status since 1999.
Pascal Bazin, Chief Executive for Avis Europe, explains: "At Avis, we are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and are always looking for new ways to improve our environmental performance."
"We are delighted to sign this important partnership with Renault to offer electric vehicles as part of our green fleet, which is an increasingly central part of our customer offering. Despite the impact of the recession, consumers are just as aware of the issues of climate change and it is only by working together with our partners that will we be able to make a difference."
Senior Vice President, Renault Corporate Sales Division, Uwe Hochgeschurtz, adds: "Avis is an important long-term partner for Renault, so we are thrilled to be able to expand our offering with the company to include electric vehicles. We are confident that the partnership will play an important role in enabling customers to experience the new technology and learn about the environmental benefits of electric vehicles, which are sure to become a significant alternative for car travel in the future."
With electric vehicles, which produce zero emissions during use, Renault is preparing a breakthrough solution that provides sustainable mobility for all. From 2011, Renault will progressively roll out four electric vehicles.
These include two derivatives of internal-combustion vehicles: • Renault Fluence Z.E., an electric version of Fluence. • Renault Kangoo Express Z.E., an electric version of Renault Kangoo Express, intended primarily for fleet and business use. The range of electric vehicles will later be extended to cover other segments, including two new cars whose architecture will be designed to run exclusively with electrical power:
• A car derived from the Twizy Z.E. Concept for motoring in built-up areas. • The fourth vehicle will take its inspiration from Zoe Z.E. Concept and is scheduled to be released at the beginning of 2012. It will be a particularly versatile vehicle
intended for everyday motoring in and around cities.
With a long history of environmental awareness, Avis has offset more than 147,000 tonnes of CO2 since 1997 by investing in a host of environmental initiatives such as renewable energy, methane capture projects and tree planting, which mean the company has now been CarbonNeutral® accredited for more than a decade.
Average CO2 emissions have also been successfully reduced year on year through the introduction of further environmentally friendly technologies and practices, including motion detector lights in many of its European offices, an extensive recycling scheme for staff and the development of a Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) plan to prevent spills from storage and during fuel loading at rental stations across Europe.
Meanwhile, Avis customers can already benefit from an extensive eco-offering. Each car on the Avis fleet is typically only six months old, to ensure maximum fuel efficiency, whilst the average CO2 emissions for cars purchased in 2009 was just 144.6g CO2/Km.
All Avis customers also have access to environmental driving tips to help lower their emissions and can choose a vehicle from a wide ranging green fleet, including hundreds of vehicles which run on fuels other than petrol or diesel. Leisure and business customers also have the option to offset their carbon emissions prior to their journey.
For more information about Avis and its green fleet, please visit avis-europe.com. For more information about Renault and its future electric range, please visit Renault.com
Avis
1) For further information please contact the appropriate representative on behalf of Avis Europe plc from the list below.
2) Avis Europe is a leading car rental company in Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia, where it operates the globally recognised Avis and Budget brands, serving more than 8 million customers each year
3) The Avis brand operates across four continents via a network of over 2,800 locations in 109 countries, through wholly owned subsidiaries in 13 corporate countries complimented by licence arrangements in a further 96 countries.
4) Avis Europe tries harder to meet customer's needs with the complimentary Avis Preferred scheme providing customers with the quickest and easiest way to rent a car, including pre-prepared paperwork, priority counters and dedicated reservation lines
5) Avis Europe has also developed a series of other initiatives designed to improve speed, clarity and choice for customers including its jargon free Rental Agreement in 8 languages, Fuel up Front scheme, Rapid Return service and Satellite Navigation rental option.
6) CSR is an integral part of Avis Europe's 'We Try Harder' philosophy. Avis is committed to reducing the impact its business has on the environment and has been awarded CarbonNeutral® operation status since 2006. This was achieved through measuring and reducing its CO2 emissions to net zero through internal reduction initiatives such as, introducing more environmentally friendly vehicles into the fleet and through external reduction initiatives, i.e. offsetting.
7) Further details can be found at www.avis-europe.com
The partnership will add to Avis' already well-established environmental programme, which has seen the company maintain a CarbonNeutral® status since 1999.
Pascal Bazin, Chief Executive for Avis Europe, explains: "At Avis, we are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and are always looking for new ways to improve our environmental performance."
"We are delighted to sign this important partnership with Renault to offer electric vehicles as part of our green fleet, which is an increasingly central part of our customer offering. Despite the impact of the recession, consumers are just as aware of the issues of climate change and it is only by working together with our partners that will we be able to make a difference."
Senior Vice President, Renault Corporate Sales Division, Uwe Hochgeschurtz, adds: "Avis is an important long-term partner for Renault, so we are thrilled to be able to expand our offering with the company to include electric vehicles. We are confident that the partnership will play an important role in enabling customers to experience the new technology and learn about the environmental benefits of electric vehicles, which are sure to become a significant alternative for car travel in the future."
With electric vehicles, which produce zero emissions during use, Renault is preparing a breakthrough solution that provides sustainable mobility for all. From 2011, Renault will progressively roll out four electric vehicles.
These include two derivatives of internal-combustion vehicles: • Renault Fluence Z.E., an electric version of Fluence. • Renault Kangoo Express Z.E., an electric version of Renault Kangoo Express, intended primarily for fleet and business use. The range of electric vehicles will later be extended to cover other segments, including two new cars whose architecture will be designed to run exclusively with electrical power:
• A car derived from the Twizy Z.E. Concept for motoring in built-up areas. • The fourth vehicle will take its inspiration from Zoe Z.E. Concept and is scheduled to be released at the beginning of 2012. It will be a particularly versatile vehicle
intended for everyday motoring in and around cities.
With a long history of environmental awareness, Avis has offset more than 147,000 tonnes of CO2 since 1997 by investing in a host of environmental initiatives such as renewable energy, methane capture projects and tree planting, which mean the company has now been CarbonNeutral® accredited for more than a decade.
Average CO2 emissions have also been successfully reduced year on year through the introduction of further environmentally friendly technologies and practices, including motion detector lights in many of its European offices, an extensive recycling scheme for staff and the development of a Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) plan to prevent spills from storage and during fuel loading at rental stations across Europe.
Meanwhile, Avis customers can already benefit from an extensive eco-offering. Each car on the Avis fleet is typically only six months old, to ensure maximum fuel efficiency, whilst the average CO2 emissions for cars purchased in 2009 was just 144.6g CO2/Km.
All Avis customers also have access to environmental driving tips to help lower their emissions and can choose a vehicle from a wide ranging green fleet, including hundreds of vehicles which run on fuels other than petrol or diesel. Leisure and business customers also have the option to offset their carbon emissions prior to their journey.
For more information about Avis and its green fleet, please visit avis-europe.com. For more information about Renault and its future electric range, please visit Renault.com
Avis
1) For further information please contact the appropriate representative on behalf of Avis Europe plc from the list below.
2) Avis Europe is a leading car rental company in Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia, where it operates the globally recognised Avis and Budget brands, serving more than 8 million customers each year
3) The Avis brand operates across four continents via a network of over 2,800 locations in 109 countries, through wholly owned subsidiaries in 13 corporate countries complimented by licence arrangements in a further 96 countries.
4) Avis Europe tries harder to meet customer's needs with the complimentary Avis Preferred scheme providing customers with the quickest and easiest way to rent a car, including pre-prepared paperwork, priority counters and dedicated reservation lines
5) Avis Europe has also developed a series of other initiatives designed to improve speed, clarity and choice for customers including its jargon free Rental Agreement in 8 languages, Fuel up Front scheme, Rapid Return service and Satellite Navigation rental option.
6) CSR is an integral part of Avis Europe's 'We Try Harder' philosophy. Avis is committed to reducing the impact its business has on the environment and has been awarded CarbonNeutral® operation status since 2006. This was achieved through measuring and reducing its CO2 emissions to net zero through internal reduction initiatives such as, introducing more environmentally friendly vehicles into the fleet and through external reduction initiatives, i.e. offsetting.
7) Further details can be found at www.avis-europe.com
"Think Blue.": a signal for the environment
Protecting the environment is simple and everyone can help in their everyday lives. This is the message of the new image and marketing campaign called "Think Blue." which the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand is launching on February 27, 2010. Building on one of the best-known environmental labels in the automobile industry, "BlueMotion", Volkswagen is sending out a new signal for sustainable mobility.
This corporate mindset is underscored by the use of blue as the predominant color in the campaign. The color is already established on the market in the Volkswagen brand logo and through the "BlueMotion" environmental label. Volkswagen is now systematically continuing this tradition in combination with innovative elements.
"Our goal is to establish 'Think Blue.' as an expression of our corporate mindset and a firm feature of the Volkswagen brand's ecologically sustainable activities," Luca de Meo, Head of Marketing at the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand, explained. "We have deliberately chosen an international slogan because environmental protection knows no national boundaries. The campaign is in line with the Volkswagen brand values: innovative, valuable and responsible," de Meo added.
The new advertising campaign builds a bridge from the past to the future. It takes up the thread of the "Think small" campaign that accompanied the triumphant international success of the Beetle as the people's car in the 1960s. "The 'Think small' slogan symbolizes the Volkswagen brand's achievement in democratizing mobility the world over. The challenge of the future lies in achieving efficient and sustainable mobility for everyone. Volkswagen intends to lead the way. This is expressed by the campaign: 'Think Small' has become 'Think Blue.'" de Meo stated.
The "Think Blue." campaign debuts on February 27, 2010 with print ads. These will be followed by TV spots, brochures, web specials and an e-game for iPhone and iPod Touch. All the measures focus on potential savings, sustainability and environmental awareness.
This corporate mindset is underscored by the use of blue as the predominant color in the campaign. The color is already established on the market in the Volkswagen brand logo and through the "BlueMotion" environmental label. Volkswagen is now systematically continuing this tradition in combination with innovative elements.
"Our goal is to establish 'Think Blue.' as an expression of our corporate mindset and a firm feature of the Volkswagen brand's ecologically sustainable activities," Luca de Meo, Head of Marketing at the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand, explained. "We have deliberately chosen an international slogan because environmental protection knows no national boundaries. The campaign is in line with the Volkswagen brand values: innovative, valuable and responsible," de Meo added.
The new advertising campaign builds a bridge from the past to the future. It takes up the thread of the "Think small" campaign that accompanied the triumphant international success of the Beetle as the people's car in the 1960s. "The 'Think small' slogan symbolizes the Volkswagen brand's achievement in democratizing mobility the world over. The challenge of the future lies in achieving efficient and sustainable mobility for everyone. Volkswagen intends to lead the way. This is expressed by the campaign: 'Think Small' has become 'Think Blue.'" de Meo stated.
The "Think Blue." campaign debuts on February 27, 2010 with print ads. These will be followed by TV spots, brochures, web specials and an e-game for iPhone and iPod Touch. All the measures focus on potential savings, sustainability and environmental awareness.
BANKS SIDEWINDER TOP DIESEL DRAGSTER SETS SIGHTS FOR 6-SECOND "CLEAN" RUN
On Saturday March 6th 2010, the Banks Power team and their track-shredding Banks Sidewinder Top Diesel Dragster will head to Wittmann, AZ. for the Speedworld Dragstrip for NHRDA's Desert Diesel Nationals. Armed with an even more powerful engine than the one used in its track debut at Famoso last May, the objective is really two-fold: quarter-mile runs in the low-mid 6's while emitting none of the black clouds of soot normally associated with diesel racing. It wasn't too long ago that such an accomplishment with a diesel platform was even possible, but the Sidewinder represents the ultimate in advanced diesel drag-racing technology. "Diesel has cleaned up its act", says Gale Banks, "and we're out to prove speed can come without the price of black smoke." It's all part of Banks Power's objective to raise the profile of diesel technology, shed light on its inherent advantages in both power and efficiency, and usher in a generation of diesel gear-heads, fans, and customers.
Banks Power is the leader in the design, testing, manufacture, and sale of complete high-performance engine and braking systems for both diesel- and gasoline-powered light trucks, SUVs, and motorhomes. Located in Azusa, California, the company is squarely focused on the future of high performance with good fuel economy through technological innovation, world class engineering, and intense product testing. The company celebrated its "first 50" years in business in 2008, and, recently, Gale Banks himself was awarded a Distinguished Service Citation by the Automotive Hall of Fame. www.bankspower.com.
Banks Power is the leader in the design, testing, manufacture, and sale of complete high-performance engine and braking systems for both diesel- and gasoline-powered light trucks, SUVs, and motorhomes. Located in Azusa, California, the company is squarely focused on the future of high performance with good fuel economy through technological innovation, world class engineering, and intense product testing. The company celebrated its "first 50" years in business in 2008, and, recently, Gale Banks himself was awarded a Distinguished Service Citation by the Automotive Hall of Fame. www.bankspower.com.
Feb 18, 2010
THE CASE FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES IS CLEAR
The case for battery-powered electric vehicles is perfectly clear. It only takes a little foresight-something entirely missing from Neil Winton's column ("Battery-only cars make no sense," Detroit News, February 10).
In the near future, EVs will indeed provide an important part of a comprehensive mobility portfolio helping to address national energy security and global environmental concerns. Yes, technologies to improve the fuel efficiency of gas- and diesel-powered vehicles, hybrid-electrics and alternative fuels like cellulosic ethanol will each play important roles in meeting customer needs while reducing oil dependency and greenhouse gases. So too will EVs, with the additional benefit of producing no tailpipe emissions at all.
Each of Winton's arguments against EVs breaks down upon knowledgeable scrutiny:
• Batteries are too expensive, he says, at least until economies of scale and technological advancements in the battery industry bring anticipated cost reductions. (Remember how expensive DVD players were when they first came out? Have you priced one lately? And didn't Bill Gates once suggest that 640K ought to be enough memory for anyone?) EV battery costs are expected to fall by at least 50 percent in the next three years through a combination of battery design advancements and manufacturing efficiencies, along with improvements in the energy efficiency of EVs that will lead to a down-sizing of the battery pack.
• But the battery packs required for HEVs today are much smaller and therefore less expensive than the packs required to power an EV, Winton says. True, but EVs have an obvious efficiency over HEVs that won't go away as technology advances-they need only an electric motor as opposed to the electric motor-internal combustion engine combo in an HEV. The added weight, complexity and expense of a redundant propulsion system gets harder to justify as battery prices fall, especially in smaller urban commuting vehicles. Not to mention the maintenance requirements and oil changes for combustion engine vehicles and hybrids. EVs have far fewer moving parts and no regular routine maintenance requirements at expensive dealerships.
• Won't range anxiety among potential customers doom the EV as a mainstream vehicle choice? No. A THINK City electric car, being sold in Europe right now and coming to the U.S. later this year, has a range of more than 100 miles per charge. That's well within the daily commute plus lunch-time errand use of millions of potential American customers. They can easily recharge their cars overnight using household current-at a cost that will amount to as little as 2 cents a mile.
• For those still nervous about getting stranded, an infrastructure of quick charge stations will emerge, beginning in the cities where corporate and municipal fleets first embrace EVs. Winton contends that the technology behind quick charging is questionable. But THINK and AeroVironment last month announced at the Washington Auto Show that ultra-fast charging-zero charge to 80 percent charged in just 15 minutes-will soon be here. In fact, THINK and its battery supplier, Indianapolis-based EnerDel have been fast-charging a THINK City daily for months now. THINK City and its advanced lithium ion battery have been specifically designed for the rigors of ultra-fast charging. We'd be pleased to demonstrate it to Mr. Winton or another writer from the Detroit News. We'll just need 15 minutes of your time.
• The electric grid is hopelessly inefficient, Winton contends. Yes, it is inefficient. But not hopelessly, and the sensible deployment of smart EVs like the 3-G connected THINK City can make it stronger. It is, in fact, the emergence of hundreds of thousands, and then millions, of EVs that will help provide the load management and energy storage that is missing today, bridging the gap between expensive periods of peak demand and relatively inexpensive off-peak times. The owner of an EV will have an energy-storage device that will interact with the energy grid as a money-making proposition, offsetting some of the owner's energy costs while helping to reduce energy disruptions from a periodically over-taxed grid. A growing network of plug-in EVs will complement the increasing proportion of renewable but volatile wind and solar energy coming into the grid. When's the last time your car earned money for you sitting in your garage? Or provided back-up power after a storm?
• In fact, even after the battery in an EV has completed its useful life of eight to ten years, it will still retain about 60 percent of its energy density. It will be a useful asset contributing to energy storage needs in offices and municipal buildings, utilities, etc. where the relative weight and size inefficiencies (compared with a new battery) will not be important. Again, the owners of EVs will have a valuable asset, and a market will develop to pay them for these assets, further reducing their overall cost of ownership. The battery electric car is starting to look like a stronger proposition now, isn't it?
Winton also contends that the case for man-made global warming is weak. Space limitations prevent me from taking that one on. But let me just say that even if one denies the science demonstrating the destructive qualities of man-made carbon dioxide in the upper atmosphere, he'd have to admit that a technology that helps reduce dependence on imported oil while contributing absolutely no tailpipe emissions ought to be given strong consideration in an improved portfolio of personal transportation choices.
Richard Canny,
CEO, THINK
In the near future, EVs will indeed provide an important part of a comprehensive mobility portfolio helping to address national energy security and global environmental concerns. Yes, technologies to improve the fuel efficiency of gas- and diesel-powered vehicles, hybrid-electrics and alternative fuels like cellulosic ethanol will each play important roles in meeting customer needs while reducing oil dependency and greenhouse gases. So too will EVs, with the additional benefit of producing no tailpipe emissions at all.
Each of Winton's arguments against EVs breaks down upon knowledgeable scrutiny:
• Batteries are too expensive, he says, at least until economies of scale and technological advancements in the battery industry bring anticipated cost reductions. (Remember how expensive DVD players were when they first came out? Have you priced one lately? And didn't Bill Gates once suggest that 640K ought to be enough memory for anyone?) EV battery costs are expected to fall by at least 50 percent in the next three years through a combination of battery design advancements and manufacturing efficiencies, along with improvements in the energy efficiency of EVs that will lead to a down-sizing of the battery pack.
• But the battery packs required for HEVs today are much smaller and therefore less expensive than the packs required to power an EV, Winton says. True, but EVs have an obvious efficiency over HEVs that won't go away as technology advances-they need only an electric motor as opposed to the electric motor-internal combustion engine combo in an HEV. The added weight, complexity and expense of a redundant propulsion system gets harder to justify as battery prices fall, especially in smaller urban commuting vehicles. Not to mention the maintenance requirements and oil changes for combustion engine vehicles and hybrids. EVs have far fewer moving parts and no regular routine maintenance requirements at expensive dealerships.
• Won't range anxiety among potential customers doom the EV as a mainstream vehicle choice? No. A THINK City electric car, being sold in Europe right now and coming to the U.S. later this year, has a range of more than 100 miles per charge. That's well within the daily commute plus lunch-time errand use of millions of potential American customers. They can easily recharge their cars overnight using household current-at a cost that will amount to as little as 2 cents a mile.
• For those still nervous about getting stranded, an infrastructure of quick charge stations will emerge, beginning in the cities where corporate and municipal fleets first embrace EVs. Winton contends that the technology behind quick charging is questionable. But THINK and AeroVironment last month announced at the Washington Auto Show that ultra-fast charging-zero charge to 80 percent charged in just 15 minutes-will soon be here. In fact, THINK and its battery supplier, Indianapolis-based EnerDel have been fast-charging a THINK City daily for months now. THINK City and its advanced lithium ion battery have been specifically designed for the rigors of ultra-fast charging. We'd be pleased to demonstrate it to Mr. Winton or another writer from the Detroit News. We'll just need 15 minutes of your time.
• The electric grid is hopelessly inefficient, Winton contends. Yes, it is inefficient. But not hopelessly, and the sensible deployment of smart EVs like the 3-G connected THINK City can make it stronger. It is, in fact, the emergence of hundreds of thousands, and then millions, of EVs that will help provide the load management and energy storage that is missing today, bridging the gap between expensive periods of peak demand and relatively inexpensive off-peak times. The owner of an EV will have an energy-storage device that will interact with the energy grid as a money-making proposition, offsetting some of the owner's energy costs while helping to reduce energy disruptions from a periodically over-taxed grid. A growing network of plug-in EVs will complement the increasing proportion of renewable but volatile wind and solar energy coming into the grid. When's the last time your car earned money for you sitting in your garage? Or provided back-up power after a storm?
• In fact, even after the battery in an EV has completed its useful life of eight to ten years, it will still retain about 60 percent of its energy density. It will be a useful asset contributing to energy storage needs in offices and municipal buildings, utilities, etc. where the relative weight and size inefficiencies (compared with a new battery) will not be important. Again, the owners of EVs will have a valuable asset, and a market will develop to pay them for these assets, further reducing their overall cost of ownership. The battery electric car is starting to look like a stronger proposition now, isn't it?
Winton also contends that the case for man-made global warming is weak. Space limitations prevent me from taking that one on. But let me just say that even if one denies the science demonstrating the destructive qualities of man-made carbon dioxide in the upper atmosphere, he'd have to admit that a technology that helps reduce dependence on imported oil while contributing absolutely no tailpipe emissions ought to be given strong consideration in an improved portfolio of personal transportation choices.
Richard Canny,
CEO, THINK
The new Lotus Elise probably has the lowest CO2 for its performance for any gasoline high performance sportscar in the world
The Lotus Elise revolutionised the sportscar market 14 years ago when the small lightweight agile 2-seat mid engine sportscar was introduced. By ensuring that the Elise stuck rigidly to Lotus' core values of performance through light weight, the Elise was able to produce supercar performance with city car economy.
Making its debut at the 80th International Geneva Motorshow, the 2011 model year Lotus Elise introduces a number of changes and improvements to maintain its class leading position.
For the 2011 model year, the Elise range will consist of the following variants:
• Lotus Elise – 136 PS, less than 155 g of CO2 /km – new 1.6 litre engine *
• Lotus Elise R - 192 PS, 196 g of CO2 /km - 1.8 litre engine
• Lotus Elise SC – 220 PS, 199 g of CO2 /km - 1.8 litre supercharged engine
Key changes and improvements to the whole of the 2011 model year Elise range
• New evolution body design incorporating new front clamshell, rear bumper and engine cover
• New all in one integrated headlights including LED day light running lights and LED direction indicators
• Improved aerodynamics with a reduction in Cd by 4%, resulting in better fuel economy
• New cast and forged wheels
• Vehicle warranty increased from 2 years to 3 years and 36, 000 miles
Additional changes for the 2011 model year entry level Lotus Elise
• New high technology 1ZR-FAE 1.6 litre engine with Valvematic and Dual VVT-I technology to optimise the performance and efficiency of the engine
• Less than 155 g of CO2 per km (an improvement of over 13% compared to the 2010 Elise S)*
• Combined fuel consumption 6.14 litres / 100 km (46 mpg)*
• New 6 speed close ratio gearbox
• Cruise control available as part of the Touring pack
The body – an evolution
The new 2011 model year Elise range is on sale now and will be in showrooms from April 2010. The body of the new 2011 model year Elise is an evolution of the iconic Elise design, retaining the character and style, while offering a more planted, purposeful stance and a pure, contemporary look that links it to the Evora. As with all Lotus product the design is an exciting blend of dramatic style and functional efficiency
The new Elise body has a fresh sculptured front, including a new bumper, front clam and access panel that combine to give the Elise a wider look with more road presence.
At the rear of the car the new engine has been encased by a distinctive "twin-spine" engine cover whilst lower down a more aggressive diffuser is tightly wrapped by an elegant new bumper design that now includes the rear licence plate.
New headlamp units with distinctively sculptured LED lighting guides (incorporating daytime running lamps and direction indicators) give a contemporary twist to this classic design. Elsewhere, the signature, Lotus "mouth" and familiar sculptured forms have been sensitively refined to give a crisper, more dynamic look. The repositioning of lamp functions has enabled the creation of broad clean surface between the fenders which combines with sleek corner intakes and prominent splitter detail to give a broader more planted stance.
The theme of purity is carried through to the cooling apertures that are efficiently finished with a new lightweight aluminium mesh that gives the car a classically sporting character.
The rear boot is now opened from the cockpit rather than via a separate key operation. The high quality feel of the Elise is continued throughout the car with the Elise graphic incorporated into the new side LED direction indicators, like those on the Evora.
The driving position, from the perfectly positioned pedals and steering wheel, to the comfortable and supportive seats with ProBax** technology means that, like all Lotus cars, the driver becomes part of the car rather than being just a passenger.
With the sleek new body the aerodynamics have improved giving a reduction in the coefficient of drag of 4%.
Finally, a choice of two beautiful, light weight wheel designs are available; an incredibly light forged wheel and a new cast wheel completes the picture for this sensitive update of a Lotus Icon.
Additional changes to the 2011 model year Lotus Elise
The new 2011 model year Elise has a number of additional changes and improvements, with the installation of a new advanced 1.6 litre Valvematic engine meeting EURO 5 regulations. This new engine is 200cc smaller than the outgoing Elise S model and produces similar power (136 PS, 100 kW, 134 hp at 6800 rpm) with maximum torque of 160 Nm, 118 lbft at 4400 rpm, but offers a significant improvement to fuel economy of over 23%, to 6.14 litres / 100km (46 mpg)* and a reduction in CO2 emission by more than 13%*. This provides the new Lotus Elise with the lowest CO2 per performance for any gasoline high performance sportscar in the world. This high technology engine is mated to a new 6-speed manual gearbox, providing closer and more performance orientated ratios than the outgoing 5 speed box.
The 1.6 litre engine is controlled via the bespoke Lotus T6 engine management system. Cruise control is available on the Elise for the first time with the controls present on a stalk located to the left of the steering column.
New cast wheels have been designed specifically for the Elise and the new optional forged wheels weigh just 29.26 kg per set, 2.14 kg lighter than a set of lightweight cast versions. Both are available in silver or black colour.
Dany Bahar, Chief Executive of Group Lotus said, "The Lotus Elise revolutionised the sportscar when it was launched 14 years ago and now the Lotus Elise has become greener, giving drivers access to class leading performance with less guilt."
Donato Coco, Director of Design said, "The Elise is an iconic sportscar and it was important that we did not complicate its design, so we made the car more pure in its look, improved the aerodynamics, and gave it a more contemporary look with high quality detailing."
Paul Newsome, Director of Lotus Product Engineering said, "We are always looking at ways of keeping the Elise ahead of its peers and for the 2011 model year we have improved efficiency without losing the innate fun that has made the Elise legendary."
Andreas Prillmann, Chief Commercial Officer for Lotus Cars said, "In its 14 years of production the Elise has accounted for 32% of all the 61 years of Lotus production, illustrating how significant to the brand and well loved it is. The 2011 model year Elise is greener, purer and more desirable, making it even more relevant to today's marketplace. The new Elise underlines Lotus' reputation as one of the most innovative sports car manufacturers in the world."
Performance
Lotus Elise
0 – 60 mph 6.0 seconds*
0 – 100 km/h 6.7 seconds*
Maximum speed 200 km/h (124 mph)*
Lotus Elise R
0 – 60 mph 5.1 seconds
0 – 100 km/h 5.4 seconds
Maximum speed 222 km/h (138 mph)
Lotus Elise SC
0 – 60 mph 4.3 seconds
0 – 100 km/h 4.6 seconds
Maximum speed 233 km/h (145 mph)
The 2011 model year Elise in more detail.
The Elise - the entry model
Engine
The Lotus Elise introduces the new 1598 cm3, 1ZR-FAE engine, provided by Toyota. The key to this engine's performance and efficiency is the Valvematic system (a variable valve lift mechanism), which is combined with the dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent). The engine continuously controls intake valve opening/closing timing and the intake valve lift to vary the volume of the intake airflow, giving significant improvements in efficiency and fuel economy. This ensures optimal performance based on the engines operational condition, thus helping the Elise achieve both high fuel efficiency and high performance.
First of all, the maximum power output is achieved at near maximum revs (engine speed) of 6800 rpm and maximum torque (a respectable 160 Nm, 118 lb.ft) is reached at 4400 rpm. This gives a good combination of mid range pull but also encourages the driver to rev the engine to the maximum permitted engine speed of 7000 rpm (transient rev limit). Like all Elise sportscars, there are three shift up lights, on the binnacle cumulatively lighting when the driver is getting closer to the rev limiter and when all three are illuminated, they flash to indicate that the driver is almost on the rev limiter so time to change up a gear!
The height of the engine cover has been raised by 34mm to accommodate the taller 1ZR engine compared to the previous 1ZZ engine from the outgoing model due, in part, to the additional Valvematic technology included on the new engine. This has given Lotus engineers an opportunity to subtly redesign the rear engine cover to match the design theme from the front and rear of the car.
Chassis
The Lotus Elise is built around the revolutionary and award winning extruded and bonded aluminium chassis, with a lightweight steel rear subframe. The chassis weighs 68 kg (150 lbs) and has a stiffness of 9,800 Nm per degree, giving a high level of control of the suspension. At the rear, and also acting as a rear energy absorbing crash structure, a lightweight steel subframe carries the engine and gearbox. At the front, the radiator and key ancillaries are mounted into a high tech composite energy absorbing crash structure that is both lightweight, compact and over three times more energy absorbing than the equivalent steel structure.
Ride and handling
The legendary Lotus ride and handling gives a superb high performance, sporty drive, combined with a compliant ride and progressive on limit handling, it makes the Elise a car that demands to be driven. The entry level Lotus Elise weighs 876 kg, making it one of the lightest fully homologated sportscars in the world. This low weight translates into efficient performance with minimal environmental impact in terms of emissions and fuel consumption. The efficiency of the Elise structure means that the 136 PS (100 kW, 134 hp) delivers phenomenal performance. Few cars can match the delicacy and accuracy of the steering, throttle and brakes of the Elise and all of these factors contribute to the excellent driving experience of the Elise.
Safety
The Elise has high performance AP Racing callipers at the front and Brembo callipers at the rear linked to 282 mm vented and cross-drilled cast iron discs to give excellent stopping power. The Elise comes as standard with a track tuned ABS system that is designed to be unobtrusive under normal driving conditions. This system is designed to be used on track and has a high threshold, only intervening in emergencies. The ABS system is linked to a lightweight pedal box with steel pedal arms and extruded aluminium pads. This unit also has an electronic (drive-by-wire) throttle for quick, smooth and more linear engine response. The impressive braking coupled with excellent handling gives good primary safety and the composite front crash structure and rear crash protection offers efficient secondary safety. Driver and passenger airbags and pre-tensioning seatbelt are standard on all Elise models.
Prices will be announced in March 2010.
*The Lotus Elise is currently undergoing EC Whole Vehicle Type Approval and official fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures, plus performance figures are not yet available. The official figures for fuel consumption and CO2 emissions and performance will be published on Group Lotus plc's web site as soon as they become available (www.grouplotus.com) or may be obtained from the PR Department, Lotus Cars Limited, Potash Lane, Hethel, Norfolk, NR14 8EZ, UK.
**"ProBax™" seats
Introduced for 2006 Model Year Lotus Exige and Elise cars, ProBax™ seats are designed by Lotus and specifically adapted and developed by NuBax. ProBax™ seats help to significantly improve the postural position of the occupant's spine whilst seated compared to similar seat shells without ProBax technology. This not only results in an improved level of comfort, but also has significant medical benefits - maintaining a natural curvature of the spine, and markedly improving the body's blood flow. Increased blood flow has been shown to enhance response times, raise alertness levels and reduce the onset of muscle fatigue. Tests on Lotus seats, with the new ProBax™ technology, have shown an improvement in blood flow of up to thirty per cent over the pre-2006 Model Year Lotus seat.
About Lotus
The main operating subsidiary of Group Lotus plc is Lotus Cars Ltd, which has two operating divisions - Lotus Engineering and Lotus Cars. Lotus Engineering is an internationally recognised automotive engineering consultancy based in Norfolk, UK. Global facilities include those in Michigan (USA), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), China and offices in Germany and Japan, with rapid expansion in new territories such as South East Asia.
Lotus Engineering provides comprehensive and versatile consultancy services to many of the world's OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, offering a full engineering service from initial concept and project design through development and integration of the complete vehicle to meet all worldwide markets and customers to full production. This includes third party 'niche vehicle' engineering and manufacture worldwide.
Lotus Cars builds world class, prestige, high performance sports cars for sale in 37 countries. These include the iconic Lotus Elise, the Exige, the 2-Eleven and Lotus' latest model, the Lotus Evora. Lotus is a global high-tech company, expanding rapidly and committed to driving forward technology for both Lotus Cars and its Engineering clients, spearheading research into such areas as hybrids, electric vehicles and renewable fuels.
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