Axon Electric Car

Made by British Car Manufacturer Axon Automotive group, this 2 seater is plug-in hybrid utilities electricity in the city & internal combustion engine running on petrol or bioethanol for the long trips. It may not look as stunning as the Toyota prius or Chevy Volt but it serve its intended purposes of a good & cheap (it better be) run about. Axon claims that the car emits less than 50g of CO2 per km for the mix of electric and petrol modes.

Axon's managing director Dr Steve Cousins said "By designing light cars and giving them good aerodynamics you can radically lower vehicle emissions." he further added that " a plug-in hybrid we have no limitation on range but we can maximise the benefits of electrics day to day without the cost and weight of large batteries,"

There are skeptics out there who even lash out at Hybrid Vehicles maker for deceiving the consumers that the car is actually environmentally friendly when harmful pollutants such as heavy metals & carcinogenic compounds results in the process of making them. Though there are truth to those accusations, Hybrid vehicles still paves the way for the cleaner mode of transport. Efforts are being taken to cut down on those harmful material & Axon played their part by using seats that are made from recycled jeans and pinstriped suits while the door panels are made from recycled carbon fiber.

Sales of the car may begin in 2011 with mass production slated to take place the following year.








Source: Carscoop

Mitsubishi PX-MiEV Concept SUV

The PX-MiEV will be displayed at the Tokyo International Motor show as a concept SUV which is powered by a new hybrid powertrain called the Mitsubishi Plug-in Hybrid System. Power comes from 2 Synchronous Motor & a 1.6L DOHC MIVEC gasoline engine driving the 2 front wheels. The MiEV OS system will determine the three modes best suites the driving condition through feedback from sensors installed in the vehicle. The EV mode is engaged at lower to medium speed with the motors driving the two front wheels. If a wheel slip is detected then the torque will also be channeled to the back wheels to provide traction support. The PX goes into the Series Hybrid Mode when the remaining energy in the battery falls below the predetermined level. The combustion engine will be kick in to generate electricity. At higher speeds efficiency of motors fails to keep up with those of combustion engines hence the MIVEC unit is commission to propel the SUV with the four wheel drive system kicking in only if the vehicle needs extra stability. Sounds confusing? well to put it simply the smart Mitsubishi Operating System is like a quick thinking manager who allocates his resources wisely based on the feedback he/she receives. One can read the lengthy press release after the photos.

Press Release :

Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV (show model)

1. Design

Solid, Safety, and Simple were the keywords which drove the development of an exterior design suitable for a next-generation crossover that creates simple appearance from which all extraneous elements have been pared and that is free of the "rugged" elements typical in conventional SUVs. The headlamps and rear combination lamps use LED emitters that give the car an innovative and modern appearance as well as delivering better environmental performance with their reduced power consumption. The body uses a newly-developed metal color that gives the car a metal shell-like appearance. Combining elements of both spoke and dish styling, the road wheel design highlights an unprecedented new look to the body as well improving brake cooling and aerodynamic performance.
The interior was designed to give an image of an airplane cockpit to improve the driver's concentration, with an instrument panel that envelops the driver and utilizes seats that keep the passengers firmly in place. In addition, the entire instrument panel and door trim utilize soft LED lighting that express the vehicle's innovation and refinement.

2. Mitsubishi Plug-in Hybrid System

The Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV's front and rear wheels are powered by two permanent magnet synchronous motors and is also fitted with a 1.6L DOHC MIVEC gasoline engine which can power the front wheels as well as work as a generator. In addition, the vehicle comes with the newly-developed Mitsubishi Plug-in Hybrid System in which electronic circuitry automatically switches to the optimum drive mode for different driving conditions and remaining energy in the drive battery to extract maximum efficiency from the electric motors and from the gasoline engine. The Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV also utilizes the MiEV OS (MiEV Operating System) which selects the optimum drive mode through integrated control of the EV components and the gasoline engine as well as controls optimum electrical charge and output in response to remaining battery energy through constant monitoring of the drive battery. With these, a pleasing, safe, and comfortable ride is achieved while conserving energy. In addition, to maximize effective use of the drive battery, the vehicle is equipped with a power supply mode that allows the use of some battery power to supply domestic appliances or as an emergency power source in the event of a natural disaster.

(1) EV mode

At low to middle vehicle speeds the Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV's drive battery powers the front motor using front-wheel drive. When driving on snow, in the rain or in other low surface friction situations where maximum vehicle stability is required, the system automatically switches to four-wheel drive mode by feeding power to the rear wheel motor as well when sensors detect any front wheel slip.

(2) Series hybrid mode

When the remaining energy in the drive battery falls to a predetermined level the system starts the gasoline engine to generate electricity and automatically switches to the series hybrid mode using the electricity generated to power the motors. In this mode as well, the system switches to four-wheel drive by driving the rear motor depending on driving conditions.

(3) Parallel hybrid mode

At higher vehicle speeds the car is supported by the gasoline engine which operates more efficiently than the electric motors at high revolutions. In this mode, the gasoline engine also helps drive the wheels. When the driver makes sudden lane changes or other maneuvers requiring greater vehicle stability the system switches to four-wheel drive by bringing in the rear motor to drive the rear wheels, improving stability. In addition when overtaking at higher speeds or in other situations requiring faster acceleration the system switches in both front and rear motors to provide additional power and assist the gasoline engine, providing high acceleration.

(4) Regenerative mode

When the vehicle is slowing or coasting down a long descending slope the system switches to regenerative mode in which kinetic energy reclaimed from the wheels is stored in the drive battery.

(5) Charging mode

As with the production i-MiEV, Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV features a 3-way battery charging system using either a 100-volt or a 200-volt domestic supply or a high-power quick-charging station. The system also incorporates a Wireless Charging Program feature that allows the owner to start charging the battery or start the air conditioner at a preset time even when away from the vehicle.

(6) Power supply mode

The Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV also subscribes to the "Smart Grid" concept that calls for maximizing the effective use of electrical power and which is currently attracting attention in the fight to combat global warming. When not on the road the Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV allows the owner to store electricity at night and then use that electricity via the normal charging connector to power home appliances during the daytime when domestic electricity consumption is highest. This allows the drive battery to be used as a power source in the event of a natural disaster. Should the electricity left in the battery fall below a predetermined level, the gasoline engine starts up and works as generator to maintain the power supply at a fixed level.
A 100-volt AC auxiliary socket in the rear luggage compartment also allows the electricity stored in the drive battery to be used to power cooking or lighting equipment and other appliances when camping or engaged in other leisure activities.

3. Drive system

Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV uses Mitsubishi's S-AWC integrated vehicle handling control system which is configured around an E-4WD (Electronically-powered four-wheel drive) system that controls front and rear motor output to deliver the optimum front/rear drive torque split. Under the integrated control of the S-AWC system are E-AYC (Electric-powered Active Yaw Control), which controls left/right torque split at the rear wheels and the degree of deceleration energy recovery, ASC (Active Stability Control) and ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) components.
Unlike the AYC system on the Lancer Evolution X which uses a wet multi-plate clutch arrangement, E-AYC uses a differential motor to control rear wheel torque split. The use of the differential motor makes for a high-efficiency system with outstanding response and contributes to the on-demand handling and outstanding vehicle stability that characterizes the S-AWC system.

4. cocochi-interior

Some Mitsubishi Motors production cars already feature the cocochi-interior which embraces occupants in a pleasantly comfortable cabin environment developed to a "Clean, Stress-free and Safe & Reassuring" theme. For Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV the cocochi-interior brings a number of new features including: seat upholstery that deactivates allergens, breaks down VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and offensive odor molecules as well as killing bacteria; glass that shuts out UV-A radiation to protect skin from darkening and aging; and a negative-ion aroma humidifier and oxygen enricher that improve comfort and reduce fatigue. The original and the new cocochi-interior features provide a cabin atmosphere that enhances occupant comfort as well as contributing to safer operation of the vehicle.

5. Cabin heat load reducing technologies

The Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV uses a windshield that uses heat-reflecting glass to reduce the amount of heat energy passing through and uses IR- (infrared ray) blocking glass in the door windows. The body paint also incorporates heat-reflective and insulation technology. Inside the vehicle the four seats are individually air conditioned and cabin humidity is regulated. The adoption of these heat load reducing technologies allows efficient climate control while reducing power consumption to the absolute minimum in making for a very comfortable occupant space.

6. Latest active safety technologies

The Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV showcases several new active safety technologies.

• The "New Multi-around Monitor" system uses cameras located at strategic points on the body to provide the driver with a combined image of the full perimeter of the vehicle. The combined image is displayed for the driver on a monitor from an overhead view for improved safety around the perimeter of the vehicle.
• The Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV is equipped for the Driving Safety Support System (DSSS (Level II)) currently being promoted by the Japanese National Police Agency. In this advanced vehicle-infrastructure safety support system, an on-board receiver picks up signals transmitted by roadside optical beacons and the system urges the driver to take extra care when other vehicles or pedestrians have been detected by roadside sensors and cameras at intersections and pedestrian crossings.
• Employing a system that uses wireless technology to ascertain the position of other vehicles and warn the driver when their proximity so requires, the Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV also supports the Advanced Safety Vehicle 4 (ASV4) project being promoted by the Road Transport Bureau of the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.
• The vehicle is also fitted with a Dedicated Short Range Communications (DSRC^*5) system, employing the road-to-vehicle communications capabilities used in Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) to determine the position of the vehicle and whether it is parked or not.

*5	5.8 GHz band two-way wireless communication channels specifically designed for automotive use.

7. Other features

The Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV is fitted with an electronically-controlled air suspension that gives the driver the choice of three ride height modes - Auto, High, Low - for improved stability over poor surfaces or at high speeds and for easier access to and from the vehicle.
The concept also uses a new-generation steering wheel switch and control layout that offers outstanding usability and switch visibility for safer and less stressful driving. Some of the audio, navigation, and climate control switches are located on the steering wheel so that the driver can operate them without having to take a hand off the wheel. Switch operation indicators located in the instrument panel make it quicker and easier for the driver to visually check and control the switch positions.
In the Driving Monitor System a camera mounted facing the driver monitors eye movements to determine their level of alertness. If the system detects a decrease in their concentration it issues not only audible but visual and vibrational warnings and also emits a distinctive aroma to alert him/her to the situation.

Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV specifications

Overall length	4510 mm
Overall width	1830 mm
Overall height	1655 mm
Wheelbase	2630 mm
Track F/R	1570 mm / 1570 mm
Occupants	4
Motors (front and rear)	Permanent magnet synchronous
Max. output	60 kW (front and rear)
Max. torque	200 Nm (front and rear)
10-15 mode EV cruising range	Over 50km
Engine	1.6L DOHC MIVEC (gasoline)
Max. output	85 kW
Max. torque	125 Nm
Generating capacity	70 kW
10-15 mode fuel consumption	Over 50 km/L
Drive train	E-4WD
Tire size	245/45R20

Mitsubishi i-Miev Cargo

Its not everyday that you come across a car that is petite, sits two comfortably & loved by mother nature. What engineers at Mitsubishi have done is that they have let the new i-Miev mate with the old Townbox and their offspring will be the i-Miev Load which that seats two and has a luggage compartment measuring about 1,350mm wide by 1,180mm deep and 1,100mm tall. The i-car was a looker when it first debut as it has elements of a concept car infused into the bodywork and remarkably roomy for a micro car. In the nutshell the vehicle is a stylish goods carrier.

i-MiEV CARGO specifications

Overall length	3395 mm
Overall width	1475 mm
Overall height	1860 mm
Wheelbase	2550 mm
Track F/R	1310 mm / 1270 mm
Occupants	2
Motor	Permanent magnet synchronous
Max. output	47 kW
Max. torque	180 Nm
Max. cruising range	160 km
Drive train	Rear wheel drive
Tire size	Front: 145/65R15; Rear: 175/55R15

Source

Nissan Draws Inspiration From Fish & Bumblebees

Nissan's concept car which look more like a friendly android will demonstrate how advance sensing and communication technology be used to hinder collisions when driving on the road. Come 6th of October 2009 the EPORO Robot Car will make its debut at the CEATEC exhibition which showcase the latest in electronic & information technology in Makuhari Messe Japan. Now what has bumblebee and a school of fish has to do with avoiding collisions on the road you asked? Well, the two species have extraordinary "anti-collision" abilities, navigating instinctively and intelligently through challenging terrain by detecting and avoiding obstacles. While this is done Biologically in the fauna kingdom, Nissan has a team of Brilliant engineers working on telling each EPORO to follow three fundamental rules outline by them :

AREA 1: Collision Avoidance
Change traveling direction without colliding with other fish.

AREA 2: Traveling Side-by-Side
Travel side-by-side with other fish while keeping a certain distance between each fish (to match the speed).

AREA 3: Approaching
Gain closer proximity to other fish that are at a distance from them.

The three rules are accomplished using laser range finder for lateral line sense & UWB communications technology will be used for the sense of sight..Toshiyuki Andou, Manager of Nissan's Mobility Laboratory and principal engineer of the robot car project said that extensive research has been done to study the behaviour associated with a school of fish with the hope of contributing to an environmentally friendly and traffic jam-free driving environment. .

Source : Nissan

Autoalert : The Jaguar Mark XXI Concept

The Mark XXI concept or Bionomic Autonomous Limousine is a brainchild of Chris Pollard from Coventry University. According to him the concept investigates the implications of autonomous technology on automotive design in terms of perception, function and aesthetic. The vehicle itself looks nothing like today's Jaguar accept the fact it is a luxurious lounge that transport its occupants to their destination of choice. Chris added that he draw inspiration from a leaf when he penned the design. This can be clearly seen from the generous use of photovoltaic panels covering much of the vehicle's body. These photovoltaic panels are made to be dynamic in the sense that it will rise to face the sun and follow it as the day passes. I personally see an uncanny resemblance to a beetle when that happens.

The absence of a dashboard makes the interior a true living cabin where everybody can sit around to socialize or take a short nap before arriving at the next destination. A combination of ambient lighting contemporary laid back seats pampers the occupant's senses. A feeling you get when you are surrounded by lush greenery of the rain forest which is in line with the theme of the project "Symbiosis with Nature."









Source : Car Body Design

AutoAlert : 800cc Turbo Hyundai i10

The green version of Hyundai i10 will be powered by a new 800cc, three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine which should produce around 90bhp and emit less than 100g/km. Set to go on sale in mid 2010 the i10 will most probably receive a minor facelift to accompany the new power plant under the hood of the popular Indian-built Korean hatch. This small hatch will most likely be named the i10 blue in line with other green Hyundai Cars.

AutoAlert : Ilmor Engine Wonder

Its a revolutionary 5 stroke petrol engine from a company best known for designing, developing and manufacturing high performance race engines for Formula 1 and IndyCar. This 700cc, three-cylinder has the capability of generating an astounding 130bhp & achieving 122lb ft of torque. According to Ilmor, these figures are achieved by having two fired four-stroke cylinders under high pressure, which alternately exhaust into a low-pressure central expansion cylinder, which, in a fifth stroke, provides a further expansion process on the exhaust gases. Engine balance is up to par with conventional 4-stroke engine by incorporating larger expansion cylinders. All this results in design that allows the turbocharged engine to achieve a diesel-like expansion ratio on spark ignition minus the polluting emmisions associated with diesel power plants. Should Japanese auto makers like Suzuki & Daihatsu which are known for their small displacement engines be worried about this outcome?

AutoAlert: BMW's Sustainable Efforts

Now one can enjoy the luxury of performance and environmental protection at the same time. The debut of BMW 's latest offering 316d which utilise the same powerplant as the 116d made further in-roads into the low CO2 market segment. This vehicle only emits 118 gram of greenhouse gas per kilometer while sipping 4.5 liter of fuel per 100km(52mpg U.S.) traveled making it the greenest BMW yet. A detuned version of the 4-cylinder 2.0 liter diesel engine makes a significant difference for most European tax-payers that will have to fork out less for cars emitting less than 120g/km of CO2. In France one gets a €700 bonus while registration Tax in Spain is waived and the lower VED B tax band in the UK.

The good news doesn't stop here apparently, there are rumors flying around that this Bavarian based company will launching a new engine line that will feature three and four cylinders and comparatively small displacements according to channel 4. The channel quote that BMW chief engineer Holger Winkelmann as saying the German automaker will soon launch the "most advanced small engine range ever."

According to him, BMW will be utilising its know-how on turbocharging, direct injection, variable valve timing and intake technology found in its current line-up of engine to achieve the target. Chances are there will be engines as small as 1.35 liters and up to 1.8 liters. Power output would range from 163 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque up to a high-performance unit with as much as 321 horsepower.

Source: Channel 4, Autoblog Green