Lexus is set to introduce its first compact hybrid model ‘CT 200h’ at next week’s Geneva Motor Show. This new hatchback is powered by a 1.8-liter VVT-i petrol engine paired to an electric motor, and comes with an E-CVT transmission that offers three different driving modes including ECO, SPORT and NORMAL. Unfortunately, there’s no word on power figure yet. Stay tuned for more updates. More»
Here’s the latest plug-in Hybrid concept car ‘Ray’ from Kia Motors that was recently showcased at this year’s Chicago Auto Show. Based on the Kia Forte platform, this futuristic four-seat compact saloon is equipped with an all-aluminum 153-horsepower Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) 1.4-liter engine that is coupled to a 78kw electric motor. This electric engine is powered by a lithium-polymer battery pack that offers a driving range of up to 50 miles on a single charge. Other interesting features worth mentioning include touch screen controls, drive-by-wire steering and “cool-glazing” solar glass. More»
Honda has showcased the all new 2011 CR-Z Sport Hybrid Coupe at the Detroit Auto Show. Available in two different trim levels: CR-Z and CR-Z EX, this new hatchback is powered by a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine with Honda’s compact and lightweight Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid-electric system, and comes with a new three-mode drive system which includes: Sport, Econ and Normal driving modes. Meanwhile, the engine is paired to either a six-speed manual transmission or Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). [GlobalMotors]
Toyota has unveiled its upcoming hybrid sedan for the Japanese market namely the Toyota Sai. This luxury sedan will be offered in two trim levels: S and AS. Meanwhile, power will come from a 2.4-liter petrol engine with 150 hp and 187Nm of torque. As for the electric motor, it will be powered by a nickel-metal hydride battery pack that output 140 hp and 270Nm of torque. The 2010 Toyota Sai will go on sale in December with prices start at 3,380,000 Yen (about $37,259) for the S model and 4,260,000 Yen (about $46,964) for the AS model. [EasyCarBlog]
Here’s a look at Honda’s upcoming hybrid coupe ‘CR-Z’ that will be showcased at this year’s Tokyo Auto Show. The car is said to have a 1.5-liter petrol engine along with an electric engine, and will hit the streets in February 2010. More»
Honda will introduce their new EV-N concept at the Tokyo Motor Show next month. This retro-styled small city car is powered by a lithium-ion battery that can be recharged by its solar panels. Other interesting features include swappable seat fabrics, Honda’s U3-X personal mobility device in the front passenger door and an embedded communication system in the front fascia. The Honda EV-N concept will debut on October 24th, 2009. We will keep you posted. [Autoblog]
