Welcome to the Eco Tech Planet Green Car Guide. This guide is aimed at providing readers with information about electric cars that are either currently available, or will be released in the near future. Electric cars provide a sustainable solution to much of the pollution created by traditional gasoline powered vehicles.
What's the difference between a Plug-in Hybrid and an Electric Vehicle?
A Plug-in Hybrid is powered by electricity, but only until its electric range runs out. After the electric power is used up, the vehicle's gasoline powered engine will begin to power the car. This decreases the concern of some owners over the electric range, for there is no need to worry about running out of juice and being stranded on the side of the road. Unfortunately, most of the plug-in hybrids that are currently available or will be available in the near future have rather short ranges (most 40 miles or fewer).
An Electric car is a vehicle that is powered solely by electricity. Electric cars have longer ranges than plug-in hybrids, but once the vehicle runs out of electric power, you will be left stranded. The positive is that most electric cars have an electric range that is completely adequate for most driving, except potential long road trips. Luckily, electric charging stations are beginning to pop up in more locations, thus decreasing the concern about running out of power. One of the main incentives to purchase an electric car instead of a plug-in hybrid is that the vehicle requires zero gas. Electric cars produce zero emissions while plug-in hybrids do produce some emissions, but far fewer than traditional gasoline powered vehicles.
*The information on this page includes some estimates. Specifics may change depending on the vehicle manufacturer.
2013 Chevy Volt (Plug-in Hybrid)
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| © GM Company |
5-door Hatchback
Seats: 4
Price: $31,645 (with Federal Tax Savings) / $39,145 (without Federal Tax Savings)
Availability: Available Nationwide
Gas Engine: 1.4L Internal Combustion Engine (80 hp)
Battery: 16.5 kWh
Charge Time: 240 V - 4 hours / 120 V - 10-12 hours
Horsepower: 149 hp
Top Speed: 100 mph
Electric Range: 38 miles
Combined Range: 382 miles
EPA MPG Equivalent: 101 city/ 93 highway/ 98 combined
Fuel Economy (Gas): 35 city/ 40 highway/ 37 average
Combined Gas/Electric Fuel Economy: 62 mpg
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| © GM Company |
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| © GM Company |
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| © GM Company |
2014 Chevy Spark EV (Electric)
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| © GM Company |
Seats: 4
Price: approx. $32,500 (Without Federal Tax Savings) / approx. $25,000 (With Federal Tax Savings)
Availability: Available Late Summer 2013 (Initially only available in California and Oregon, as well as Canada, South Korea, and other global markets)
Battery: 20 kWh
Charge Time: 240 V - 7 hours / 120 V - TBA (SAE Combo DC Fast-Charging Stations will generate an 80% charge in 20 minutes)
Horsepower: 130 hp
0-60 Speed = under 8 sec.
The Spark EV will feature two, high-resolution, reconfigurable 7 inch touchscreen displays. In addition, the vehicle will feature Chevy's exclusive MyLink radio, which will allow for Siri integration, as well as applications such as Pandora and TuneIn global internet radio.
The Spark EV's motor and drive unit will be manufactured at GM's transmission plant in White Marsh, Maryland, representing the first time a U.S. auto manufacturer has built both a complete electric motor and drive unit for a modern electric vehicle in the United States.
The Spark EV will feature two, high-resolution, reconfigurable 7 inch touchscreen displays. In addition, the vehicle will feature Chevy's exclusive MyLink radio, which will allow for Siri integration, as well as applications such as Pandora and TuneIn global internet radio.
The Spark EV's motor and drive unit will be manufactured at GM's transmission plant in White Marsh, Maryland, representing the first time a U.S. auto manufacturer has built both a complete electric motor and drive unit for a modern electric vehicle in the United States.
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| © GM Company |
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| © GM Company |
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| © GM Company |
2012 Nissan Leaf (Electric)
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| © Nissan North America (2012 Nissan Leaf) |
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| (Credit: Flickr User - kosabe) |
Seats: 5
Price: $35,200 (without Federal Tax Savings) /
$27,700 (with Federal Tax Savings)
Availability: Available Nationwide
Battery: 24 kWh
An optional Quick Charge Port allows owners to charge their Leaf to 80% in 30 minutes.
Horsepower: 107 hp
Top Speed: approx. 92 mph
Range: 73 miles (2013 model estimated to have a range of approximately 83 miles)
EPA MPG Equivalent: 106 city/ 92 highway
The 2013 Nissan Leaf is expected to be cheaper, have a 14% greater range, and update powertrain, to name of few of the upgrades. In addition, on December 12, 2012, Nissan announced that it has opened its new plant Smyrna, Tennessee, where it will create its own lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles. This new factory is the largest of its kind producing lithium-ion batteries in the United States.
5-door atchback
Seats: 5
Price: $39,200 (Without Federal Tax Savings) / $31,700 (With Federal Tax Savings)
Availability: Available Nationwide
Battery: 23 kWh
Charge time: 240 V home installed charger - 3-4 hours / 120 V - 20 hours
Horsepower: 143 hp
Top speed: 84 mph
Range: 76 miles
EPA MPG Equivalent: 110 city/99 highway/105 combined
The 2013 Nissan Leaf is expected to be cheaper, have a 14% greater range, and update powertrain, to name of few of the upgrades. In addition, on December 12, 2012, Nissan announced that it has opened its new plant Smyrna, Tennessee, where it will create its own lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles. This new factory is the largest of its kind producing lithium-ion batteries in the United States.
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| (Credit: Flickr User - mariordo59) |
2013 Ford Focus (Electric)
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| (Credit: Flickr User - mariordo59) |
Seats: 5
Price: $39,200 (Without Federal Tax Savings) / $31,700 (With Federal Tax Savings)
Availability: Available Nationwide
Battery: 23 kWh
Charge time: 240 V home installed charger - 3-4 hours / 120 V - 20 hours
Horsepower: 143 hp
Top speed: 84 mph
Range: 76 miles
EPA MPG Equivalent: 110 city/99 highway/105 combined
The Ford Focus Electric was awarded the 2011 Green Car Vision Award at the 2011 Washington Auto Show.
The Focus Electirc comes with seat fabric made with REPREVE® fiber, which comes from 100% recycled materials. In addition, the cushions are made from a bio-based foam that is derived from plant seed oils.
The Focus Electirc comes with seat fabric made with REPREVE® fiber, which comes from 100% recycled materials. In addition, the cushions are made from a bio-based foam that is derived from plant seed oils.
Ford and SunPower are teaming up to offer a solar panel system that can be installed on the roof of the home of the car owner, in order to reduce electricity costs and impact on the environment. This optional package will cost about $10,000, yet save the owner in electricity costs. The car will effectively be solar powered.
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| (Credit: Flickr User - Inhabitat) |
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| (Credit: Flickr User - HighTechDad) |
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| (Credit: Flickr User - mariordo59) |
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| (Credit: Flickr User - HighTechDad) |
2013 Ford Fusion Energi (Plug-in Hybrid)
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| (Credit: Flickr User - mariordo59) |
4-Door Sedan
Seats: 5
Price: $39,495 (Without Federal Tax Savings)
Availability: Available Nationwide by Early 2013
Electric Range: TBA, (estimated to be approx. 20-21 miles)
EPA MPG Equivalent: 100+ miles (initial estimate)
The Fusion Energi is unique in that it will accelerate quickly to its top speed on solely battery power. In addition, the vehicle will feature a unique, "hybrid now" button that allows the driver to lock the car into electric drive until the battery power is depleted. According to Ford, this should be useful for short trips in which the driver knows they will have sufficient electric range to get to their destination.
Electric Range: TBA, (estimated to be approx. 20-21 miles)
EPA MPG Equivalent: 100+ miles (initial estimate)
The Fusion Energi is unique in that it will accelerate quickly to its top speed on solely battery power. In addition, the vehicle will feature a unique, "hybrid now" button that allows the driver to lock the car into electric drive until the battery power is depleted. According to Ford, this should be useful for short trips in which the driver knows they will have sufficient electric range to get to their destination.
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| (Credit: Flickr User - mariordo59) |
2013 Ford C-Max Energi (Plug-in Hybrid)
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| (Credit: Flickr User - mariordo59) |
Minivan/Crossover/”Multipurpose vehicle”
Seats: 5
Price: $32,950-$33,745 (Without Federal Tax Savings)
Availability: Available Nationwide by Early 2013 (Currently available in select markets.)
Top Speed: 102 mph (85 mph in electric only mode)
Electric Range: 21 miles
Combined Range: 620 miles
EPA MPG Equivalent: 108 city/92 highway/100 combined
5-door Hatchback
Availability: Available in 15 states with availability nationwide by 2013 (States where the vehicle is currently available include: California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Hawaii, Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, and Virginia)
Battery: 5.2 kWh
Charge time: 240 V - 1.5 hours / 120 V - 2.5-3 hours
Horsepower: 98 hp
Electric Range: 11 miles
Price: $49,800 (Without Federal Tax Savings) / $42,300 (With Federal Tax Savings)
The vehicle is also expected to qualify for a $2,500 rebate via the Clean Vehicle Rebate Program, thus potentially reducing the price to $39,800.
3-door Hatchback
Seats: 4
Price: TBA, (likely around $35,000)
Availability: Spring 2013 (initially only available in California)
Battery: 24 kWh
Charge time: 240 V - 4 hours / 110 V - 22 hours
Horsepower: 111 hp
0-60 Speed = approx. 9 sec.
Range: 80-100 (estimate)
Some new additions to the electric variant of the Fiat 500 include new front and rear bumpers, 15 inch wheels, an aerodynamically enhanced rear spoiler that decreases drag by 13 percent, altered mirrors, and a 7 inch touchscreen in the dash, to provide the driver with charge and range data.
According to Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne, the Fiat 500e will result in up to a $10,000 loss for the company, for each car that is sells. Therefore, Fiat plans to produce only a limited number of Fiat 500e cars, in order to strengthen it’s environmentally friendly image and decrease it’s corporate average C02 emissions.
3-door Hatchback
Price: $25,000 (for Coupe, Cabriolet version available for $28,000 ) (without Federal Tax Savings) / $17,500 (for Coupe, with Federal Tax Savings)
Seats: 2
Availability: Spring 2012 (initially 30 markets worldwide)
Battery: 17.6 kWh
Charge time: 240 V - 7 hours; optional 22 kW on-board quick charger for full charge in less than 1 hour
Horsepower: 74 hp
Top Speed: approx. 78 mph
Range: approx. 87 miles
There are two variants of the Smart fortwo electric, a coupe or a cabriolet (convertible). There is also an available smart phone application that allows owners to remotely control their car’s charging, battery, and climate control.
Prices on all models will increase by $2,500 on January 1, 2013
The Model X will be available in both rear wheel and all-wheel drive (AWD). Additionally, the Model X has an impressive double the cargo room of an Audi Q7.
4-door Sedan
Electric Range: 50 miles
5-door Hatchback (with opposing “coach” style doors)
Seats: 4 (2+2) (bench seats-which allow passengers to exit from either side of the car and create a lounge feel)
Price: TBA – at least $35,000 (initial estimate)
Availability: 2013
Battery: 21 kWh
Charge Time: 240 V outlet - TBA / 120 V outlet - approx. 4-6 hours
80% charge in less than 1 hour with high-speed charger
Top Speed: 93 mph
0-60 Speed = less than 8 sec. (faster than some variants of the 1 and 3 series cars)
Range: 80-100 miles/ 190 miles with range extender
Optional range extender called REx (range extender would be a 2 cylinder gasoline powered engine that would likely double the range)
BMW may also offer a special inductive charger, although this is may or may not be offered initially. Inductive charging allows the vehicle to charge by transmitting electricity to the car’s battery wirelessly. Vehicle owners that install an inductive charger in their garage floor would therefore charge their vehicle by parking their car on the inductive charger, which would be installed beneath the floor. Other companies producing electric cars have showed off similar technology, including GM and Tesla.
There will be several interesting features in the BMW i3, such as an Eco Pro + mode for drivers who are at risk of running out of electric power. This mode will extend the vehicle’s range and requires driving at reduced speeds, while minimizing high energy consuming features.
The i3 is also unique in that rather than the typical monocolor of most vehicles, the i3 incorporates what BMW describes as layered schemes. These layered schemes includes sections of carbon black and light gray on various parts of the car. The vehicles also incorporates blue accents throughout areas of the body.
BMW plans to showcase the i3 during the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. The vehicle will be sold under the BMW i brand, which will be separate from BMW or Mini. The i3’s body, which is made from carbon fiber, will be produced at the BMW factory in Moses Lake, Washington. There is ample hydroelectric power available in this region, which BMW plans to take advantage, due to the fact that carbon fiber production requires a lot of energy and emits a lot of carbon dioxide.
The BMW i brand, sold separately from the BMW or Mini brands, is the brand that BMW will sell it’s electric, plug-in hybrid, and other “green” vehicles under. BMW reportedly owns the rights to the i1-i9 and e1-e9 names, which will enable them to further the line of BMW i cars in the future. A BMW i4 (possibly a 2 door coupe) and i5 (possibly a sports 4-door sedan) may be in the works.
2-door coupe
Seats: 4
Price: TBA (the price will be six figures-rumored to be in excess of 100,000 euros = $143,000)
Availability: 2014
Charge time: 120 V - TBA / 240 V - approx. 2 hours
Combined Horsepower: 349 hp
Electric Engine - Horsepower: 129 hp
Gasoline Engine - Horsepower: 220 hp (3 cylinder combustion engine)
Top Speed: 155 mph
0-60 Speed = approx. 4.6 sec.
Electric Range: 20 miles
Combined Range: TBA
2-door coupe
Seats: 4 (2+2)
Price: likely low-mid $50,000 range
Availability: Estimated Late 2013 (2014 model)
The production version of the ELR will be unveiled at the 2013 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance (August 2013).
Electric Range: TBA (likely 35-40 miles)
The ELR is believed to use a drivetrain that follows the Chevrolet Volt's architecture.
2-door coupe
Seats: 2
Price: $845,000
Availability: Production Begins, September, 18, 2013 (9/18) / Likely available late 2013
Combined Horsepower: 718 hp
Gasoline Engine – Horsepower: 500 hp
Electric Drive Motors – Horsepower: 218 hp
Top Speed: 198 mph (when solely under electric power, the 918 can reach a top speed of 94 mph)
0-60 Speed = 3.1 sec. (under solely electric power)
Electric Range: 15 miles
Combined Range: TBA
Fuel Economy: 78 mpg (initial estimate)
The 918 Spyder is constructed with a lightweight plastic monocoque that is reinforced with carbon fiber.
EPA MPG Equivalent: 108 city/92 highway/100 combined
Battery: 7.6 kWh
Horsepower: 188 hp
Charge Time: 240 V - 2.5 hours / 120 V - 7 hours
2012 Toyota Prius (Plug-in Hybrid)
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| © Toyota Motor Corporation |
Seats: 5
Price: starting at $32,000 (Without Federal Tax Savings) (Buyers may be eligible for Federal Tax Savings of $2,500.)
Price: starting at $32,000 (Without Federal Tax Savings) (Buyers may be eligible for Federal Tax Savings of $2,500.)
Availability: Available in 15 states with availability nationwide by 2013 (States where the vehicle is currently available include: California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Hawaii, Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, and Virginia)
Battery: 5.2 kWh
Charge time: 240 V - 1.5 hours / 120 V - 2.5-3 hours
Horsepower: 98 hp
Electric Range: 11 miles
Top Speed: 62 mph (in electric mode) / 112 mph
Combined Range: 540 miles
EPA MPG Equivalent: 95 combined (in all electric mode)
EPA MPG Equivalent: 95 combined (in all electric mode)
Fuel Economy (Hybrid Mode): 50 mpg combined
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| © Toyota Motor Corporation |
2013 Toyota Rav4 (Electric)
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| © Toyota Motor Corporation (Photo of the 2012 Toyota Rav4 EV) |
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| © Toyota Motor Corporation (Photo of the 2012 Toyota Rav4 EV) |
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| © Toyota Motor Corporation (Photo of the 2012 Toyota Rav4 EV) |
Compact Crossover SUV
Seats: 5
Price: $49,800 (Without Federal Tax Savings) / $42,300 (With Federal Tax Savings)
The vehicle is also expected to qualify for a $2,500 rebate via the Clean Vehicle Rebate Program, thus potentially reducing the price to $39,800.
Availability: Currently only available in California (available in other locations in the future)
Battery: 41.8 kWh
Charge Time: 240 V - approx. 6 hours / 120 V - TBA
0-60 Speed (Normal Mode) = 8.6 sec.
0-60 Speed (Sport Mode) = 7.0 sec.
Top Speed (Normal Mode): 85 mph
Top Speed (Sport Mode): 100 mph
Horsepower: 154 hp
Range: 113 miles (under Extended Charge Mode, in which charges to full 41.8 kWh capacity) (92 miles under Standard Charge Mode, as vehicle only charges to 35 kWh)
Toyota is working in partnership with Tesla Motors on the Rav4 EV. The two companies are particularly collaborating on battery technology, as Tesla has become an industry leader in such technology. Also, the two companies are working on a unique regenerative braking system that will maximize the vehicle's kinetic energy loss when slowing or coming to a stop. The Rav4 EV is said to be the world's most aerodynamic SUV.
3-door Hatchback
Seats: 4
Availability: Limited Availability (currently available for fleet and car sharing programs only)
Battery: 12 kWh
Range: 50 miles
Toyota is working in partnership with Tesla Motors on the Rav4 EV. The two companies are particularly collaborating on battery technology, as Tesla has become an industry leader in such technology. Also, the two companies are working on a unique regenerative braking system that will maximize the vehicle's kinetic energy loss when slowing or coming to a stop. The Rav4 EV is said to be the world's most aerodynamic SUV.
2013 Scion iQ EV (Electric)
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| © Toyota Motor Corporation (2013 Scion iQ EV) |
Seats: 4
Availability: Limited Availability (currently available for fleet and car sharing programs only)
Battery: 12 kWh
Range: 50 miles
Charge Time: 240 V - approx. 3 hours / 120 V - TBA
EPA MPG Equivalent: 121 miles The Scio iQ EV is currently designed for fleet and car-sharing programs in urban and campus locations only.
5-door Hatchback
Seats: 5
Price: approx. $36,625 (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price-MSRP)
Estimated lease price: $389/month (3-year lease) (With Federal Tax Savings)
Currently the vehicle is only available for lease.
Availability: Limited Availability (Leases began for customers in California and Oregon on July 20, 2012. The lease program will expand to six East Coast markets in early 2013. It is anticipated that during Honda's test run of market acceptance, the volume of production will be approximately 1,100 Fit Ev's over a three year period.)
Battery: 20 kWh
Charge Time: 240 V - approx. 3 hours / 120 V - approx. 15 hours
Top Speed: approx. 90 mph
Horsepower: 123 hp
Range: 82 miles
EPA MPG Equivalent: 118 (132 city/105 highway/118 combined MPGe)
The Honda Fit EV includes a unique interactive remote that enables the driver to monitor the vehicle's charge state and cabin temperature. The driver will be able to initiate and terminate charging and turn on the air conditioning remotely, within 100 feet of the car.
Seats: 5
Price: $39,780
Availability: Available January 15, 2013 (initially available in California and New York only)
Battery: 6.7 kWh
Horsepower: 198 hp
Charge Time: 240 V- less than 1 hour / 120 V - 3 hours
Top Speed: 62 mph (in electric mode)
5-door Hatchback
Seats: 4
Price: Starting at $21,625 (with Federal Tax Savings) / $29,125 (without Federal Tax Savings)
Availability: Available Nationwide
Battery: 16 kWh
Charge Time: 240 V- 7 hours. / 120 V - 22.5 hours.
CHAdeMO Level 3 public quick-charging: 30 min. (80% charge)
Top Speed: approx. 80 mph
Range: 62 miles (EPA Rating - Combined) (Range City - EPA LA4 city unadjusted - 98 miles)
EPA MPG Equivalent: 112 (126 city/99 highway/112 combined)
EPA MPG Equivalent: 121 miles The Scio iQ EV is currently designed for fleet and car-sharing programs in urban and campus locations only.
2013 Honda Fit EV (Electric)
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| (Credit: Flickr User - skinnylawyer) |
Seats: 5
Price: approx. $36,625 (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price-MSRP)
Estimated lease price: $389/month (3-year lease) (With Federal Tax Savings)
Currently the vehicle is only available for lease.
Availability: Limited Availability (Leases began for customers in California and Oregon on July 20, 2012. The lease program will expand to six East Coast markets in early 2013. It is anticipated that during Honda's test run of market acceptance, the volume of production will be approximately 1,100 Fit Ev's over a three year period.)
Battery: 20 kWh
Charge Time: 240 V - approx. 3 hours / 120 V - approx. 15 hours
Top Speed: approx. 90 mph
Horsepower: 123 hp
Range: 82 miles
EPA MPG Equivalent: 118 (132 city/105 highway/118 combined MPGe)
The Honda Fit EV includes a unique interactive remote that enables the driver to monitor the vehicle's charge state and cabin temperature. The driver will be able to initiate and terminate charging and turn on the air conditioning remotely, within 100 feet of the car.
4-door Sedan
Seats: 5
Price: $39,780
Availability: Available January 15, 2013 (initially available in California and New York only)
Battery: 6.7 kWh
Horsepower: 198 hp
Charge Time: 240 V- less than 1 hour / 120 V - 3 hours
Top Speed: 62 mph (in electric mode)
Electric Range: 13 miles
Combined Range: 500+ miles (initial estimate)
Combined Range: 500+ miles (initial estimate)
EPA MPG Equivalent: 115 MPGe
Fuel Economy (Gas): 47 city/46 highway/46 combined
The Accord Plug-in Hybrid will come loaded with features found on the Accord Touring Sedan including, Honda LaneWatch™, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, and more.
Fuel Economy (Gas): 47 city/46 highway/46 combined
The Accord Plug-in Hybrid will come loaded with features found on the Accord Touring Sedan including, Honda LaneWatch™, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, and more.
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| (Credit: Flickr User - Automotive Rhythms) |
Mitsubishi i (MiEV) (Electric)
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| © Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. |
5-door Hatchback
Seats: 4
Price: Starting at $21,625 (with Federal Tax Savings) / $29,125 (without Federal Tax Savings)
Availability: Available Nationwide
Battery: 16 kWh
Charge Time: 240 V- 7 hours. / 120 V - 22.5 hours.
CHAdeMO Level 3 public quick-charging: 30 min. (80% charge)
Top Speed: approx. 80 mph
Range: 62 miles (EPA Rating - Combined) (Range City - EPA LA4 city unadjusted - 98 miles)
EPA MPG Equivalent: 112 (126 city/99 highway/112 combined)
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| © Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. |
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| © Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. |
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| © Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. |
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| © Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. |
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| © Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. |
2013 Fiat 500e
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| (Credit: Flickr User - Chrysler-Group) |
Seats: 4
Price: TBA, (likely around $35,000)
Availability: Spring 2013 (initially only available in California)
Battery: 24 kWh
Charge time: 240 V - 4 hours / 110 V - 22 hours
Horsepower: 111 hp
0-60 Speed = approx. 9 sec.
Some new additions to the electric variant of the Fiat 500 include new front and rear bumpers, 15 inch wheels, an aerodynamically enhanced rear spoiler that decreases drag by 13 percent, altered mirrors, and a 7 inch touchscreen in the dash, to provide the driver with charge and range data.
According to Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne, the Fiat 500e will result in up to a $10,000 loss for the company, for each car that is sells. Therefore, Fiat plans to produce only a limited number of Fiat 500e cars, in order to strengthen it’s environmentally friendly image and decrease it’s corporate average C02 emissions.
2013 Smart fortwo electric (Electric)
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| (Credit: Flickr User - Autoviva.com) |
Price: $25,000 (for Coupe, Cabriolet version available for $28,000 ) (without Federal Tax Savings) / $17,500 (for Coupe, with Federal Tax Savings)
Seats: 2
Availability: Spring 2012 (initially 30 markets worldwide)
Battery: 17.6 kWh
Charge time: 240 V - 7 hours; optional 22 kW on-board quick charger for full charge in less than 1 hour
Horsepower: 74 hp
Top Speed: approx. 78 mph
Range: approx. 87 miles
EPA MPG Equivalent: 107 (combined city/highway)
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| (Credit: Flickr User - Autoviva.com) |
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| (Credit: Flickr User - Autoviva.com) |
Tesla Model S (Electric)
2013 Motor Trend Car of the Year
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| © Tesla Motors |
5-door Sedan
Seats: up to 7 (5 + optional 2)
Prices on all models will increase by $2,500 on January 1, 2013
Availability: Available Nationwide (Tesla expects to produce 20,000 cars in 2013, up drastically from the 2,500-3,000 cars produced in 2012)
Charge Time: 240 V - TBA (Re-charge rate, 62 miles/hr.) / 120 V - TBA
80% charge in 45 min. via Tesla Supercharger (480 V).
50% charge in 30 min. via Tesla Supercharger (480 V).
Horsepower: 362 hp (80 kWh model), 416 hp (80 kWh - Performance Option)
Top Speed: 125 mph (80 kWh model)
0-60 Speed = 5.6 sec. (80 kWh model)
0-60 Speed = 4.5 sec. (with Performance Option - only available with 300 mile range battery)
EPA MPG Equivalent: 95 (combined city/highway - 60 kWH model), 89 (combined city/highway - 85 kWh)
EPA MPG Equivalent: 95 (combined city/highway - 60 kWH model), 89 (combined city/highway - 85 kWh)
Battery: 40, 60, or 85 kWh (depending upon model)
Range: Base Model, 160 miles ($57,400); Intermediate Model, 230 miles ($67,400); “Signature Series” Model, range 300 miles ($77,400)
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| © Tesla Motors |
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| © Tesla Motors |
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| © Tesla Motors |
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| © Tesla Motors |
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| © Tesla Motors |
Tesla Model X (Electric)
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| (Credit: Flickr User - JoeInSouthernCA) |
Crossover SUV
Seats: 7
The Model X will be available in both rear wheel and all-wheel drive (AWD). Additionally, the Model X has an impressive double the cargo room of an Audi Q7.
Battery: 60 or 85 kWh (depending upon model)
Charge Time: 240 V - TBA / 120 V - TBA (Initial estimates are for a 4 hour charge time, although the charger required to accomplish this is not yet known.)
Horsepower: TBA
Top Speed: TBA
0-60 Speed = 4.4 sec. (likely Performance model only)
Range: TBA, (estimated in the 214-267 range) (Likely 10-12% less driving range than the Model S, due to the Model X's greater CdxA)
The Model X will include many of the Model S's groundbreaking features and will also come with a large 17 inch touchscreen display. The Model X shares 60% of the content found in the Model S. One of the Model X's most unique features is the falcon wing doors, which open without the worry of taking out the car or wall next to the vehicle. Tesla has designed the "doors" so that they are able to stay close to the body of the vehicle as they rise, thus eliminating concerns of any collision with nearby objects.
The Model X will include many of the Model S's groundbreaking features and will also come with a large 17 inch touchscreen display. The Model X shares 60% of the content found in the Model S. One of the Model X's most unique features is the falcon wing doors, which open without the worry of taking out the car or wall next to the vehicle. Tesla has designed the "doors" so that they are able to stay close to the body of the vehicle as they rise, thus eliminating concerns of any collision with nearby objects.
2012 Fisker Karma (Plug-in Hybrid)
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| © Fisker Automotive, Inc. |
Seats: 4
Price: Starting at $102,000
Availability: Available Nationwide (Production temporarily halted as of December 2012 due to a supplier problem (the bankruptcy of Fisker's electric battery supplier))
Electric Drive Motors - Horsepower: 403 hp
Price: Starting at $102,000
Availability: Available Nationwide (Production temporarily halted as of December 2012 due to a supplier problem (the bankruptcy of Fisker's electric battery supplier))
Electric Drive Motors - Horsepower: 403 hp
Gasoline Engine - Horsepower: 260 hp (Turbocharged 2.0 Liter Direct Injection 4 cylinder gasoline engine)
Battery: 20.1 kWh battery
Charge Time: approx. 6-14 hours (depending on type of charger used)
Charge Time: approx. 6-14 hours (depending on type of charger used)
Electric Range: 50 miles
Combined Range: 300 miles
Fuel Economy: 67 mpg
Sport Mode
Sport Mode
Top Speed: 125 mph
0-60 Speed = 6.3 sec.
Range: 250 miles
Stealth Mode
Top Speed: 95 mph
0-60 Speed = 7.9 sec.
Range: 50 miles
The car also includes a solar panel roof to help recharge the battery and aid the cabin climate control system. The Karma produces more torque than the Bugatti Veyron. Contains either certified wood rescued from California wildfires, certified deep sunken wood from Lake Michigan, or fallen wood from California, depending on trim.
BMW i3 (Electric)
(There will be an optional range extender would make the car a Plug-in Hybrid)
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| (Credit: Flickr User - Autoviva.com) |
5-door Hatchback (with opposing “coach” style doors)
Seats: 4 (2+2) (bench seats-which allow passengers to exit from either side of the car and create a lounge feel)
Price: TBA – at least $35,000 (initial estimate)
Availability: 2013
Battery: 21 kWh
Charge Time: 240 V outlet - TBA / 120 V outlet - approx. 4-6 hours
80% charge in less than 1 hour with high-speed charger
Top Speed: 93 mph
0-60 Speed = less than 8 sec. (faster than some variants of the 1 and 3 series cars)
Range: 80-100 miles/ 190 miles with range extender
Optional range extender called REx (range extender would be a 2 cylinder gasoline powered engine that would likely double the range)
BMW may also offer a special inductive charger, although this is may or may not be offered initially. Inductive charging allows the vehicle to charge by transmitting electricity to the car’s battery wirelessly. Vehicle owners that install an inductive charger in their garage floor would therefore charge their vehicle by parking their car on the inductive charger, which would be installed beneath the floor. Other companies producing electric cars have showed off similar technology, including GM and Tesla.
There will be several interesting features in the BMW i3, such as an Eco Pro + mode for drivers who are at risk of running out of electric power. This mode will extend the vehicle’s range and requires driving at reduced speeds, while minimizing high energy consuming features.
The i3 is also unique in that rather than the typical monocolor of most vehicles, the i3 incorporates what BMW describes as layered schemes. These layered schemes includes sections of carbon black and light gray on various parts of the car. The vehicles also incorporates blue accents throughout areas of the body.
BMW plans to showcase the i3 during the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. The vehicle will be sold under the BMW i brand, which will be separate from BMW or Mini. The i3’s body, which is made from carbon fiber, will be produced at the BMW factory in Moses Lake, Washington. There is ample hydroelectric power available in this region, which BMW plans to take advantage, due to the fact that carbon fiber production requires a lot of energy and emits a lot of carbon dioxide.
The BMW i brand, sold separately from the BMW or Mini brands, is the brand that BMW will sell it’s electric, plug-in hybrid, and other “green” vehicles under. BMW reportedly owns the rights to the i1-i9 and e1-e9 names, which will enable them to further the line of BMW i cars in the future. A BMW i4 (possibly a 2 door coupe) and i5 (possibly a sports 4-door sedan) may be in the works.
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| (Credit: Flickr User - Autoviva.com) |
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| (Credit: Flickr User - Autoviva.com) |
BMW i8 (Plug-in Hybrid)
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| (Credit: Flickr User - Autoviva.com) |
2-door coupe
Seats: 4
Price: TBA (the price will be six figures-rumored to be in excess of 100,000 euros = $143,000)
Availability: 2014
Charge time: 120 V - TBA / 240 V - approx. 2 hours
Combined Horsepower: 349 hp
Electric Engine - Horsepower: 129 hp
Gasoline Engine - Horsepower: 220 hp (3 cylinder combustion engine)
Top Speed: 155 mph
0-60 Speed = approx. 4.6 sec.
Electric Range: 20 miles
Combined Range: TBA
The i8 will be faster than the most powerful variant of the BMW Z4 sports roadster. It’s speed will also rival that of the Porsche 911.
The i8 is also unique in that rather than the typical monocolor of most vehicles, the i8 incorporates what BMW describes as layered schemes. These layered schemes includes sections of carbon black and light gray on various parts of the car. The vehicles also incorporates blue accents throughout areas of the body.
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| (Credit: Flickr User - Autoviva.com) |
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| (Credit: Flickr User - Autoviva.com) |
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| (Credit: Flickr User - Autoviva.com) |
2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell (Electric)
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| (Credit: Flickr User - Wyemji) |
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| (Credit: Flickr User - Autoviva.com) |
2-door coupe
Seats: 2
Price: approx. $537,000
Availability: June 2013
Battery: 60 kWh
Horsepower: 740 hp
Top Speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)
0-60 Speed = 3.9 sec.
Charge Time: 240 V outlet - TBA / 120 V outlet - TBA
Seats: 2
Price: approx. $537,000
Availability: June 2013
Battery: 60 kWh
Horsepower: 740 hp
Top Speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)
0-60 Speed = 3.9 sec.
Charge Time: 240 V outlet - TBA / 120 V outlet - TBA
(Mercedes' optional 22 kW quick charging station will allow the vehicle to be charged in 3 hours, while plugging into a traditional wall outlet will require approximately 20 hours.)
Range: 155 miles
The SLS is built with a carbon-fiber monocoque that is encased in an aluminum spaceframe body.
Range: 155 miles
The SLS is built with a carbon-fiber monocoque that is encased in an aluminum spaceframe body.
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| (Credit: Flickr User - sarahlarson) |
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| (Credit: Flickr User - sarahlarson) |
Cadillac ELR (Plug-In Hybrid)
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| © GM Company |
Seats: 4 (2+2)
Price: likely low-mid $50,000 range
Availability: Estimated Late 2013 (2014 model)
The production version of the ELR will be unveiled at the 2013 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance (August 2013).
Electric Range: TBA (likely 35-40 miles)
The ELR is believed to use a drivetrain that follows the Chevrolet Volt's architecture.
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| © GM Company |
Porsche 918 Spyder (Plug-In Hybrid)
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| (Credit: Flickr User - Watson House) |
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| (Credit: Flickr User - Watson House) |
Seats: 2
Price: $845,000
Availability: Production Begins, September, 18, 2013 (9/18) / Likely available late 2013
Combined Horsepower: 718 hp
Gasoline Engine – Horsepower: 500 hp
Electric Drive Motors – Horsepower: 218 hp
Top Speed: 198 mph (when solely under electric power, the 918 can reach a top speed of 94 mph)
0-60 Speed = 3.1 sec. (under solely electric power)
Electric Range: 15 miles
Combined Range: TBA
Fuel Economy: 78 mpg (initial estimate)
The 918 Spyder is constructed with a lightweight plastic monocoque that is reinforced with carbon fiber.
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