 |
 |
|
| Video News & Views
PEOPLE & IDEAS TO WATCH | Connecticut's Role in Hydrogen Technology | | The state of Connecticut has been playing a leading role in bringing hydrogen fuel cell technology to defense, government agencies, and clean energy companies. |
| | | | |
 |
June 24, 2010
Jon LeSage, Editor
 |
| |
|
|
|
"The smaller entrepreneurial players have really been the ones pushing the envelope," said Oliver Hazimeh, head of the global e-Mobility practice at PRTM in an Automotive News article. The article looks at the early stages of green cars moving from concept design to dealerships. This is the beginning of a new wave for the auto industry, and no one knows yet what is going to work and what isn't – the Chevy Volt, Nissan Leaf, or many other options car buyers will explore in the next two years.
The article also cites Rick Woodbury, of Commuter Cars in Spokane, Wash., a one-man car company selling a skinny two-seater electric car called the Tango for $150,000, depending on customer specs. Woodbury is a former Porsche-Audi dealership sales manager who's had to lay off nine employees and does the work himself. He's not the only dealer selling green machines who's barely survived tough times; it's an opportunity that holds much potential along with risk for everyone engaged in the challenge.
Your thoughts? Email me at jon@automotivedigest.com.
|
|
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
Green Conference Planning Guide |
Conference Themes, Agendas, & Events |
|
|
The Next AltCar Expo is Coming Up Oct. 1-2
There are not very many green machines events to attend as of yet, so seizing the opportunity is a good idea. 2010 AltCar Expo will take place once again in the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, and this year it's scheduled to happen Oct. 1-2. AltCar Expo considers itself a two-day green transportation extravaganza sharing what's new and available in the world of alternative energy options. Events will include a Ride & Drive where consumers can hop behind the wheel and cruise the streets of Santa Monica (at least wrapping around the Civic lot), and get a feel for the latest in green machines. The Exhibition Hall features everything you can think of – pure electric, hydrogen, natural gas, propane, hybrid, plug-in, and cycling technologies. Seminars will focus on fleet programs, the charging infrastructure, vehicle and energy rebates and tax credits, a tech review panel, and "some inconvenient questions." Read more.
|
|
 |
|
Alternative Fuels & Vehicles |
Natural Gas, Propane, & Biofuels |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Podcast Offers the Latest on Bay Area Plug-in Testing
Plug-in 2010 posted its first podcast, an interview with Dahlia Garas, program manager at the UC Davis PHEV Research Center. Plug-in hybrid technology is still foreign technology for many people looking at what car to buy next. The center is testing out plug-in Priuses being charged at households using these new vehicles in the San Francisco bay area. UC Davis is funded by the California Energy Commission to bring the plug-in decision maker community together and educate the public on what they need to know. It's a very exciting time to be involved in this area of research, Garas says. Plug-in 2010 will be posting more podcasts before the conference. To listen to the podcast, go to the website.
|
|
Are You Going to Plug-in 2010 and Want to Be Interviewed?
ADW Green will be sending team members to San Jose next month to attend and cover Plug-in 2010. This will be the second time we've attended this conference, now moving into its third year. We're looking forward to going up north soon for this year's conference, which is happening during a time people will remember as a very important year for plug-in hybrids and pure electrics making their way to Americans' garages and parking lots. If you're attending and are interested in being interviewed by the team, please let ADW Green editor Jon LeSage know about it (send your email to jon@automotivedigest.com) and he'll work with you to schedule an interesting and lively on-screen interview. And let us know some good questions to ask - the latest news on your company, your perspective on what's working and not working about electric vehicles, or any other hot topics.
|
|
Read About Two Premier Sponsors of Plug-in 2010
Air Quality Management Districts have played a leading role in the state of California bringing in cleaner, smog-reduced vehicles to improve the atmosphere in a state hung over with air pollution. Bay Area Quality Management District is the regional, government agency that regulates sources of air pollution within the nine San Francisco Bay Area Counties. Read more about it.
It's been years in the making, and many people are holding their breath for the Chevrolet Volt to make its way to dealer showrooms this year. If you let the Volt charge overnight, it's ready to run on a pure electric charge for up to 40 miles, gas and emissions free. Read all about the 2011 Volt.
|
|
|
 |
|
Green Resources & Sources |
Reports, Whitepapers, & Association News |
|
| |
|
|
International JV Producing New Hybrid Technology Solution Bharat Forge Ltd., the flagship company of the $2.4 billion Kalyani Group and a leading global supplier of forged and machined components, and KPIT Cummins Infosystems Ltd., a leading product engineering & IT consulting partner to automotive and manufacturing companies announced their decision to form a joint venture to manufacture and market an indigenously developed hybrid technology solution for automobiles. REVOLO will enable both existing and new vehicles to dramatically increase fuel efficiency and engine performance, while significantly decreasing green house gas emissions. The solution will be marketed to OEMs and fleet and individual vehicle owners through a network of certified and authorized dealerships. The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), which tested REVOLO confirmed fuel efficiency gains of more than 40%. Under city driving conditions the increase in efficiency has been above 60% and reduction in emissions has been more than 30%. Read more.
|
|
 |
|
|
| Manufacturers, Technology, & Component Suppliers |
| |
|
|
|
Upcoming Conferences: AltCar Expo considers itself a two-day green transportation extravaganza sharing what's new and available in the world of alternative energy options, and it's coming up again Oct. 1-2. Plug-in 2010 posted its first podcast, an interview with Dahlia Garas, program manager at the UC Davis PHEV Research Center, on what's next for plug-in hybrid technology. Focus of the Week: Autogas for America has just been launched and it could unite leaders in the propane industry and take things to the next level. The EPA has just announced 24 new certifications for Alliance AutoGas and American Alternative Fuel for a new propane vehicle conversion system. Roush has worked with Ford and Propane Education & Research Council to develop liquid propane injection systems for a variety of Ford trucks and vans. Green Videos in Get Reel: Avalence founder Deborah Moss talks about Connecticut playing a leading role in bringing hydrogen fuel cell technology to defense, government agencies, and clean energy companies. Linde's Michael McGowan says that California has been at the forefront for global expansion of the hydrogen highway. Bosch's Joerg Rueger on diesel engine vehicles becoming popular with U.S. retail and fleet buyers. And More: Upcoming conferences, green resources and sources, green people profiles, press releases you should check out, and much more.
|
|
|
 |
| Electric Vehicles & Charging Stations |
Propane, AKA Autogas, Coming to America
Propane has been powering much more than barbeques and home heating systems for a long time. In the 1970s and 1980s, aftermarket suppliers were converting vehicles over to propane power and fleets were trying them out with much satisfaction. That went by the wayside for many years, with much more interest in natural gas as an attractive alternative, non-petroleum option. In the past couple of years, propane (also known as autogas around the world), has been growing by leaps and bounds especially in fleet applications, and automakers and technology suppliers are working together to expand product offerings especially in light trucks. A new trade organization has just been announced that could unite leaders in the field and take things to the next level.
- [Read More] |
|
EPA Certifies Several More Propane Vehicle Conversions
Twenty four new certifications have been names for the Prins VSI System created by Alliance AutoGas and American Alternative Fuel. This applies to several Ford light duty truck, vans, and SUV models, and will supplement the Alliance's existing portfolio of Ford Crown Victoria and Lincoln Town Car models, and several makes and models of the GM 6.0-liter engine (Chevrolet and GMC). The new EPA certifications allow AutoGas to serve more fleets across the country – particularly government and commercial fleets that rely heavily upon larger vehicles like vans and trucks. Shuttle services, passenger vans, commercial pickup truck fleets, and utility and service companies, now have access to clean vehicle conversions powered by AutoGas.
- [Read More] |
|
Roush Makes a Go in World of Propane Vehicles
Roush Propane Powered Vehicles is named after Jack Roush, a legend who founded a successful NASCAR race company and engineering firm. Although the name Roush often is associated with performance cars and high-speed racing, the propane-powered truck the company now builds is practical and makes sense. Natural gas vehicles have more applications in fleets across the country for several years now, but propane/autogas vehicles are growing in the world of corporate and government fleets, commercial and industrial vehicles, and farm trucks. Roush has worked the past four years with Ford and the government-appointed Propane Education & Research Council to develop liquid propane injection systems for a variety of Ford trucks and vans.
- [Read More] |
|
|
 |
Stats and Smart Charts
 |
Success of Green Initiatives for Logistics Companies
[Click to enlarge graphic]
 Significance of the Data: - Return on investment 2nd-highest driver of supply chain sustainability initiatives among shippers
- Shippers being 3rd party logistics companies and supply chain solution providers, according to recent survey of 600 professionals by eyefortransport
- Improving customer relations was seen as slightly more significant driver, while increasing supply chain efficiency seen as slightly less significant
- Shippers reported the greatest levels of ROI from improving energy efficiency and recycling materials
- Other notable responses included strategic warehouse/distribution center placement, reducing packaging, emission measuring/ reductions
- And using more efficient transport modes, all of which saw around 50% of shippers reporting either very or fairly successful ROI
- Source: Environmental Leader - June 17, 2010
|
|
Tools and Metrics for Sustainability Reporting
|
Deloitte Center for Sustainability Performance
|
|
To help make sense of the range of tools, methods, and metrics currently available for measuring and reporting sustainability, as well as new solutions just over the horizon, Deloitte is hosting a two-day, intensive workshop on the subject in which leading and emerging solutions will be explained and discussed in detail. The event is taking place July 15-16, 2010 in Chicago. Read more.
|
|
|
Industry & Investors Summit
|
|
Bringing together some of the most experienced and innovative minds in the business, this program is designed to provide an integrated perspective for investors, corporate and energy executives and technology providers. This is a comprehensive training and networking opportunity examining the most pertinent topics in the alternative energy, clean tech and carbon markets. The event is happening July 19 – 20, 2010 in San Francisco. Learn more.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
Green People Going Places
|
John Horsely
American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials
Executive Director
Horsley has spent more than two decades analyzing solutions to many of the nation's toughest transportation challenges. His hands-on experience over 20-plus years in transportation has given him a unique understanding and appreciation for the real-life aspects of planning, building, and operating transportation systems on local, regional, and state levels. Horsley has built a solid reputation as an innovative problem solver, and a strong advocate for effective solutions to fighting congestion across all modes of transportation, improving safety, and addressing strains on traditional sources of transportation funding. From 1993 to 1999, he served at the U.S. Dept. of Transportation, as Associate Deputy Secretary; advocating for intermodal policies, quality of life initiatives, and he served as a liaison to state and local governments, U.S. Congress, and transportation constituencies. A native of the Northwest, Horsley was elected to five terms as County Commissioner in Kitsap County, a community just west of Seattle.
|
 |
Dave McCurdy
Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers
President and CEO
The Alliance is a trade association of 11 car and light truck manufacturers including BMW Group, Chrysler LLC, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Jaguar Land Rover, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz USA, Mitsubishi Motors, Porsche, Toyota, and Volkswagen. McCurdy came to the Alliance after serving as president and CEO of the Electronics Industry Alliance for eight years. From 1981 to 1995, McCurdy was a member of the House of Representatives, representing Oklahoma's 4th District. He attained numerous leadership positions including: chairman of the House Intelligence Committee; chairman of the Military Installations and Facilities Subcommittee of the House Armed Services Committee; and chairman of the Transportation Aviation and Materials Subcommittee of the Science and Space Committee. He was the co-founder and national chairman of the Democratic Leadership Council. In 2008, Defense Secretary Robert Gates appointed Congressman McCurdy to the Defense Policy Board which provides the secretary with independent, informed advice and opinion concerning matters of defense policy.
|
|
|
| Design & Development |
PACE Awards Recognize Parts Suppliers for Sustainable Innovations
|
|
Automotive News named the Premier Automotive Suppliers' Contribution to Excellence (PACE) award winners at last week's Green Car Conference. Continental, NGK Insulators, Delphi Corp., Durr Systems, and Henkel Corp. were recognized for their game-changing innovations contributing to environmental sustainability and solving environmental problems.
|
|
|
Plug-ins Get Attention, but Interest in Hybrids, Car Styling Equally Important
|
|
In the year that the long-awaited Chevrolet Volt and Nissan Leaf will be launched, the fuel efficiency and greenhouse gas benefits of plug-in vehicles are being touted. However, two market reports point out other factors to follow - interest in hybrid electric vehicles remains strong and vehicle styling will tip buyer decisions, too.
|
|
|
 |
| The Color of Money (F&I) |
Prime Borrowers Repaying Loans, Problems Remain for Subprime
|
|
Experian Automotive reviewed first-quarter data regarding open auto loans and found the better the credit standing, the more growth there has been as compared to the first quarter of 2009. In fact, Experian indicated the only growth came within the super prime and prime categories at 2.69 percent and 2.34 percent, respectively.
|
|
|
Individual Credit Scores Improving, but Trouble Still Lies Ahead
|
|
According to Fitch Ratings delinquencies and losses on prime auto loan asset-backed securities hit their lowest levels in May since the summer of 2007. However, officials cautioned that this trend was "mainly due to seasonal factors." In fact, Fitch does not see this strong performance continuing.
|
|
|
 |
| Fleet Factor & Regulations |
Ford Intros New CNG/LPG Prep Packages for Super Duty Pickups
|
|
Ford is the industry leader in commercial and government fleet sales and the only manufacturer offering fuel-efficient powertrains and other sustainable technologies with all fleet vehicles this year. These include battery-electric, hybrid, natural gas, propane, E85, biodiesel and EcoBoost™, making Ford the greenest full-line fleet provider. Ford has now expanded its CNG/LPG prep package lineup.
|
|
|
Predicting Traffic Patterns in Time to Redirect New Jersey Motorists
|
|
IBM and New Jersey Turnpike Authority will test new software that predicts traffic problems up to an hour in advance while there is still time for motorists to avoid it. Data flow from multiple sources and agencies will be crunched on a PC.
|
|
|
 |
| Fuels & Energy |
No Obvious Winner Yet in Plug-in Car Race
|
|
As automotive marketers and car buyers anxiously await the launch of well- publicized green cars like the Chevy Volt and Nissan Leaf, there's no clear path yet for major OEMs on which types of plug-in vehicles will have the most advantages. Panelists at last week's Automotive News Green Car Conference expressed competitive perspectives.
|
|
|
DOE Providing Early Volt Buyers Free Fast Charge Stations
|
|
The U.S. Department of Energy is working with General Motors to allow early buyers of the upcoming Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid car to receive a free 240 volt home-charging station. About 4,400 customers would be eligible for the charging station provided by ECOtality or Coulomb Technologies. The fast charging capacity is expected to save Volt owners $1,000 to $2,000.
|
|
|
 |
| Automotive Marketing |
Research Shows Importance of Social Media, Internet in Car Buying
|
|
Data from Foresight Research shows the astonishing impact the Internet and social media have on car-buying decisions. Most new-vehicle buyers use the Internet to compare vehicles and check for incentives. Nearly 13% use some form of social media to share information on their purchase.
|
|
|
Tips for Improving Online Showroom
|
|
Amanda Savage of Manheim's The Wholesale Institute makes 10 suggestions for boosting a dealer's online showroom. Tips include hiring summer help with online skills, use latest online tools, describe vehicles properly, use condition reports and take advantage of free training opportunities.
|
|
|
 |
| Dealers & Aftermarket |
Truck Sales Bounce Back, Sign of Economic Improvement
|
|
When consumers are out there buying pickups, you know the financial health of the economy is in a better place. Automaker see an 11 percent gain through May. The 1.1 million 2009 sales were the lowest in 18 years.
|
|
|
Steering Rod Recall Next Hurdle for Toyota
|
|
Records of warranty work and customer complaints in a California lawsuit show Toyota delayed reporting safety issues relating to a defect in steering control for more than a decade before recalling nearly one million trucks in the U.S. for the problem.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
