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2018 Audi e-tron SUV Quattro Electric Vehicle Concept [VIDEO]

Audi has taken the wraps off its vision of the perfect electric SUV, the Audi e-tron quattro concept, delivering more than 500 km (310 miles) of range along with autonomous driving. Shown off for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show today, the concept previews Audi's production luxury electric SUV currently pencilled in for early 2018, with a slippery but meaty design and a trio of motors.

It's clearly an Audi from the outside, but the 16ft length and 6.3ft width are offset by the 5.1ft height, leaving the e-tron quattro concept looking low and chunky. Electrically-actuated aero elements on the hood, the flanks, and on the rear help control the flow of air, adding up to a mere 0.25 coefficient of drag. That, Audi points out, is a record for the SUV segment, where figures in excess of 0.30 cd are more typical.

The lighting uses Matrix lasers, combined with LED and OLED elements, the latter being shown for the first time at the Frankfurt show, but headed to production according to Audi. Inside, there's seating for four and up to 21.7 cu ft of their luggage. Surrounding them is an updated version of the Virtual Cockpit already in production cars, with various unusually-shaped OLED displays scattered across the dashboard.

Around the digital instruments, for instance, are glass touch displays for controlling the piloted driving, multimedia, and navigation, while more touch panels are wrapped around the spokes of the steering wheel. Two more OLEDs are on the center tunnel, while the doors have curved screens that replace external mirrors. In the rear, passengers get their own OLED screens to control the AC and choose what they want to watch on the LTE-streaming media system.

Of course, the real magic is in the powertrain. Audi has equipped the e-tron quattro concept with three motors in all, one at the front axel and two at the rear; altogether, they're good for 400 HP and 800 Nm of torque in boost mode. 0-100 km/h comes in 4.6 seconds, and the top speed is limited to 130.5 mph. The SUV automatically adjusts which rear wheel gets the torque according to grip and stability, while there are various degrees of driver-selectable power recuperation during braking.

Audi has slung the 95 kWh battery under the passenger compartment, keeping the center of gravity low, and paired it with a Combined Charging System (CCS) that's happy with either DC or AC current. Supply the concept with 150 kW of DC power, for instance, and a full charge can be completed in around 50 minutes, the company claims. However, if plugging in a cable is too much for you, Audi Wireless Charging is also included, using contactless induction charging and a low-speed autonomous driving system that navigates the SUV on top of the inductive plate. Finally there's a solar panel on the roof.

All-wheel steering, air suspension, and a combination of radar, video, ultrasonic sensors, and a laser scanner - which feed into what Audi calls the "central driver assistance controller" (zFAS) in the trunk, and which will eventually be used for piloted driving - round out the key tech. Of course, the e-tron quattro concept won't make it to dealerships in quite this form - expect the interior to be significantly more mainstream, for instance - but as EV drivetrains go this one is shaping up to be very interesting, and could cause some consternation over at Tesla's Model X lab.

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2018 Audi e-tron SUV Quattro Electric Vehicle Concept [VIDEO]

Audi has taken the wraps off its vision of the perfect electric SUV, the Audi e-tron quattro concept, delivering more than 500 km (310 miles) of range along with autonomous driving. Shown off for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show today, the concept previews Audi's production luxury electric SUV currently pencilled in for early 2018, with a slippery but meaty design and a trio of motors.

It's clearly an Audi from the outside, but the 16ft length and 6.3ft width are offset by the 5.1ft height, leaving the e-tron quattro concept looking low and chunky. Electrically-actuated aero elements on the hood, the flanks, and on the rear help control the flow of air, adding up to a mere 0.25 coefficient of drag. That, Audi points out, is a record for the SUV segment, where figures in excess of 0.30 cd are more typical.

The lighting uses Matrix lasers, combined with LED and OLED elements, the latter being shown for the first time at the Frankfurt show, but headed to production according to Audi. Inside, there's seating for four and up to 21.7 cu ft of their luggage. Surrounding them is an updated version of the Virtual Cockpit already in production cars, with various unusually-shaped OLED displays scattered across the dashboard.

Around the digital instruments, for instance, are glass touch displays for controlling the piloted driving, multimedia, and navigation, while more touch panels are wrapped around the spokes of the steering wheel. Two more OLEDs are on the center tunnel, while the doors have curved screens that replace external mirrors. In the rear, passengers get their own OLED screens to control the AC and choose what they want to watch on the LTE-streaming media system.

Of course, the real magic is in the powertrain. Audi has equipped the e-tron quattro concept with three motors in all, one at the front axel and two at the rear; altogether, they're good for 400 HP and 800 Nm of torque in boost mode. 0-100 km/h comes in 4.6 seconds, and the top speed is limited to 130.5 mph. The SUV automatically adjusts which rear wheel gets the torque according to grip and stability, while there are various degrees of driver-selectable power recuperation during braking.

Audi has slung the 95 kWh battery under the passenger compartment, keeping the center of gravity low, and paired it with a Combined Charging System (CCS) that's happy with either DC or AC current. Supply the concept with 150 kW of DC power, for instance, and a full charge can be completed in around 50 minutes, the company claims. However, if plugging in a cable is too much for you, Audi Wireless Charging is also included, using contactless induction charging and a low-speed autonomous driving system that navigates the SUV on top of the inductive plate. Finally there's a solar panel on the roof.

All-wheel steering, air suspension, and a combination of radar, video, ultrasonic sensors, and a laser scanner - which feed into what Audi calls the "central driver assistance controller" (zFAS) in the trunk, and which will eventually be used for piloted driving - round out the key tech. Of course, the e-tron quattro concept won't make it to dealerships in quite this form - expect the interior to be significantly more mainstream, for instance - but as EV drivetrains go this one is shaping up to be very interesting, and could cause some consternation over at Tesla's Model X lab.

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World’s First All-Electric Propulsion Satellite Begins Operations

The world’s first all-electric propulsion satellite, built by Boeing for Bermuda-based ABS, is now operational after an on-orbit handover on August 31. The ABS-3A, a 702SP (small platform) satellite, expands ABS’ communications services in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

“The operational ABS-3A satellite and ABS-2A, launching in early 2016, will further strengthen and solidify our global expansion and offer flexible capacity to our growing fleet,” said Tom Choi, CEO of ABS. “We believe Boeing’s innovative portfolio can help us to affordably grow now and in the future.”

The ABS-3A spacecraft was the world’s first all-electric propulsion satellite to be built and launched – part of a stacked pair launched in March with a 702SP satellite built for Eutelsat, based in Paris. The spacecraft’s all-electric xenon-ion propulsion system contains a sufficient quantity of the inert, non-hazardous element xenon to extend the satellite’s operations beyond the expected spacecraft design life of 15 years.

“With a successful launch, testing and execution of orbit operations, we were able to deliver the first 702SP to ABS about one month earlier than planned,” said Mark Spiwak, president, Boeing Satellite Systems International. “The 702SP product line was designed to bring the latest technology into the hands of customers seeking adaptable and affordable solutions. In addition, the 702SP’s patented dual-launch capability helps customers share launch costs, which can significantly lower overall expenses for a satellite owner.”

Boeing is under contract to build a second 702SP satellite for ABS, designated ABS-2A, which will be delivered and launched early next year.

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Siemens to show Roding Roadster Electric @ IAA 2015 [VIDEO]

Siemens will show the wheel motor powered Roding Roadster Electric at the 2015 IAA (Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung) in Frankfurt Germany this month.

The Roding Roadster Electric is a hub drive powered research vehicle. Based on the Roding Carbon Cell, this innovative battery-powered drive train could be realized together with Siemens Corporate Technology. The prototypes used for this purpose were constructed without a mechanical brake at the rear axle, instead, braking is done by the electric motor.

The brake system is controlled by so-called Brake Blending, i.e., as circumstances require, the brake torque is automatically transferred from the electrically powered brake to the friction brake at the front axle. It is aimed to recuperate the entire potential energy in 70% of all braking processes.

  • Maximum power: 2 x 120 kW
  • Maximum torque: 2 x 1250 Nm
  • Lithium Ion Battery: 19,4 kWh
  • Unloaden weight: 1125kg (DIN-standard)

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    2016 Nissan LEAF to get 30 kWh battery and 250 km range

    Nissan is once again transforming the performance, practicality and perception of EVs with the introduction of the LEAF 30 kWh - an updated Nissan LEAF that gives drivers 250 km (155 miles) of motoring range, beating all of its competitors in the segment.

    This remarkable achievement – one that opens up a new world of opportunity for drivers – is made possible thanks to the introduction of a new 30kWh battery. The new battery is the highlight of an update package that will see the 2016MY LEAF 30 kWh reinforce its position as the most capable and practical electric vehicle in the world, and with the best value. The longer range significantly broadens the LEAF’s appeal – making it a true alternative to an internal combustion engine vehicle for thousands of motorists and reinforcing its position as the world’s best electric car.

    Commented Paul Willcox, Chairman, Nissan Europe: “The LEAF, the best-selling EV in the world, just got even better. And up-to 155 miles opens the world of EV to thousands of drivers across Europe who before just weren’t completely confident that an EV would work for them. This extra range will make LEAF ownership an easy first choice, for many, many more drivers.”

    New battery, new technology, same simple usability

    The LEAF’s new 30kWh battery delivers a longer range with no compromise on internal packaging. Available on Acenta and Tekna trim grades, it has exactly the same exterior dimensions as existing 24kWh unit and only a modest 21 kg increase in weight. The result? A car that goes significantly further while offering the same practicality and usability as previous versions.

    Key to the new battery’s higher performance is an update to its internal design and chemistry. The introduction of Carbon, Nitrogen and Magnesium to the electrodes improves performance, while the change to the cell layout also contributes to the gain. Indeed, Nissan is so confident about the performance and reliability of the new 30kWh battery that the capacity will be covered by an eight year, 100,000 mile warranty.

    Recharging the LEAF’s new 30kWh battery is as easy and stress-free as it is with the current 24kWh unit. Just as with the current LEAF, customers will be able to recharge from their homes, from public chargers, or from the network of rapid chargers (3 phase, 400V) expanding across European – the best EV network available. In the UK there are approximately 500 LEAF-compatible rapid chargers, covering more than 95% of the UK’s motorway network.

    New IT technology gives owners even greater control

    One of the LEAF’s most celebrated and useful features is its ability to interact with and be controlled remotely by its owner via NissanConnect EV. From being able to check charge status to pre-heating the cabin on cold winter days, owners across the world have used this advanced smartphone-enabled telematics facility to make life even easier. NissanConnect EV not only brings greater comfort but also improves driving range, thanks to the ability to pre-heat or pre-cool the cabin without using battery energy.

    The LEAF 30 kWh introduces a significant update to this unique technology with a new NissanConnect EV system that replaces the previous Carwings setup. It retains all the acclaimed elements of the original system, but adds new features, a much-simplified activation process and a new design.

    One of the many advances of the new NissanConnect EV system is the new charging map that is capable of showing which charging points are available and which are being used. Designed to offer seamless integration with the new-generation NissanConnect EV infotainment system, it also features a completely revised navigation system, maintenance alerts and a car-finder facility.

    LEAF 30 kWh – the world’s favourite EV made even better

    All Acenta and Tekna 2016MY LEAF models are equipped with the latest evolution of the brand’s acclaimed NissanConnect EV infotainment system. Featuring a new interface and digital radio receiver, it also offers a capacitive 7-inch touchscreen that allows owners to zoom in and out of maps and flick between menus just by moving their fingers on the screen.

    The LEAF 30 kWh also introduces a number of subtle exterior design changes – including a new roof-mounted aerial along with the availability of a new colour – Bronze.

    Full pricing

    Sales of the model year 2016 Nissan LEAF 30kW will begin in the UK in December 2015. Priced from £24,490 for the Acenta trim, the LEAF 30kW is available for just £1,600 more than the equivalent LEAF with a 24kW battery.

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    Toyota unveils Prius hybrid with 10% greater fuel efficiency

    Toyota has advanced the pioneering status of its iconic Prius hybrid car by revealing a fourth-generation model that debuts a futuristic design, fun-to-drive dynamics and an impressive gain to fuel economy.

    A new, stiffer platform - the first developed under Toyota's New Generation Architecture (TNGA) program - is at the heart of revolutionary improvements that support a more responsive driving experience and enhanced occupant protection.

    In keeping with the Prius name which means "front runner", the new-generation car continues to build on its eco-car DNA with technical breakthroughs including the world's most thermally efficient petrol engine at 40 per cent.

    This remarkable achievement, which provides a significant improvement in fuel efficiency, is due to the adoption of new or substantially revised components that were effectively blueprinted to the finest limits and tolerances.

    Engineers also succeeded with a comprehensive program of size and weight reductions for major hybrid components while maintaining overall performance, confirming Prius as the global pacesetter in hybrid technology.

    The cutting-edge development program for the new Prius also focused on a more responsive drive experience achieved through a lower centre of gravity, newly developed double-wishbone rear suspension and a more rigid body.

    The all-new rear double wishbone suspension produces a better connection to the road, providing greater control and feedback in all driving conditions. A more rigid body helps improve responsiveness while cornering without sacrificing ride quality or occupant comfort.

    Unveiled at a special event in Las Vegas ahead of its international motor-show debut in Frankfurt next week and an Australian launch early in 2016, the new Prius exterior has completely evolved.

    It features a dramatic low-slung silhouette that is approximately 60mm longer, 15mm wider and 20mm lower, delivering a much more planted on-road presence with a lower centre of gravity and more space for occupants and their luggage.

    Designers embraced Toyota's concept of "Iconic Human-tech" to blend flowing curves with aggressive cut edges, producing ground-breaking advances and aerodynamic innovations that display a sculptural quality.

    The bonnet is lower and the most distinctive Prius cue - the roof peak - has been moved forward, creating an athletic shape inspired by a runner in the starting blocks.

    The sporty theme for the new Prius is accentuated by the Toyota emblem in the front grille sitting at exactly the same height as on Toyota's 86 sports car. It is flanked by new headlamps that minimise frontal area while providing a striking light display that helps define the vehicle's distinctive character.

    Bold character lines run along the side from the front fenders - one just above the sill that sweeps up towards the rear fender, while the upper crease morphs into the rear spoiler, which has been lowered.

    Striking rear combination lamps express the distinctive lines of the Prius from the rear spoiler to the trailing edges of the sides.

    Exterior colours include an "Emotional Red", which utilises a newly developed treatment process to achieve a deep and vibrant lustre.

    The new Prius interior also embraces Toyota's concept of "Iconic Human-tech" with a strong presence that adopts advanced technology complemented by features that are functional, fun and have high visual impact.

    Owners will be rewarded with the comfort and utility offered by a wrap-around cockpit, form-hugging seat design, easy-to-use controls and increased visibility.

    A sense of quality and space is created through the wide instrument panel with its layered construction that clearly defines the "display zone", separating it from the "control zone" which is now closer to the driver.

    The next-generation Prius will make available a package of electronic safety assistance aids including a pre-collision system, lane departure alert, automatic high beam and active cruise control.

    Prius global chief engineer Kouji Toyoshima said nearly every aspect of Prius has been improved to create a car that will appeal to the senses in its own right, above its well-recognised green credentials.

    "There is much more to the new Prius than a green image. From the bold design to the quality interior, the Prius has never had such a powerful presence," Mr Toyoshima said.

    Prius - with more than 3.5 million sold globally - has popularised hybrid technology to the point it has now become mainstream. The fourth-generation Prius is ground- breaking in its own right.

    "We have developed an even-better Prius by expanding its environmentally sensitive DNA while ramping up its desirability with an emotional design and an engaging drive. It offers a new perspective of what a hybrid can be."

    Toyota New Generation Architecture is an innovative development program designed to enhance product appeal through improved core vehicle performance and new technologies.

    It promotes the strategic sharing of powertrain components and vehicle platforms with the goal of improving resource efficiency by better than 20 per cent.

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    Translucent Li-ion Battery Charges Itself by Using Sunlight

    A Japanese research group prototyped a translucent lithium-ion (Li-ion) rechargeable battery that can charge itself by using sunlight.

    With the battery, the group aims to realize a "smart window," which is an almost transparent window that functions both as a large-area rechargeable battery and as a photovoltaic cell (when the window receives sunlight, it is pigmented, lowering light transmittance).

    The group is led by Mitsunobu Sato, president of Kogakuin University and professor at the Department of Applied Physics, School of Advanced Engineering of the university. The battery was exhibited at Innovation Japan 2015, a trade show that took place from Aug 27 and 28, 2015, in Tokyo.

    Translucent Li-ion battery announced in 2013

    The group developed a translucent Li-ion rechargeable battery and announced it in a thesis in 2013.

    The main component of the electrolyte used for the positive electrode of the battery is Li3Fe2(PO4)3 (LFP). And those of the electrolyte used for the negative electrode are Li4Ti5O12 (LTO) and LiPF6 (lithium hexafluorophosphate). Those material are commonly used for Li-ion rechargeable batteries. However, oxides are basically transparent, and the thicknesses of the positive and negative electrodes are only 80nm and 90nm, respectively, realizing a high light transmittance.

    The light transmittance for green light (wavelength: about 550nm) is about 60% after discharging. It lowers to about 30% after charging because the density of lithium changes at the electrodes and the electronic state (valence) of the material changes.

    The output voltage of the battery is about 3.6V. And the research group confirmed 20 charge-discharge cycles.

    Latest battery

    This time, the group exhibited a device that has not been announced in a thesis. It was made by making some changes to the materials of the translucent Li-ion battery announced in 2013 so that electrons excited by light coming to the negative electrode can be used to charge the battery.

    At the trade show, the group showed the results of an experiment in which optical charge and discharge are repeated five times by applying near-ultraviolet light with an output of 10mW/cm2, which is about 1/10 that of sunlight.

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    Mercedes working on a range of 500 km EVs

    Mercedes is reportedly working on a model range of electric vehicles able to cover up to 500 km on a single charge according to Daimler Chief Development Officer Thomas Weber.

    In an interview with German publication auto motor und sport, Weber said, “We are working on an intelligent concept for a highly attractive electric vehicle with a range of 400-500 kilometers,” adding that the car would come “soon.” More importantly, the electric drivetrain will fit into the automaker’s flexible architecture, meaning it can be used in numerous models.

    At the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show in less than two weeks, Audi will showcase an e-tron quattro concept SUV, while BMW is planning an i5 sedan that will be based on the 5 Series and Porsche are also working on an EV with 500 km range.

    Mercedes might have a slight lead on the competition, however, considering that it has been developing numerous applications of all-electric vehicles for a while now, including on the A- and B-Class as well as the electric SLS AMG that set a record on the Nurburgring.

    [Source: auto motor und sport]

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    Proterra Electric Bus Travels 412 km on a Single Charge [VIDEO]

    Proterra announced today that their 40-foot Catalyst XR bus drove 258 miles (412 km) on a single charge under test conditions at Michelin's esteemed Laurens Proving Grounds (LPG). The Catalyst's range demonstration marks a significant step toward Proterra's goal of providing a high-performance bus that can serve any typical transit route in the United States.

    The Catalyst XR configuration included eight battery packs, with a total energy capacity of 257 kWh. Based on these test results, Proterra predicts its ten pack XR configuration (321 kWh) will achieve 300 miles (480 km) on a single charge. According to available General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS) data, typical urban and rural bus routes in the United States run less than 200 miles a day, bringing most routes within reach of Proterra's current technology.

    "The purpose-driven Catalyst design affords the best efficiency rating ever for a 40-foot transit bus, at 22 MPG equivalent," said John Sleconich, Chief Engineer at Proterra. "Proterra buses are the only mass transit vehicle built from the ground up as an electric vehicle. With a unique aerodynamic body made from carbon fiber and advanced composite materials, we are able to reduce mass for maximum efficiency."

    Beyond meeting a given route's minimum range requirements, Proterra electric vehicles are poised to make a significant impact on the transit market because of the Catalyst's low operational cost per mile compared to diesel, CNG, and diesel-hybrid buses. Over the 12-year life of a bus, Proterra customers will dramatically reduce maintenance costs, saving around $135K. The environmental benefits are also making an impressive impact. Collectively, Proterra customers have logged more than 1.3 million miles of revenue service to date, preventing more than 4.7 million pounds of emissions.

    "The U.S. is quickly waking up to the economic, environmental, and performance benefits of zero-emission electric buses," said Proterra CEO, Ryan Popple. "While diesel buses pollute our communities and are increasingly more costly to own and operate, Proterra is pushing the bounds of EV technology and steadily driving down costs. Achieving this range is validation for our technology and gives us the confidence that Proterra is capable of what we initially set out to accomplish - replacing every fossil fuel bus in the United States with a fully electric one. "

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    Tesla’s Model X ‘Signature’ with 762 hp starts at $132,000

    Some future buyers of Tesla Motors Inc.’s Model X are configuring their vehicles this week, as details about the electric-car maker’s much-awaited SUV emerge.

    Among the highlights: A Model X “Signature” edition will cost $132,000 and as much as $144,000 with upgrades such as the “ludicrous speed” mode. The car will be able to go 385 km (240 miles) between charges, 7 miles more than a Model S P85D, the sedan’s top of the line, which starts at $108,000 but can also go north of $140,000 with upgrades.

    With AWD via a 190 kw (259 hp) front motor and 370 kw (503 hp) rear motor giving an 'insane' total output of 560 kw (762 hp), the Model X Signature can accelerate to 100 km/h (60 mph) in 3.8 seconds, a tad slower than the Model S P85D’s 3.1 seconds. The Model X top speed of 155 mph is the same as the Model S P85D and others.

    Tesla fans have posted several screenshots of their invitation-only Model X configuration Web pages on the Tesla Motors Club blog, a forum for Tesla enthusiasts that is independent of the company.

    These future Model X owners were the first to put down a deposit on the Model X, which is expected to roll out of the Fremont, Calif., factory on 29th September. People reserving their Model X now would get the car in early 2016.

    Here’s what else is known about the Model X:

    The car’s rear-door falcon wings, which differ from the gull wings of yesteryear as they are better at negotiating tight spaces, will have sensors so they won’t bump into ceilings.

    Accessories like a hitch for bikes or skis are standard. Also standard are parking sensors and blind-spot warning.

    The Signature series will offer autopilot with self parking and automatic lane steering, and flat-folding third-row seats. The series’ second-row seats — which Tesla Chief Executive Elon Musk called “a sculptural work of art” — will be “independently operable,” although it is not clear what that meant.

    See also: Tesla lower deliveries forecast irks Wall Street

    The $10,000 “ludicrous” speed upgrade is also available for the Model X, as Musk had said. Other upgrades include a $1,000 subzero package, which comes with a heated steering wheel and a wiper-blade defroster, among other equipment, although Tesla warns that choosing that package could delay the car’s delivery by a month.

    Those upgrades plus a $750 tow package push the price of the Model X Signature to $144,000.