Toyota and Tesla Plan an Electric RAV4

Somewhere in Southern California Ed Begley Jr is celebrating.

Appears the Tesla/Toyota deal is a bit more than Elon Musk getting more PR. The two are teaming up to resurrect the electric RAV-4 (which made a brief appearance back in the 90's/early 2000's). Tesla's on the hook for delivering a fleet of prototypes this year and the two will likely be using the now resurrected NUMMI plant in Northern California. Nice move for Tesla who appears to be treating its new found public status with the right type of enthusiasm.

Brammo Announces 100 MPH Electric Motorcycle With 100 Mile Range

Brammo, the first e-motorcycle manufacturer to come to market with a product geared for the masses, unveiled its latest creation the Empulse. The latest iteration will come in three flavors (60 mile, 80 mile and 100 mile range) with prices commensurate to performance. Good news is all three will qualify for some level of rebate (depending on where you live and what level of performance you select). Interesting to see if this move opens up a category of products (many have made announcements but for now Brammo is the leader in the clubhouse.

Chevrolet Stands Behind Volt With Standard Eight-Year, 100,000-Mile Battery Warranty

GM plants the flag on assurance with a high standard. They are giving customers permission to invest in this vehicle by taking the concern out of the battery. Well done.

I am awaiting the new video of "Who Saved The Electric Car" starring the GM Volt crew.

Electric-Car Maker ZAP To Acquire China’s Jonway

ZAP joins up with a Chinese auto manufacturer to increase production and scope of their EV lineup. A company with a long history in the EV space (from scooters to cars) and is currently a finalist in the X-Prize with their very cool 3 wheel vehicle. This is an aggressive company with a lot of experience in the EV space. Best not to count them out. Full article in link.
CB

New eZONE Electric Vehicle Plant Brings Green Jobs to South Carolina

Lead entrant in the medium/low speed EV space makes another announcement on their burgeoning presence in the US. Interesting concept and strategy on how vehicles will be used for specific purposes. Not one size fits all. Industry data puts low speed EVs in a market that can be as big as 38M HH. A new category to emerge in transportation? Will be interesting.
CB

Mitsubishi Says i-MiEV Could Have Sub-$30K Price Tag

Mitsubishi really wants to make a splash with the i-MiEV. The sticker price has always been thought to be in the mid 50's here in the states but now it appears it may come out below 30K (assume that includes federal rebates). Do not know what type of hit they are taking but you have to love the aggressiveness. Full article in link.
CB

I'm back...

Took some time off due to birth of child. Little guy is great and mom, dad and sister are tired.