It's pretty common for some dealers to try to tack on a premium for models that are in high demand, but $20k? GM officially announced the pricing for the Volt last week, so researchers from Edmunds decided to inquire about getting one of the first Volts. At a lease rate of $350 a month with only $2,500 due at signing, who wouldn't want

One of the researchers emailed a California dealer to lease the Volt and here is the shocking reply:

Hello *****

Thank you for your online request, as you know the Volt is going to be a very limited production vehicle for the first 2-3 years. Demand is going to far exceed supply for this vehicle, initially our asking price for the Volt is going to be MSRP plus $20,000, we are expecting only receive 9 Volts all of next year.

I will keep you in my customer base for when the Volt comes out and I will contact you with any information as I receive it. We are taking orders right now for the Volt, if you would like more information, please let me know and I will be more than happy to help you. Thank you.

***** *****, Internet Specialist
******* Chevrolet
********, CA

It's not known if this reply was sent before the dealer received word that GM is increasing production of the Volt 50 percent, to 45,000 units.

In addition to the $41,000 base price, GM also announced a lease rate of $350 a month with only $2,500 due at signing. So even if a dealer is trying to take on an insane premium, why wouldn't you just lease it.

GM officially announced the pricing for the 2011 Chevy Volt this week, with a starting price of $41,000. GM has boasted about the fact that the Volt can travel up to 40 miles without using any gasoline, but now comes word that the gasoline range extender requires premium fuel.

The fact that the Volt requires premium fuel seems a bit odd considering that the gasoline engine is only 1.4 liters and barely puts out 80 horsepower. GM has not provided any insight into why this is the case...

GM has officially announced the starting price for the 2011 Chevy Volt, which starts at $41,000 before any federal income tax credits. After the max credit of $7,500, the Volt will set you back $33,500. But if you dont want to buy the Volt, GM has also announced a special 36-month lease offer for the Volt at $350 a month with $2,500 due at lease signing.

"The Chevrolet Volt will be the best vehicle in its class...because it's in a class by itself," said Joel Ewanick, vice president of U.S. marketing for General Motors, who made the announcement at the Plug-In 2010 conference. "No other automaker offers an electrically driven vehicle that can be your everyday driver, to take you wherever, whenever. The Volt will be packed with premium content and innovation, standard."

Initially the Volt will be available to customers in California, New York, Michigan, Connecticut, Texas, New Jersey and the Washington D.C. area.

Nissan has been slow to jump on the hybrid bandwagon and has relied on technology from Toyota. But Nissan is finally ready to get serious about hybrids and has developed its first in-house system. Even better, according to the latest reports the Nissan Fuga Hybrid (Infiniti M) will be Nissan's first hybrid and will have nearly double the gas mileage of the gasoline version.

According to Koichi Hayasaki, chief engineer of Nissan's rear-wheel-drive hybrid system."Typically, carmakers say the fuel economy improvement on their cars using a 'strong' or 'full' hybrid system is roughly 30 percent, while for 'mild' hybrids, it's 15 percent."

Nissan's hybrid system will differ from its competitors by featuring twin clutches and a lithium-ion battery pack.

Tesla Motors will begin offering shares to the public for the first time ever today. Although the company has lost $260.7 million since its birth, investors remain optimistic about electric car company.

Tesla Motors will start trading today on Nasdaq under the symbol TSLA with shares priced at $17 bucks, which is more than the initial $14 to $16 range. This has allowed Tesla to raise more than $226 million.

Tesla has sold more than 1,000 roadsters, but much of the excitement surrounds the upcoming introduction of the Model S sedan that is slated to go on sale in 2012. Until the Model S is released it is expected that Tesla will continue to lose money.

Honda has announced the pricing for its newest hybrid, the CR-Z. The 2011 CR-Z will begin showing up in showrooms in August with a starting price of $19,200 plus $750 for the destination and handling charge. The CR-Z EX starts at $20,760 and if you want the EX with navigation and the CVT it will start at $23,210.

The CR-Z is powered by a 1.5L four-cyl mated to Honda's Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system. The total output of the system is 122 horsepower and 128 lb-ft. of torque. The CR-Z is available with either a six-speed manual or CVT. When equipped with the CVT, the CR-Z gets 35 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.

Some of the standard features on the CR-Z are an AM/FM/CD/USB audio system with six speakers, automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, remote entry, and cruise control. The CR-Z EX adds a 360-watt audio system, Bluetooth and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Last week Nissan's CEO Carlos Ghosn stated that the 2011 Nissan leaf electric car is sold out since it has already received 13,000 orders for the car, which is its entire allotment for the US in 2011. Now according to Nissan Division Vice President Al Castignetti, more than half of the 130,000 hand-raisers who have expressed interest in the Leaf have been previous Toyota Prius owners.

"That's a pretty significant signal to us," Castignetti said. "It tells us that there is a segment of eco-friendly consumers who are interested in going to the next level. They own a hybrid vehicle. But if the next step is available, they want to take it."

The Leaf is powered by a 107-hp electric motor. When it is fully charged the Leaf has a range of 100 miles. The Leaf starts at $32,780, but after federal tax credits the price can be as low as $25,280.

Toyota is set to expand the Prius range with a new compact minivan, which is reportedly going to be named Alpha. The Prius based minivan, Alpha will be the first Prius model to get lithium-ion batteries. The Prius Alpha is based on the current Prius platform, but will have an extra row of seats. The extra seats mean that the Alpha will be about 300 mm longer than the Prius.

The Prius Alpha will be powered by the same 1.8L Atkinson-cycle petrol engine and THSII hybrid system, but its fuel economy numbers will be slightly less than the combined 50 mpg rating for the Prius sedan.

The Prius Alpha is set to debut in March 2011.

Toyota and Tesla have announced a partnership to develop electric vehicles in northern California.

Toyota is going to purchase $50 million of Tesla's common stock and Tesla has purchased the former NUMMI factory in Fremont, California that used to produce the Toyota Corolla and Tacoma.

"I sensed the great potential of Tesla's technology and was impressed by its dedication to monozukuri (Toyota's approach to manufacturing)," said TMC President Akio Toyoda. "Through this partnership, by working together with a venture business such as Tesla, Toyota would like to learn from the challenging spirit, quick decision-making, and flexibility that Tesla has. Decades ago, Toyota was also born as a venture business. By partnering with Tesla, my hope is that all Toyota employees will recall that 'venture business spirit,' and take on the challenges of the future."

Production of the Model S will take place at the NUMMI plant and will bring back 1,000 employees that will produce up to 20,000 vehicles a year initially. The plant has the capability of employing up to 10,000 employees.

"The Tesla Factory effectively leverages an ideal combination of hardcore Silicon Valley engineering talent, traditional automotive engineering talent and the proven Toyota production system," said Tesla CEO Elon Musk. "The new Tesla Factory will give us plenty of room to grow."

Back in January GM announced the creation of a new OnStar smartphone application for the upcoming Chevy Volt. The application would give Volt owners 24/7 connection and control of their Volt. The application displays charge status, miles per gallon, has the ability to remotely start the vehicle, etc. It was also reported last week that GM has been working with Google to create a new operating system for its vehicles.

Well GM has officially announced that it is indeed working with Google to create a new mobile app for the Chevy Volt.

"While OnStar will never lose sight of our core focus on safety and security, this relationship is an example of how we're evolving our leadership position in connected vehicle technology," said Chris Preuss, OnStar president. "What we're talking about today is only the beginning."

The features of the application that GM unveiled in January will be combined with a new "navigation" tab that will allow Volt owners to use Google Maps to find their vehicles and to integrate Google Maps with the OnStar system for turn by turn voice-guided directions.

It's only been a few days since Nissan has started taking reservations for the all-electric Leaf, but already more than 6,600 people have given their $99 deposit to reserve the vehicle.

The 2011 Leaf starts at $32,780 and after available tax credits the price drops as low as $25,280. You can also lease the Leaf for $349 a month.

Nissan hopes to have 20,000 orders by the time the Leaf goes on sale in select markets.

The Leaf is powered by an electric motor with a driving range of 100 miles.

The patent drawings that surfaced earlier this week showing an MPV version of the Chevy Volt were real. GM has unveiled the Chevy Volt MPV5 concept that is going to be unveiled at the Beijing Motor Show.

The Chevy Volt MPV5 concept borrows styling cues from the Chevy Volt, such as the headlights, grille and taillights. The overall styling also looks similar to the Chevy Orlando. The concept seats five

The Volt MPV5 concept uses the same Voltec system as the Chevy Volt.

"The Volt MPV5 concept demonstrates the flexibility of the Voltec propulsion system, which can produce enough electric power to propel a range of vehicles. from a compact sedan like the Volt to a crossover like the Volt MPV5 concept," said Doug Parks, Global Vehicle Line Executive and Global Vehicle Chief Engineer for Electric Vehicles at GM.

Honda has released more photos and info about the European-spec Honda CR-Z hybrid. The Euro version of the CR-Z is essentially the same version that we will see here in the US, except for the fact that the hybrid features two very small back seats, making it a 2+2 coupe (the US version will only be a two-seater).

Either way the CR-Z is powered by a 1.5L four-cylinder that is mated to an electric motor. Together the setup puts out 122-hp and 124 lb-ft. of torque. The CR-Z also features the first application of a six-speed manual in a hybrid.

Patent drawings of an MPV based on the Chevy Volt have surfaced before the MPV is officially unveiled at the 2010 Beijing Motor Show.

According to Autocar the MPV will use the same powertrain as the Volt.

Stay tuned for more details next week.

A Honda insider recently revealed to Motor Trend, that the automaker is hard at work on a next-gen hybrid sports coupe that will be bigger and more powerful than the yet to be released Honda CR-Z (pictured above).

According to the source the new Honda hybrid sports coupe will mate a 2.5L four-cylinder gas engine to Honda's IMA hybrid system. The coupe is expected to be around the same size as the Accord Coupe and will seat four.

In addition to the hybrid sports coupe, Honda is also at work on a V6 hybrid system for use in US-spec minivans and SUVs. The source also told Motor Trend that Honda is working on a plug-in hybrid system that is similar to the Chevy Volt. The plug-in system would be used in Honda's medium to large cars and SUVs.

Kia already graced us with teaser photos of the new 2011 Kia Optima, but it was officially unveiled at the New York Auto Show today.

The 2011 Kia Optima shares its platform with the also new Hyundai Sonata, but thankfully the two do not share any of the same bodywork. But what is nice, is that the Optima will share all three powertrain options with the new Sonata, which means that the hybrid and turbo powertrains that were unveiled in the Sonata yesterday, are also going to be offered in the Optima. This means that the Optima will be available with either a 200-hp 2.4L, 274-hp turbo 2.0L or a 2.4L hybrid.

"The all-new Optima is a new strand in Kia's growing design DNA with a blend of simple and fluid lines and elegant but uncomplicated shapes that draw the attention of the eye in much the same fashion as a perfectly-tailored fine Italian suit," said Peter Schreyer, chief design officer, Kia Motors Corporation. "From the distinctive sweeping chrome accent that stretches through the C pillars to the sleek greenhouse and flared wheel arches, every inch of the Optima projects a distinguished and refined style and extreme attention to detail."

Lexus is going to release its second dedicated hybrid the CT 200h in the US early next year. Lexus hopes to reach the young, progressive, energetic and tech-savvy buyer with the CT 200h and is going to launch a campaign film, Lexus Dark Ride that will launch on May 13th.

Check out the teaser after the jump.

As promised, Hyundai has unveiled the hybrid version of the 2011 Sonata at the New York Auto Show.

"The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is the new kid on the block, but it's not a follower," says John Krafcik, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. "Its full parallel hybrid configuration and breakthough lithium polymer batteries offer a new take on traditional hybrid design, while its unique design sets it apart from the mid-size hybrid pack."

The 2011 Sonata hybrid, features unique styling to set it apart from the non-hybrid models and to improve its fuel economy numbers. It features an all-new front fascia, more aerodynamic bumpers and rocker panels, and new alloy wheels. The taillights are also new with a more sci-fi feel than the regular Sonata. The changes helped lower the drag coefficient from .0.28 to 0.25.

Now for what's underneath the hood. First Hyundai is not using a CVT like its competitors and instead uses a six-speed automatic transmission. The electric motor generates 40.2 horsepower and 151 lb-ft. of torque, which is less than the Ford Fusion and Toyota Camry hybrids. Hyundai claims that the Sonata hybrid can travel up to 62 mph in EV mode. The electric motor is mated to a 169-hp 2.4L engine, which leads to a combined 209-hp, which is more than the Camry and Fusion hybrids. The Sonata hybrid is also the first hybrid in the US to use a lithium polymer battery pack.

Hyundai predicts that the Sonata hybrid will get 37 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway, which tops the Camry at 33/34, but is a little short of the Fusion's 41 mpg highway number.

Hyundai hasn't announced the pricing for the Sonata hybrid.

Lincoln is debuting the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, which is set to become the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in the US.

"Lincoln's hallmarks are design, technology and comfort. Now, Lincoln also delivers the best fuel efficiency of any luxury sedan in America," said Mark Fields, Ford's president of The Americas.

Like it's Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan Hybrid siblings, the Lincoln MKZ hybrid is powered by a 2.5L Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder mated to an electric powertrain. The setup puts out 191 horsepower and yields at least 41 mpg on the highway, which tops its nearest competitor the Lexus HS 250h. The MKZ can also travel up to 47 mph in electric mode compared to only 25 mph in the Lexus.

The 2011 MKZ Hybrid will go on sale later this year.

Nissan has announced the pricing for the Nissan Leaf EV that is going to officially go on sale at the end of the year. The Nissan Leaf is going to start at $32,780, but is eligible for a federal tax credit of $7,500, which will bring the price down to $25,280.

Nissan is going to start taking orders next month and if you want to lease the Leaf, it starts at $349 a month for 36 months.

Check out the press release for more info...

It's surprising that the Cruze is still not on the market in the US with all the press that GM has surrounding it. This week, GM is going to unveil the high-mileage Cruze Eco and the RS trim package.

The Cruze Eco is powered by the 1.4L Ecotec turbocharged engine that when it is mated to the six-speed manual transmission gets an estimated 40 mpg on the highway. To achieve greater fuel economy the Cruze Eco features a A lower front grille air shutter that closes at higher speeds to improve aerodynamics and opens at lower speeds to optimize engine-cooling airflow, the upper grille has more "closeouts" to improve aerodynamics, lower front air dam extension, lowered ride height and unique 17-inch wheels with ultra-low rolling resistance tires.

"The Cruze Eco delivers hybrid-like efficiency without the price tag," said Jim Campbell, U.S. vice president Chevrolet marketing. "Along with the Volt electric vehicle, it demonstrates how Chevrolet is working to bring new products to market that range from gas-friendly to gas-free."

The RS package adds a sportier touch to the LT and LTZ trim levels with unique fascias, rocker moldings, rear spoiler and fog lamps.

The 2011 Chevy Cruze will go on sale in the US this fall.

Lexus officially unveiled its second dedicated hybrid, the CT 200h at the Geneva Motor Show and at the time it wasn't confirmed if the US would be receiving the new hybrid. Well today Lexus has officially confirmed that the CT 200h is headed to the US.

The Lexus CT 200h will have its official unveiling at the New York Auto show and will hit US dealerships in early 2011.

"The CT 200h is expected to lead the class in fuel economy and deliver low emissions, but the CT 200h isn't just about being a hybrid, it's about having fun," said Mark Templin, Lexus division group vice president and general manager. "The stylish CT 200h has an attitude and driving dynamic unlike any other Lexus hybrid. It will excite eco-conscious, young consumers and symbolize urban, luxury living."

The CT 200h is powered by a 1.8L four-cylinder mated to the Lexus Hybrid Drive technology, which in this case includes two electric motors and a CVT. There are also four selectable drive-modes: Normal, Eco, Sport and EV. Normal. Official EPA numbers haven't been released yet.

Expect more details from the show.

Lexus has confirmed that the 2011 Lexus CT 200h, which was officially unveiled in Geneva this week, will have its US debut at the New York Auto Show. Originally it was thought that Lexus would not sell the CT 200h in the US, but now the 5-door hybrid hatchback will be Lexus' second dedicated hybrid alongside the HS 250h.

"When the all-new Lexus CT 200h enters the market it will be the only hybrid vehicle in the emerging premium compact segment," said Mark Templin, Lexus Division group vice president and general manager. "The CT 200h combines luxury features, eye-catching styling, and driving excitement that we know will attract a whole new buyer to the Lexus brand."

The Lexus CT 200h is powered by a 1.8L 4-cyl mated to an electric motor with nickel-metal hydride batteries. It features four selectable drive modes and in electric-only mode it can travel up to 1.2 miles at speeds up to 28 mph.

The Lexus CT 200h will debut on March 31 and go on sale in the US in early 2011.

Ferrari has unveiled the 599 HY-KERS vettura laboratorio (experimental vehicle) at the Geneva Motor Show, which is based on the 599 GTB Fiorano equipped with an advanced new hybrid transmission.

In the concept the electric motor puts out more than 100 horsepower and is mated to the rear of the dual-clutch 7-speed transmission. It operates through one of the transmission's two clutches and engages one of the two gearbox primary shafts. Thus power is coupled seamlessly and instantaneously between the electric motor and the V12. The electric motor is powered by lithium-ion batteries that are flat and positioned below the floorplan of the car. This has resulted in an even lower center of gravity. The electric motor and batteries have also gotten rid of the traditional starter motor and battery.

Audi unveiled the first e-tron electric concept supercar last fall in Frankfurt and now Audi has unveiled the A1 e-tron concept. The A1 e-tron is being labeled as a Mega City Vehicle with a powerful electric motor that provides zero-emission driving in the city. It's not a full electric vehicle since there is a Wankel engine on board that acts as the range extenders that recharges the battery. he driver can also turn the range extender on and off as necessary with the push of a button.

The electric motor, which powers the front wheels is rated at 61 horsepower, with peak power of 102-hp and 110 lb-ft of torque is continuously available and peak torque is 177 lb-ft. The electric motor is mated to a six-speed transmission. The concept accelerates from 0-62 mph in 10.2 seconds and has a top speed of more than 80 mph. The Audi A1 e-tron can drive up to 31 miles on the battery alone and the range extender engine provides an additional 124 miles of driving.

The first e-tron to come to market will be a sports car based on the R8 sometime in 2012 followed by a smaller model based off the upcoming R4, then finally the A1 e-tron will be available.

As expected, Audi has unveiled the A8 Hybrid "concept" at the Geneva Motor Show. Audi claims that the A8 has power like a big V6, but the fuel economy of a modest four-cylinder. It's powered by a 2.0L TFSI engine that is mated to an electric motor. The total output is 245 horsepower and 354 lb-ft. of torque. The hybrid can reach 0-62 mph in 7.6 seconds and has a top speed of 146 mph, yet it manages to get 38 mpg on the EU cycle.

The A8 Hybrid can operate on fully electric power up to 40 mph and above that speed the combustion engine supplies all the power, while the electric motor supplies onboard users and recharges the battery.

Audi has labeled the A8 Hybrid Concept as a "near-production" concept car.

On the eve of the Geneva Motor Show, Porsche has unveiled a new concept car, the 918 Spyder plug-in hybrid concept.

The 918 Spyder concept looks like a new Carrera GT and is powered by a 500-plus horsepower V8 and electric motors on the front and rear axle with a total output of 218 horsepower. Porsche claims that the concept can reach 0-62 mph in 3.5 seconds and has a top speed of 198 mph all while getting 78 miles per gallon.

The concept has four different drive modes, which are selectable by a button on the steering wheel. E-Drive mode runs the car under full electric mode, with a range of 16 miles. Hybrid mode uses both the electric motors and the gas engine as a function of driving conditions and requirements, offering a range from particularly fuel-efficient all the way to extra-powerful. Sport-Hybrid mode uses both the electric motors and gas engine with a focus on performance. In Race Hybrid mode the drive systems are focused on pure performance with the highest standard of driving dynamics on the track.

The 918 Spyder concept is the third hybrid model that Porsche is going to unveil at the show, alongside the Cayenne S Hybrid SUV with parallel full-hybrid drive, the 911 GT3 R Hybrid race car.

Tag Heuer, luxury Swiss watchmaker and Tesla have teams up to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the watchmaker. The 2010 Tag Heuer Tesla Roadster will premiere at the Geneva Motor Show this week.

The one of a kind collector's car is painted in Foucault Field Gray and features a TAG Heuer Meridiist mobile phone as well as a one-fifth second Heuer Limited Edition Stopwatch.

"TAG Heuer has a rich history and expertise with the world's most prestigious racing teams -- but this is the first ever partnership we've forged with an electric sports car company," said Jean-Christophe Babin, President and CEO of TAG Heuer. "We believe that high-performance drivers are increasingly searching for products that are efficient, socially responsible and stylish. TAG Heuer and Tesla are two of the few companies arleady achieving these ideals today."

Honda has boasted that the upcoming 2011 CR-Z hybrid will put an end to the belief that hybrids aren't sporty. While although that has yet to be proven by the media, Honda's performance division, Mugen has released what modifications will be available for the new hybrid.

A new bodykit, roof-mounted spoiler, custom grille with LED lights in addition to several carbon-fiber accessories and alloy-wheel designs will be available. Inside there is an available Mugen gear shifter, revised instrument clusters and Mugen floormats.

The 2011 Honda CR-Z will hit dealers in the second half of 2010.

BMW has unveiled the its next hybrid model, the Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid, which will be BMW's third hybrid after the ActiveHybrid X6 and ActiveHybrid 7 Series.

The 5 Series ActiveHybrid is powered by the straight-six gasoline engine with TwinPower Turbo technology, eight-speed automatic transmission, and electric drive. The electric motor develops a maximum output of 40kW and offers a boost function, supporting the gasoline engine in generating particularly dynamic drive power for an even more sporting driving experience in the car. The full hybrid system allows for all-electric driving in city traffic as well.

The BMW 5 Series ActiveHybrid will be unveiled alongside the new 5 Series Sedan at the Geneva Motor Show next week.

Lotus has announced the Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid concept which puts out over 400 horsepower via two electric motors and one small gas engine. Like the Chevy Volt, the Evora 414E Hybrid concept features a small engine that actually doesn't send power directly to the wheels. Instead the small 1.2L three cylinder engine recharged the lithium polymer battery pack that is responsible for powering the two electric motors. Each rear wheel has its own electric motor and puts out 204-hp and 295 lb-ft. of torque. The Evora 414E Hybrid also showcases a brand new technology from Lotus Engineering, a sports mode that simulates a 7 speed, paddle shift transmission that combines exceptional driver involvement for a hybrid sports car and optimized energy recuperation.

Dr Robert Hentschel, Director of Lotus Engineering said: "Innovation has always been at the heart of Lotus and is needed now more than ever. The Evora 414E Hybrid is the perfect demonstration of Lotus Engineering's core competencies: lightweight architectures, efficient performance, electrical and electronics integration and driving dynamics. The technology demonstrator represents an encapsulation of the advanced technologies that Lotus Engineering continues to develop to overcome the current environmental challenges facing the automotive industry and showcases the future direction that the sector is taking and why Lotus Engineering is perfectly placed to lead the technological development in this area."

Lotus has only released one teaser image of the concept. Expect more details next week...

Hyundai has released the first image of the new i-flow concept, Hyundai's first diesel-electric hybrid that is going to be unveiled next week at the Geneva Motor Show.

Hyundai claims that the i-flow previews a future D-segment contender from Hyundai. The hybrid system is made up of a 1.7L turbocharged diesel mated to an electric motor that is powered by Hyundai's Lithium Ion-Polymer battery. The whole system is mated to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Toyota is going to continue with its plans to create a Prius family with new Prius-based models in spring 2011 with the launch of a new wagon and minivan that will use the nickel hydride battery launched in the CT200h. The wagon and MPV will be followed up by a Prius coupe that will compete with the Honda CR-Z.

The models will all be powered by Toyota's 1.8L VVT-i hybrid system as it will soon be Toyota's core hybrid powertrain. There are also rumors that Toyota will launch a hybrid sports car, which will be a rear-wheel-drive plug-in based on the next-gen Lexus IS. It will be badged as a Toyota.

In Spring 2012 a hybrid RAV4 is also expected as Toyota plans to add hybrid variants to all of its models.

It looks like the guys over at World Car Fans has got their hands on the official brocure for the Lexus CT 200h that is supposed to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show.

The CT 200h retains much of the styling from the LF-Ch concept and measures 170 inches long, 69.5 inches wide and 56 inches tall. It is powered by a 1.8-liter VVT-i four-cylinder gasoline engine mated to an electric motor that is powered by nickel-metal hydride batteries. The engine and electric motor send the power to the front wheels via a E-CVT (electrically-controlled continuously variable transmission).

Expect more details from the show next week.

Honda's newest hybrid, the CR-Z has failed to impress, but it looks like Honda is working on a more powerful version, a CR-Z Type R. The 2011 CR-Z that Honda debuted at the Detroit Auto Show last month is powered by a 102-hp 1.5L mated to a 20-hp electric motor for a total 122 horsepower. If the rumors are correct Honda is going to bump the power of the 1.5L up to around 150-hp and the electric motor will get a bump as well up to 50-hp for a total output of 200-hp. This will improve the CR-Z's 0-60mph time by as much as three seconds. There were rumors that Honda would put the Civic Type-R's 2.0L under the hood of the CR-Z, but because the coupe was designed as a hybrid, it must keep the same layout.

According to sources the CR-Z Type R will go on sale in late 2011.

Porsche is set to debut the 911 GT3 R Hybrid at the Geneva Motor Show next month. But before you think this 911 hybrid is set up like the popular Prius, think again. Porsche has developed a flywheel system that is unlike the conventional battery-based electric systems that other hybrids use. The flywheel gathers kinetic energy during braking to supply power to two electric motors that are connected to the front wheels.

The flywheel can spin up to 40,000 rpm and is mounted where the passenger seat normally would be. The electric motors provide a burst of 161 horsepower to the front wheels, while the 480-hp 4.0-liter flat six-cylinder powers the rear wheels. The electric motors are engaged by pressing a button on the steering wheel. Porsche claims that the system provides better acceleration out of corners and during overtaking.

In addition to being unveiled next month in Geneva, the 911 GT3 R Hybrid will also be at the Nürburgring 24 Hours on May 15.

Ford has officially unveiled the 2011 Ford Transit Connect Electric, which features an all-electric powertrain that will be available for fleet customers.

The 2011 Ford Transit Connect Electric will use a Force Drive electric powertrain manufactured and integrated by specialty upfitter Azure Dynamics. It has a range up to 80 miles on a full charge and will be rechargeable using either 240-volt or standard 120-volt outlets.

"Transit Connect Electric exemplifies how we are leveraging our relationships as well as our hybrid and advanced powertrain programs to bring energy-efficient technologies from the laboratory to the street," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. "Not only is this an ideal vehicle for eco-conscious fleet operators, it is an important part of Ford's future."

In addition to the Transit Connect Electric, Ford is also planning on introducing the Focus Electric in 2011, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle in 2012 and a next-generation hybrid in 2012.

Toyota has officially announced the voluntary recall of 133,000 2010 Prius and 14,500 2010 Lexus HS 250h vehicles to update software in the vehicle's anti-lock brake system.

Some owners have complained of inconsistent brake feel during slow and steady application of brakes on rough or slick road surfaces when the ABS is activated in an effort to maintain tire traction. The recall will allow Toyota to update the software in the affected vehicles. Toyota claims that this recall does not affect the first and second generations of the Prius.

"We're committed to doing everything we can - as fast as we can - to restore consumer trust in Toyota, and these recalls are part of this effort," said Jim Lentz, President and Chief Operating Officer, Toyota Motor Sales. "We regret the inconvenience this recall will cause to Prius and HS 250h owners, and will do our best with the support of our dealers to make sure that it is conducted in the most trouble-free manner possible."

In addition to the Prius and HS 250h, Toyota has also announced a voluntary recall of some early 2010 Toyota Camry models to inspect inspect for a power steering hose that may be in contact with a front brake tube. This contact could lead to a hole in the brake tube and cause a brake fluid leak, increased brake pedal stroke and greater vehicle stopping distance.

Toyota can't seem to get a break right now. The Japanese government has ordered Toyota to investigate a possible brake defect in the new third-generation Prius after receiving 14 reports of brake trouble.

According to Kenji Sato, a transport ministry official in charge of recall policy, owners have complained about momentary loss of braking power at low speeds. 10 of the 14 complaints occurred in January. In the US, NHTSA has received 111 complaints about the brakes on the 2010 Prius. The drivers have been complaining about their vehicles unexpectedly surging forward or losing braking power after driving over a pothole or other uneven surface.

The Prius is equipped with regenerative brakes, which significantly improve gas mileage on hybrids by recharging the car's batteries with energy from the wheels. It's unclear if there is a problem yet with the regenerative braking system. The third-generation Prius received an overhauled regenerative brake system, which is different from the previous Prius.

Honda released the Insight hybrid last spring and hoped to sell 90,000 units in its first year in the US, but sadly only 20, 572 Insights were sold. Meanwhile the Toyota Prius, the Insight's main competitor outsold the Insight seven-to-one. Now Honda's Vice President, Koichi Kondo recently stated in an interview the reasons the Insight has been a disappointment, "I think we compromised too much on size in pursuing fuel efficiency" for the U.S. market, he said.

According to Kondo the Insight is too small and there isn't enough room in the back seat for US customers. Lower gas prices also hurt hybrid sales last year, which is also hurting the development of the upcoming Fit Hybrid.

"There are plenty of people who think that the current Fit meets their needs already" with its fuel efficiency, he said. "A hybrid version might seem expensive. Our engineers are really struggling."

The Fit hybrid is supposed to go on sale by the end of the year.

Kia has released a teaser image of the Ray plug-in hybrid concept that will be unveiled next month at the Chicago Auto Show.

"Styled by the team at Kia Design Centre America, the Kia Ray project was undertaken to demonstrate how Kia's evolving design direction would be applied in the packaging of a plug-in hybrid vehicle," Kia said in a statement. 'The actual car will form the centre-piece of the Kia Motors America display at Chicago and the vehicle will contribute to Kia's on-going development of alternative-fuel vehicles."

It's quite obvious after its unveiling at the Detroit Auto Show this month, the media is largely disappointed with the Honda CR-Z. Ever since the concept was unveiled many of us saw it as a spiritual successor the much loved CR-X. It brought back so many fond memories of my old 88' yellow CR-X Si. Well the fact that even with a hybrid powertrain it only manages to put out 122 horsepower and 128 lb-ft. of torque left many of us wanting more. The fact that it only manages to get a combined rating of 37 mpg made it even worse. Well now there is a video with one of the engineers that worked on the CR-Z explaining what the inspiration was behind the car.

Some quotes:
-"The basic concept of this car is fun-to-drive."
-"During the development of the CR-Z we have driven many cars and have also bought several cars for comparison and benchmarking - the Mini, the Scirocco, but also a Lotus
Elise."
-"set the body stiffness at a similar level to that of a Civic Type R."

The media has yet to get behind the wheel of the CR-Z, so it's not yet known if it will actually be "fun-to-drive." The only thing going for it now is the available six-speed manual transmission.

There has been so much hype for years now about GM's upcoming Chevy Volt and it's surprising that the plug-in hybrid is finally going to be on sale by the end of the year. The big question now remains, how much will it cost? Well GM's CEO, Ed Whitacre recently spoke to Lyle Dennis at GM-Volt.com, in which he stated that the Volt will be in the low $30s and be profitable.

When asked about the Volt's pricing, Whitacre simply stated,"We're not in business to lose money," he said. "We did enough of that already."

The Volt "is going to sell in the low 30s," said Whitacre. "We'll get a margin on that."

Well that announcement still doesn't completely answer the question, since it's not known if that is before or after the $7,500 federal tax credit. Early on during the Volt's development, GM's Bob Lutz set a goal of the Volt starting under $30,000, but eventually that target price moved higher. Recent media speculation priced the car as high as $40,000. We'll have to wait for the official word from GM.

At the Detroit Auto Show, Honda's CEO Takanobu Ito announced that the automaker is working on hybrid models for the Acura brand.

Ito gave no other details about what models will get the hybrid powertrain, but its probably safe to assume that the TSX and TL will. It's also not known if the hybrid powertrain that the Acura models will receive will be similar to the system currently used in the Civic, Insight and CR-Z hybrids. Honda announced last year that the automaker is working on a new hybrid system for larger vehicles, but it's not known if it will be another mild hybrid setup.

BMW and Mercedes-Benz have both unveiled hybrid versions of their flagship sedans and Audi is next. Audi is set to unveil the A8 Hybrid at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Audi announced its plans at the Detroit Auto Show yesterday. Audi also included that it sees hybrids as the next step to fully electric vehicles and that it has no plans for a mild hybrid. The A8 Hybrid will be a full hybrid. Audi is also going to release a Q5 hybrid this fall. The A8 hybrid is expected to appear shortly after the Q5's launch.

So it's be widely known for a while that GM has been planning on replacing the Cadillac STS and DTS sedans with one flagship model for the brand. Well GM has just unveiled the Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept, which is supposed to be a preview of what we can expect from Cadillac's upcoming flagship sedan, the 2012 Cadillac XTS.

The Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept showcases the progression of the Cadillac Art and Science philosophy with exterior styling that is similar to the CTS and SRX models.

"The XTS Platinum concept is the next expression of Cadillac's Art and Science execution philosophy, reflecting our drive to deliver the latest innovations in the most artful manner," said Bryan Nesbitt, Cadillac general manager. "We envisioned this concept as an automotive personal headquarters, using advanced technology to enable new levels of connectivity and luxury."

The concept uses Cadillac's 3.6L V-6 Direct Injection gas engine, paired with a plug-in hybrid system. The combined output of the V6 and electric motor yields 350-horsepower and 295-pound-feet of torque. The concept can be recharged at any standard external electrical outlet and takes about five hours to recharge. The system in the XTS Platinum Concept is not the same design as the one in the Chevy Volt, since the Volt's engine's main job is to recharge the battery.

Honda has officially unveiled the 2011 Honda CR-Z at the Detroit Auto Show. We've seen several leaked photos and brochures of the production version of the CR-Z, so today's unveiling wasn't much of a surprise. As expected the CR-Z finally brings some much needed "sport" to the hybrid segment, but to some the final result may be a little disappointing.

The Honda CR-Z is launching with a 1.5L 4-cyl mated to an electric motor, which together only put out 122 horsepower on tap and just 128 lb-ft of torque. Those numbers don't really make the hybrid seem all that sporty. At least the availability of a six-speed manual may make it a little more enjoyable to drive than the optional CVT. When equipped with the CVT the CR-Z gets 36 city/38 highway miles per gallon. With the manual it only gets 31/37.

Although on paper it doesn't seem like the CR-Z will be that sporty, but lets hope it drives well.

The 2011 CR-Z will be available this summer.

Toyota's big unveiling for the Detroit Auto Show this year is the FT-CH dedicated hybrid concept.

The CH in FT-CH stands for compact hybrid and is meant to show that Toyota is working on new hybrid models offering a wider variety for customers. Compared to the Prius, the FT-CH is 22 inches shorter. The FT-CH is also lighter and more fuel efficient than the Prius.The concept also specifically targets a lower price point than Prius.

This concept is only the first of others that are being considered in the future as Toyota continues to develop a Prius family "marketing strategy" for North America.

VW is set to debut the New Compact Coupe Concept at the Detroit Auto Show. The concept that looks pretty close to production ready is about the same size as the current Jetta although it has a longer wheelbase and the overall height is a little shorter.

The concept is powered by a 1.4-liter TSI inline-four with 148 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque that is also mated to a 20-kilowatt electric motor that sits between the engine and the 7-speed DSG transmission. The electric motor has the capability of propeling the vehicle on its own and is powered by a lithium-ion battery. VW estimates that the concept is capable of getting 45 miles to the gallon.

The fact that this concept looks very production ready may mean that this could be a hint at a new coupe for VW. There have been rumors that VW is going to release a new Jetta coupe. This concept could also be a hint of what we can expect from the next Jetta...

Today GM's Bob Lutz officially announced at the conference of the Society of Automotive Analysts that GM is going to build the Cadillac Converj extended-range electric vehicle. Teh Cadillac Converj will officially be the second plug-in extended-range electric vehicle that GM is going to introduce.

The Converj Concept was unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show last year and was based on the same powertrain that is going to power the upcoming Chevy Volt. According to Lutz, GM has just started developement on the Converj and it is at least a few years away.

The Cadillac Converj is cleared for production," Lutz said. He wouldn't commit to a production date. "You'll see it when you see it. It won't be next year or the year after that."

Toyota's popular Prius became the top-selling vehicle in Japan last year. It was the first time a hybrid model has held the top spot. Toyota sold 208,876 units in Japan last year, which is almost three times more than were sold in 2008. Hybrid sales account for 10 percent of the market in Japan. According to Green Car Congress hybrids only account for 2.8 percent of new vehicle sales in the US.

The Honda Fit and Toyota Yaris came in second and third. Honda's Insight hybrid only moved 93,283 units bringing it in at fifth place.

GM and OnStar have announced the introduction of a new smartphone application that will allow Chevy Volt owners 24/7 connection and control of vehicle functions and OnStar features remotely.

The mobile application allows drivers to communicate with their Volt via there Droid by Motorola, Apple iPhone and Blackberry Storm smartphones. Some features of the application are that it displays charge status, provides flexibility to "Charge Now" or schedule charge timing, displays percentage of battery charge level, sends text or email notifications for charge reminders, displays miles per gallon, electric only miles, and odometer readings and you can remotely start the vehicle to pre-condition the interior temperature.

"The Chevrolet Volt ushers in a new era of automotive technology and calls for a new level of connectivity and control," said Walt Dorfstatter, president, OnStar. "Nearly 6 million vehicles on the road today use OnStar to stay connected, and our new smartphone app will make that even easier for Volt drivers."

The OnStar Mobile Application will be available for Volt owners when the vehicle is released later this year.

Now that BMW has officially launched the ActiveHybrid 7 and the ActiveHybrid X6, the next model to receive a hybrid powertrain is the new 5 Series. According to BMWBlog, BMW is going to unveil a concept version of the ActiveHybrid 5 at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show.

The ActiveHybrid 5 will not use the same V8 powered system as the ActiveHybrid X6, instead it's expected to be powered by a 218 horsepower six-cylinder engine mated to a 40 horsepower electric motor.

A production version is due by the end of next year.

Back in September Volvo unveiled a C30 prototype with an electric powertrain. Next month at the Detroit Auto Show Volvo is going to unveil complete electric powered C30. It features both a complete interior and full instrumentation, as well as enhanced battery packaging.

"The first prototype helped us identify the main technological challenges, such as battery packaging and safety issues. We have addressed these challenges without compromising the C30's cool and fun-to-drive personality. I am very happy with the result. The electric C30 in Detroit is a much more complete product," says Lennart Stegland, Director of Volvo Cars Special Vehicles.

The next step in the process is to build 50 of the electric C30s in 2010 that will be driven over the next two years.

Toyota has just announced that the automaker is going to unveil a new dedicated hybrid concept at the Detroit Auto Show next month.

Toyota didn't release any details about the concept, but since its being labeled as a "dedicated hybrid concept" it will not be a hybrid version of anything currently in Toyota's lineup. It could however be a concept version of the upcoming Prius coupe or a wagon that has been rumored.

At the LA Auto Show earlier this month Toyota officially unveiled a plug-in hybrid version of its popular Prius. Toyota's Executive Vice President Takeshi Uchiyamad recently stated that Toyota is going to start selling plug-in hybrids to consumers in 2011.

Before they are released to the buying public, Toyota is going to deliver 600 Prius plug-in hybrids to government agencies, corporations, universities and research agencies. The Prius plug-in is Toyota's first application of a lithium-ion battery. Thanks to the stronger battery, the car can travel up to 13 miles on electricity alone and reach speeds up to 60 mph using only the electric motor.

According to the guys over at Inside Line, Mazda has some big changes in store for the next generation MX-5.

The 2011 MX-5 roadster is expected to be smaller than the current model and only weigh around 2,200 pounds. Mazda introduced its new SKY-G engine at the Tokyo Motor Show anda version of that engine is expected to be under the hood of the next MX-5. The engine unveiled in Tokyo was a small 1.3L engine is expected to get over 50 mpg without the use of hybrid or diesel technology. It's not known if the MX-5 will get a 1.3L or 1.5L version of the SKY-G engine.

The guys over at Temple of VTEC have received some photos of a JDM-spec 2011 Honda CR-Z brochure. The photos give us our first look of the Honda CR-Z hybrid, which is expected to go on sale in the US in the second quarter of 2010.

The 2011 Honda CR-Z in JDM-spec will be powered by a 1.5L with 112 horsepower that is mated to a 14 hp electric motor for a total of 128 horsepower. The engine also puts out 107 lb-ft of torque with the electric motor contributing another 57 lb-ft. The engine is mated to either a six-speed manual or CVT transmission. The small hybrid is expected to reach 0-62 mph in 9.7 seconds.

The exterior dimensions have not changed much from the concept version at 160.6 inches long, 68.5 inches wide, 54.9 inches tall.

Toyota has taken the wraps off the 2010 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid, which is debuting at the LA Auto Show. The Prius Plug-in Hybrid is based on the third-generation Prius and features the introduction of a first generation lithium-ion battery. When the battery is fully charged the vehicle is capable of going up to 13 miles on battery power alone and reaching up to 60 mph in electric-only mode. On longer trips the Prius PHV reverts to "hybrid mode" and operates like a regular Prius.

Beginning this month 350 Prius Plug-in hybrids will begin delivery in Japan and Europe in support of model programs with business and government partners aimed at raising societal awareness of, and preparedness for, this important new technology. Early next year 150 vehicles will arrive in the U.S. where they will be given to select partners for analysis and demonstrations.

"This program is a necessary first step in societal preparation, in that it allows us the unique opportunity to inform, educate and prepare customers for the introduction of plug-in hybrid technology," said Irv Miller, TMS group vice president, environmental and public affairs. "When these vehicles come to market, customers must understand what to expect and if this technology is the right fit for them."

GM has just confirmed this morning that the launch of the upcoming Chevy Volt will commence in California, late next year.

"It is natural that California is the lead market for Volt. Not only is it the largest automotive market, Californians are known to be leaders in adopting groundbreaking new technologies," said Brent Dewar, GM vice president, Global Chevrolet Brand.

GM is also partnering with three California utilities (Pacific Gas and Electric, Southern California Edison and Sacramento Municipal Utility District) and the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) as part of the roll out. The partnership will provide an extended, real-world demonstration and research program to introduce customers to electric vehicles. GM is going to supply 100 Volts to program participants to use in their fleets for two years.

Lexus unveiled the LF-CH Concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show and it previewed what a possible smaller Lexus could be like.

Mark Templin, the general manger of Lexus recently spoke with TheDetroitBureau about the possibility of a new smaller Lexus and if it would be sold in the US.

"There is a group of buyers growing up now who won't buy cars by the pound," said Templin. "We have already seen a structural shift" to the compact and more affordable models in the luxury market over the past couple of years.

So, said Templin, "Going forward, there may be a need for even smaller luxury cars," but they won't necessarily be targeting the budget-constrained "entry-luxury" buyer that today goes for such Lexus models as the ES and IS lines.

The LF-CH Concept will be at the LA Auto Show next month and at the Detroit show in January so that Lexus can gauge consumer reaction.

According to Templin if the response is possitive, the LF-CH could appear in Lexus showrooms by 2012 or possibly earlier.

BMW has announced the pricing for the 2010 ActiveHybrid X6 that will be available starting on December 5th at a starting price of $89,725.

The ActiveHybrid X6 features BMW's dual-mode hybrid technology mated to a twin-turbo V8 and a seven-speed automatic transmission.

The $90k gets a list of things that aren't standard on the X6 xDrive50i including Nappa leather seats, 20-inch wheels, rear view camera, soft close doors, power tailgate, 4-zone climate control, etc. If you want even more, there are extras like the active ventilating seat package, cold weather package, Rear seat entertainment system, etc. All of which would push the price even closer to $100k.

For this price you could also get the 555-hp X6 M, but I guess it's not quite as "green."

Hyundai has officially unveiled its new direct-injected four-cylinder, which Hyundai claims delivers more power and a 10 percent improvement in fuel economy.

The 2.4L Theta II GDI four-cylinder took four years to develop and will debut in the 2011 Sonata. The engine officially puts out 198 horsepower and 184 lb-ft. of torque. The Theta II engine delivers 7-12 percent more torque across its rev range compared to a conventional engine. The engine is expected to see a 10 percent improvement in fuel economy, although final numbers have not been released. In addition to the direct-injection technology, the engine also gets variable valve timing on both camshafts.

When the 2011 Sonata debuts next year a V6 will not be offered.

The Detroit News is reporting that GM has finally decided to build the Cadillac Converj, which shares the same extended-range technology as the Chevy Volt.

GM originally unveiled the Cadillac Converj concept at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show. A production date has not been set, but it will likely be a few years before it hits the showroom. When it was unveiled Bob Lutz claimed that a production version would remain very close to the concept, just how GM did with the Camaro.

The Converj seems to make sense, since it would increase the number of electric vehicles offered by GM and it would help spread the cost of the technology that is shared with the Volt. GM would also be able to apply a higher sticker price to the Cadillac version, which would also help with costs.

The Volt is still on target for production at the end of 2010, we'll have to keep our fingers crossed that the Converj is going to actually be produced.

Chrysler is still planning on introducing a hybrid-powered Dodge Ram in 2010, but a diesel-powered model is up in the air. Chrysler announced last year that both models would be introduced in 2010, but those plans may have changed.

Scott Kunselman, Chrysler senior vice president of engineering confirmed that the hybrid is still on, but wouldn't comment on the future of the diesel. Only saying that he doesn't think there is enough of a market among recreational buyers for the diesel. We can expect more details when Chrysler will outline its five-year business and product plan on November 4th.

The hybrid powertrain for the Ram is the result of a partnership between General Motors Co., BMW AG and Daimler AG.

Although Honda now has the Insight and Civic hybrids and the upcoming CR-Z, Honda is missing a larger hybrid to compete with the Fusion and Camry hybrids. Honda did have an Accord hybrid with the last generation, but the fact that it was mated to a six-cylinder, many of us didn't notice it. Well it looks like Honda is finally working on a new hybrid system that will be offered in Honda's larger models like the Accord.

According to the Automotive News, Honda is working on a new hybrid system for its larger vehicles that will be different than the current system offered in the Civic and Insight. The new system will use two electric motors compared to the single electric motor that Honda is currently using.

"That is one major initiative we are working on," COO of automobile operations at Honda Tsuneo Tanai, told Automotive News. "The motor will have higher output. There will be dual motors, with a larger battery that enables the car to be driven in all-electric mode."

Tanai did not reveal when we can expect to see the new system and which vehicles it will be offered in. According to Japan's Nikkei business daily Honda is planning a hybrid minivan in 2011.

Subaru has released more photos of the Hybrid Tourer Concept that is set to debut in Tokyo.

The gullwing Hybrid Tourer Concept is a four-passenger concept that is Subaru's first attempt at a hybrid vehicle. The concept is powered by two electric motors that get their juice from a lithium-ion battery pack and a 2.0L boxer engine with direct-injection.

In addition to the unveiling of the Leaf EV at the Tokyo Motor Show, Nissan is also going to show off another electric vehicle, the Land Glider Concept. Nissan boasts that its extremely narrow dimensions will help it maneuver through traffic in urban areas and make it easier to park.

The Land Glider concept holds two passengers in a cockpit that looks like it came directly out of a video game. What is interesting is that the concept has the ability to lean like a motorcycle through turns.

Check out the pics and video after the jump.

Green Car Journal has announced the five finalists for its Green Car of the Year award.

And the finalists are:

-Audi A3 TDI
-Honda Insight
-Mercury Milan Hybrid
-Toyota Prius
-Volkswagen Golf TDI

The winner of the 2010 Green Car of the Year award will be announced at the 2009 LA Auto Show on December 3.

Which car do you think should win?

If you were hoping that Honda was eventually going to release a non-hybrid version of its upcoming CR-Z hybrid, it looks like your hopes are lost. Although a CR-Z with the 2.0L from the Civic Si would have been awesome, according to a source it's not going to happen.

"This will definitely only be a hybrid," a source said. "The whole direction of Honda is hybrids and this car is designed all around a hybrid powertrain. The car isn't boring; it is responsive and fun."

Although the CR-Z has been dubbed the spiritual successor to the much-loved CR-X from the 80's, it's not going to be offered with a high revving conventional engine.

Infiniti virtually unveiled the 2011 Infiniti M at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in August and today the automaker revealed plans for the introduction of the 2012 M35 Hybrid and its JDM equivalent the Nissan Fuga.

Infiniti's first hybrid, the M35 hybrid will not rely on Toyota's technology like the Nissan Altima hybrid, but rather a new internally developed hybrid system. The M35 hybrid will be Infiniti's cleanest and most fuel efficient model. It will primarily be powered by a 3.5L V6 that sends the power to the rear wheels. Infiniti claims that the hybrid components will only add to the driving experience and not take away from it, like most other hybrids. The electric motor is powered by a laminated lithium-ion battery that holds twice the power of nickel-metal hydride batteries and cools twice as fast because it's lamination.

The Infiniti M is expected to go on sale early next year as a 2011 model, with the hybrid following a year later as a 2012 model.

Last year when gas prices topped $4.50 a gallon in many parts of the country, car buyers ditched their large SUVs and trucks for smaller cars like the Honda Fit, but now many of those buyers are beginning to regret their purchase.

Gas prices are not quite as high as they were last year, which is part of the explanation for why truck sales have rebounded from last year. Car buyers have all but forgotten how painful it was to see near $5 prices and have moved back into larger vehicles. According to the latest figures subcompact car sales are off 15 percent year to date and compact cars are off 28.5 percent. Popular small cars like the Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit sales are down 41 percent and 8.2 percent respectively.

It get's worse for the small car market, according to a new study by AutoPacific, small car buyers are not happy with their small cars.

Audi of America President Johan de Nysschen has confirmed that an electric vehicle based on the e-Tron concept that debuted in Frankfurt will be on the market in two to three years.

"I expect we will see running examples in the next 24 months," he says.

The e-Tron concept is powered by four individual electric motors, one on each axle. Audi says that the concept is capable of traveling 154 miles thanks to its lithium-ion battery. The e-Tron concept features styling that is similar to the R8, but is shorter with different front and rear fascias.

Nissan has released the official specs, photos and pricing for the refreshed 2010 Nissan Altima Coupe and Sedan.

On the outside the Altima gets a restyled hood, grille and front bumper and new wheels. Inside there are new fabrics and trim and revised option packages. A new nine speaker Bose audio system and the next-generation Nissan Hard Drive Navigation System with 6.5-inch VGA color touch-screen display are optional.

The powerplants remain unchanged with the 175-hp 2.5L 4-cyl, 275-hp 3.5L V6 and the 198-hp hybrid available only on the sedan.

Pricing starts at $19,900 for the base 2.5S sedan and goes all the way up to $29,600 for the 3.5 SR (no longer named SE) coupe.

Just like almost every other preview so far of the Tokyo Motor Show next month, most of the concepts being unveiled have some sort of electric motor under the hood. Mitsubishi is following suit with the unveiling of the Concept PX-MiEV, which features Mitsubishi's Plug-in Hybrid System in a CUV body.

The Concept PX-MiEV features two electric motors that power the front and rear wheels coupled to a 1.6L DOHC MIVEC gasoline engine that powers the front wheels and also acts like a generator. The new plug-in system allows users to plug into either a 100 or 200-volt outlet. The concept is capable of traveling in EV mode up to 30 miles, which can transfer power between the front and rear wheels when necessary. The Concept PX-MiEV also features the same S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) system as the Evolution X.

Mitsubishi's cocochi-interior "embraces occupants in a pleasantly comfortable cabin environment developed to a Clean, Stress-free and Safe & Reassuring theme." Some interesting highlights of the interior of the Concept OX-MiEV are seats that deactivate allergens and odors as well as bacteria, windows that keep out UV-A radiation so that you don't get a nasty farmer's tan or premature wrinkles from the sun and a negative-ion aroma humidifier.

Next spring, Nissan is going to start taking orders for the Leaf EV, with deliveries starting that fall. Nissan is expecting to receive 20,000 orders, which is well over the 5,000 Leafs Nissan has planned to lease in 2010.

For the first two years of production all Leafs will be imported to the US from Japan. By 2012 Nissan expects to have completed a $2 billion investment in its Smyrna, TN production facility to produce 150,000 electric vehicles and 200,000 lithium-ion batteries per year.

The Leaf is going to launch in Tennessee and Oregon as well as San Diego, CA; Seattle, WA; and the Phoenix/Tucson are of Arizona. These areas have committed to installing 2,500 electric vehicle charging stations.

The third concept to take the Honda's stage at the Tokyo Motor Show next month alongside the CR-Z and Skydeck will be the EV-N Concept. At first glance the small electric EV-N immediately recalls Honda's N360 minicar from the 1960s.

The EV-N features lithium-ion batteries and seating for four. There is a communications system embedded in the front fascia, something that Honda calls HELLO, s solar roof and swappable seat fabrics. The front passenger door also has one Honda's U3-X personal mobility devices tucked in it for when you aren't riding in the car.

Check out the photos...

Subaru will be showing off the Subaru Hybrid Tourer Concept at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show next month.

The gullwing Hybrid Tourer Concept is a four-passenger concept that Subaru describes as "a new proposal for the future of [the] grand touring car."

The Hybrid Tourer Concept is powered by a horizontally opposed 2.0L direct injection turbocharged four cylinder mated to a hybrid motor system with lithium-ion batteries. The hybrid system is a two-motor system with a motor in the front and rear of the car. During normal driving the front motor is primarily used, but at start up and extremely low speeds the rear motor is mainly used.

Subaru of course didn't give any details if this concept will ever see production.

The 2009 Tokyo Motor Show is right around the corner and even though a number of automakers have already pulled out of the show, we can expect to see a number of reveals. Honda is set to unveil a near production ready Honda CR-Z in addition to the Skydeck concept shown here.

The Honda Skydeck Concept is a six seater minivan hybrid. Honda is most likely looking for other areas to apply its hybrid technology and this minivan concept could be a possibility. Of course those scissor doors wouldn't make it to production. Honda hasn't released any technical specs, but we do know that the hybrid system has been moved to the center console.

Stay tuned for more info from the show.

Honda unveiled the CR-Z hybrid concept at the 2007 Tokyo Auto Show and now two years later the concept that is hitting the stage at again at the 2009 Tokyo Auto Show. As typical with most Honda concepts, the concept version ends up being very close to the final product. According to Honda officials, the concept that we will see next month is 95 percent of the real thing. The production version of the Honda CR-Z will be officially unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show in January.

The spiritual successor to the much loved CR-X, the 2011 CR-Z is a 2+2 coupe powered by a 1.5L i-VTEC inline-4 combined with Honda's IMA hybrid powertrain and mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. Who knows if Honda may eventually broaden the appeal of the CR-Z with the addition of non-hybrid powertrains.

The interior of the concept is near production ready and features a layout that looks somewhat similar to the Insight. The Ni-Mh battery pack is believed to be under the floor like in the Insight, in which the CR-Z is based on.

The 2011 CR-Z is expected to go on sale in Japan in February 2010 and in the U.S. a few months after that.

Stay tuned for more info from the show...for now check out the photos.

While we wait patiently for the introduction of the Tesla Model S, Tesla has announced that the platform of the seven passenger sedan will be used for derivatives including a minivan, cross-over utility vehicle and a utility van for fleets.

The announcement was part of a release from Tesla about the automaker's plans for $465 million in low-interest loans from the Department of Energy that Tesla received.

Tesla plans on using the loans for the US-based production, engineering, and assembly of the Model S and for a powertrain manufacturing facility in Northern California that will build advanced EV powertrain components for other automakers. The Model S will be produced in Southern California.

Mazda has released official images of its next-generation SKY powertrains and the Kiyora concept that will be unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show next month.

The SKY-D' diesel engine, SKY-G' direct injection gasoline engine and SKY Drive' high-efficiency automatic transmission define "Mazda's approach to developing next-generation powertrains that will significantly improve the eco-friendliness and dynamic performance of all Mazda vehicles."

In addition to the new more efficient engines and transmissions debuting at the show, the Kiyora concept is Mazda's newest take an an eco-friendly, but fun to drive car. It's powered by the next-generation Mazda SKY-G 1.3 engine mated to the new six-speed Mazda SKY-Drive automatic transmission. The Kiyora concept achieves fuel economy numbers of 32 kilometers per liter and its compact body weighs 100 kilograms less than Mazda's current mass production model in the same segment.

GM may consider putting a hybrid powertrain in the Chevy Corvette if the car's existence is in jeopardy. The new CAFE standards, which dictate that an automaker's entire fleet has to average 35.5 mpg by 2016, could force GM to be more creative with the Corvette in order to squeeze out extra gas mileage.

Lexus has released info on the refreshed 2010 LS 600h. On the outside the LS 600h gets a new four-bar grille and new air intakes and fog lamps. The headlights have a new running light design as well and are finished in Lexus hybrid blue.

The hybrid powertrain carries over largely unchanged although there are a few updates such as a new ECO mode, which modifies the throttle action and performance of the air conditioning system to support fuel-efficient driving. The hybrid's nickel battery has also been repackaged to allow for more luggage room in the trunk. The Lexus Hybrid Drive system has been revised to meet Euro V exhaust emissions standards. The front brake pads have also been upgraded with enlarged rotors and six-piston Brembo calipers.

Tonight on Jay Leno's new prime time show, the first celebrity, Drew Barrymore will race an all electric Ford Focus in Leno's new segment called "Green Car Challenge." Ford has released photos and specs of the electric Focus that will be featured in the show.

Ford engineers in Dearborn started with a five-door Euro-spec Focus ST and removed the engine and fuel tank. In its place the engineers installed an electric powertrain, which uses a permanent magnetic electric motor that puts out 141 horsepower and 236 lb-ft. of torque. The electric motor gets its power from lithium-ion batteries that are positioned in such a way to give the car near 50-50 weight distribution.

The Focus BEV that is featured on the show gives us a glimpse of the actual production electric Focus that will be available in 2011.

Ford isn't slated to introduce an electric powered Ford Focus until sometime in 2011, but in order to raise interest and public awareness, Ford is going to feature a prototype of the car on Jay Leno's new show.

On September 18th viewers will see Drew Barrymore race an all-electric Ford Focus on Jay Leno's new prime-time show on NBC. Over the next year celebrities will have the chance to race the Focus for the best lap time on the show. It's something similar to what Top Gear does.

Although car buyers can't go buy an electric powered Focus right now, Ford is hoping that this will show the public that electric cars can be exciting.

Nancy Gioia, director of hybrid vehicle programs for Ford stated, "It opens up the dialogue to the next step. Because if (electric cars are) only seen as quirky or off the beaten path, it's really hard to get people" excited.

The electric Ford Focus can travel up to 100 miles on a single charge.

Currently BMW does not offer a four-cylinder powered car in the US, while it does in the rest of the world. Well that will soon change with the 3-Series once again being offered with a four banger in the US by 2012.

BMW's U.S. chief Jim O'Donnell revealed in Frankfurt this week that BMW is planning on releasing new 4-cylinder engines in the US that will feature twin-turbocharging technology. BMW's goal is to release the four-cylinder powered 3-Series by spring of 2012.

Ford has announced the introduction of the new EcoBoost 4-cylinder engines, which will join the existing 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engine. The new turbocharged 4-cyl engines will be available as a 1.6L and 2.0L.

Ford has yet to announce official performance numbers, but the 1.6L is expected to put out around 180 horsepower and 175-180 lb-ft. of torque. The first application of the 1.6L will be in the Ford C-Max in late 2010. The 2.0L will be launched in larger European models and in North America in 2010.

Audi is set to unveil the e-Tron electric concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Audi has yet to officially release any photos or details about the concept, but these photos have surfaced today.

The e-Tron has the same profile as the R8, but with revised front and rear styling and wheels. Inside the E-Tron concept has a completely different interior compared to the R8 with a driver-focused console. It's not yet known what will power the e-Tron concept, but expect more details soon...

VW has unveiled the three-door version of its popular Polo. For fuel conscious buyers VW is offering a new BlueMotion model, which only burns 3.3L of diesel fuel per 100 kilometers (71 mpg U.S.) The BlueMotion Polo will be available in either the three or five-door variants.

The three-door features an almost invisible B-pillar and more slender C-pillar than the five-door to give it a sportier appearance. The exterior, interior and cargo dimensions are identical to the five-door.

In total VW is offering the Polo with six engines, three gas and three diesel. An automatic 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) is also being offered for the first time.

In response to the upcoming Honda CRZ hybrid, Toyota has decided to develop a coupe version of its popular Prius. According to the latest rumors the Prius coupe is being designed in Italy, by an Italian coachbuilder. The final design is expected to be very close to the current Prius.

The production version of the Honda CRZ is expected to be unveiled this fall, with sales starting early next year. Rumors are suggesting that the Prius coupe will be unveiled sometime next year.

GM showed off the Cadillac Converj concept at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this year, which showcased GM's plug-in technology in a luxury vehicle. Although it was designed in such a way to give way to a production version, there was opposition from the US government and within GM. The U.S. Treasury Department was opposed to the Converj due to its high costs when GM was in bankruptcy. Additionally then GM North America President Troy Clarke and Mark McNabb, who headed Cadillac, Hummer, and Saab were also against it, but both of those guys are no longer with GM.

Now that GM has emerged from bankruptcy there has been a renewed interest in the Converj, mainly thanks to Bob Lutz. The new marketing chief is reportedly trying to find a way to get the car into production. It could potentially act as a technology halo vehicle for Cadillac. If it does receive the green light it wouldn't see the light of day until around 2014.

Toyota recently launched the new Prius, which has been such a success that the automaker has run into a shortage of batteries. Now it looks like Toyota's next new hybrid the Lexus HS 250h is also running into issues due to high demand. The Lexus HS 250h is in very high demand in Japan, which may affect the supply in the US when it is launched according to Automotive News.

Toyota had originally set a goal of selling 500 units a month of the HS 250h in Japan, but due to government-backed tax breaks and sales incentives 10,000 units were ordered in the first month. Customers in Japan are now seeing a 6 month wait for the HS 250h.

The Lexus HS 250h is scheduled to hit US dealerships next month (hopefully) with a starting price of $35,075.

Honda is reportedly working on a new electric vehicle to battle the Nissan LEAF and future Toyota EV. Although Honda has mainly focused on hydrogen powered models like the FCX Clarity, future tighter emissions standards and more demand for zero emissions vehicles may be forcing Honda to produce an EV.

Japan's Nikkei business daily claims that Honda's new EV is set for a debut in 2015, but a prototype is expected to be unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show this October. The EV is expected to be about the size of a minicar.

Haha... GM announced this morning that the Volt is going to get 230 mpg and now Nissan posts that its upcoming Leaf EV is going to get 367 mpg.

"Nissan Leaf = 367 mpg, no tailpipe, and no gas required. Oh yeah, and it'll be affordable too!"

Nissan claims its 367 mpg figure was derived by using a Department of Energy formula.

We'll have to wait and see when both vehicles are actually released.

In addition to the announcement about the Volt and the 25 new models that GM is planning on releasing, the automaker also announced the launch of "The Lab," a microsite featuring future projects by GM's Advanced Design team. The microsite currently features two new concepts that are being developed, the Bare Necessities Truck and the Bare Necessities Car.

The theme of the two concepts is to offer buyers what they want and nothing more, hence "bare necessities."

Toyota has boosted production of the Lexus HS 250h hybrid due to strong sales in Japan. The Lexus hybrid was launched on July 14 and the automaker had only hoped to sell 500 a month, but has already received over 9,000 orders. Toyota produced 2,000 units in July, but expects to triple that number by October.

The HS 250h will launch in the US in late August or early September with a starting price of $34,200.

GM's CEO Fritz Henderson officially revealed the details surrounding the "230" mystery and to our surprise the marketing campaign was related to the Chevy Volt.

The EPA has developed a new methodology for determining fuel economy numbers for extended-range electric vehicles and under this new method the Volt is expected to have a urban fuel economy rating of 230 mpg. According to GM the Volt consumes 25 kilowatt hours per 100 miles in a city cycle.

Production of the Volt is expected to start at the end of 2010.

BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer recently told Reuters that BMW is going to launch a series of electric vehicles under its own brand, which kills reports of a stand alone fourth brand being created.

Instead of creating a fourth brand, BMW's board has decided to create a sub-brand for the new vehicles, kind of like the M sub-brand that is used for BMW's performance vehicles.

Honda had high hopes for the new Insight hybrid and even though the automaker claims it isn't a direct competitor to the Prius, many consider it to be. Especially the fact that it even looks like the Prius. Well it looks like the Insight is winning over very few buyers in the US. It probably has something to do with the fact that the reviews have been less than stellar and the Prius manages to get better mpg. Either way only 2,079 Insights were sold in June compared to 12,998 sales of the Prius. Honda had hoped to sell 90,000 units in its first 12 months, but at the current rate Honda will only manage to sell a third of that goal.

The one thing going for the Insight is that it starts at a lower price point than the Prius. Dealers are hoping that Honda will rework its marketing efforts to call out the price differences between the two hybrids. But it may not work since Toyota is planning on releasing a cheaper Prius that will start around $21k in September.

The Insight has managed to sell well in Japan, but Honda needs to figure something out quick in the US before the Insight is simply forgotten.

MINI USA has been trying to build a case to bring the diesel powered MINI to the US for some time now, but it looks like that isn't going to happen.

The main reason that we will not see a diesel powered MINI anytime soon has to do with costs. It would cost the automaker a significant investment to convert the European-spec diesel engine to US standards. Even if MINI were to charge 10-15% more for the diesel powered model, the automaker would still lose money. Charging 40-50% more would pay for the development costs, but who would actually buy it at that price? So it looks like we will have to wait another 4-5 years to get the diesel when the next-generation MINI is released.

Plans are still up in the air for an R60 based Cooper S D to make it to the US, but we'll see...

Nissan has tasked its engineers with the job of getting more miles for gallons out of its vehicles to attract more buyers that are interested in the government's Car Allowance Rebate System "Cash-for-Clunkers". The program offers more of an incentive for vehicles with greater efficiency.

"We want as many of our products as possible to pop up on the shopping list," Nissan North America spokesman Brian Brockman told Automotive News.

BMW's first hybrid, a hybrid version of the X6 is expected to be released by the end of the year. The X6 hybrid in these photos was caught near BMW's Spartenburg, SC plant.

The 2010 BMW X6 ActiveHybrid is supposedly already rolling off the production line, which means we will start seeing it at dealers in the next few months. The X6's two-mode hybrid system is the same system used in GM's full-size hybrids and Chrysler's now dead Durango and Aspen hybrids. Although the system has been BMW-ized in the X6 hybrid. The system should improve mpg numbers by 20 percent over the regular X6. Prices are expected to start around $70k.

Lexus is expected to unveil a new concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show this fall and according to reports the vehicle is set to be a five-door hatchback. The hatchback is expected to be a head to head competitor with BMW's 1-series and Audi's A3.

The production version is likely to carry the 'BS' or 'CS' name and it will be powered by the same 2.4L hybrid powertrain as the HS 250 hybrid. Although it will borrow the HS powertrain it will not be built on the same platform, but it will also be front-wheel-drive.

The concept is expected to be a 90 percent match of the production model that is expected to go on sale at the end of 2010.

Ford has officially announced the introduction of the new 2.0L 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine and that the automaker is expecting a 20 percent improvement in fuel economy as a whole by the end of 2010 versus 2005.

The new 2.0L 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine will be the first EcoBoost engine to include Twin-Independent Variable Cam Timing (Ti-VCT) when it is introduced sometime next year. Ford's goal is a 10 to 20 percent fuel economy improvement over larger displacement V6 engines without compromising power. It's expected to have at least 230 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque. Ford hasn't announced which models will receive this engine and surprisingly the first application may not even be in a car. Note that the Explorer America Concept was shown with a 2.0L EcoBoost engine.

The 2010 model year sees the introduction of EcoBoost engines in the Ford Flex, Taurus SHO, Lincoln MKS and MKT. Ford expects its to offer EcoBoost engines in 90 percent of its vehicles by 2013.

Lexus has announced the pricing for its first dedicated hybrid, the HS 250h.

The 2010 HS 250h starts at $34,200 and the premium model starts at $36,970, which prices it above the Prius, but significantly less than the Lexus GS 450h. The HS 250h is powered by a 147-hp four-cylinder engine that is mated to an electric motor for a combined output of 187 horsepower. The hybrid features four drive-modes: Normal, Power, Eco and EV. It has also received EPA-estimated ratings of 35 mpg city and 34 mpg on the highway for a combined 35 mpg on regular gasoline.

The HS 250h will start rolling into dealerships in late-August.

Now that Ford no longer holds a significant stake in Mazda, Mazda is needs to have a new source for its upcoming hybrid vehicles. Currently the only Mazda hybrid is the Tribute that borrows its hybrid powertrain from the Ford Escape. Inside sources are now claiming that Mazda is seeking a new partner and is reportedly in talks with Toyota.

The Nikkei business daily is reporting that the two automakers are in the final stages of discussion and that an announcement is expected soon detailing the plan to supply Toyota produced hybrid components to Mazda.

Toyota and Mazda are both denying the talks.

Honda has confirmed today that the anticipated CR-Z hybrid and Fit hybrid models will enter production by the end of 2010.

The CR-Z, which looks like a spiritual successor to the much loved CRX is expected to go on sale in Japan in early 2010. The Fit hybrid is expected by the end of 2010. It's not yet known if Honda is going to bring the CR-Z to the US, but lets hope so!

Honda also announced that the automaker is currently working on a new hybrid system for mid to large size vehicles. It looks like the return of the Accord hybrid could not be far off.

VW has released its sales totals for the month of June 2009 and although VW sales were down 18 percent compared to the same month in 2008, VW has announced strong sales of its diesel powered models. Diesel powered versions of the Jetta, Jetta SportWagen and Touareg totaled 5,072 units, which accounted for 26 percent of VW's total sales last month.

Clean diesel TDI's accounted for 81 percent of SportWagen sales, 40 percent of Jetta sedan sales, and 29 percent of Touareg sales.

Consumer Reports' recently tested the 2010 Honda Insight and after completing its series of tests, claims that the new Honda hybrid "is the most disappointing Honda Consumer Reports has tested in a long time."

The publication gave the Insight poor scores due to ride quality, handling, interior noise, acceleration, rear-seat, access and visibility.

"The Insight is a noisy, stiff-riding car with clumsy handling that is nothing like the Fit on which it is based. Also, Electronic Stability Control is only available on the highline EX version."

In terms of its raking with other small hatchbacks and wagons, the Insight came in at the 21st spot out of 22. The only thing worse than the Insight according to CR is the Dodge Caliber..ouch!

Citing increased inventory levels, GM has announced that production of the 2010 Chevy Malibu hybrid have been suspended.

Apparently inventory levels are high enough of the 2009 Malibu hybrid, that GM doesn't need to produce any more at the vehicle's current selling rate. GM's hybrid spokesman Brian Corbett recently told AutoblogGreen that there are no plans to produce any of the mild hybrid models:

"There will be some MY2010 production. We will fulfill some MY2010 fleet orders for the Malibu Hybrid. As part of the Memorandum of Understanding between GM and Penske Automotive Group, Saturn plans to offer the Aura, Vue and Outlook models in 2010. Specific details of which versions (i.e. hybrids) has not yet been determined. "

According to the newest reports Honda is set to release the hybrid version of its popular Fit by the fall of 2010, which is about a year and a half earlier than was originally planned.

Honda had previously announced plans to release three new hybrids by 2012, following the release of the Insight earlier this year. The production version of the much-anticipated CR-Z will be released sometime early next year followed by the Fit hybrid and then eventually an all-new Civic hybrid.

The Insight was launched in Japan in February and has become the first hybrid to ever hold the top sales spot in Japan. Japan's Nikkei is reporting that the Fit hybrid will start around 1.5 million yen ($15,800) with annual sales of over 50,000 vehicles.

The Honda S2000 has been on the market since the 2000 model year, but at the end of this year we will have to say goodbye to Honda's only sports car. Honda has announced that the 2009 model year will be the last.

Japan's Best Car is reporting that in addition to the production version of the CR-Z hybrid coupe, Honda is also working on a larger, more powerful coupe that would essentially act as the replacement for the S2000. According to Best Car the replacement would be a 2+2 coupe that would feature Honda's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system (SH-AWD) instead of the current rear-wheel-drive setup.

In addition to the 2+2 setup and SH-AWD system, it is being reported that the coupe will feature a hybrid system similar to that in the Civic and Insight hybrids.

Toyota has received 75,000 orders for the all-new Prius according to the Nikkei business daily, which means its going to be a fierce battle between the new Prius and the Honda Insight.

The Honda Insight was launched in Japan in February and in three months Honda has sold almost 20,000 units, which has surpassed Honda's initial goals. The Insight was also Japan's best-selling vehicle last month.

The new Prius will be on sale here later this month with a starting price of $21,750 including destination fees.

Honda has announced that the new Insight hybrid was Japan's best selling vehicle in the month of April 2009.

Honda managed to move 10,481 units making the Insight the first hybrid to ever top the sales charts in Japan (Toyota must not be happy). The Insight was introduced on February 6, 2009. It managed to move to the top spot in April up from the 21st best-selling vehicle in March.

The Honda Fit/ Jazz was Japan's best-selling vehicle until the Insight knocked it out of its top spot, thereby pushing it down to the number 2 spot. This is the first time that Honda has managed to occupy the two best-selling car positions in Japan.

Ford has announced plans to turn its former Michigan truck plant into a more modern small car production facility.

Ford is going to invest $550 million in the Michigan Assembly Plant to transform it into a "lean, green and flexible" plant that will build the next-generation global Ford Focus and a new battery-electric version for the North American market. The new Focus is set to start production next year and the all-electric Focus will debut in 2011.

Formerly the plant was the production site for the Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator.

GM has announced in its most recent Viability Plan to pull forward the resolution of Saturn by the end of 2009. So even though Saturn will not be a part of GM by the end of the year, the automaker is going to move forward with the hybrid plans that were initially planned for Saturn.

Saturn currently has two hybrids in its lineup, the Aura and Vue. A Vue plug-in hybrid was planned for 2011, but now that the Vue will be dead soon GM has pledged that the technology will be used in one of its other four core brands. In addition there will not be a delay in the introduction of the plug-in technology.

It's still not known, which brand will get the technology. Maybe the new Chevy Equinox or GMC Terrain, since they are built on the same platform as the Saturn Vue...

This past weekend a team of Ford drivers sought out to drive 1,000 miles in a 2010 Ford Fusion hybrid on a single tank of gas. Well it looks like they succeeded.

The drivers passed the 1,000 mile marker Monday morning and still managed to have more than a third of a tank of gas left. In total the drivers managed to get 1445.7 miles on a single tank, which averaged 81.5 mpg.

The event also raised more than $8,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

We've been hearing rumors for a while that BMW and Mercedes-Benz are considering bringing back 4-cylinders to the US to cut their brand's overall fuel economy.

BMW is currently working on a turbocharged, direct-injected four-cylinder that will likely be used in the 1 and 3 Series sometime around 2012. The new four-cylinder is expected to have the similar horsepower numbers as the current in-line sixes, but with better gas mileage and lower emissions. The engine is also slated for the X1 and new X3. BMW is waiting to decide on the engine for the U.S. until Washington releases what the new fuel economy standards will be.

Mercedes-Benz hasn't released any details on what the possible 4-cylinder engines could be, although a 2.2-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel was shown in the E250 Bluetech concept. A four-cylinder will most likely be offered in the C-Class and GLK within the next few years.

Lexus has announced the pricing for the 2010 Lexus RX450h and Lexus IS250C and IS350C.

The RX450h hybrid starts at $41,660 for the FWD model and the AWD starts at $43,250. The RX 450h is powered by a 3.5L Atkinson V6 engine mated to a hybrid system that puts out a total 295 horsepower. The FWD model achieves 32 mpg city and 28 mpg highway while the AWD achieves 30 mpg city and 28 mpg on the highway.

The convertible version of the IS is powered by the same 204-hp 2.5L V6 and 306-hp 3.5L V6 as the sedan. It features a three-panel roof that opens in 20 seconds. The IS250C starts at $38,490 with the six-speed manual, the IS250C with the six-speed automatic transmission starts at $39,660 and the IS350C starts at $43,940.

The IS250C and IS350C will be available in late May and the RX450h will be available in mid-summer.

Ford has announced a team of drivers that will attempt to drive more than 1,000 miles in a 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid on a single tank of gas.

The team will drive more than 1,000 miles for more than 43 continuous hours on a single tank to raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

The drivers consist of Ford engineers, Wayne Gerdes and the NASCAR star Carl Edwards. The drivers will have to average at least 57 mpg in order to reach their goal. During preliminary testing engineers reached as much as 70 mpg in the Fusion Hybrid.

The 1,000-Mile Challenge starts at around 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 25, from Mount Vernon, Va., and ends the morning of Monday, April 27, in Washington, D.C.

Toyota has announced the pricing for the all-new 2010 Toyota Prius that will hit showrooms late next month.

The third-generation Prius starts at $21,000 and will be offered in five trim levels.

The 2010 Prius is powered by a 1.8L Atkinson-cycle, four cylinder engine that puts out 98 horsepower. Combined with the electric motor, the new Prius puts out a combined 134 horsepower, which is 24 more than the old model. Fuel economy ratings are 51 city/ 48 highway and 50 mpg combined.

According to Motor Trend, GM has approved the Cadillac Converj Concept for production. The extended-range electric coupe is based on the same architecture that powers the Chevy Volt.

GM execs want the car on the market by 2011 as a 2012 model. In addition a source claims that GM is also working on a crossover that will use the same technology.

A GM spokesperson claims that the Converj has still not been given the green light, but sources that have talked to Motor Trend have given many details that provide more proof that it is likely to be approved.

Of course all of this could change if GM's finances don't improve.

Toyota unveiled the A-BAT Concept last year and according to sources it had been given the green light, but thanks to the current state of the auto industry, plans have been put on hold.

The Advanced Breakthrough Aero Truck "A-BAT" featured a unibody platform and hybrid powertrain in a small compact pickup truck. The concept also featured a cab forward design to maximize rear cargo space.

“We have a lot of top priorities right now, and A-BAT isn’t one of them,” Bob Carter, Toyota Motor Sales USA vice president and general manager, said at the New York auto show. “The market has changed dramatically over the last 12 months. We always keep reprioritizing – under good economic or recessionary times – what our planning is. [For now], it’s on the shelf.”

One of the main factors for the reason to put the model on hold probably has to do with the decline in new truck sales.

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the hybrid version of the ML SUV, dubbed the ML 450 Hybrid in New York.

The ML 450 Hybrid is powered by 3.5L Atkinson V6 mated to a two-mode hybrid system that results in a final output of 335 horsepower and 381 lf-ft of torque. The system manages to get 21 mpg city and 24 mpg on the highway and is classified as a SULEV (Super Ultra Low Emisssion Vehicle).

The two-mode hybrid system is Mercedes first application of the system that it co-developed with GM and Chrysler.

Toyota is reportedly cutting the price of the new Prius in Japan to be more competitive with its newest competitor the Honda Insight.

According to reports, Toyota has told its dealerships that Prius would be set at 2.05 million yen, which translates to about $20,750 U.S. In the U.S. the Honda Insight starts at $20,450, but the Prius has more room and better fuel economy, but a fully-loaded Prius goes for over $30K. Additionally Toyota is going to keep selling the current generation Prius alongside the new generation in Japan. The outgoing Prius starts even lower at 1.89 million yen ($19,130 US).

U.S. pricing for the Prius has yet to be announced, but if Toyota lowers the price here as well the hybrid wars could get even more crazy.

Last week Tesla unveiled the Model S all-electric family sedan that seats up to seven passengers and travels up to 300 miles per charge. Since its unveiling on March 26th, Tesla has received 520 reservations for the car.

“Frankly the number of cars reserved in the first week has exceeded our optimistic internal projections,” said Tesla CEO, Chairman and Product Architect Elon Musk. “Enthusiasm surrounding the Model S is proof that there’s pent-up demand for more affordable, fuel-efficient vehicles - including those made in America.”

The Model S can be recharged from any 120V, 208V or 240V outlet. The Model S reaches 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds and has a top speed of 130 mph.

The expected base price for the Model S is $49,900 after a federal tax credit of $7,500. There is a reservation fee of $5,000 that is refundable.

Production is scheduled to begin in late 2011.

GM has asked the U.S. government for an additional $2.6 billion in loans to support the development of new hybrid vehicles.

The loan request would help the development of two spinoffs of the upcoming Chevy Volt. This is the first time that GM has confirmed plans to produce spinoffs of the Volt. In January, GM unveiled the Cadillac Converj concept which was based on the mechanicals of the Volt. GM executives have stated that GM plans on using the Volt system in other models to raise volume and reduce costs.

VW has unveiled the Golf GTD, which is the equivalent of a sporty GTI, but with a diesel engine.

The VW Golf GTD is powered by a 170 horsepower diesel engine that can be mated to either a 6-speed manual or an optional 6-speed DSG transmission, just like the GTI. It accelerates from 0-62 mph in 8.1 seconds, has a top speed of 137 mph and uses just 5.3 litres fuel per 100 kilometres (44 mpg US).

The Golf GTD also features a sport suspension and 17-inch alloy wheels. The designs of the front bumper, the radiator grille and the headlights are also identical to those of the GTI.

Tesla has officially unveiled the Model S, which can seat up to five adults and two children and can travel up to 300 miles on a single charge.

The Model S will be the world's first mass produced electric vehicle. It has a range of 300 miles and only takes 45 minutes to recharge. It can also be recharged from any 110V, 220V or 440V outlet. On a 220V outlet it will take 4 hours to recharge. It also costs as little as $4 to fully charge. Replacement batteries are expected to cost less than $5k.

The Model S is powered by a liquid-cooled 9-inch motor, floor-mounted battery pack and a single-speed gearbox. The powertrain accelerates the Model S from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds and has a top speed of 120 mph.

The exciting news is that it starts at after the $7,500 tax break the Model S starts at $49,900.

Mazda announced today that it is working on a new diesel engine that will be as fuel-efficient as some hybrids in 2011 as part of its plans to improve fuel mileage without the aid of expensive electrical systems.

Mazda has set a target of raising its global car fleet's fuel economy by 30 percent by 2015. It plans on doing so by relying on advances in internal combustion engines, automatic transmissions and through weight reduction.

The diesel engine that Mazda is working on is a 2.0L engine that would be as fuel efficient as a 660cc microcar or a mild-hybrid.

"We believe that improving today's conventional engines at a low cost is the most effective way to get fuel-efficient cars to proliferate," R&D Chief Seita Kanai told reporters in Tokyo.

According to Toyota tighter emissions regulations in the future could mean that the costs to clean diesel emissions from engines will be near or more expensive than gasoline-hybrid technology.

Kanai states that Mazda's diesel technology will cost less due to its proprietary single-nanotechnology, which reduces the use of precious metals in emission cleaning catalysts, and a new diesel particulate filter that means there will be no the need for expensive after treatment parts.

Mazda also plans on reducing the weight of its vehicles by 10 percent after 2011 and another 10 percent or more after 2016.

Cadillac has been struggling to gain traction in Europe. A much needed diesel engine, which would have made Cadillac more competitive in Europe has now been canceled.

Cadillac was expected to receive a 2.9-liter V6 turbodiesel that was developed with and was to be manufactured by Italian diesel-engine expert VM Motori S.p.A. According to division spokesperson Joann Krell the diesel has been "indefinitely delayed." A source states that the design and development of the engine has been completed.

The cancellation of the V6 diesel now effectively means that Cadillac is going to have a hard time increasing market share in Europe, since 54 percent of all light vehicles sold in Western Europe are diesel powered. Currently the only diesel powered Cadillac is the slow selling front-wheel-drive BLS.

Hyundai is going to unveil the BLUE-WILL concept car at the Seoul Motor Show next week.

Hyundai's new plug-in hybrid concept car features a 1.6L direct-injection engine, which is mated to a CVT and a 100kw electric motor. The concept also features lithium-ion batteries that are located under the rear seat.

The concept also features dye-sensitive solar cells, which can generate power for the batteries without impeding visibility.

After weeks of speculation about a new low-cost Toyota hybrid, it's finally been confirmed that Toyota is indeed working on a new cheaper hybrid that will fit in below the Prius.

The new hybrid is going to use the same Hybrid Synergy drivetrain as the new Prius installed in the Yaris platform. This is obviously an answer to the Honda Insight that is cheaper than the Prius. Honda is also planning a hybrid Fit, so the new Yaris-based hybrid would also go head to head with that vehicle.

Toyota's new cheaper hybrid could be on the market by 2011 at the earliest.

Kia has officially unveiled its first mass production hybrid model that is based on the new Forte sedan, the Forte LPI hybrid.

The Forte LPI hybrid is powered by a mild-hybrid system that features a 1.6L engine mated to an electric motor. The Liquefied Petroleum Injected (LPI) engine generates 114 hp and the electric motor generates an extra 20 hp. The hybrid system is mated to a continuously variable transmission and achieves 41 mpg. The Forte LPI hybrid is also the world's first hybrid to use a lithium polymer (Li–poly) battery.

It's unlikely that we'll see an LPI hybrid from Kia anytime soon in the US, but we can expect a Forte hybrid with a gas powered engine at some point.

Nissan/ Infiniti has been slow to jump on the hybrid bandwagon with the firm's only hybrid being the Altima hybrid, which borrows its hybrid components from Toyota. Well according to a report by the Nikkei business daily in Japan, Nissan/Infiniti is going to release its first in-house hybrid in 2010 as the Infiniti M hybrid.

The hybrid system that will be offered in the Infiniti M differs from conventional hybrid systems since it will be powered by lithium-ion batteries that have more power and quicker recharge times. In addition the hybrid system features one electric motor and two clutches that allows both the engine and electric motor to power the rear wheels at the same time. The hybrid version of the M is expected to be more performance oriented.

Nissan plans to extend its hybrid offerings to other Infiniti models and sports cars.

According to Auto Express the once loved MR2 is making a comeback, but not as the small mid-engined roadster like the last generation. Instead Toyota is going to apply the MR2 name to a new performance hybrid that would be similar to the upcoming Honda CR-Z.

The small coupe would feature rear-wheel-drive, a paddleshift gearbox and a specially developed version of the Prius’s hybrid powertrain.

Toyota executive vice president Masatami Takimoto recently told Auto Express: “We are aware of the fondness with which the MR2 is held in the UK and Europe, and are developing a small hybrid sports car.

“We have set a tough price point (expected to be around £20,000), as it will be easier to sell if it is affordable. It has to be fun to drive, too, which means the hybrid set-up must be different to the Prius’s, with greater responsiveness.”

It's also rumored that the revived MR2 hybrid will draw styling cues from the Toyota FT-HS sports car concept.

In 2008 Nissan confirmed that the Maxima would receive a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel, that was developed by Renault for the US market. The original plans saw the introduction of the diesel-powered Maxima being released later this year. But now it looks like those plans have either been delayed or scrapped altogether.

A Nissan spokesman told AutoObserver there is "no official word yet," regarding Nissan's maintaining the U.S. launch for diesel-powered 2010 Maxima. The spokesman would also not deny that it was being in fact delayed or that if it was actually being canceled.

"We're reviewing our mid-term product plans right now [some to be delayed, some potentially canceled], but nothing in concrete as yet," the spokesman added, saying the company's U.S. arm "should have some clarity in the coming weeks."

Other automakers have also recently announced plans to delay or cancel their own diesel programs in the US. Acura has delayed, possibly indefinitely the diesel-powered TSX. GM also announced plans to discontinue development on a new V8 diesel that was to be used in light trucks and SUVs.

VW has unveiled the Polo BlueMotion Concept at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show.

The Polo BlueMotion is powered by a 1.2L TDI three-cylinder with common rail injection. Combined with start-stop technology and regenerative braking, the Polo BlueMotion gets 71.3 mpg (US). That effectively makes the Polo BlueMotion the most fuel-efficient passenger internal combustion car available.

The Polo BlueMotion is expected sometime in 2010.

Infiniti hit the Geneva Motor Show head on today with the unveiling of the Essence Concept, which combines sexy coupe bodywork with a "green" drivetrain.

The Essence Concept is a front-engined, two-seater. It features a 3.7L V6 engine mated to an electric motor that has been dubbed the 3D Motor. The combined output is 592 horsepower ( 434 from the V6 and 158 from the electric motor).

The styling of the Essence Concept draws cues from the current Infiniti lineup, but in a much sexier way. The assymetrical two-seat interior features a driver focused interior with two distinct cocoons. The driver's side is black, while the passenger's "cocoon" is an earthy red.

The EPA has officially rated the 2010 Toyota Prius at 50 mpg combined fuel-economy rating.

According to Toyota the all-new Prius offers more power, room, performance and better mileage. The 2010 Prius is powered by a 1.8L 4-cylinder that puts out 98 hp. Combined with the electric motor, the Prius puts out a total of 134 horsepower, which is 24 more than the last generation.

For the first time the Prius offers three different driving modes. EV Mode allows driving on the battery alone for up to a mile. Power Mode increases throttle sensitivity, giving the Prius a slightly sportier feel. Eco Mode helps drivers achieve better gas mileage.

The 2010 Prius will be on sale next month.

Stay tuned for the pricing.

Honda has just released the Insight Hybrid in Japan and the demand has been higher than expected (almost three times its monthly target).

"The response has been overwhelming,” Hiroshi Kobayashi, Honda’s deputy chief operating officer told Automotive News. “We will have to increase production plans.”

Honda is planning on launching the Insight in Europe and the U.S. over the next two months. Over half of the planned 200,000 units are expected for North America. In April Honda is planning on increasing the production of its Prius fighter. Kobyashi did not state how many extra units Honda is going to produce.

When the Insight is launched in the US in April, it is expected to start under $20K.

Toyota has unveiled the HC-CV (Hybrid Camry Concept Vehicle) at the 2009 Melbourne Motor Show.

Next year Toyota Australia is going to begin local production of the Camry Hybrid and to publicize it, Toyota has created the HC-CV for the show. The concept is basically the 2010 Camry Hybrid wish a modified front fascia, new wheels, decals and new leather seats with a wave-like graphic reminiscent of the Hybrid Synergy Drive logo.

Last month GM unveiled the Cadillac Converj Concept that combined the Volt's powertrain with a much sexier shell.

Although the Converj Concept is a coupe, GM is reportedly considering a four-door version for production. A four-door Converj would keep its coupe-like roofline, meaning it would be dubbed as a four-door coupe. Four-door vehicles simply sell better than two-doors so it would make for a stronger business case. According to Bob Lutz a production version of the Converj will not differ much from the concept, much in the same way that the production Camaro is very similar to its concept.

Even if the Converj is eventually given the green light, don't expect it to be released before 2013. Also who knows how much it would actually cost. The Volt is expected to start around $40,000, so a Cadillac version would definitely cost much more.

Toyota unveiled the all-new 2010 Toyota Prius at the Detroit Auto Show last month. Initially the new Prius will only be offered with the current nickel-metal hydride batteries, but sometime in 2010 a plug-in Prius will be introduced.

According to Bill Reinert, Toyota Motor Sales USA’s national alternative-fuel vehicle manager, the Prius plug-in hybrid has been averaging 65 mpg in combined gas and electic mode testing.

“That is real-world driving,” Reinert told Automotive News. “I ask my guys to drive them as you drive your normal Prius.”

The non plug-in hybrid 2010 Prius gets an estimated combined 50 mpg.

Ford has announced that the new 2010 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan Hybrids are now eligible for a $3,400 tax credit.

The $3,400 tax credit is the highest credit amount offered for a hybrid since the end of 2005.

The Fusion and Milan Hybrids have been rated at 41 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, which is better than its closest competitor, the Toyota Camry Hybrid.

If you are planning on buying one of Ford's newest hybrids you better do it before March 31, 2009 because after that the tax credit will be cut in half.

It is being reported that contracts for GM's new engine plant in Flint, Michigan have been canceled.

The $370 million plant was supposed to produce the 1.4L engine for the upcoming Chevy Volt and Cruze in turbocharged and naturally-aspirated forms. GM spokesperson Sharon Basel, confirmed the news to the Flint News. Basel also stated that GM remains committed to the area and could possibly build the engines at one of the existing plants in the future.

The plant would have created 300 new jobs for the suffering town of Flint.

For now the engines will be produced by one of GM's European plants that already builds variants of the "Family Zero" engines, which range from 1.0-1.4L in size.

Hybrid sales dropped 9.9 percent in 2008, which is mainly due to the declining U.S. auto market and the drastic drop in gas prices.

When gas prices reached well over $4 bucks a gallon in the first half of 2008, automakers and consumers cried for more hybrid vehicles. But with gas prices dropping below $2 a gallon by the end of the year many consumers could not justify paying the premium for a hybrid. Couple that with the fact that car sales as a whole were way off last year. For the first time ever Toyota has started to offer rebates on its popular Prius hybrid.

As gas prices remain low, many consumers will continue to flock to less fuel-efficient vehicles and forget about how painful it was last year to spend $100 bucks or more to fill up their gas guzzling SUVs.

Toyota, not to be outdone by Honda unveiled the third-generation Prius and Lexus' first dedicated hybrid the HS 250h at the Detroit Auto Show this week.

During the unveiling of the 2010 Prius, Toyota provided more details about its current hybrid plans. Toyota plans on selling 1 million hybrids per year sometime in 2010. In order to reach its lofty goal, Toyota is planning on introducing 10 new hybrid models by 2010. Two of them are the new Prius and HS 250h.

In addition to launching 10 new hybrids, Toyota also announced the introduction of 500 Prius plug-in hybrids that will be globally leased later this year. The plan was originally planned for 2010. Out of the 500 lithium-ion powered plug-ins 150 are destined for the U.S.

The 500 plug-in Prius will be used for market and engineering analysis.

Tesla has announced the new Tesla Roadster Sport, which is a "high-performance" version of the Tesla Roadster.

The Roadster Sport gets an upgraded suspension, adjustable dampers, anti-roll bars and Yokohama’s Ultra High Performance tires. Additionally the Sport comes with an hand-wound stator and increased winding density for lower resistance and higher peak torque.

The upgrades help shave off .2 seconds off the car's 0-60 time from 3.9 to 3.7 seconds.

The Tesla Roadster Sport will be available this summer starting at $128,500.

Lexus officially unveiled its first dedicated hybrid, the 2010 HS 250h at the Detroit Auto Show this month.

The HS 250h is expected in U.S. showrooms this summer, but it looks like Europe is not going to be getting the new hybrid.

“The HS 250h is intended mainly for North America and Japan, sales are not currently planned for Europe,” said Serge Gachot, head of Toyota Motor Europe marketing communications.

Other sources are saying that one of the main reasons for not selling the car in Europe is because its CO2 emissions are very close to the IS 220d.

The 2010 Lexus HS 250h shares some of its mechanicals with the new Prius and is powered by Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system, mated to a 187-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Overall the HS 250h is slightly longer than the IS and a little wider than the ES.

Toyota officially unveiled the 2010 Toyota Prius at the Detroit Auto Show today.

The third-generation Prius is larger, more powerful and gets better gas mileage than the last generation. For starters the Prius engine has been enlarged from 1.5L to 1.8L. It's also notable that the engine is the first Toyota powerplant to not use any belts (the water pump is now electric). Although the engine has been enlarged, the Prius now gets a combined mpg rating of 50 mpg, which is up from the 46 mpg rating of the last generation.

The overall styling of the new Prius is easily recognizable as a Prius, but with slightly more aggressive styling than the last generation. The new Prius also has the world's lowest coefficient of drag (Cd) at .25.

For the first time a moonroof is available with roof mounted solar panels that power the ventilation system. The system helps keep the car cool even when it is off, which helps reduce the stress on the air conditioning system once the car is in use.

Pricing has yet to be announced, but the 2010 Prius will be in showrooms this spring.

GM has unveiled a new Cadillac concept, the Converj, which is based on the Chevy Volt's "Voltec" drivetrain.

The Converj Concept combines GM's new electric technology with styling that is distinctly Cadillac. Since it uses the same technology as the more pedestrian-looking Volt.

Let's hope they make something like this in the future....

Honda has officially took the wraps off the 2010 Honda Insight Hybrid at the Detroit Auto Show.

In addition to finally seeing the production version of the Insight, we now also know what kind of gas mileage its going to get. The EPA has officially certified the Insight at 40/43 mpg (city/highway). The Insight is powered by a 1.3L 4-cylinder engine mated to a 13 horsepower electric motor.

The Insight will reach showrooms in April and have a starting price lower than the Civic Hybrid.

Lexus has officially unveiled its first dedicated hybrid, the Lexus HS250h. The compact sedan shares many of its mechanicals with the third-generation Prius that is also being unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show.

The 2010 Lexus HS250h is powered by Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system, mated to a 187-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Overall the HS250h is slightly longer than the IS and a little wider than the ES.

Inside Lexus newest hybrid comes equipped with leather seats, moonroof, Lexus premium audio systems, and a new standard multi-media package. A new Hard Disk Navigation system is also available a retractable navigation screen. There is also a new wide-view front monitor that uses a camera mounted in the front of the car to provide a 190-degree front view via the navigation screen.

The 2010 HS250h will be in dealerships by late summer.

Ford is on a roll with the new Fusion. The new Fusion Hybrid gets better gas mileage than the Camry Hybrid and now the 4-cylinder Fusion officially gets the highest mpg in its class.

The EPA has officially certified the four-cylinder Fusion at 34 mpg on the highway and 23 mpg in the city. Those numbers beat all the Fusion's competitors (Camry, Accord, Altima, Malibu, etc.).

The Fusion S is powered by a 175 horsepower 2.5L engine that is mated to a six-speed transmission.

The 2010 Ford Fusion will be on sale this spring.

Honda is going to officially unveil the 2009 Honda Insight at the Detroit Auto Show this month, but photos of the euro-spec Insight have already leaked onto the web.

The euro-spec and U.S.-spec versions of the Insight are not expected to differ much. What you can tell from these photos is how little the production version differs from the concept. The front-end remains largely the same sans the LED headlights. There are also more production friendly fog lamps and lower air intakes, which are slightly different than the U.S.-spec version. The side mirrors have been enlarged as well as the door handles. The C-pillar is also larger and the rear end gets a few minor tweaks.

We still have to wait to see what changes are in store for the interior.

Sales of the 2009 Insight will begin this spring with a starting price somewhere around $20,000.

Toyota is going to officially unveil the 2010 Prius at the Detroit Auto Show next month. This little teaser video shows some more shots of the new hybrid being checked out by the Blue Man Group

Last year Toyota confirmed that a Lexus branded dedicated hybrid model would make its debut at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show. Lexus has now confirmed that the new dedicated hybrid will be dubbed the HS250h.

The details are scarce about the new model although it is expected that the new Lexus hybrid will share some of, if not all of its mechanicals with the also new 2010 Toyota Prius. If the HS 250h in fact does use the same hybrid powertrain as the new Prius it will be the next-generation Hybrid Synergy with nickel-metal hydride battery packs. Unfortunately lithium-ion packs are still in development and will be added at a later date.

Stay tuned for all the details from the show next month.

Ford officially unveiled the 2010 Ford Fusion and Fusion Hybrid at the LA Auto Show last month. At the time it was estimated that the Fusion Hybrid would get better gas mileage than its closest competitor, the Camry Hybrid. Well the EPA has officially rated the Fusion Hybrid at 41 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. Those numbers beat the Camry Hybrid by 8 mpg in the city and 2 mpg on the highway.

Those numbers mean that the Fusion Hybrid is now the most fuel-efficient mid-size sedan.

The Fusion Hybrid is powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that is mated to an electric motor. The electric motor is powerful enough to propel the car to speeds up to 47 mpg without the assistance of the gas engine.

The 2010 Fusion Hybrid will be available this coming spring.

Toyota announced this morning that the automaker is going to unveil a new electric vehicle concept at the Detroit Auto Show next month.

Other than the single image of the logo and a very short press release (two sentences), Toyota did not release any other details about the new concept. The EV Concept will share the stage with the all-new 2010 Prius.

Honda is finally trying to catch up to Toyota in the hybrid game with three new hybrid vehicles joining Honda's lineup in the next few years. First we will get the Insight hybrid next year, followed in 2010 by a production version of the CR-Z hybrid concept and then eventually a Fit hybrid.

Sources are now claiming that Honda is going to release a hybrid powered version of the Fit/ Jazz in 2010. The Fit hybrid will feature the same hybrid powertrain as the Insight, which is a 1.3L engine mated to an electric motor. According to sources the Fit hybrid will get approximately 67 mpg.

Ford has yet to release its much talked about V6 EcoBoost engine, but sources say that Ford is already putting the finishing touches on a new 2.0L 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine. It is expected that the Fusion will get the new engine in 2010.

Ford's new EcoBoost engines combine turbo-charging and direct injection technology to produce more horsepower from a smaller engine. The first EcoBoost engine is a 3.5L V6 that will be launched next summer in the 2010 Lincoln MKS.

Ford claims that it is too early to discuss the specifics of the new 4-cylinder engine, but that it will deliver the fuel economy that customers demand without sacrificing power. Which according to Product analyst Jim Hall of 2953 Analytics LLP in Birmingham, the four-cylinder engine should deliver power equal to a V6 engine, but with better fuel economy.

Honda is going to officially unveil the production version of its Honda Insight Hybrid at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, next month.

The production version of the Insight is pretty close to the concept version that has been touring the auto show circuit. The apparent differences on the outside are different wheels, larger mirrors, door handles and a slightly different front bumper and taillights.

The 2009 Honda Insight will be in showrooms in the spring of 2009. It's also expected to be cheaper than the Toyota Prius and Honda Civic Hybrid.

Porsche has unveiled the new diesel powered Cayenne that will be sold in Europe early next year.

The Cayenne diesel is powered by a 3.0L turbocharged V6 diesel engine that puts out 240 horsepower and 405 lb-ft. of torque. It also manages to get 25 mpg. The engine is mated to the Tiptronic-S automatic gearbox.

The Cayenne diesel is initially only going to be sold in Europe, although Porsche claims that other markets will follow. It remains to be seen how well the diesel powered Mercedes and upcoming Audi Q7 TDI will perform in the US.

Honda's theme at the LA Auto Show this year was "green" vehicles with the Insight concept, CR-Z concept and FC Sport all taking the stage.

In addition to unveiling the FC Sport, Honda also provided more details about its next hybrid, the Insight. The Insight is going to feature a new interactive, driver-focused fuel economy enhancement technology named the Ecological Drive Assist System (Eco Assist). The system gives the driver feedback on how she or he is driving and provides real-time guidance on environmentally responsible driving. It basically tells you how "green" you are driving through the economy scoring function.

A green "ECON" button on the dash also activates the ECON mode which optimizes the control of the transmission, engine and other elements to optimize fuel economy.

Ford also recently introduced a eco-type dash in its 2010 Fusion and Milan hybrids.

The production version of the Insight will be unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show with sales starting in April 2009.

More photos of the next-gen 2010 Toyota Prius are showing up on the internet. A few weeks ago the first photos of the new Prius leaked onto PriusChat and were confirmed to be accurate photos by Toyota.

The 2010 Prius is set for a world debut at the Detroit Auto Show in January. What we do know about the new hybrid is that it will keep its iconic shape with a slightly larger body and more distinct nose. Inside there is an all-new dash design that looks far more complicated than the current generation.

The 2010 Prius is also expected to be more powerful and at the same time achieve better gas mileage.

Honda surprised the crowd today by unveiling the Honda FC Sport Design Study at the LA Auto Show.

The Honda FC Sport Design Study is hydrogen-powered three seat sports car. It uses the V-Flow fuel cell stack and electric drivetrain from the recently introduced FCX Clarity. The fuel-cell stack is located between the rear seats and the electric motor is mounted just forward of the rear axle. Inside the driver sits in the middle of the car, while the two rear passengers sit directly behind the driver on the left and right side of the vehicle. The doors also open upward from the rear.

"The Honda FC Sport explores how to satisfy automotive performance enthusiasts in a world beyond petroleum," said Dan Bonawitz, vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "People who love sports cars will still have a reason to love in a hydrogen-powered future."

Ford has officially unveiled the redesigned 2010 Ford Fusion at the LA Auto Show.

For 2010 the Fusion gets all-new styling inside and out (looks much better). In addition there are now three available gas engines and a new hybrid Fusion. The available gas engines range are the 2.5L 4-cylinder (175hp), 3.0L V6 (240hp) and a new 3.5L V6 (263hp) in the Fusion Sport. All three of the engines are mated to six-speed transmissions.

Inside there are new features such as Ford's SYNC system, SIRIUS TravelLink, and BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross Traffic Alert.

The redesigned 2010 Fusion will be available in the spring of 2009.

Just like the Ford Fusion, the Fusion's sister the Mercury Milan also gets a long list of changes for the 2010 model year. This includes new styling inside and out, upgraded engines and a new hybrid model.

The Milan makes due with only two gasoline engines, the 2.5L and 3.0L, unfortunately the 263hp 3.5L V6 is only available in the Fusion Sport. The Milan Hybrid is identical to the Fusion Hybrid and will be able to go up to 47 mph on electricity alone. Ford also predicts that the Fusion and Milan Hybrids will get better gas mileage than the Camry Hybrid.

The 2010 Mercury Milan will hit showrooms in spring 2009.

Lexus has confirmed that the all-new 2010 RX will be unveiled next week at the LA Auto Show.

The 2010 RX will come in two versions, the RX 350 that is powered by a 3.5L V6 and the hybrid RX 450h. Recent photo renderings of the new crossover show an overall shape that is very similar to the current generation.

Lexus is also going to unveil the IS 250 C and IS 350 C convertible models at the show. The IS 250 C was recently unveiled at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. The IS convertible models feature the same engines as the sedans, plus a lightweight aluminum three-panel roof.

The all-wheel-drive versions of the LS 460 and LS 460 L will also be on hand for the show.

Toyota is going to officially unveil the all-new 2010 Prius at the Detroit Auto Show in January. The automaker has launched a microsite, which has a countdown clock.

Too bad we've already seen a few photos of the new Prius that leaked onto the web. At first we weren't sure if the photos were authentic, but Toyota eventually confirmed that the leaked photos are of the next Prius.

Overall the 2010 Prius will keep the same basic shape as the current generation. Inside there is a whole new dash that is very different than the current model.

Stay tuned...

Along with the announcement of the 2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d BluePerformance pricing, BMW has also announced the pricing for the 2009 BMW 335d BluePerformance.

The diesel powered 3 Series starts at $44,725. It is powered by the same 3.0L inline-six diesel engine in the X5 that puts out 265 horsepower and 425 lb.-ft. of torque. The 2009 335d can reach 0-62 mph in 6.2 seconds while achieving 23/33 mpg and a range of 550 miles.

BMW has announced the pricing for its diesel powered X5 that will be for sale in all 50 states by the end of the month.

The 2009 X5 xDrive35d BluePerformance starts at $52,025. The diesel powered X5 is powered by a 3.0L inline-six diesel engine that puts out 265 horsepower and 425 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine allows the X5 to reach 0-62 mph in 7.2 seconds while still achieving 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

Lexus is going to unveil a concept version of a new dedicated hybrid model at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show in January. We're now getting more info about the new model thanks to Japanese magazine, Mag-X.

Mag-X claims that the new Lexus hybrid is going to be dubbed the HS250h and that the car is going to be a sedan. We do know that the new hybrid is going to share some of its mechanicals with the new Prius. It will be powered by a larger 2.4L engine mated to the hybrid system. Initially the car will use nickel-hydride batteries.

Ford has announced that the all-new 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid will be the first ever hybrid pace car in the NASCAR Sprint Cup.

The 2010 Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Sport will both make their debut at the race. Both vehicles will be camouflaged in NASCAR-inspired camouflage during the race. The Fusion Hybrid will lead the field to the green flag and the Fusion Sport will remain the pace car for the rest of the race.

MINI has confirmed the pricing for the 2009 MINI E at $850 a month for a 1 year lease.

The fully-electric MINI can go up to 150 miles on a full charge. The electric motor puts out 204 horsepower and 162 lb-ft. of torque, which helps the car reach0-60 mph in 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 95 mph.

Although more than 9,500 people have signed up for info about the 2009 MINI E, only 500 will be produced for lease in California, New York and New Jersey. The $850 per month covers all maintenance and replacement parts. The car also comes with a wallbox that allows the battery to be charged in two and a half hours. In order to buy the car you need to have a lockable garage, since the charging system will be located in your garage.

Honda has unveiled the Honda Civic HFP Concept at the SEMA show today.

The HFP Concept takes the standard Civic Si and adds an HFP body kit, super-light alloy wheels with aerodynamic covers a lighter HFP exhaust system and an upgraded HFP suspension kit all of which improve the vehicles gas mileage without compromising its performance.

Honda didn't release final mpg figures for the concept.

Yesterday Ford officially unveiled the new 2010 Ford Fusion with a new face and new engines. Today we have more information about the hybrid versions of the Fusion and Mercury Milan.

The biggest news about the new hybrids is that they will have the ability to reach speeds up to 47 mph on the electric motor alone. The hybrids will also be able to travel up to 8 miles before the gas motor kicks in. Ford calls the two hybrids their most technologically advanced production vehicles ever made.

It's only been a few months since Chrysler introduced the Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen Hybrids, but Chrysler has announced that it is going to stop producing the hybrid SUVs.

Last week Chrysler reported that it is closing its Newark, Delaware factory that produces the Durango and Aspen. Originally Chrysler planned on closing the factory at the end of 2009, but plans have been pushed up to the end of 2008.

Earlier this year Honda's CEO, Takeo Fukui announced that Honda was going to introduce its first four-cylinder diesel in the U.S. in 2009. Many speculated that the Acura TSX would be the first recipient of the new engine. Well now it looks like those plans have been put on hold "indefinitely."

Apparently Honda's 2.2L i-DTEC engine can't pass the strict emission standards in the U.S. when it is mated to an automatic transmission. Honda doesn't use the urea injection system that Mercedes and other automakers use to pass the standards. The 2.2L i-DTEC mated to a manual transmission does pass the emission standards, but Honda does not see a market for a manual only diesel in the U.S.

BMW is working on a new "green" supercar that will be launched by the end of 2012. The new BMW supercar would rival the Audi R8 and upcoming Mercedes SLC.

The new supercar will showcase BMW's EfficientDynamics system, which combines fuel-saving technology such as direct injection, brake energy regeneration and stop-start.

Sources claim that the two-seater will be a modern day M1, which may draw cues from the M1 Hommage Concept that was unveiled earlier this year.

It's rumored that the yet to be named supercar will be powered by BMW's twin-turbocharged, 3.0-liter straight six and will get gas mileage that is equivalent to the 5 Series.

Lexus managing director Tadashi Arashima recently confirmed that the automaker is currently working on a BMW 1 Series competitor that is smaller than the current IS sedan. Although Arashima didn't give any expected launch dates or technical specs for the new baby Lexus, it is expected that it will be rear wheel drive and offer both 4-cyl and V6 engines.

In addition to the new baby Lexus, Lexus is also going to unveil a concept version of a new small hybrid that will be built off the same platform as the next-generation Prius. The new Lexus hybrid will be released by the end of 2009 and will likely feature a larger gas engine than the Prius, either a 2.0L or 2.5L 4-cylinder.

Mazda unveiled the changes to the 2009 MX-5 at the Paris Motor Show. Although the changes were only to the exterior and inside of the roadster, Mazda has some big changes in store for the next-generation MX-5.

According to MX-5 program manager Takao Kijima, Mazda is looking at alternative powertrains for the next model and mazda hopes to cut its overall weight by 10 percent. By alternative powertrains, Kijima is referring to either a diesel or hybrid powered MX-5.

“I would say the chance of a diesel or hybrid engine is more than 50 per cent,” Kijima told Drive.com.au.

The main issue is that a hybrid powertrain would add a lot weight to the MX-5 courtesy of the battery pack. A diesel powertrain would make more sense, since diesels are more fuel efficient than gas powered engines and don't have the significant weight disadvantage that hybrids do. Kijima also stated that the next-generation must have a 50/50 weight distribution, which would be even harder with a hybrid powertrain.

Toyota and Audi recently showed off their iQ and A1 small cars at the Paris Motor Show last week. Originally both automakers had not planned on introducing either car to the US market, but as everyone is now witnessing...small cars are in.

Audi's worldwide sales and marketing boss, Peter Schwarzenbauer recently stated, " A year ago, I would have said no. I did not see any trend in the US which showed me that small cars could have a lasting, sustainable chance. I think this has changed. Therefore we definitely have to reconsider the A1." The hybrid A1 concept is powered by a 1.4L four-cylinder mated to an electric motor.

Mercedes-Benz has already unveiled the S 400 BlueHYBRID, but now comes word that Mercedes is also working on hybrid version of its E and C-Class sedans.

After the S-Class hybrid arrives, the E-Class hybrid will be released in 2010 based on the next-gen sedan. By 2011 a C-Class hybrid will also be released based on the refreshed model.

"We have decided on hybridization on all our cares in the future and so far we have had a lot of questions and excitement, but I don't know how that will translate into a take rate," CEO Dieter Zetxche said at the Paris Motor Show.

Honda has officially unveiled the Honda Insight Concept at the Paris Motor Show. The concept is supposed to give a strong indication of what the production version will look like when it hits showrooms next spring.

Honda has announced that the new hybrid will be powered by a 1.3L engine that will be mated to an electric motor. It's not known how good the gas mileage will be although it is rumored that it will get close to 60 mpg.

The Insight will also feature ultra-light aluminum 18" wheels.

Mercedes-Benz has introduced the S 320 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY which gets up to 31 mpg.

The most fuel-efficient S Class is powered by a 3.0L diesel engine that is mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. The S 320 gets almost 31 US mpg, which is a little better than the S 400 BlueHYBRID which gets up to 28 mpg.

Mercedes has announced the pricing for the S 320 CDI in Germany, but there is no word if the car is going to end up on our shores as well.

VW recently launced the VW Jetta TDI which is legal in all 50 states. A couple recently drove the new Jetta TDI thru 48 states and achieved 58.82 mpg setting a new Guiness World Record.

Helen and John Taylor took off in their new 2009 VW Jetta TDI and drove through 48 states in 20 days, covering 9,419 miles. Their little diesel powered Jetta returned an average 58.82 mpg, which beat the old record of 51.58 mpg. The couple said they were able to achieve that rating by staying within 5 miles of the speed limit. Throughout the whole trip the Jetta TDI only consumed 11 tanks of diesel fuel and traveled 853 miles between fill ups.

When the 2011 Chevy Volt was unveiled last week it was understood that the small 1.4L engine would not recharge the battery for the electric motor, well now it looks like it may.

John Lauckner, GM's VP for Global Program Management claims that the engine in the Volt will indeed send whatever surplus energy it has to the lithium-ion battery. It was originally understood that once the Volt reached 40 miles the battery would become a"paper weight" until the battery could be recharged using a 120 or 240-volt outlet. Although the engine does have the ability to recharge the battery, the engine will never come close to fully charging the battery.

GM has announced plans to invest $370 million in a new manufacturing plant that will build global 4-cylinder engines.

The plant is going to produce the new 1.4L engine for the Chevy Volt and Chevy Cruze small car. Construction of the new plant is expected to start immediately and be completed in 2010. The new plant will create 300 hourly jobs.

Toyota has announced plans to display a CNG-Powered Camry Hybrid Concept at the Los Angeles Auto Show this November.

In 1999, Toyota sold a CNG-powered four-cylinder Camry to fleet customers, but since gas prices were much cheaper than they are now there wasn't much demand for the vehicle. The special refueling techniques and limited refueling infrastructure also hurt the program. Well now Toyota is unveiling a new Camry Hybrid that is powered by CNG. Currently there are 1,000 CNG refueling stations in the country, but less than half are open to the public.

Ford has announced the changes to the 2009 Lincoln Navigator SUV.

First Ford has improved the Navigator's fuel economy to 14 mpg city and 20 mpg highway for 4x2 models. Ford achieved these results by using software to shut off the fuel supply to the engine during deceleration, similar to the 2009 F-150 SFE. The Navigator is powered by a 300 horsepower 5.4L V8 that is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Chrysler has officially unveiled the Chrysler EV, Dodge EV and Jeep EV today, which are Chrysler's answer to the Chevy Volt that was unveiled last week.

Ever since the current Mazda2 was unveiled we've been asking when the car will be available in the US.

Ford has announced today more details about the all-new 2009 F-150 and the new F-150 SFE.

VW recently unveiled the all-new VW Golf aka Rabbit in the US. Know comes word that the diesel version of the new Golf will be offered in the US by this time next year.

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the Mercedes-Benz S 400 BlueHYBRID.

There were rumors a while ago that Toyota was considering a small lineup of Prius branded hybrid vehicles...well it looks like Toyota execs have put the topic back on the table.

GM officially unveiled the 2011 Chevy Volt today during its 100-year celebration. Here are a bunch of videos for your enjoyment.

After weeks of photo leaks, GM has finally unveiled the 2011 Chevy Volt during the automaker's 100-year celebration today.

Toyota has been testing a plug-in version of the popular Prius hybrid in Japan for some time, but now the automaker has announced that testing is going to continue in the UK as well.

Chrysler has announced the changes to the 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans.

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the new 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Prime Edition that is powered by a new four-cylinder diesel engine.

The first official photos of the 2011 Chevy Volt aren't expected until next week to celebrate GM's 100th anniversary, but thanks to The Car Connection we have some shots of the car now.

VW has unveiled the Golf BlueMotion concept that gets an astounding 74.3 mpg (European cycle).

Subaru is going to officially unveil its new Boxer Diesel engine at the Paris Motor Show next month.

Last week we saw our first glimpses of the production version of the Chevy Volt on the set of Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen. GM has released a few teaser photos, but the grainy pics from last week were much better...Now to coincide with GM's 100th anniversary, GM is going to officially unveil their most highly anticipated new model.

Honda has officially unveiled the Honda Insight Concept which is an early look at Honda's newest five-passenger hybrid.

Hyundai has been slightly behind its major competitors with no hybrids in its lineup, but that is soon going to change with a new Sonata hybrid. Hyundai is also going to unveil the Santa Fe Hybrid concept this month at the Paris Motor Show.

Chrysler has been one of the few automakers that have been quiet about their future green offerings. Besides the hybrid Durango and Aspen SUVs there hasn't been really any news stories about what is next for Chrysler...until now.

Honda is going to officially unveil a concept version of its upcoming hybrid tomorrow (Thursday 9/04/08).

Earlier today a photo of the interior of the production Chevy Volt hybrid surfaced and now we have some shots of the car on the set of Transformers 2. What's exciting is that these our are first look at the production version of the car.

GM has slowly been releasing more teaser images of one its most highly anticipated new models, the Chevy Volt plug-in hybrid.

Yesterday reports surfaced that Cadillac is working on a new small 4-cylinder powered sedan and now rumors are circulating that Cadillac may also receive a version of the highly anticipated Chevy Volt plug-in hybrid.

Chrysler's first hybrids, the 2009 Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen two-mode hybrids are going to be in showrooms later this year.

Hyundai's first entry in the rear-wheel-drive luxury segment, the Genesis is just hitting dealerships. Next year Hyundai is also going to launch the Genesis coupe and together Hyundai is hoping to sell 50,000 units combined in the US.

VW has officially announced that the 2009 VW Jetta TDI sedan and SportWagen are now available at your local VW dealer.

GM has released more photos the production version of the upcoming Chevy Volt.

Honda is hard at work on its 5-door hybrid hatchback that is aimed squarely at the Toyota Prius.

Earlier this year GM quietly released the XFE version of the Chevy Cobalt. XFE stands for "Xtra Fuel Economy" and means that vehicles labeled with this tag feature more fuel-saving technologies to save even more gas. GM has announced today that the Cobalt XFE is going to be joined by XFE versions of the Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra, Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon.

Cadillac has announced the pricing for its first hybrid model, the Escalade Hybrid.

Honda is going to take the wraps off its first all-new Hybrid only model since the Insight, this October.

The all-new 2009 Mazda6 will be in showrooms this month, but according to Mazda officials, there are no plans for a hybrid variant.

Those saddened by the fact that most hybrids are no longer eligible for tax credits will be happy to learn that the 2009 VW Jetta TDI will receive a $1,300 Federal Income Tax Credit.

Lately the quick fix for most automakers that are trying to improve their vehicles' fuel-efficiency is to produce smaller engines that are also turbocharged.

Honda as already announced plans for a new stand alone hybrid model that will go head to head with the Toyota Prius, but until now we had not seen what the actual hybrid would look like.

VW's new diesel powered Jetta isn't going to be in dealers until next month, but many VW dealers have already received enough orders to eat up their total 2008 allocation.

Toyota has announced a few production shifts at three of its plants in order to keep up with consumer demand.

Lotus has unveiled the Eco Elise before its official unveiling at the London Motor Show this month.

BMW has announced plans to build 500 electric MINI Coopers for customers residing in California. The program labeled is part of a new division called Project i.

GM's upcoming Chevy Volt is one of the most anticipated new cars especially with these insane gas prices. Well when GM originally unveiled the Volt the automaker boasted that the hybrid would have a 600 mile range...well things have changed.

BMW officially took the wraps off the all-new 2009 7-Series a few days ago. BMW already confirmed as well that there will be a hybrid version of the 7-Series offered next year, but now we have more of the details thanks to CAR.

Automakers have been hit hard this year due to declining sales and those that relied heavily on SUV and truck sales are even worse off, specifically the Big 3. GM has seen its sales drop off drastically since no one wants its many pickups and large SUVs.

Dodge has released some of the details about its 2010 Dodge Ram Hybrid pickup that is going to be in dealerships sometime next year.

Volkswagen has announced the pricing for the much anticipated 2009 VW Jetta TDI.

Chrysler has announced the pricing for the Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen SUV Hybrids, the automaker's first entries in the hybrid category.

Honda has already announced plans to increase its current hybrid lineup, but now Honda's President, Takeo Fukui has released even more info about the upcoming models.

GM has released details on its new 4.5L V8 Duramax turbo-diesel engine that will debut in the 2010 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra light duty trucks.

The current Prius was introduced for the 2004 model year, so its growing a little old even though it is the best selling hybrid in the US, by far. Next January, Toyota is going to unveil an all-new 3rd generation Prius.

Volkswagen has unveiled the Jetta BlueTDI that has been developed specifically for the North American market.

Gas prices are over $4 a gallon in some places in the country, so everyone is finally demanding more fuel efficient models. Couple that with the Bush administration announcement a few days ago about the new fuel economy standards. Now automakers are trying to figure out creative ways to squeeze out even better fuel efficient models. Chevy is hoping to capture some of these fuel-economy minded consumers with an updated Cobalt.

Volkswagen unveiled the Golf TDI Hybrid Concept at the Geneva Auto Show earlier this year. At the show VW execs eluded to the fact that the concept would one day enter production...but it looks like those plans have changed.

Today the Bush Administration announced that by 2015 all automaker's fleets must average 31.6 mpg.

Ford is pledging to reduce its vehicle's emissions by 30% by 2020 in Europe and the U.S.

GM just held a press event for the upcoming Chevy Volt, where those lucky enough to get invited were able to see an actual pre-production Volt dressed up in Malibu sheetmetal and a scale model of what the Volt will look like.

According to GM's Bob Lutz there is a possibility that GM could put GM's 2.0L turbocharged DI 4-cylinder engine in the new Camaro.

Saab has officially unveiled its 9-X BioHybrid Concept in Geneva.

Mazda may be thinking about bringing its well regarded Mazda2 hatchback to the US in the not so distant future.

Photos and some info on VW's new Golf TDI Hybrid Concept have leaked onto the internet a few days before its official unveiling in Geneva.

Audi has unveiled the new TT 2.0 TDI quattro which is available in both the coupe and roadster.

BMW has officially taken the wraps off of its new Vision EfficientDynamics Concept that is going to have its world premiere at the Geneva Auto Show.

Honda officially unveiled the Honda CR-Z Concept at the Tokyo Auto Show last fall. The car that has been labeled by many as the spiritual successor to the Honda CR-X is going to enter production by the end of 2009.

According to the latest report by CNW Marketing Research, consumers prefer heated seats and cup holders over fuel economy.

The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) has named the Honda Civic GX natural gas car as the greenest vehicle in 2008, for the fifth consecutive year.

GM has officially unveiled the 2009 Sierra Hybrid, which is essentially the same thing as the Chevy Silverado Hybrid.

Although the Detroit Auto Show may be over, Ford has decided to unveil new versions of its Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner SUVs for the 2009 model year.

Mitsubishi used today's Detroit Auto Show to officially unveil the Mitsubishi Concept-RA.

Ford is going to unveil its newest engine technology at the Detroit Auto Show this month.

GM has unveiled the second hybrid version of its Saturn Vue SUV with two-mode hybrid technology.

It is being rumored that Audi is going to bring a V12 turbodiesel R8 to the Detroit Auto Show this month.

Diesels are quickly becoming one of the more popular news stories, with almost every automaker talking about their upcoming diesel powered vehicles. BMW has just released info about their upcoming diesel powered 3-series and X5 models for the U.S. market.

According to sources at the LA Auto Show the upcoming Chevy Volt will not look like the concept.

Honda has unveiled the FCX Clarity fuel cell car at the LA Auto Show.

GM's new 2-mode hybrid system has already been revealed in the Cadillac Escalade and Chevy Tahoe SUVs and now it is making its way into the Silverado pickup.

2009 is going to go down in the history books as the year that diesels finally returned to the US. Volkswagen is going to be one of the first automakers to bring their clean diesels to this side of the Atlantic, but that introduction has been delayed.

The Truth About Cars has decided to break GM's embargo on the new Cadillac Escalade Hybrid.

Chevrolet's all-new 2008 Malibu is just now hitting your local Chevy dealers. GM has high hopes for the Malibu, as the new sedan is one of their most important new releases for the 2008 model year.

Honda is going to be one of the first automakers to bring a hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle to market. Next month the automaker plans on unveiling a production version of the FCX concept car.

According to Honda's top powertrain engineer, Kenichi Nagahiro, Honda is working on a diesel powertrain for its beloved Civic Type R.

Honda is going to officially unveil the hybrid powered CR-Z concept at the Tokyo Auto Show this week (photos were unveiled two weeks ago). Now it is being rumored that Honda is going to put the vehicle into production in the next few years.

One of the most important new vehicles this year for GM is the all-new Chevrolet Malibu.

BMW seems to think so. BMW is hoping that the rising fuel prices in the US will lead to more sales of its upcoming 1-Series coupe and convertible that will be on sale early next year.

Mercedes has unveiled the new E320 Bluetec diesel sedan in California. It is the first diesel powered vehicle to meet the California's strict diesel emissions standards.

GM has announced the pricing for the second generation Saturn Vue Green Line hybrid. The first of three different Vue hybrids is going to start at $24,795, which makes it the cheapest hybrid SUV on the market.

Honda has unveiled the CR-Z Concept that stands for "Compact Renaissance Zero". Although it's hard to not notice how much it looks like a modern day or future Honda CR-X.

Lexus plans on unveiling two "LF" branded models at the Tokyo Auto Show, the LF-A supercar and this LF-Xh Hybrid SUV Concept.

Toyota's 1/X Concept car is actually pronounced "one-Xth" since it weighs 1/Xth the weight of other similar sized models.

It seems that the US always gets screwed compared to the models that Europe and Japan get. This includes diesel vehicles which are finally starting to make a comeback here. By 2009 many of the world's largest automakers will start selling their "clean" diesels in the US and you can now add BMW to that growing list.

Every automaker is going "green" these days. The growing popularity of hybrids and the emergence of clean diesels in the next few years is going to make going "green" even more viable.

GM has been talking about their upcoming full-size SUV hybrids for a while now and there has been lots of speculation about how great they will be.

We all should remember the Ford Escort that was very popular in the 1980's. The "World Car" actually saved Ford in its early days, but as the 90's set in it quickly became unpopular and died by the new millennium.

Bentley's sales have continued to be strong over the past few years thanks to models like the Continental GT Coupe. Although the automaker has successfully managed to outsell Maybach and Rolls Royce it is looking towards the future.

According to Ulrich Hackenberg, head of product development at Volkswagen all future VW models are going to have either a mild or full hybrid option.

Thanks to the popular Toyota Prius, hybrid sales through July are up 49 percent over the same period last year.

As I was fishing the internet this morning I came across this banner that is advertising $1,500 cash back on the new 2007 Nissan Altima Hybrid. I was shocked and immediately thought it was a mistake, but after a visit to Nissan's website the deal is confirmed.

Unlike most automakers who are focusing on hybrid technology to improve the gas mileage of their vehicles, Nissan has pledged to build a high-mileage car without hybrid technology.

GM has been talking about their Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid for sometime, but the first plug-in from GM could be a Saturn Vue. According to Jill Lajdziak, brand general manager, the Vue will be the automaker's first plug-in hybrid and will be capable of traveling 10 miles on a single charge.

It seems like every automaker is jumping on the "green" bandwagon. Chrysler has announced the creation of a new engineering division that is specifically focused on hybrids and electric vehicles.

It is widely known that Honda who first brought the "hybrid" to the US has failed to win over as many hearts as the Toyota Prius. Sales of the Toyota Prius have far outsold Honda's current hybrid lineup. Well Honda hopes to change that in 2010.

Toyota has already announced that the next generation Toyota Prius is going to be delayed until sometime in 2009, but now spy photographers have caught the hybrid with a new front end.

Honda was the first automaker to launch a hybrid powered vehicle in the US with the Insight in 1999. Even though Honda managed to beat the Toyota Prius to market, the automaker has continued to lose market share in the hybrid segment.

Volvo is going to unveil its new C30 Efficiency car next month at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The car only consumes 4.5L of fuel per every 100 kilometers (52.26 mpg).

Volkswagen is going to unveil a new more fuel-efficient Golf at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month. The all-new Golf will only use 4.5L of diesel fuel per 100km, which translates to 52mpg in the US.

Chrysler has announced that the automaker will start producing light-duty diesel pickups after 2009. Chrysler is expecting that the diesels will average about 30 percent better fuel economy than the regular gas powered versions.

Last month the IRS announced that the hydrogen-powered Honda FCX fuel cell vehicle was eligible for the Qualified Fuel Cell Motor Vehicle Credit program. The credit is part of the federal Energy Policy Act of 2005, which seeks to promote affordable, dependable and environmentally-sound production and distribution of energy for America's future.

Honda has been making headlines lately due to its upcoming diesel engines that will first be offered in the all-new Accord (US). Acura on the other hand has remained quiet. Currently Acura does not have a hybrid or a diesel in its lineup to attract the "green" shoppers and to remain competitive with its competitors.

According to AutoTelegraaff Audi is going to release the Q7 V12 TDI in the second half of 2008. The V12 version of the Q7 packs 500 horsepower and propels the large SUV from 0-60 in 5.5 seconds.

VW has officially announced today that the automaker is going to end its current Bluetec relationship with Mercedes. Instead of badging their vehicles with the Bluetec labels, Volkswagen is going to return to the familiar TDI badging that the automaker has used in the past.

Toyota has announced the pricing for the 2008 Toyota Prius, which now has a lower starting price than the 2007 model. This is due to the introduction of a new standard model that will start at $20,950.

Toyota has just announced that they have developed a plug-in hybrid vehicle and that the automaker will become the first automaker to have it certified for use in Japan.

Porsche and Volkswagen have teamed up to develop a new hybrid powertrain that will be available as an option in the next-generation Porsche Cayenne SUV and the upcoming Porsche Panamera four-door coupe.

The Honda Fit/ Jazz subcompact has been a hit for Honda. The automaker just announced that the Honda has sold 2 million units of the current model, which came out in 2001. Honda CEO Takeo Fukui has confirmed that the next generation Fit/Jazz will be unveiled this fall. Sales of the new car will start in Japan this fall and in the U.S. soon after.

GM, Honda and VW and many other automakers have been discussing the futures of diesels in the US a lot lately. Last week GM's Bob Lutz went on camera to discuss the future of GM diesels. He stated that the first diesels will be under the hoods of Cadillacs and Saturns. Well now the automaker has decided to expand its diesel capacity by buying a 50 percent stake in VM Motori S.p.A, an Italian diesel maker.

Ford's Mustang isn't usually on the top of the list of most eco-friendly vehicles, but it may move a little higher in 2008. Ford is going to be the first automaker to use soy based foam in the 2008 Ford Mustang's seats.

Recently US Presidential candidate Barack Obama was criticized for lecturing automakers about their gas-guzzling vehicles. At the same time he owned a Hemi-powered Chrysler 300C, which to some people seemed a little hypocritical.

GM has confirmed plans to release diesel engines in Cadillac and Saturn cars by 2010. Vice Chairman Bob Lutz discusses his take on diesel engines and their future in the US in his video blog.

Hybrid Technologies has started production on the all-lithium electric MINI Cooper. The electric version of the popular MINI has been in development for the past two years. This version of the MINI uses Hybrid Tech's own proprietary advanced lithium management and battery-balancing system to propel the car.

Two weeks ago Ford announced that the automaker is going to develop engines with twin turbochargers that will improve power and fuel economy (TwinForce). The first car to feature the new technology will be the 2009 Lincoln MKS sedan.

The return of the much loved Honda CRX has been rumored for years. Earlier this year rumors circulated that Honda is working on a new CRX that will be based on the Fit platform. Now according to Winding Road, the next CRX is going to be a hybrid.

Honda remains committed to being one of the most fuel efficient automakers. According to recent reports by Japan's Nikkei, Honda is planning on releasing its first V6 diesel engine in the US by 2010. Honda has already announced plans for a diesel powered Accord for 2009, but now the automaker is also working on a diesel engine for its larger models.

Allan Mulally, Ford's CEO stated yesterday that Ford is predicting that they will have plug-in hybrids on their showroom floors within 5 to 10 years.

It seems like diesels are constantly in the headlines now. Honda has been making headlines with its upcoming Accord diesel that will be out next year. Well VW is also planning a release of an eco-friendly gas-saving diesel next March.

GM has unveiled the hybrid version of its upcoming 2008 Chevy Malibu sedan. The sedan will look exactly like the non-hybrid version and will be powered by a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission.

With the consistently rising gas prices many consumers have been flocking to hybrid powered vehicles, only to later find out that they do not achieve the same gas mileage as the window sticker states. This has been a major problem and will hopefully change with the new 2008 EPA changes.

Land Rover may produce a new smaller vehicle in order to reduce its fleet average carbon-dioxide emissions. In order to improve their "green rating" Land Rover CEO Geoff Polites told the Financial Times that the automaker is working on improving their current drivetrains by reducing their weight and upgrading their engine management systems.

According to Automotive News Ford is going to install two turbochargers on its 4-cylinder, V6 and V8 engines to increase fuel economy and power.

Lexus has announced plans for a dedicated hybrid model for the UK and Japanese markets. The hybrid will be Lexus' most affordable hybrid and will be priced between the IS and RX 400h SUV.

According to the Associated Press, Toyota is planning on releasing a second dedicated brand of hybrid vehicles in 2009. Toyota's initial plans are to sell a 100,000 of these new vehicles around the world.

Cadillac's gas-guzzling SUV is about to get gas-saving technology that will hopefully help improve its image. Spy photographers have caught the upcoming hybrid version testing in Nevada. Unlike the upcoming Tahoe and Yukon hybrids, the Escalade will not get specific styling to differentiate it from the regular gas powered version.

It is rumored that Mercedes-Benz is going to unveil up to 18 different "green" vehicles this fall at the Frankfurt Motor Show. This will include a range of diesels, hybrids, Bluetec-diesels and fuel-cell vehicles. Mercedes already provided some of the details on a new S-class hybrid that will also feature a Bluetec-diesel, that will be out by the end of the decade.

With gas prices at near record levels, consumers continue to flock towards more economical and environmentally friendly vehicles, such as hybrids or the new diesel powered vehicles. HUMMER currently does not offer a hybrid or diesel powertrain in its lineup, which has hurt their image. Currently HUMMERs are seen as gas-guzzling, over-sized machines.

GM is going to build a new range of diesel in engines in 2009. The new 4.5L V8 will have class leading torque, power and refinement. According to GM, the new Duramax turbo-diesel will boost efficiency by 25 percent, while cutting carbon dioxide emissions by 13 percent and nitrogen oxide emissions by 90 percent.

Toyota is going to postpone the launch of the next-generation Toyota Prius to Spring 2009. The original intro date was supposed to be fall 2008, but due to battery issues the car is being delayed.

Just in time for the summer driving season Hertz and Avis have announced that they will be adding Toyota Prius hybrid cars to their rental car fleets.

According to Dr Bernd Bohr, chairman of automotive component company Bosch, 20% of all new cars sold by 2015 will have the new start-stop technology. The technology turns off the engine when the car comes to a stop at stoplights or in traffic. This new technology will reduce emissions and increase the fuel-economy of vehicles equipped with the technology.

Ford is planning on expanding their range of hybrid vehicles beyond the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner SUVs, but the automaker is having engineering issues with a new generation of rechargeable electric cars.

Honda has already announced that the automaker will have a new diesel powered Accord in the US by 2009. Now Honda has announced that they are hoping to be able to launch their low-pollution, fuel-efficient diesel powered vehicles in Japan within the next few years.

Lately it seems that hybrids get all the attention for being fuel-efficient, but there are a handful of non-hybrid cars that get close to the same levels as the hybrids. In the US this list is dominated by Honda, Toyota and Nissan. Only one European model made the list, the MINI. The big question is: Why aren't there any models from Ford, GM or Chrysler on this list?

Ok, as ridiculous as that headline sounds, it is true. There is a proposal to the European Parliament that is calling for a ban on making cars that are capable of reaching speeds faster than 101mph.

According a new study by the Civil Society Institute, 76 percent of Americans favor drastic changes to the current fuel-economy standards. 3/4 of the U.S. population is in favor of a 40 miles-per-gallon standard by 2010 rather than waiting until 2018.

Brad Pitt showed up to the premiere of his new movie, Ocean's 13 in a BMW Hydrogen 7 yesterday. Most of the onlookers at Grauman's Chinese Theater probably didn't even notice, since the car looks just like the regular BMW 7-Series.

It has already been confirmed that Honda is going to replace its slow selling Accord Hybrid V6 with a new diesel powered Accord in 2009. The new engine will be based on Honda's 2.2L i-CTDi engine. Honda claims that the new Accord Diesel will be able to achieve over 60 mpg.

Many of you may remember the Jetta Trek or the Golf K2 from the 90's that came with a bike or a snowboard. Well VW is doing it again with the current Rabbit. Chicago (U.S.) Rabbit buyers are getting a bike and a roof rack in addition to their new Rabbits. The dealers in Chicago are trying to encourage drivers to use bikes for short/quick distances.

At this year's Geneva Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz stated that they would have their first hybrid on the market by 2009. Well according to sources the car is in the production phase and is going to feature a Bluetec diesel engine mated to a mild-hybrid system.

According to Car and Driver, there are sources that are claiming that Audi is working on a diesel version of its new supercar. Obviously the diesel version of the car isn't going to be built for increased fuel-efficiency, but instead for the perfromance.

Every week there are more spy photos of the new 2008 Honda Accord Sedan and Coupe. (Edmunds) This time the V6 Accord Sedan has been caught during testing. The difference between this sedan and the earlier ones is the dual tailpipes. A glimpse of the interior has also shown up.

Well apparently you can buy a new solar panel kit for your Prius that will save you even more gas! Solar Electrical Vehicles (SEV) has created a solar panel kit for the current Prius that will allow the car to travel up to 20 miles on the battery alone.

According to Japan's newspaper, Nikkan Kogyo Toyota is delaying the use of lithium-ion batteries in the next generation Prius because of safety concerns.

This fall BMW is going to launch many changes to the current MINI lineup that will result in increased fuel-efficiency across all models. The changes will result in increased engine performance and fuel efficiency all without the use of hybrid technology or alternative fuels.

According to a new report by Ricardo and UBS, diesel powered cars will outsell hybrids by 2012. Right now diesel cars barely register on the radar in the US, but in the next few years many automakers will offer diesel versions of their popular vehicles.

Everyday there are news stories about record gas prices in the U.S. Consumers are constantly complaining and overall consumer spending has been hurt by the high gas prices. Analysts and politicians continue to debate on possible solutions to the problem. Lately it seems that arguments for extra taxes are consistently on the table. Now comes an argument that the US should raise gas taxes to the same as Europeans, which would possibly help American consumers.

Yesterday was a historic day for General Motors, their Chevy Sequel was the first fuel-cell vehicle to travel 300 miles on a single tank of hydrogen. The 300 mile trip traveled in and out of cities in New York. The drive began at GM’s Fuel Cell Activity Center in Honeoye Falls and ended in Tarrytown, N.Y.

Larry Burns, GM Vice President of research and development and strategic planning announced that GM will likely have a fuel-cell vehicle in showrooms by 2012.

Toyota is currently the leader in hybrid sales and they intend to stay that way. Last year the automaker sold 313,000 hybrids and this year they are expected to sell 430,000. Increased pressure from competitors and new diesel technology is forcing the automaker to find ways to cut costs. Toyota hopes to make as much money on hybrids as they do from conventional cars by the end of the decade.

Honda has announced that it will put its new fuel-cell vehicle into production next year. The automaker is also working on another hybrid vehicle that will be cheaper and smaller than the current Civic Hybrid.

According to Automobile, the Toyota FT-HS is going to be released in 2009. The hybrid sports car has been given the green light.

Toyota recently unveiled the Hybrid X Concept at the Geneva Auto Show. The familiar shape of the concept car lead many people to believe that it was a preview of the next generation Prius. According to Automobile Magazine and Toyota insiders Toyota is going to offer three versions of the next generation Prius.

Since the concept version of the Chevrolet Volt was unveiled earlier this year, GM has been working hard on the production model. The project which is going to cost the automaker at least $500 million is as top of a priority as the new 2008 Chevy Malibu.

According to the Detroit Free Press, a proposal has been created to give automakers until 2020 to raise the fuel efficiency of their vehicles. By 2020 automakers in the U.S. would be required to raise the average fuel economy of their cars and trucks to 35 mpg.

Audi has unveiled their new Audi A4 1.9 TDI e. The car features a 115 horsepower engine and is capable of using only 5.3L of diesel fuel per 100km, which translates to 44mpg, when the car is equipped with the six-speed manual.

Chrysler has announced that there will be a hybrid version of the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango on the market in 2008. The SUVs will feature a Two-Mode hybrid system that was developed with GM and BMW, coupled with a 5.7L V8 HEMI engine with cylinder deactivation.

Apparently Honda is having this exact dilemma in Canada. New Canadian regulations have been imposed that give buyers of fuel-efficient vehicles a $1,000 rebate. If the vehicle falls below the fuel-economy threshold of 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers, the car is eligible for the rebate.

It seems like every week there is a new story about the current gas issue. Well now comes word that a legislator in California, US is proposing that the state should tax gas guzzling vehicles. The higher taxes on the gas-guzzling vehicles would then go to those people that buy fuel-efficient vehicles like the Toyota Prius.

Following the announcements made by President Bush to raise corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standards, Vice Chairman of GM, Bob Lutz has announced that the company is going to have to put their RWD cars on hold.

Lexus has just released the pricing for its newest hybrid, the 2008 Lexus LS 600h L Hybrid. The car is going to have a base price of $104,750, which is much higher than the $71,715 base price of the non-hybrid version.

According to an article on Leftlane News it looks like gas prices will be over $4 a gallon in the U.S. this summer.

According to GM Vice President Bob Lutz, President Bush's proposed fuel efficiency increases could raise car prices by as much as $5,000.

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) has named Honda as "2007 Greenest Automaker". The group ranks automakers U.S. auto fleet by overall performance of smog-forming emissions and greenhouse gas emissions. This is the fourth consecutive time that Honda has won the title of "greenest automaker"

According to a story on USA Today, Californians seem willing to pay as much as $4,000 more for a hybrid vehicle with the state issued carpool stickers than for hybrids that don't have it.

According to an article posted on The Recorder Online by Chris Demorro, the Toyota Prius, the most popular hybrid is not actually that efficient. "Their ultimate 'green car' is the source of some of the worst pollution in North America; it takes more combined energy per Prius to produce than a Hummer."

Saturn has announced today that the 2007 Saturn Aura Green Line hybrid will be the lowest-priced hybrid on the market, starting at $22,695. The car also qualifies for a $1,300 tax credit from the IRS.

Toyota is going to release a 2007 Camry Hybrid 50th Anniversary Edition, that will list for $31,680. The car is meant to commemorate Toyota's 50 years of business in the US. They are only planning on producing 3000 of these cars.