Mitsubishi companies launch smart grid demonstration system using EVs and used battery packs

Mitsubishi Corporation (MC), Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (Mitsubishi Electric) have completed the development and begun the operation of M-tech Labo, a smart grid demonstration system consisting of a 20 kW photovoltaic system, 5 electrically-dischargeable electric vehicles (EVs) and 80 kWh of used rechargeable batteries collected from EVs.

The purpose of this project is to demonstrate load shifting by charging at night when demand is low, storing power produced from renewable sources in rechargeable batteries, and supplying such power back to the grid when factory facilities and offices face peak demand.

MC, MMC and Mitsubishi Electric also expect that utilizing EV batteries and used rechargeable batteries, instead of expensive, dedicated batteries, will lower costs while promoting the environmental-benefits of renewable energy and EVs.

Tokyo Institute of Technology is playing an advisory role for the project. This demonstration project is part of the KEIHANNA Eco-City Next-Generation Energy and Social Systems Demonstration Project, one of the four smart grid initiatives authorized by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Project targets for this fiscal year include:

Reduction of electricity fluctuation at the Administration Building of MMC’s Nagoya Plant by utilizing electricity from M-tech Labo at a maximum power of 50 kW (Target: 33% reduction of the 180 kW fluctuation range).

Validation of EIS (Electric vehicle Integration System) which aggregates data and information of available dischargeable capacity and hours of each EV while still allowing the EV to be used as a mean of transportation.

The three companies will collaborate in project implementation and application of knowledge obtained. The primary roles of each company are:

MC: Study of electricity-related business utilizing of rechargeable EV batteries and used rechargeable batteries.

MMC: Research on the effect of discharging and charging on EVs, and on the necessary information and data from EVs.

Mitsubishi Electric: Validation of a system that can effectively utilize rechargeable EV batteries and used rechargeable batteries.

Vauxhall Mokka (2013)

CAR GARAGE | Vauxhall Mokka (2013) | The Vauxhall Mokka blends high functionality with a comfortable seating position. The offer comprises a petrol 115PS, 1.6-liter naturally-aspirated engine or a 1.4-liter Turbo 140PS with 200Nm of torque. In Addition to a generous cargo volume, the Mokka offers the fully integrated, latest generation bicycle carrier Flex-Fix That Is exclusive to Vauxhall. Muscular and attractive, the Mokka incorporates Vauxhall's signature 'blade' on the body side, sweeping towards the rear.

The new Vauxhall Mokka will be available in the Front-Wheel and All-Wheel Drive. The All-Wheel Drive System ensures a high level of stability and safety, extending Mokka's capabilities to more rugged environments. When handling and traction are put to the test, the system automatically and seamlessly transfers power to the rear wheels. Standard features enhance the driving experience That across all models include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control (TC) as well as Hill Start Assist (HAS) and Hill Descent Control (HDC) systems - the which improve driving comfort and safety in Uphill or downhill terrain. The Vauxhall Mokka brings cutting-edge technologies to the upmarket SUV B-segment. The new generation Vauxhall front camera system is also available, giving the driver access to a number of functions Including Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Forward Collision Alert (FCA) and second-generation Traffic Sign Recognition.

Vauxhall Zafira Tourer (2012)

CAR GARAGE | Vauxhall Zafira Tourer (2012) | In conjunction with the GTC's sophisticated HiPerStrut (High Performance Strut), the LSD provides the Vauxhall Astra VXR with exceptional traction and lateral grip through bends. Hot on the heels of the Astra GTC, these are the first official pics of the new Vauxhall Astra VXR, the which goes on sale in 2012 and is set to Become one of the most powerful cars in its class and the fastest production Astra in Vauxhall's history .

Further changes to the chassis include brakes developed by competition supplier, Brembo, and the standard fitment of Vauxhall's FlexRide fully adaptive system. In the Vauxhall Astra VXR, FlexRide features not only a Sport button, but a VXR button, offering drivers the choice of two, more focused stages of the damper, throttle and steering control. Inside, the VXR's cabin gets seats Bespoke performance with embossed logos in the Backs, a flat-bottomed VXR steering wheel and upgraded instruments.

Vauxhall Zafira Tourer (2012)

CAR GARAGE | Vauxhall Zafira Tourer (2012) | While the Vauxhall Zafira Tourer will continue to use Flex7 seating, the which set new standards for integration seven-seat Zafira in the original 1999, the system has evolved radically in the new car to offer even Greater levels of flexibility, innovation and comfort. Improved material quality, more cabin space and an overwhelmingly airy cabin further define the Vauxhall Zafira Tourer from its compact Zafira MPV sibling. The Vauxhall Zafira Tourer will also hold great driver appeal. Vauxhall's acclaimed Flex Ride adaptive damping system - a rarity in this class - will also be available as an option. A great emphasis has been placed on safety in the Vauxhall Zafira Tourer, with a plethora of driver-assist systems making a first appearance in the new model. The Vauxhall Zafira Tourer will receive its world debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show (Sept. 15-25).

Compared with the current Zafira, the Tourer's wheelbase and tracks have all grown substantially, improving both the ride and stability of the car. The wheelbase is now 2760mm (+57 mm), while the tracks are 1584mm at the front (+96 mm) and 1588mm in the rear (+78 mm). The Vauxhall Zafira Tourer takes its front axle from the European Car of the Year-winning Insignia, the which means an isolated sub-frame and MacPherson struts. The compound crank / Watt 's link combination suits this type of vehicle well, offering excellent space efficiency, light weight and high levels of stability / control. Enhancing the base chassis' dynamic prowess will be the option of Vauxhall's FlexRide adaptive damping system, a rarity in the MPV class.

When Vauxhall Zafira Tourer unveiled the concept at Geneva, Mark Adams - Vauxhall / Opel 's Vice President of Design - pronounced it a "lounge on wheels", combining luxury with high degrees of flexibility and spaciousness. This principle has been retained for the production car. As with other models, the headlights feature Vauxhall's wing-shaped daytime running light graphic. The streamlined, aerodynamic design of the Vauxhall Zafira Tourer features a belt line sweeps upwards and visually That propels the vehicle forward, while the Vauxhall 'blade' sculpts and adds motion to the body-side. A horizontal bar carrying the Vauxhall logo extends into the light elements, giving the Vauxhall Zafira Tourer a broad, sporty look at the rear. Visibility has been improved thanks to a completely re-designed front layout, with slim A-pillars, large side windows and re-positioned door mirrors (now fixed directly to the door panel).

While the Vauxhall Zafira Tourer retains the basic concept of Flex7, it's made significant improvements in the way it functions. Thanks to a clever folding mechanism (available on Certain models), the back of the middle seat now folds forward and rotates, providing occupants in the outer seats with individual armrests. So configured, the outer seats can move fore and AFT through 280mm (+80 mm compared with the current Zafira) and also move by 50 millimeters towards the center of the car, giving passengers improved shoulder and elbow room, and the feeling of limousine-levels of space and comfort. The Vauxhall Zafira Tourer's load volumes have also Increased over the existing Zafira. In five-seat mode, the luggage area can now hold up to 710 liters (up 65 liters versus current Zafira), and up to 1860 liters (+40 litres) when all rear seats are folded.

Vauxhall Astra GTC (2012)

CAR GARAGE | Vauxhall Astra GTC (2012) | We wanted the Astra GTC to be the ultimate expression of Vauxhall's design language, and to embody our passion for the bike car," said Mark Adams, Vice President of Vauxhall / Opel design.  In profile, Mark and his team - a significant number of whom are fellow Brits - created tension in the GTC's shape by minimizing the lines running along the body. At the front of the car, a cent reline crease is complemented by slim, 'eagle-eye'-style headlamps featuring the wing-shaped daytime running light graphics.

Equally dramatic is the GTC's rear treatment. Its powerful shoulder section Gives the car imposing proportions and a purposeful road presence. Rear LED lighting - GTC optional across the range - highlights the stretched 'wing' motif created by the tail lamps. The Vauxhall Astra GTC has a Cd figure of just 0:33. For the first time on a Vauxhall coupe in this class, 20-inch rims are available as an option on SRI models, 19-inch wheels with a further cost option on both trims. On the upper-spec models SRI, tinted glass is standard, while the latest generation AFL (Adaptive Forward Lighting) is optional across the range GTC.

Strong performance and flexibility are the core strengths of this engine, the which is available with either 120PS or 140PS power outputs. Torque generation is even more impressive, with 200Nm available in both engines from just 1.850 rpm to 4.900 rpm, translating to a 0-60mph acceleration time of 9.0 seconds (140PS) or 10.2 seconds (120PS). Air-to-air inter cooling increases the intake charge density. The adoption of a reinforced steel crankshaft with pistons and con-rods allows the use of a Relatively high 9.5: 1 compression ratio, Despite higher stresses and loads. Under-skirt piston cooling oil jets and exhaust valves are sodium filled with further measures to Ensure durability under higher internal temperatures. All 1.4 Turbo models come equipped as standard with Start / Stop, Helping Them Achieve competitively low emissions of Between 140-142g/km, depending upon wheels / tires fitted. The most powerful engine in the Vauxhall Astra GTC's line-up Produces 180PS and achieves a specific output of just over 100ps per liter. A map-based thermostat control raises the coolant temperature at low engine speeds, or under light loads, to help internal lubricant friction Reduced fuel consumption and improve.

Much of the development centered around the introduction to the GTC of Vauxhall's HiPerStrut, a first for an Astra model. Adding the HiPerStrut has also reduced the amount of camber change on the GTC's front wheels during cornering, improving grip. Steering feel is enhanced, too, helped by a reduction the steering system's friction levels. The current Astra Hatch has always handled exceptionally well," said Michael Harder, Vehicle Dynamics Supervisor at Opel. "But with the GTC, we've raised the bar still further.

Vauxhall Ampera (2012)

CAR GARAGE | Vauxhall Ampera (2012) | Electricity drives the Vauxhall Ampera's wheels at all times and speeds. For trips up to around 40-miles, power is supplied by the electricity stored in the 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery. While driving on electricity delivered by the battery, the Vauxhall Ampera emits zero CO2. When the battery's energy is depleted, a petrol or E85-fuelled engine-generator seamlessly provides electricity to power the electric drive unit while simultaneously sustaining the charge of the battery.

Unlike a conventional battery-electric vehicle, the Vauxhall Ampera eliminates "range anxiety," giving the confidence and peace of mind That the driver will not be stranded by a depleted battery. "Advanced lithium-ion battery technology is the key to getting the Vauxhall Ampera into the hands of consumers", said Hans Demant, GME vice president of engineering. The Vauxhall Ampera will be well-suited to the daily driving schedule of most customers. Based on current fuel prices, Vauxhall Vauxhall Ampera Predicts That the will cost roughly one-fifth of the current cost per mile of an equivalent petrol engined car.

Volt and Ampera selling relatively well

As the dust settles from the batterygate debacle that GM hopes to relegate to forgotten history, U.S. Volt sales jumped to 1,023 last month, and in Europe, they cannot get enough a good thing in the form of an imported from U.S. Ampera.

Volt sales in this year’s 29 days of February leaped above weak January numbers of 603 Volts that GM executives have said were low because of bad press, not to mention January is normally a slow month anyway.

This month, the E-REV outsold the Nissan Leaf – side note: why do we compare the Volt to this car? Because they are both two different approaches to electrification? What ever the case, since we’ve done it since they both launched, we’ll keep the tradition going and mention the Leaf sold only 478 units, a decline from 676 sold in January, and 954 in December. Nissan has nonetheless said it hopes this year to double the 9,700 Leafs sold in 2011.

And speaking of goals, GM has abandoned its long-standing 2012 North American sales target of 45,000 units, and as it had begun hinting a while back, will match “supply to demand.”

UPDATE (3/2/12):

As the line above says, we knew GM would curtail supply, but more specifically, today GM said it is halting production of the Chevrolet Volt for five weeks as it works to sell down its existing inventory.

“We have more than enough to meet our demand,” said GM spokeswoman Michelle Malcho.

As part of the shut-down, GM will temporarily lay off 1,300 workers at its Detroit-Hamtramck plant.

###

While we expect critics – including those who for some reason lurk around GM-Volt, and who are being watched for the attitude they project – may pounce on the above statement, GM has said it is still working on rebuilding its damaged image.

It bears repeating because it is true: The Volt’s reputation was damaged following fictional reports of Volt batteries “exploding” and other extravagant tales. I’m still asked by people about the alleged big fire risk. The misinformation was willfully spread, it didn’t happen in a day, and its reversal won’t either.

But over in Europe, news is a bit brighter for the Volt’s cousin. They are only doling out perhaps one-quarter the U.S. number of E-Revs, and if GM will extend its policy of matching supply with demand, it should probably think about increasing the Euro allocation.

Ampera

There had been reports not many weeks ago that General Motors was holding back European deliveries of the Opel Ampera until issues in North America surrounding its sister vehicle, the Chevrolet Volt, were resolved.

Since the reports of a federal investigation into battery safety were properly settled, last week Opel announced customer deliveries have begun of the extended-range electric vehicle.

The company says it is approaching 6,000 European orders, is well on the way toward its (conservative first-year) sales goals, and is taking sales away from premium brands.

“Our first deliveries are running smoothly and I’m pleased to confirm that our sales target of 10,000 units for 2012 is on track,” said Enno Fuchs, Opel’s e-mobility launch director. “We’re very happy that our European customers can now drive our revolutionary Ampera.”

Opel is apparently also happy that sales of the Ampera represent a “premium brand conquest” as clients transfer loyalties to the American-produced, environmentally friendly vehicle.

“The majority of Ampera retail customers previously owned top premium brand cars and are making the switch to the Ampera and Opel because they want to be the first to use such cutting-edge technology,” Opel said.

A similar phenomenon occurred last year among high per-capita earning first adopters of the Volt in the U.S., but in Europe, Opel notes the majority of Ampera clients have been fleet or business customers.

Last August, Opel chief Nick Reilly said he was already hoping to be allowed to import more than only 10,000 units in 2012, and that around 75 percent of Ampera pre-order customers were fleet buyers. This latter assertion Opel reiterated this month, mentioning some of its top fleet accounts.

“These include big names such as Lease Plan, ALD and Europcar,” Opel said. “A number of big global brands have placed orders and further showcase their environmental commitment by having Amperas in their fleet.”

For now the vehicles are being imported from GM’s Detroit-Hamtramck plant, although if success continues, GM is looking to produce Opel and similar Vauxhall-badged Amperas and Chevy Volts closer to their point of consumption.

Source: GM-Volt.com

Vauxhall Astra VXR Wallpapers

Hi car wallpapers again , this is our third post about sport car pictures.

Now I will explain a sport car to you , It is Vauxhall Astra VXR.

New Vauxhall Insignia BiTurbo with 195HP Diesel Returns 57.6mpg UK

A new and more powerful four-cylinder diesel engine has landed under the hood of the Vauxhall Insignia (sold under the Opel nameplate in the rest of Europe and as the Buick Regal in North America). The 2.0-liter unit delivers an output of 195PS (198bhp) at 4,000 rpm and a healthy peak torque of 400Nm (295 lb-ft) between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. .

New Vauxhall Insignia BiTurbo with 195HP Diesel Returns 57.6mpg UK

A new and more powerful four-cylinder diesel engine has landed under the hood of the Vauxhall Insignia (sold under the Opel nameplate in the rest of Europe and as the Buick Regal in North America). The 2.0-liter unit delivers an output of 195PS (198bhp) at 4,000 rpm and a healthy peak torque of 400Nm (295 lb-ft) between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. .

2011 Vauxhall Corsa VXR Blue Color

2011 Vauxhall Corsa VXR Blue Color Turing

Na ', terwyl die yster warm is "dat die ou sê: Opel Corsa OPC bygevoeg Blue begin Edition deur aantreklike prestasie model die nuwe look (facelift), Opel Corsa-reeks. Die pakket sluit 'n paar kosmetiese veranderings, 'n nuwe verf werk en ekstra kit toegerus.

2011 Vauxhall Corsa VXR Interuor

The blue edition's main selling point is the special Arden Blue Metallic paint. There is not anything to write home, but it should be sufficient for the hardcore fans VXR satisfying. Also added is a series of 18-inch light-alloy wheels, you do not switch to aftermarket ones. Full dark tinted windows, custom interior openings and Recaro seats list of design changes. It is by no means a revolutionary change, but you can expect € 445 to save the price of a Corsa "standard" VXR with this package to compare.

Like the rest of the way to the new Corsa OPC Blue "Eagle Eye" headlights, but adds a blue banner in the grid. As usual OPC also gets sexy fog lights, exhaust a more aggressive front spoiler, rear wing and the small center-exit. But the Blue Edition adds blue stitching on the leather steering wheel, blue sky and blue trim on the openings Recaro seats. It is linked to bag sports suspension, enhanced brakes and ESP.

While the Corsa OPC is a bit old, but the performance is nothing to be ashamed. Power comes from a 1.6-liter turbo engine delivers 192 kW, with little (141 kW, 189 HP) at 5850 rpm and 230 Nm (170 lb-ft) Max torque between 1.980 to 5,800 rpm. It is enough for a 0-60mph (98 kph) of only 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 140 mph (225 kph).

2011 Vauxhall Antara Facelift Prices Start Under £20k in the UK

Following the reveal of its Opel counterpart in mainland Europe, Vauxhall has released pricing and specifications on the UK market Antara facelift, which boasts a barely noticeable makeover and a refreshed engine lineup. Prices for the updated SUV now start from £19,995 for the 2.2 CDTi (163PS) Exclusiv front-wheel drive model, which according to Vauxhall, represents a saving of £2,835 over the outgoing base version.

On the outside, styling changes for the 2011 Antara include the updated front grille with the new Griffin logo, enhanced by fog lights finished with chrome bezels on SE models, new 19-inch alloy wheels and modified rear lights.

Inside, the new Antara's cabin features a revised centre console with extra storage and higher-quality materials, in addition to improved instrument graphics and better interior lighting.

The 2011 model's revised Euro-5 compliant engine line-up includes a newly-developed 2.2-liter CDTI turbodiesel in two states of tune with 163HP or 184HP. The 163HP version is available in front-wheel drive with a six-speed manual transmission only or all-wheel drive hooked up to either a manual or six-speed auto gearbox. The more potent 184HP variant also offers a choice of manual or automatic transmissions, and comes with all-wheel drive as standard. All transmissions have been revised to improve efficiency.

The Vauxhall Antara will not be offered in the UK with the revised 170HP 2.4-liter gasoline engine of its Opel sibling.

GM Europe's engineers have also re-worked the SUV's chassis with revised spring and damper settings.

Finally, Vauxhall has improved safety and comfort features with the addition of an electric parking brake, a Hill Assist System as well as a "shift-up" fuel economy indicator on all models.

"At less than £20k, the new Antara is set to be highly competitive in today's SUV market," said Peter Hope, Vauxhall's Marketing Director. "Its lower emissions, higher output diesel engines and refreshed design will offer renewed appeal to both retail and fleet customers."