Nissan Motor Co took the wraps off its much-awaited electric car today

Yokohama, Aug. 2 (Reuters): Nissan Motor Co took the wraps off its much-awaited electric car today, naming the hatchback Leaf and taking a step towards its goal of leading the industry in the zero-emissions field.

Japan’s No. 3 automaker and its French partner, Renault SA, have been the most aggressive proponents of pure electric vehicles in the auto industry, announcing plans to mass-market the clean but expensive cars globally in 2012.

Nissan will begin selling the first Leaf cars in the US and Japan in the latter half of next year, adding two more models soon after. It expects production to start with around 200,000 units a year.

Twinning the car’s unveiling with the inauguration of Nissan’s new global headquarters in Yokohama, south of Tokyo, CEO Carlos Ghosn drove up to the stage in a sky-blue Leaf prototype, carrying former Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi to greet a throng of journalists.

“We celebrate today the start of a new chapter of our company’s life,” Ghosn said.

With oil prices topping $60 even in a recession and environmental regulations tightening, Ghosn said he was optimistic about electric vehicles entering the mainstream, expecting them to represent one in 10 new cars globally by 2020.

“We are seeing electric cars not as a niche car but as a mass-market car,” he said. “The big problem is going to be (production) capacity.”

Ghosn described the Leaf as a “powerful car, like having a turbo” charger except with no delay in response since there is no gear shift.

Nissan did not announce pricing for the five-seater Leaf, but Ghosn said the price, without the expensive lithium-ion battery that Nissan is considering leasing, would be within the range of a comparable gasoline-engine car.

Nissan’s Leaf has a top speed of over 140kmph and a cruising range of at least 160km, a distance that covers the needs of 80 per cent of the world’s drivers, according to Nissan.

Ferrari unveils new 458 Italia

Ferrari has unveiled its new 458 Italia, a mid-engined replacement for the F430. Unlike the launch of its California model, Ferrari hasn't drip-fed us the details, instead dropping them all in one release today (July 28). They take a bit of digesting too, the stunning 458 Italia exceeding even our lofty expectations as to what Ferrari would deliver to replace the highly regarded F430. Like the F430 the Italia is mid-engined, with 58 percent weight distribution to the rear, the 458 badge referring to the engine's 4.5-litre capacity and V8 layout.
Its engine produces 562bhp at a high 9,000rpm from its eight cylinders, which combined with its torque output of 398lb.ft at 6,000rpm allows the Italia to sprint to 62mph in under 3.4 seconds and onto a 202mph top speed. Driving through a seven-speed, twin-clutch, paddle-shifted transmission the 458 Italia benefits from all of Ferrari's latest F1 know-how. Making up its impressive electronic driver aid arsenal is Ferrari's E-Diff and F1-Trac, which will enable the 458 Italia to corner with staggering speed. The suspension comprises of double wishbones up front and a multi-link rear set up and the Italia is certain to be offered with Ferrari's variable magnetic damping system. Like its predecessor, all the electronic control systems are likely to be controlled by the Manettino dial mounted on the steering wheel, much like Ferrari's F1 drivers use.
The 458 Italia's development has been heavily influenced by Michael Schumacher, his input into cars like the 430 Scuderia underlining that the Italia should be very special to drive. Ferrari suggests that the 458 Italia is quite a departure from the usual replacement model cycle, its all-new car even more driver focussed thanks to the inclusion of the more practical California at the 'entry' point of Ferrari's line-up.
It's clear then that Ferrari is aiming the 458 Italia at a hardcore driving audience. Setting records for specific output per litre and torque output per litre Ferrari describes the Italia as 'designed for owners for whom the priority is uncompromising on-road performance and occasional track day capability.' Like all cars in Ferrari's current range the 458 Italia's shape is honed as much to cleave through the air as efficiently as possible as it is for style. The results are certainly spectacular, its shape more sensuous and organic than the F430, its rear reminiscent of Ferrari's Enzo hyper-car. The front exhibits some real aggression, with the LED equipped headlamps cutting dramatically into the bonnet.
It's not just efficient in the wind-tunnel either, the 458 Italia improving economy and emissions over its predecessor. CO2 emissions of 320g/km and a combined fuel consumption figure of 20.6mpg might not sound brilliant in isolation, but in the context of the 458 Italia's performance they are rather impressive. Production models will already be working their way down Ferrari's lines in Maranello in anticipation for the rush of orders following its Frankfurt show unveiling, so if you've not got your order in already then it's likely you'll be in for a long wait. It sounds like it will be worth it though.

Concept T - an innovative off-road coupe Volkswagan

Until now, no sports car has been flexible enough in terms of drive properties to allow for driving off paved road surfaces. The concept T fills this gap. The off-road coupé is equipped with wing doors and harmonises the fascination of a thoroughbred sports car with the variability of a true off-roader, thereby bringing completely new lifestyle and leisure values within reach. As you would expect from an agile sports car, the concept T is characterised by its exciting body dimensions (4079 mm / 13 ft 4 in long, 1963 mm / 6 ft 5 in wide and 1450 mm / 4 ft 9 in high). The powerful exterior also incorporates short body overhangs (front 826 mm /2 ft 8 in, rear 686 mm / 2 ft 3 in) for off-road driving as well as a large number of high-tech features.

Wing doors
The wing doors are a highlight of the body both in terms of styling and technology. When opening, they simultaneously swing outwards slightly and move upwards steeply. The advantage: getting in and out is made especially comfortable, while the doors require comparatively little space out to the side when opened.
T-bar roof and rear soft top
The two halves of the roof at the front (T-bar roof) of the concept T can be removed in only a few motions. The rear roof module is constructed as a hardtop with integrated trunk lid, but can be removed as well to reveal even more of the sky.
Front design
Seen from the front, the concept T is characterised by its V-shaped radiator grille integrated in the bumper, as well as by the eye-like headlights. The headlights "float" between the bumper and the fenders in order to emphasise the off-road character of the car. The fenders themselves have wide cut-outs. The overall effect is that the 19-inch wheels are free-standing.
Power
The concept car is propelled by a 177 kW / 241 h.p. V6 engine. This power is fed to the wheels by 4MOTION all-wheel drive in conjunction with an automatic gearbox (Tiptronic). The concept T accelerates to 100 km/h (62.5 mph) in 6.9 seconds and its top speed is electronically limited to 230 km/h (144 mph).

CITROËN C3 Picasso the real Nice car

The all-new CITROËN C3 Picasso may take some inspiration from its elders, yet it takes funky styling, cheeky character and striking good looks to another level entirely. A mini-MPV of quite stunning poise and revolutionary design, it’s far bigger on the inside than its outward appearance may suggest. And there’s no sense of compromise here. The CITROËN C3 Picasso is practical, but great fun. Roomy, yet agile and easy to park. Safe and adaptable, but certainly not lacking in head-turning style or driving pleasure.
One of its many plus points is the reassuring feeling it gives you and your passengers. Despite being one of the most compact MPVs on the market, its bristling presence still manages to make you feel safe, sturdy and confident in any environment. To some, the CITROËN C3 Picasso is an urban phenomenon, perfectly suited to the city bustle with its nippy engine and great visibility. Others picture it ruling the country lanes, with its rugged looks, great handling and oodles of interior space for kids, outdoor gear, pets or groceries. That the debate continues means CITROËN has cracked it yet again. It’s perfect for both.

£2,000 scrappage allowance* for your qualifying old car

Or 0% APR

over 3 years with a minimum 20% deposit on selected non scrappage models

Available on this model when purchased by 30/09/2009

£12,595 'On the Road' M.R.R.P

£12,595 OTR price


Let’s talk about room, too. There’s plenty to discuss here – the new CITROËN C3 Picasso gives you up to 1,506 litres of flat space behind the front seats, more than any of its rivals. And if you manage to use all of that, there are plenty of other handy compartments throughout the cabin for safely storing personal belongings. The CITROËN C3 Picasso’s boot also has two positions which enables space for up to 385/500 litres of storage.

The CITROËN C3 Picasso comes with a choice of two petrol and two diesel engines, so there’s one for every preference. CITROËN’s 1.6HDi engines give great fuel economy and low emissions without conceding horsepower. And if you prefer petrol, the 1.6 16valve VTi puts a reassuring 120hp under your right foot, while achieving surprising fuel economy figures.

So here’s the distinctive face of the new CITROËN C3 Picasso – a welcome addition to the famous CITROËN Picasso family.

Tata Motors to deliver first Nano on Friday

Tata Motors Ltd, India's largest vehicles maker, said on Thursday it would deliver the Nano, the world's cheapest car, to its first customer on Friday.


Chairman Ratan Tata had showcased the Nano at an auto show in New Delhi in January last year, but consumer bookings began only in April this year after the project was delayed due to land disputes at its planned site in the eastern state of West Bengal.


The plant for producing the Nano was shifted to a new site in Gujarat on the west coast, but the first batch of Nanos would come from its car plant in Pantnagar in northern India.


Tata has assured price protection for the first 100,000 customers, for whom the cars will be available for 100,000 rupees ($2,053), excluding taxes.

5 Steps to A Great Rental Car Experience

There are times in one's life when the use of rental cars cannot be avoided. When someone plows into you at an intersection, when you are taking a 2-day trip and your compact car just does not have enough room to stretch out, these are times when you are happy that there are rental cars at your disposal. Before you rent that car, though, you should know some things about the process.

1- The first step involved in obtaining a rental car is to do research on the companies in your local area. There are a number of nation wide companies and more than likely local companies to choose from when conducting your research. Try to narrow them down to three or four companies that are closest to either your pick up location or your destination.

2- You will want to ask about procedures that may be required by the rental company. Many companies require that the car be fueled up before its return, if this is not done, they will charge you extra for it. It may also be in your best interest to ask what the fee would be if the car is needed for longer than expected as well as what the rate is for late drop off.

3- If you have personal auto insurance, call your agent to see if you are insured with a rental car as well. This will allow you to save money by turning down the insurance offered by the rental company at the time of vehicle pick up.

4- Finally, you have chosen the company and the car, its time to pick it up. Make sure that you have the paper work that you will need. Most companies will require you to show your drivers license, be sure to have it. Also, your proof of auto insurance, if you will be turning their insurance down. A major credit card is necessary; if you are not using cash to rent your car, do not count on them taking a check.

5- Be sure to read the contract and ask questions about anything that you do not understand. It's better to take sometime at the counter or on the phone to pin down the details, than to think you got it and have to deal with the company in the event of an accident. Ask questions!

Find OUT More about Electric Evolution. BE a Part of IT

We believe the best way to address the problem of emissions is simply not to produce any emissions at all.

The Renault-Nissan alliance is leading the global automotive industry in developing zero-emission vehicles and bringing them within the reach of everyone. Yet our strategy goes beyond the vehicle itself. We are investing in renewable energy sources to help build, power and recycle them. And put in place the global infrastructure to make this happen.

CO2 emissions: FCVs and EVs produce the same: none at all.

Efficiencies in electric vehicle technology go beyond the powerful, light, easily rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. EVs have the highest rate of tank to wheel energy conversion, and the CO2 emissions from source of fuel to driven wheel are massively reduced compared to conventional power units.
EVs have a better conversion rate compared to other fuel cell technology. In addition, FCVs and EVs produce no emissions, and EVs use 100% of the energy it produces (compared to 80% for a standard fuel vehicle).
Nissan’s global commitment to bringing more of zero-emission cars to more people
has led to the formation of new alliances and partnerships with governments and leading organisations.

A Rookies Guide to Car Rentals

Renting a car can be a lot of fun, just plain fun. Car rentals offer the renter the opportunity to drive a car, truck or SUV that they normally would not or could not buy. Renting a car is for a weekend get away, to impress someone or just to have something different to drive for a couple of days are some of the most popular reasons to visit a rental company. However, as fun as it is to rent cars, there are some not so fun things that must happen before you drive it off the lot.

1- Keep in mind that most rental companies will not rent to any driver under the age of 25. If you fall under that magic number, you more than likely will need to get an older relative or friend to sign the actual contract for you.

2- You will of course, need a valid drivers license to rent the car. If you do not have a license, they will not rent to you under any circumstances. Most companies will also require you to reserve your car with the use of a major credit card, however, you can pay in cash if you would prefer.

3- You do not need to have personal auto insurance to rent a car; they will ask you if you would like to purchase their insurance for the duration of the rental contract. If, however, you have your own insurance policy, be sure to call your agent to see if you are covered during your use of a rental car. If your personal auto policy covers you, there is no need to purchase a policy from the rental company.

4- It is wise to call several car rental companies to inquire about prices, car availability and specials. Ask about options such as upgrades, pick up and drop off services, unlimited mileage and weekend versus weekly rental prices. Many companies will also offer special deals to customers who are members of other organizations (i.e. credit unions, warehouse clubs, etc).

5- After you have called around, found the best deal and reserved your choice car; it is time to pick it up. Be sure to have all of your personal paperwork with you, including your auto policy if you will not be buying theirs. Before you sign the contract, read through it and ask any questions you may have.