RIP: GEM Peapod, NEV apparently a victim of Chrysler bankruptcy
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Chrysler, Fiat, GEM, NEV (Neighborhood Electric Vehicle)
Peapod – Click above for high-res image gallery
When the old pre-bankruptcy Chrysler unveiled a lineup of electric vehicles in September 2008, one of the vehicles was a low-speed neighborhood electric vehicle (NEV) dubbed the Peapod that was supposed to go on sale by late 2009. It now appears that the Peapod, which was to be based on the existing GEM NEV, is history. As we learned in November 2009 when Chrysler announced its future business plan, the automaker drastically cut back its electric vehicle plans based on poor sales expectations. The Peapod was to have eventually spawned a new, full-speed electric commuter car. However, Chrysler and Fiat have now instead opted to build an electric version of the Fiat 500. After realizing what would need to be done to transform the Peapod to meet federal safety standards, it probably became apparent that converting an existing platform would make more sense.
The assets of the old GEM, which was wholly owned by Chrysler, were left behind with the rest of the old Chrysler in bankruptcy court for disposal. The new GEM will now focus on the existing low-speed electric vehicles instead. The designer of the Peapod, Peter Arnell, may still pursue building an EV although if he does it will be a full-speed type like the Nissan Leaf rather than an NEV.
Brilliance to re-enter Europe (EU)
Chinese manufacturer, Brilliance will return to Europe after setting up its own new distributor.
It was revealed that the firm would end exports of its BS4 and BS6 saloons to certain European markets after the cars were met with a tepid reception, while the firm also supposedly struggled to meet ever-changing European emissions regulations.
Brilliance has now created a new distributor, Shenhua Europe GmbH, who is responsible for operations, establishing dealerships, spare parts distribution and warranties of European Brilliance models. Its HQ will be in Ginsheim, Germany and the company will be led by ex- Hyundai Europe manager, Eberhard Niering.
Niering told German media, “Brilliance would like to establish itself in Europe with its products over the long term.”
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eBay Find of the Day: Austin Powers’ Shagadelic 1970 Jaguar E-Type
Filed under: Classics, Convertible, Performance, Jaguar, Celebrities, Luxury
Austin Powers’ Shaguar E-Type – click above for high-res image gallery
One of the most recognizable movie cars of recent years is being offered up for sale on eBay Motors this week. Austin Powers’ “shagadelic” Jaguar E-Type roadster first appeared in the original 1997 picture featuring Mike Myers as the thawed-out British secret agent.
This particular machine was actually used as a promotional vehicle for the first film, Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery. In addition to the custom paint job, a specially-made red top and red, white and blue interior have been fitted. The car still has the original powertrain, but the listing doesn’t include the mileage.If you simply must have the Shaguar, you can make it yours by surrendering the Buy It Now price of $59,900. The current bid of $24,550 sits below the seller’s reserve.
2010 Rodeo Drive Concours honors 75 years of Jaguar
Filed under: Classics, Jaguar, Misc. Auto Shows
2010 Rodeo Drive Concours – Click above for high-res image gallery
It’s become a tradition for us here at Autoblog to head down to Beverly Hills every Father’s Day for the annual Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance. There’s always an eclectic collection of cars, and the people who come to the free event can be entertaining to watch as well.
This year, the show recognized the 75th anniversary of Jaguar, and the British marque brought out an impressive display of cars. The company’s early years were well-represented, with a Jaguar SS 100 from the Petersen Automotive Museum in addition to the XK120, XK140 and XK150. The legendary E-Type was on hand in abundance, including a semi-lightweight racing model. Add to that an XJ220 supercar, the XKR featured in Die Another Day, and even the XK180 concept car. Without a doubt, however, our favorite Jag at the show was a beautiful 1956 D-Type in a classic British Racing Green livery.
Some other highlights of the show included the 1948 Norman Timbs Special that made its debut at Amelia Island earlier this year, as well as the controversial one-of-one Tucker Torpedo Convertible. You can see these and more in our gallery of live photos below.
50 percent less oil by 2020: More thoughts on Smart Drive
Just a discussion
Plugging into CalCars
Kudos to plug-in hybrid pioneers Felix Kramer and CalCars.org. Yesterday, I referenced their Drive Star Conversion plan featured on GreenCarCongress in the post, Oil: What’s the goal Mr. President?
2010 MTM Audi RS6 Clubsport
The sportscar gets revamped with the 2010 MTM Audi RS6 Clubsport that did away with the boring, baggy appearance of the traditional sportscar.
The vehicle’s aesthetic factor is a refreshing concept in automotive designing. It is bordered on the lower part with a stretch of black checker vinyl set on white paint. Add to that the [...]
Via Supercars – Sweet & cool car site for super fast sport car
Hyundai Accent Tops Class in J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study
PRESS RELEASE: HYUNDAI ACCENT TOPS CLASS IN J.D. POWER AND ASSOCIATES INITIAL QUALITY STUDY
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 06/17/2010 - J.D. Power and Associates announced today that the Hyundai Accent topped the sub-compact segment in its 2010 Initial Quality Study (IQS). Owners of the economical and fun-to-drive 2010 Accent reported the fewest problems per 100 vehicles in its segment. Elantra also finished in the top three in the compact car segment.
Overall, Hyundai finished third among non-premium brands in the 2010 Initial Quality Study, holding a top-three position for the second consecutive year, well below the industry average for reported problems per 100 vehicles.
“Pursuit of industry-leading quality is Hyundai’s number one global priority,” said John Krafcik, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. “It’s fitting that our most economical model, the Accent, leads its class in initial quality. It demonstrates that quality and value can go hand-in-hand.”
The J.D. Power and Associates IQS measures 228 attributes, including the overall driving experience, engine and transmission, and a broad range of defect and design problems reported by vehicle owners. The 2010 study tallied over 82,000 responses from owners of new, 2010 model-year vehicles.
