Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 by Green Car Journal

HOT!

TESLA MODEL 3

•10,000 MILES IN A BMW i3

WIRED!

ADVANCED & CONNECTED CARS

HOW ELECTRIC DRIVE AND ON-BOARD ELECTRONICS ARE CHANGING THE FUTURE OF AUTOMOBILES

HIGH-TECH CARS

ISSUE NUMBER 43 • 2016

PRIUS PRIME PLUG-IN • FARADAY FUTURE • HYUNDAI IONIQ

2016 GREEN CAR AWARDS: WASHINGTON DC • SAN ANTONIO • LOS ANGELES

GREENCARJOURNAL.COM

3 :: Green Car Journal Issue No. 43

Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 :: 5

ISSUE NO. 43 2016

contents VOICES

12 Stephen Thompson Better data fuels better driving 15 Tom Bartman Will Tesla be a victim of its own success?

AUTO SHOWS 18 Green Car Awards Best-of-the-best 2016 19 Washington Auto Show Connected, Luxury, and SUV 20 San Antonio Auto & Truck Show Trucks and vans shine 21 Green Car of the Year For the Volt, once is not enough

FEATURES 22 Tesla! Model 3 is unveiled…now comes the hard part 26 Eco Tires Driving efficiency…that’s how we roll 30 Connected Green Cars Two parallel worlds combine 34 10,000 Miles in a BMW i3 The ultimate urban car 42 Five Things to Know About the Chevrolet Impala bi-fuel

ADVANCED VEHICLES 08 Lexus LC 500h Flagship performance hybrid unveiled 10 Chevrolet Bolt 200 mile electric gets the jump on Tesla 14 BMW X1 xDrive28i Small on stature, big on driving fun 16 Toyota Prius Well-connected, more efficient than ever 29 Audi A3 e-tron The Swiss army knife of plug-ins 40 Nissan Titan XD Half-ton friendliness in an HD pickup

LONG-TERM TESTS 37 Chevrolet Volt Driving Chevy’s extended range electric 38 Honda HR-V Small SUV is functional, efficient, and fun

DEPARTMENTS 06 Outspoken Betting on a well-connected future 07 Auto Trends Faraday, Hyundai Ioniq, VW BUDD-e 11 Directions A future for diesel passenger vehicles 24 Issues Can hackers access vehicle connectivity? ON THE COVER Chevrolet’s all-new Volt is one of many well-connected cars changing the face of driving

Editor/Publisher Ron Cogan Executive Editor Todd Kaho Technical Editor Bill Siuru Contributing Editors Cam Benty Drew Hardin Jeff Karr Photo Editor Sheree Gardner Staff Photographer Ian Billings Contributors Devin Cogan Art Director Thomas Reiss Graphic Designers Bryan Bremer Priscilla Wilson

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Green Car Journal ® (ISSN 1059-6143) is published by RJ Cogan Specialty Publications Group, Inc. 1241 Johnson Avenue #356 San Luis Obispo, Calif. 93401 Phone 805.541.0473 © 2016 by RJ Cogan Specialty Publications Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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ISSUE NO. 43 2016 Lexus’ flagship LC 500h hybrid, page 10

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OUTSPOKEN :: BETTING ON A WELL-CONNECTED FUTURE

Striking alliances with tech companies is an important direction for an industry that has been entrenched in its own world for well over a century.

hen it comes to chips, automakers are all-in. That is, the silicon variety and not those with which you can gamble away a fortune, something auto companies are loathe to do. Traditionally, the risks auto manufacturers undertake are carefully calculated and always rooted in the world of profit and market share. As they look to the future, their chips are increasingly riding on ‘green’ and ‘connectivity.’ Key to this is Silicon Valley, which for decades has been synonymous with the high tech world of consumer electronics, encompassing everything from computers and cellphones to software and apps. Today this storied list has expanded in important and unexpected ways to include technology that’s at the heart of the auto industry’s future. It’s here that auto manufacturers have forged strategic alliances with Silicon Valley icons like Google and Apple, plus noted tech companies like NVIDIA and an array of Silicon Valley start-ups that promise to bring new and exciting functionality to our vehicles. Striking alliances with tech companies is an important direction for an industry that has been entrenched in its own world for well over a century. It’s so important, in fact, that many auto manufacturers have gone beyond just alliances, establishing dedicated research and development centers in Silicon Valley to tap the undeniable expertise here. We have seen surprising moves in recent times, like Toyota’s short-lived alliance with Tesla to develop the excellent, though quite expensive, battery electric RAV4 crossover a few years back. Sometimes things work out, sometimes not. But ventures like this are important to the journey as a future unfolds that will certainly find advanced electronics playing a major role in the cars we drive, or perhaps, in cars that drive themselves. This is happening already with an increasingly sophisticated array of on-board electronics incorporated into new car models. As you might expect, much of this is showing up in higher-end vehicles first as technology costs are absorbed into the price of aspirational vehicles already expected to command a higher point of entry. As technology costs decrease, advanced systems like these tend to move down-market to more affordable vehicles. We’re already seeing this happening in real time. In addition to the on-board systems we tend to take for granted today – such as navigation, back-up display, satellite radio, and Bluetooth cellphone integration – there’s a new generation of sought-after features that use a vehicle’s integrated cameras and sensors to perform wondrous tasks. Adaptive cruise control that automatically maintains a safe distance from the car ahead is one of these. Beyond that is the latest generation of such systems with a stop-and-go function capable of automating the boring task of driving in urban gridlock. Lane minder systems that warn if you stray outside your lane are being enhanced with automated features that nudge you back where you belong. Automated parking is yet another popular feature in electronics-rich models. This is just the start as technologies like pedestrian avoidance systems make their way into new models, plus technology that automatically brakes or slows your car at intersections if another vehicle comes into your path. These advanced systems are increasingly being integrated into the ‘green’ cars that are the focus of this magazine. In response, Green Car Journal is expanding its coverage to keep our readers abreast of the latest connectivity and on-board electronics features that are making our vehicles more fuel efficient, convenient, and safer as we drive toward a more connected future. Strap in because big changes are ahead.

Ron Cogan Editor and Publisher 6 :: Green Car Journal Issue No. 43

AUTOTRENDS

Prime Time Toyota has added ‘Prime’ to the branding of its second generation plug-in hybrid Photograph by Jim Collins/Grand Prix Association of Long Beach

electric vehicle (PHEV) to emphasize it’s the most technologically advanced, best-

Faraday Future It took Tesla five years to produce the limited edition Tesla Roadster even though it started with engine-less ‘gliders’ supplied by Lotus. Now a well-bankrolled California startup staffed with quite a few former Tesla executives is out to upstage Tesla in getting an all-new, advanced electric vehicle from drawing board to production in record time. Faraday optimistically says it expects to launch its first fully electric production vehicle in 2017. Founded 18 months ago, the startup reportedly has 750 employees globally with plans for 4,500, and has broken ground on a 3 million square foot factory in North Las Vegas. Faraday Future is backed by billionaire Jia Yueting and China’s LeEco (formerly LeTV). LeEco has vast experience with consumer products including flat screen TVs, smartphones, tablets, PCs, and Internet TV. Like many other automakers, Faraday sees the merging of mobility, information, and entertainment in future vehicles. The company showed its first concept, the high-performance FFZERO1 electric race-car, at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas and more recently at the

equipped Prius ever. Prime is the first Toyota hybrid to feature a dual-mode generator drive system that enables the Hybrid Synergy Drive’s electric motor and generator to both provide power for maximum acceleration. A new 8.8 kWh lithiumion battery pack delivers up to 22 miles of all-electric driving, double that of the first-generation plug-in Prius. Toyota estimates 120 MPGe or greater for the model, which is expected to be the highest MPGe rating of any PHEV. Prime features an array of connected and advanced electronics systems including an available 11.6-inch HD multimedia screen. Prius Prime will start appearing in U.S. showrooms in late fall and will be available in all 50 states. —GCJ

2016 Faraday Future Long Beach ePrix FIA race. The 1,000 horsepower, 200 mph carbon fiber concept uses variable platform architecture (VPA), a modular skateboard-style chassis optimized for electric vehicles. All future Faraday production vehicles will use the VPA chassis since it can readily accommodate different body types and battery configurations. Not surprisingly, autonomous driving is part of the equation. According to Faraday, the FFZERO1 concept could potentially meet its driver at the track and take a few perfect laps on its own to compare with, and improve upon, its human driver’s performance. More credibility: LeEco’s IOV (Internet of the Vehicle) system is already incorporated into Aston Martin’s Rapide S model. Now LeEco, Faraday, and Aston Martin are partnering to create a production version of the RapidE electric concept. —Bill Siuru Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 :: 79

AUTO TRENDS

Lexus LC 500h Performance Hybrid

nspired by the LF-LC concept

drive vehicles. For enhanced dynamic

eter wheels while keeping a very low

unveiled four years ago, the

capability and performance, Lexus

hood line. It features two upper and two

2017 Lexus LC 500 is destined

engineers focused on what they refer

lower control arms, with double ball

to become the automaker’s flagship

to as the LC 500h’s ‘inertia specifica-

joints on each arm. This arrangement

coupe. Now it will be joined by an LC

tion,’ which places most of the vehicle

optimizes suspension geometry to facili-

500h variant featuring the world’s

mass, including the engine and occu-

tate precise control from driver inputs

first Multi Stage Hybrid System that

pants, as low and centralized as pos-

and road conditions, creating exception-

aims to achieve the best possible

sible within the chassis.

al steering response.

balance between power and fuel con-

Handling is enhanced by a center of

Included as part of LC 500h standard

sumption. A 295 horsepower, 3.5-liter

gravity that’s further lowered by reduc-

equipment is Lexus Safety System +

V-6 engine is used in the hybrid along

ing body weight, in part through the

to help prevent or mitigate collisions

with a new lightweight and compact

use of an aluminum hood and fenders,

across a wide range of traffic situations.

electric motor powered by a lithium-

aluminum door skins on a carbon fiber

Combining a camera and millimeter-

ion battery pack, delivering a total

structure, a carbon and glass compos-

wave radar for a high level of detection

354 horsepower and 0-60 mph times

ite trunk lid, and carbon fiber roof. The

performance, the system features a Pre-

under 5 seconds.

model’s extensive use of a high-tensile

Crash Safety System with pedestrian

The LC 500 and 500h are the first to

steel body structure further reduces

detection to help prevent or lessen the

use the automaker’s all-new, premium

weight, improves weight-distribution,

severity of collisions, All-speed Adaptive

rear-wheel-drive luxury platform that

and increases body rigidity.

Cruise Control, Lane-Keeping Assist, and

will become the basis for the com-

The LC 500h’s multi-link front sus-

Automatic High Beam headlamp technol-

pany’s future front-engine/rear-wheel

pension system allows for large diam-

ogy are also included. —BS

8 :: Green Car Journal Issue No. 43

AUTO TRENDS

Hyundai Ioniq: Electrified Three Ways Hyundai’s recently-unveiled 2017 Ioniq comes in three configurations – hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric. All use the same dedicated platform but with distinctly different electrified powertrains, styling cues, and characters. The electric features a 120 horsepower electric motor, 28 kWh lithium-ion battery, and single-speed transmission to deliver an estimated all-electric range of 110 miles and 125 MPGe while running on batteries. The Ioniq hybrid combines a new 1.6 liter, Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder Kappa engine with a 43 horsepower electric motor and 1.5 kWh battery. Specifically designed for hybrid applications, the engine provides 104 horsepower and has an

Best BUDD-e

impressive 40 percent thermal efficiency. Total combined engine/motor output is 139 horsepower. The Ioniq plug-in hybrid variant uses the same Kappa engine but

Featuring design cues from the iconic VW

swaps in a 60 horsepower electric motor and 8.9 kWh battery to provide over 25

Microbus, the BUDD-e is VW’s first con-

miles of all-electric driving, plus additional range in hybrid mode.

cept vehicle using the all-new Modular

Both hybrids use a six-speed double-clutch transmission. The highly-efficient

Electric Toolkit (MEB) designed specifical-

DCT automatic features low-friction bearings and low-viscosity transmission oil

ly for plug-in vehicles. The MEB architec-

to achieve both excellent performance and efficiency. Available SPORT and ECO

ture represents a fundamental change in

modes tailor the driving experience, with the former combining engine/electric

future electric-powered Volkswagens, from

power and holding lower gears longer for maximum performance, and the latter

body and interior design to packaging and

upshifting earlier and optimizing gear selection for fuel economy.

drive characteristics. An all-electric range

The sporty hatchback’s fluid exterior shape and natural air flow channels

of about 230 miles means a vehicle like

emphasize aerodynamic body lines that

the BUDD-e could serve a family’s primary

bring a slippery 0.24 coefficient of drag.

transportation needs. Charging options

Features like front wheel air curtains,

include cordless inductive charging and

a rear spoiler and diffuser, and floor

the ability to be charged to 80 percent in

undercover contribute to aerodynamics.

about 30 minutes with a rapid charger.

The hybrid and plug-in hybrid also have

BUDD-e is probably more ‘connected’

efficiency enhancing active air flaps in

than any car before it and thus gives

the front grille. —BS

a comprehensive look at the future of connectivity with the Internet of Things (IoT). Not only does the car’s completely new infotainment system make traveling more interactive and media more tangible, it also creates a seamless link between the car and the outside world. As an example of connectivity to a Smart Home, a driver or passengers could control air conditioning, turn lights on or off, determine if their kids are at home, or even put the whole house into energysaving sleep mode. Plus, in the future the BUDD-e will automatically turn on lights in and around the house as soon as the car approaches. —GCJ

Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 :: 9

AUTO TRENDS

Chevy Bolts Ahead

hevrolet’s milestone Bolt EV

16.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind

services via a high-speed wireless con-

will be coming to showrooms

the rear seat.

nection. Additional features include a

in late 2016 as a 2017 model,

Electricity is supplied to a 200

10.2-inch MyLink color touchscreen dis-

representing the first truly affordable

horsepower motor featuring 0-60 mph

play, rear camera mirror, and Surround

battery electric vehicle with a sought-

acceleration under 7 seconds and a

Vision that provides a bird’s-eye view

after 200 mile driving range. This is

top speed of 91 mph. One pedal driv-

around the Bolt for improved safety dur-

a big win for Chevrolet since the Bolt

ing is possible through a combination

ing low-speed driving and while parking.

beats the 200 mile Tesla Model 3 to

of increased regenerative deceleration

EV-specific navigation provides routes

market, likely by a long shot. The Bolt

and software controls. When operating

that maximize range while identifying

EV was designed from the ground-up

in Low mode or holding the Regen-on-

nearby charging locations. —Bill Siuru

as an electric vehicle so there are no

Demand paddle located on the back of

compromises along the way. It will be

the steering wheel, a driver can bring

built in Michigan.

the vehicle to a complete stop under

The Bolt’s exemplary range is about

most circumstances by simply lifting

twice that of competitive EVs now

their foot off the accelerator. Operating

on the market, in part due to this

in Drive mode without pulling the pad-

electric’s new nickel-rich, lithium-ion

dle while decelerating requires using

battery chemistry that delivers both

the brake pedal to stop.

desired power of 160 kW and 60 kWh

The Bolt EV will offer connectiv-

of energy. The battery pack consists

ity and infotainment technologies that

of 288 lithium-ion cells in a configu-

seamlessly integrate smartphones and

ration that spans the entire floor to

other electronic devices. OnStar 4G LTE

maximize interior space. The five-door

turns the Bolt EV into a Wi-Fi hotspot

Bolt EV seats five passengers and has

that provides easier access to apps and

10 :: Green Car Journal Issue No. 43

DIRECTIONS :: A FUTURE FOR DIESEL PASSENGER VEHICLES

iesel haters seem to be overly anxious to pile-on and shout ‘death to diesels’ these days. It’s human nature to take offense at being fooled and the diesel market certainly is paying the price of the recent emissions

scandal. Serious deception took place and it’s far from forgotten, even as corrections are underway or being explored. The green car market is very competitive so it’s not surprising that some supporting alternative transportation technologies are quick to point the finger. Allen Schaeffer, Executive Director of the Diesel Technology Forum, responded to a story entitled “The Dirty Truth About Clean Diesel” in The New York Times with the following statement, which the Times ran in its Opinion pages. “Here are the facts about diesel straight from the Environmental Protection Agency and California Air Resources Board: Clean diesel technology and fuels have reduced particulate matter and nitrogen oxide emissions by more than 98 percent, and sulfur content by 97 percent. The American Lung Association cites clean diesel fleets as one of the two primary reasons for improved air quality in the United States.” Personally, I’ve owned a diesel powered Ford pickup for many years and its overall capability and economy are simply hard to replace. Consider that nearly every product

We hope to see lowerpriced, high mileage next-generation diesel models in the near future to fill the void in the small car market.

we touch on a daily basis – from the food on our table to the consumer products we all rely on – are harvested and/or transported by diesel powered trucks, trains, and ships. Diesel is an important part of our infrastructure and without it the cost of all goods and services would certainly increase. I don’t mind admitting I’m still a fan of advanced diesel. I find it discouraging that just as smaller next-generation diesel passenger vehicles were gaining momentum in the North American market, this distrust has many questioning diesel’s place in the automotive landscape. As far as the driving experience goes, it is tough to beat the satisfying torque that a modern diesel delivers. When combined with advanced transmissions they are quite fun to drive. With EPA federal rules requiring significantly better fuel economy and lower CO² emissions by 2025, next-generation diesel should be a key player in achieving these goals. A primary advantage of diesel has always been superior fuel economy. A diesel will generally deliver 30 percent higher fuel economy than a comparable gasoline model.That huge bump in mileage also brings a significant decrease in CO² emissions. Plus, it’s important to note that the more advanced diesels on the road, the greater the potential use of even cleaner-burning biodiesel, a renewable diesel fuel replacement that has experienced significant growth over the past decade. The road back to diesel acceptance will likely come first in the light truck and sport utility vehicle market with more light-duty diesel pickups and luxury SUVs moving forward. Good examples are the recent introduction of the 5.0-liter V-8 Cummins turbo diesel in the new Nissan Titan and 2.8-liter Duramax four-cylinder turbo diesel in the mid-size Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon. Want something a little more exotic? Land Rover and Range Rover are now offering models with their Td6 next-generation diesel, with other automakers also introducing newer, more efficient, and cleaner diesel models as well. We hope to see lower-priced, high mileage next-generation diesel models in the near future to fill the void in the small car market. – Todd Kaho Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 :: 11

VOICES :: By Stephen Thompson

BETTER DATA FUELS BETTER DRIVING

Connected car technologies are transforming the automotive industry much like smart phone apps revolutionized the mobile phone sector. A new generation of aftermarket products are helping tech-savvy drivers reduce accidents, lower insurance costs, save fuel, and plan routes more effectively. Cars and trucks have become mobile computing platforms and the tech transformation is accelerating. By 2020, it has been estimated that 75 percent of the world’s cars will have the technology to connect to the internet and to each other via Wi-Fi. Studies by the U.S. Department of Transportation estimate that these connected-car technologies could reduce the number of collisions by 80 percent. For companies such as Intelligent Mechatronic Systems (IMS), based in Waterloo, Ontario, the data that can be collected by connected-car technologies is a valuable resource that can help drivers save money and improve their driving skills. IMS’ DriveSync platform can collect data through automaker-installed systems, aftermarket devices, or smartphone apps. This data, in turn, is analyzed in real-time and the results are delivered as actionable information. It can also be used as a coaching tool for young drivers to improve driving skills, or as a fleet management system that helps commercial operators reduce fuel consumption and insurance costs. A number of North America’s leading insurance companies offer drivers lower premiums if they install DriveSync and share the data. During a presentation at the company’s head office, founder and CEO of IMS, Dr. Otmar Basir, said that the platform is “all about transforming your car from a dumb machine into a smart appliance. DriveSync is a platform for greener, safer, more human-centric driving.” The speed of consumer acceptance and the demand for more and more internetconnected technologies surprises even some industry veterans. High tech has become a product differentiator in the fiercely competitive automotive marketplace. “What makes a car different today is not the steel but the technology,” said Bob Moran, CEO and founder of Weather Telematics, during an interview at the company’s head office in Ottawa, Ontario. “Cars used to be about steel and rubber. Now, what matters is intelligence and connectivity.” Weather Telematics applies advanced meteorological science to real-world driving needs. It combines realtime data from a vehicle’s sensors with up-to-the-minute weather-related information drawn from an array of internet-based sources to provide drivers with accurate intelligence about immediate road conditions. This is not a ‘40 percent chance of rain in your region’ type forecast, but information about the specific conditions the driver will face on that particular highway within the next mile or across a particular route programmed into the GPS system. Moran calls it ‘now-casting,’ not weather forecasting. “This is hyper-local weather advice,” Moran said. The overriding goal is to use these technologies to save lives and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. “Weather risks in transportation – rain, fog, snow – contribute to 10,000 deaths every year in the U.S. alone and traffic congestion wastes 2.9 billion gallons of gas annually,” Moran said. “We provide drivers with a new kind of technology that can help them mitigate those safety risks and reduce fuel consumption.” The growing market for next-generation automotive technologies is drawing more companies into the

High tech has become a product differentiator in the fiercely competitive automotive marketplace.

industry. Ontario, Canada is one of the few jurisdictions in the world with world-class clusters in both automotive production and information technology and has nearly 100 companies now involved in connected-car technologies – and that is very good news for both sectors. The number of vehicles on the road worldwide is expected to double from 1 billion to 2 billion by 2035, and embracing these technologies can make our roads safer and reduce GHG emissions. — Stephen Thompson is the Senior Economic Officer and Consul for Ontario International Trade and Investment, based in San Francisco 12 :: Green Car Journal Issue No. 43

Finally, an SUV you can judge by its color. Thanks, Green Car Journal, for naming the HR-V the 2016 Green SUV of the Year.™

BMW X D R I V E 2 X1 8i Small in Stature, Big on Driving Fun B Y

B I L L

S I U R U

MW’s X1 xDrive28i seeks

BMW X1 is considerably lighter with

Online, BMW Apps, and Advanced

to differentiate itself in an

30 percent less energy loss in normal

Real Time Traffic Information.

increasingly crowded com-

driving. Working closely with Dynamic

Standard and available camera-

pact crossover market with desired

Stability Control (DSC), it counter-

based assistance systems include

functionality, impressive fuel efficiency,

acts oversteer or understeer. BMW

Lane Departure Warning, Speed Limit

and of course the dynamic driving expe-

EfficientDynamics technology includes

Info, Frontal Collision Warning with

rience expected of a BMW. This all-new,

Brake Energy Regeneration, Electric

Pedestrian Warning, City Collision

second generation premium compact

Power Steering, and on-demand fuel and

Mitigation, Park Distance Control,

crossover features updated styling for

coolant pumps. ECO PRO mode allows

and Active Cruise Control with Stop

2016, new powertrain and chassis tech-

coasting between 30-100 mph, disengag-

& Go. Altogether that’s about all the

nology, and an array of desired on-board

ing the powertrain when a driver’s foot is

advanced tech you could possibly

electronics. Plus, it offers greater head-

taken off the throttle.

want, and BMW delivers it big time.

room and legroom while also increasing

Inside is a driver focused cockpit

cargo capacity. All this comes at a start-

with the choice of a 6.5 or 8.8-inch

ing price of $34,800, a premium over

display. The rear seatback can be split

most other small crossovers but then

40:20:40 to enhance functionality. An

again, this is a BMW.

optional sliding and reclining rear

Best-in-class power is delivered by

bench can slide forward or back by

a 228 horsepower, twin-turbocharged

up to five inches for seating comfort.

2.0-liter EfficientDynamics engine and

Cargo space has been increased by

8-speed Steptronic automatic transmis-

more than 15 percent to 58.7 cubic feet

sion. This provides the X1 xDrive28i an

with the seats folded down.

EPA estimated 32 highway mpg.

BMW ConnectedDrive features

The BMW xDrive system in the new

include a Head-Up Display, BMW

16 :: Green Car Journal Issue No. 43

VOICES :: By Thomas Bartman

WILL TESLA BE A VICTIM OF ITS OWN SUCCESS?

Among owners and fans, it’s a foregone conclusion that Tesla will remain the dominant producer of electric vehicles (EVs) as the automotive world increasingly adopts this technology. And why shouldn’t it? Tesla produces the best EVs, and perhaps the best cars made, has developed an incredible brand, and fills waitlists years before a new car is delivered. This all seems to indicate that Tesla has developed a world-beating business model, but is it actually a signal of future trouble? Tesla’s strategy has always been to build EVs that are better than their internal combustion competitors and sell them for premium prices. In the language of innovation theory, strategies that offer existing consumers better products at higher prices are called sustaining innovations. Sustaining strategies tempt entrepreneurs because they appear so logical: build a better product and customers will come. But research shows that it is a losing strategy for new businesses. In sustaining competition, the industry incumbents nearly always win. Incumbents are favored because sustaining strategies build on capabilities that they have developed over the course of their rise to dominance. Worse still, a sustaining strategy presents the entrant as a clear and direct threat to the incumbents. The combination of these two factors creates a response that often proves overwhelming for the entrant. Incumbents respond ferociously and deploy so many resources to the battle that the entrant is overcome. Consider the situation for Tesla: It would be difficult enough for a company that sells 50,000 units per year to fight even one major automaker head-on. But Tesla has attacked not just the automakers but also every incumbent in the value network that produces automobiles, including the entire base of suppliers and dealers. The resources that these aligned interests can bring to bear are vast. Collectively, these firms spend more on R&D every year than Tesla has invested in its lifetime. Many have argued that the move away from internal combustion is simply too technologically painful for automakers, but the technology underpinning EVs is largely a modular combination of standard components purchased from independent suppliers. The technology simply isn’t a constraining factor, and with every new auto show the automakers demonstrate this with new concept cars, such as the Porsche Mission E, squarely targeting Tesla. With its fantastic design and beloved product, Tesla might have written the playbook that the incumbent automakers will follow to dethrone it. If better products and technological barriers aren’t enough to defeat incumbents, is there any hope for entrepreneurs? We’re believers in disruptive innovation strategy, which allows entrants to beat even the most-powerful incumbents. Disruptive innovation begins at the bottom of existing markets or by creating new markets where people don’t currently consume. They target the least-attractive customers and produce worse products for less money with lower-cost business models than conventional offerings. In doing so, they create the phenomenon of asymmetric motivation, which causes incumbents to ignore or flee them. But disruptive strategies don’t remain at the bottom of the market – they possess a technological core that allows them to improve their performance over time, capturing more of the market and pushing incumbents into ever-smaller segments at the high-end.

It would be difficult enough for a company that sells 50,000 units per year to fight even one major automaker head-on.

Many observers say this approach could never work in EVs, but we’re seeing it happen today. It takes the form of lowspeed EVs driven by security guards on college campuses, retirees in the Sunbelt, and middle class families in China. The manufacturers are largely unknown and that’s the point. Each year they grow bigger and improve their products without any resistance from incumbents. Soon they will be good enough to lure the least-demanding customers away from traditional automakers and the disruption will have begun. While these companies improve their performance to capture more customers, Tesla’s only option is to reduce its performance. Which position would you rather be in? — Thomas Bartman is a Senior Research Fellow at the Forum for Growth and Innovation at Harvard Business School Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 :: 15

TOYOTA PRIUS Well-Connected and More Efficient than Ever B Y

C A M

B E N T Y

oyota’s all-new 2016 Prius

double wishbone suspension pack-

offering better power-to-weight ratio

delivers the very attributes

age to improve overall handling and

than the previous iteration with a 20

beloved by its legions of fans

safety. Time behind the wheel proves

percent reduction in friction losses. New

over the years with significant technol-

that Toyota is indeed delivering on its

lithium-ion or nickel-metal hydride bat-

ogy updates. It clearly is an all-new

promise with a more performance-

tery packs are available with increased

generation, but one that doesn’t stray too

orienting driving experience than that

energy density. The more compact bat-

far afield from the familiar design that’s

offered in previous generations. MSRP

tery pack is relocated beneath the rear

recognizable at a glance. The new design

is relatively unchanged with an entry

seat, increasing cargo space.

stretches the Prius 2.4 inches longer than

point at $24,200.

A new color head-up display projects

the previous model with slight width and

Powering the Prius is the same 1.8-

essential vehicle data and alerts on the

height expansions to deliver greater com-

liter engine from the previous generation

lower section of the windscreen. Smart-

fort and increased cargo capacity.

that’s been re-engineered for improved

flow (S-FLOW) air conditioning improves

The 2016 Prius is based on Toyota’s

performance and an impressive bump in

efficiency by detecting whether the front

New Global Architecture that brings

fuel economy. The transaxle and motor

and rear passenger seats are occupied,

a lower center of gravity, increased

have been redesigned to reduce weight,

adjusting ventilation and heating per-

body rigidity, and a more responsive

with the more compact electric motor

formance accordingly by minimizing air

flow around empty seats.

Alert with Steering Assist signals a

grates a Qi wireless charging

An optional Toyota Safety Sense

driver if it senses the car drifting from

pad on the console for conveniently

package includes a Pre-Collision

the lane and also assists with steering

charging cellphones.

System with Pedestrian Detection that

input when needed.

Prius has been the most successful

alerts a driver if a collision is immi-

The new Prius has the latest naviga-

hybrid model for years because of its

nent. It also brings the car to a halt if

tion and electronics that achieves con-

undeniable efficiency and recognizable

It clearly is an all-new generation, but one that doesn’t stray too far afield from the familiar design that’s recognizable at a glance. a pedestrian is detected ahead of the

nectivity through Toyota’s Entune app

profile. With the 2016 model’s new-found

car while driving under 18 mph. Full-

integration. Destination inputs and

performance and 54 city/52 highway

speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control

music selection is via a 7-inch touch-

mpg, Prius fans can continue to smile as

will slow or stop the vehicle to avoid

screen with a USB port conveniently

they pass gas stations by while enjoying

collisions as well. A Lane Departure

situated on the console. Toyota also inte-

the driving experience even more. Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 :: 19

Best-of-the-Best 2016

B Y

G R E E N

C A R

J O U R N A L

E D I T O R S

or 25 years, the editors at Green

with focusing on exceptional ‘green’

CONNECTED GREEN CAR OF THE YEAR:

Car Journal have been focused

credentials, the Green Car Awards jury

Audi A3 e-tron, BMW 330e, Chevrolet

on the intersection of automo-

weighs traditional touchstones like

Malibu Hybrid, Toyota Prius, Volvo

biles, energy, and environment in an effort

safety, quality, functionality, perfor-

XC90 T8

to educate consumers, automakers, and

mance, and value. Also considered are

government on the importance of vehicles

availability and, when appropriate,

GREEN CAR OF THE YEAR:

with significantly improved environmen-

affordability to ensure that models are

Audi A3 e-tron; Chevrolet Volt, Honda

tal performance. This has been presented

accessible to a wide range of buyers,

Civic, Hyundai Sonata, Toyota Prius

through the pages of this magazine, in

thus allowing meaningful emissions

talks at colleges and public forums, at

reduction and decreased environmental

GREEN SUV OF THE YEAR:

ride-and-drive events held with major

impact. New models and those in the

BMW X1 xDrive28i, Honda HR-V, Hyundai

conferences, and through our Green Car

earlier stages of their model lifecycle

Tucson, Mazda CX-3, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

Awards™ programs presented annually at

are emphasized to encourage continu-

auto shows in Los Angeles, San Antonio,

ing environmental improvement.

GREEN TRUCK OF THE YEAR:

and Washington DC.

Here are the contenders for each of our

Chevrolet Colorado Duramax, Ford F-150,

Each of the magazine’s six distin-

2016 Green Car Awards, with winners

GMC Canyon Duramax, Nissan Titan XD,

guished awards include an extensive

identified on the following pages.

Toyota Tacoma

sider all vehicles, fuels, and technolo-

COMMERCIAL GREEN CAR OF THE YEAR:

LUXURY GREEN CAR OF THE YEAR:

gies as an expansive field of potential

Chevrolet City Express, Ford Transit

BMW X5 xDrive40e, Lexus RX 450h,

candidates is narrowed down to a final

Connect, Mercedes-Benz Metris, Nissan

Mercedes-Benz C350e, Porsche Cayenne S

five nominees for each award. Along

NV200, Ram ProMaster City

E-Hybrid, Volvo XC90 T8

vetting process in which editors con-

18 :: Green Car Journal Issue No. 43

Chevrolet’s all-new Malibu Hybrid features an aggressively-stylish design and the latest hybrid technology from the second-generation 2016 Chevrolet Volt. Its 1.8-liter direct-inject-

CHEVROLET MALIBU HYBRID

ed four-cylinder engine and two-motor drive unit provide 182 total system horsepower that delivers satisfying performance, achieving an EPA estimated 48 city/45 highway mpg. Advanced on-board electronics and connectivity are hallmarks of the new Malibu Hybrid. The mid-size sedan comes standard with Chevrolet MyLink radio and an 8-inch diagonal color touch screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear vision camera, OnStar, and 4G LTE with a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. That’s a lot of tech for a model that starts at an approachable $28,645. Available systems include low speed front automatic braking, parking assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane keep assist. A unique Teen Driver feature actively encourages safe driving and allows parents to view stored information on how their teenagers drove the vehicle.

Volvo’s all-new XC90 T8, the industry’s first seven passenger plug-in hybrid SUV, uses a 2.0-liter supercharged and turbocharged Drive-E engine with a rear axle electric motor powered by lithium-ion batteries. This enables an overall 350 mile driving range and an all-electric range of about 17 miles. A 46 horsepower starter-generator

VOLVO XC90 T8

motor located between the engine and transmission provides start-stop capability to enhance efficiency and additional power when maximum performance is required. The XC90 T8 includes all of Volvo’s conventional safety systems plus items like lane departure warning, road sign information display, pedestrian and cyclist detection, pilot assist adaptive cruise control, and park assist with automatic parking. World firsts include auto braking at intersections if another vehicle comes into its path from oncoming or side traffic. The $68,100 XC90 T8 is EPA rated at a combined 25 mpg and 54 MPGe on battery power.

Honda’s new HR-V compact crossover features coupe-like styling with SUV functionality. It’s based on the Honda Fit platform but substantially larger in all dimensions, allowing it to carry people more comfortably and accommodate a

HONDA HR-V

greater volume of cargo. In fact, the HR-V’s 100 cubic feet of passenger space and 58.8 cubic feet of cargo volume with the second row seats folded rivals the interior volume of some midsize SUVs. The HR-V is powered by the same 1.8-liter engine as the Honda Civic, delivering 141 horsepower and 127 lb-ft torque while achieving up to 35 highway mpg. The HR-V offers many desired features combined with an approachable $19,215 price. Standard or available electronics include brake assist and hill start assist, electronic stability control, rear view camera, Bluetooth, tire pressure monitoring, and Honda LaneWatch. A 5 inch color LCD screen or 7-inch touchscreen display are offered. Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 :: 19

Ram’s ProMaster City is a new addition to the growing compact van field that champions increased efficiency and urban maneuverability. It comes in wagon and cargo

RAM PROMASTER CITY

versions with the ability to tow up to 2000 pounds. Power is provided by an efficient 178 horsepower, 2.4-liter aluminum block Tigershark engine already well-proved in Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep models. Offering a base price of $23,130, the ProMaster City’s EPA rating of 21 city/29 highway mpg is enhanced by the first-ever use of a

The ProMaster City features sliding doors on either side for convenience and 60/40 split rear doors that swing open to a maximum 180 degrees. nine-speed transmission in a commercial van. The ProMaster City carries up to 1,883 pounds or 131.7 cubic feet of cargo and features a cargo-friendly 48.8 inches between interior wheel wells. A Uconnect 5.0 audio and multimedia system featuring a five-inch touchscreen, integrated voice command with Bluetooth, and steering wheel audio controls is available.

Ford’s F-150 has been the best-selling vehicle in America for well over three decades. In its new generation it shed a considerable 700 pounds through the use of a militarygrade all-aluminum body and high-strength steel chassis, improving both fuel efficiency and overall performance while offering a reasonable base price of $26,430. Its 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6 allows this pickup to achieve up to 26 mpg on the highway. The

FORD F-150

Ford’s F-150 is the only light-duty pickup capable of running on CNG or LPG to help further reduce operating costs and CO² emissions. F-150 also offers a gaseous fuel prep package that allows running on cleaner burning natural gas or propane. The F-150 features SYNC 3, Ford’s newest communications and entertainment system that delivers enhanced voice recognition and a capacitive touch screen. With the F-150’s Pro Trailer Backup Assist technology, a driver steers a trailer instinctively by turning a knob left or right to indicate direction, then backs up as the truck controls its steering and limits vehicle speed.

GREEN CAR AWARDS: FACTS TO KNOW • The first Green Car Award was presented in 2005 • Mercury Mariner Hybrid won the first GCOY • Chevrolet has won the most Green Car Awards • 60 percent of award winners use electrification • Alternative fuel vehicles have twice won awards

20 :: Green Car Journal Issue No. 43

Chevy Volt Wins…for the Second Time

he Los Angeles Auto Show

and more capable than ever. Among its

ants. The Toyota Prius continues its effi-

is the setting for Green Car

important functionality achievements is

ciency leadership as an all-new genera-

Journal’s highly-anticipated

the expansion from four- to five-passen-

tion hybrid hatchback. Honda’s new gen-

Green Car of the Year® award each year,

ger seating and a battery driving range

eration Civic illustrates that impressive

as it has been since its first appear-

of up to 53 miles before transitioning

efficiency can be achieved with advanced

ance in car-centric Southern California

to electrical power generated by its on-

internal combustion power.

11 years ago. Following a video intro

board engine-generator. Chevrolet has

Green Car Journal’s Green Car of the

by celebrity juror Jay Leno and with

taken an efficient and award-winning

Year® is selected by a jury comprised

all five award finalist vehicles flanking

sedan and made it better in virtually

of environmental and efficiency lead-

the stage, Green Car Journal revealed

every way…a shining example of the

ers including Jean-Michel Cousteau,

this year’s winner – the all-new 2016

environmental leadership the Green Car

president of Ocean Futures Society; Matt

Chevrolet Volt.

of the Year® award seeks to honor.

Petersen, board member of Global Green

Chevrolet’s Volt was a milestone vehi-

As noted by this year’s finalists, there

USA; Mindy Lubber, President of CERES;

cle when it debuted in the 2011 model

is no single path to achieving important

Kateri Callahan, President of the Alliance

year and then drove away with 2011

environmental achievement. Along with

to Save Energy; and Dr. Alan Lloyd,

Green Car of the Year® honors. In its

the Volt, three other nominees feature

chairman emeritus of the International

new generation, it’s clear that Chevrolet

electrification but in somewhat differ-

Council on Clean Transportation.

listened to its customers – and in par-

ent forms. The Audi A3 e-tron champi-

Rounding out the jury is comedian and

ticular Volt owners – and implemented

ons plug-in hybrid power, as does the

car aficionado Jay Leno plus staff jurors

improvements across the board to

Hyundai Sonata with its plug-in hybrid,

Ron Cogan, Todd Kaho, Cam Benty, Drew

make the 2016 Volt faster, more stylish,

hybrid, and conventionally-powered vari-

Hardin, Jeff Karr, and Bill Siuru. Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 :: 21

CAR CULTURE, ELECTRIFIED B Y

R O N

C O G A N

esla Motors is considered by

days. Although production and delivery of

indicated a willingness to deal with range

many to be producing the best

these cars will take years, the bottom line

limitations if pricing was reasonable.

battery-powered cars in the

is there is clearly a level of support for bat-

Automakers have responded in vari-

business. A company replete with surprises

tery electric cars that has escaped analysts

ous ways since then with over 15 bat-

and often shrouded in mystery, it has a pas-

and the auto industry in general.

tery electric models available. But cost,

sionate following that transcends that of any

In its seminal study The Current and

driving range, availability, and too often

other automaker. Since its founding in 2003,

Future Market for Electric Vehicles released

uninteresting or quirky designs have

the company has produced its high-end elec-

15 years ago, the nonprofit Green Car

remained impediments.

tric Tesla Roadster, acclaimed Model S sedan,

Institute identified that a substantial con-

and innovative Model X crossover. All, appar-

sumer interest in battery (all-electric) vehi-

ENTER THE MODEL 3

ently, part of a master plan to ultimately fund

cles exists, but automakers were not offer-

The Model 3 is everything Tesla fans have

development of an affordable electric car.

ing models that would fill this need. What

expected or desired, including a claimed

Teslaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long-awaited, $35,000 Model 3

car buyers wanted were electric models

215 mile range, 0-60 mph acceleration

has now been unveiled amid a lead-up of

that were four-door, four- or five-passenger

under six seconds, and optional all-wheel

excitement rarely seen in the auto industry,

sedans with the same amenities offered by

drive that adds a second motor. AutoPilot

with a near immediate placement of well

conventionally-powered models, for pur-

autonomous driving hardware is includ-

over a quarter-million reservationsâ&#x20AC;Świthin

chase as well as lease. Those polled also

ed along with the ability to quick-charge

24 :: Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 22

MODEL X

MODEL S

MODEL 3

ROADSTER

at Tesla’s Supercharger network. Inside,

THE CHALLENGES AHEAD

of the most affordable base models will

up to five occupants will appreciate a

As Tesla transitions to the daunting task of

certainly be pushed out further than those

panoramic full glass roof and a landscape-

volume production of a mass-market vehi-

with reservations would like. Buyers won’t

oriented 15-inch display that represents the

cle with deposits for 250,000 reservations

see their cars for some time even if Tesla

sum total of the Model 3’s instrumentation.

that continue to grow, the company confi-

begins deliveries as promised in late 2017.

This electric sport sedan is beautifully

dently points out that its Fremont factory

During the Model 3’s reveal, Tesla CEO

designed with a definite family resem-

– the former NUMMI facility previously co-

Elon Musk said that deliveries would be

blance to its well-heeled older sibling,

owned by GM and Toyota – once produced

next year, and then got a laugh when he

the Model S, but with a curiously odd

nearly a half-million cars per year. Even

quipped that he was ‘fairly confident it will

flat panel at the front that detracts from

so, there are myriad challenges ahead and

be next year.’ That bit of coy acknowledge-

the car’s aesthetics. To be sure, this is an

Tesla says it’s already rethinking its manu-

ment alluded to Tesla having missed delivery

intentional design element underscoring

facturing plan based on the huge number

dates for all three of its previous models.

that the electric Model 3 does not require a

of Model 3 reservations now in hand.

To us it wasn’t just humorous, but also pre-

grille for cooling a combustion engine. But

Tesla is expected to follow its previ-

scient. Simply, the model year of a current

it’s been done better and more cohesively

ous path of building high-optioned (thus,

reservation holder’s Model 3 is as likely to be

by the likes of GM’s EV1, Chevrolet’s Bolt,

higher-profit) orders first, so the timeline

2019 or 2020 as it is the year expected. But

Nissan’s LEAF, and by Tesla’s own Model S.

for purchase agreements and deliveries

then, patience is a virtue, right? Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 :: 23

ISSUES

CAN HACKERS ACCESS VEHICLE CONNECTIVITY?

ybersecurity is a big issue as

ties without ill intent, have already hacked

tests and audits to codify best practices

vehicles become increasingly

into Chrysler’s Uconnect on-board system

and design recommendations for vehicle

connected. Just like comput-

to remotely take over steering, brakes, and

cybersecurity. A platform is being provided

ers and smartphones, automakers are

other functions in a controlled test of a Jeep

so ‘white hat’ hackers can test new hard-

beginning to update vehicles and add new

Cherokee that ran it off the road. In response,

ware and software to find vulnerabilities.

capabilities via the Internet. For instance,

Chrysler initiated a 1.4 million vehicle recall

Chipmakers provide encryption to pre-

Tesla is using over-the-air (OTA) updating

to make the fix. Separately, outside research-

vent unauthorized outside communication.

of on-board software including its trend-

ers illustrated how a laptop could be plugged

These chips also have secure sections

setting Autopilot. How big a deal is this?

into a network cable in a Tesla Model S to

where they store the keys that help certify

Industry analyst IHS Automotive predicts

start and stop the car, plus potentially plant

authenticated communications so malware

the number of OTA-capable vehicles will

a Trojan that could allow stopping the car

can’t alter programs. However, automakers

grow to over 96 million by 2022.

remotely while being driven. Tesla has since

must be vigilant for suppliers of software

Many new models have Internet Radio

resolved this with a patch.

and microprocessors that intentionally

and Wi-Fi hot-spots. Vehicle-to-vehicle

While automakers are taking cybersecu-

take a shortcut to save money or uninten-

(V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I)

rity seriously as vehicle connectivity grows,

tionally include defects that hackers can

technology is also starting to appear in

they really are latecomers to the cyber-

exploit. This is a big challenge today when

vehicles. The new BMW 760Li can read

security business. The military, computer

parts are supplied from all over the world.

speed limit signs, send the data to a

community, telecommunications companies,

Even with safeguards being used,

BMW server, which sends the updated

financial institutions, and other high risk

security software must be continuously

industries have been concerned about cyber-

updated to close newly discovered vulnera-

security for decades. Automakers and their

bilities and adapt to ever-changing threats,

suppliers are using – or should be – this

just like antivirus programs for computers.

vast amount of experience and technology

For obvious liability reasons, automakers

in designing their software and firmware.

cannot stop support for a vehicle after a

Semiconductor manufacturer Intel

certain date like Microsoft recently did

has established the Automotive Security

with Windows XP. Rather they must pro-

Review Board consisting of top security

vide support as long as a vehicle is on the

industry experts from around the world.

road, particularly if it involves safety…

Researchers will perform on-going security

which could be decades. —Bill Siuru

information to the navigation systems in all Internet-capable BMWs. Even existing

WORKING IN ISOLATION

systems like remote and keyless entry,

A key cybersecurity principle is isolating Internet connected infotainment systems like navigation

factory-installed garage door openers,

systems, internet radio, and Wi-Fi hot spots as well as other points of access from systems that involve

Bluetooth, and services like On-Star pro-

vehicle operation and safety. This can be difficult, though not impossible, especially with OTA since the

vide access to the outside world.

communication is often aimed at critical systems. Designers are using hypervisors that split functions

If hackers can hack into a computer

into separate operating systems, isolating them down to the hardware level with nothing shared.

it’s possible they can hack into a vehicle,

Harman, for example, is adding its own layers of security via software to virtually separate its entertain-

maybe to set off the air bags, lock the

ment systems from the vehicle’s network. Continental, a major auto parts suppliers, is also partnering with

doors so you can’t get out, or even take

IBM and Cisco to make firewalls that control information flow between a car’s devices. – BS

control of the vehicle. ‘White hat’ hackers, who seek to identify potential connected system vulnerabili24 :: Green Car Journal Issue No. 43

Bill Siuru is a retired USAF colonel who has been writing about automotive technology for 45 years. He has a Bachelor degree in automotive engineering, a PhD in mechanical engineering, and has taught engineering at West Point and the U.S. Air Force Academy.

Congratulations, HR-V. The Honda HR-V. Green Car Journal’s 2016 Green SUV of the Year.™

ECO TIRE Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s How We Roll

B Y

G R E E N

28 :: Green Car Journal Issue No. 43

C A R

J O U R N A L

E D I T O R S

he tires we roll on have characteristics that can differ greatly. Carefully

chosen, a new set of tires can make your time behind the wheel quieter and the ride smoother, while others can deliver a harsher ride and transmit an unacceptable level of road noise to the cabin. Tire designs and compounds can also greatly influence handling and performance, which is one of many reasons tire manufacturers devote so much time and resources to advanced tire development and then proving their prowess on the track. Beyond a focus on ride quality, performance, and tire life, an important trend in recent years has been the continuing refinement of low rolling resistance (LRR) tires that aim to improve fuel efficiency. Such tires are used on virtually every electric and hybrid vehicle for obvious reasons. Many automakers also equip their conventional vehicles with LRR tires since every little bit helps on the way to achieving the best possible fleet mpg average for their model lineup. All are keenly aware of the challenges ahead in meeting the mandated Corporate Average

Fuel

Economy

(CAFE)

requirement of 54.5 mpg by 2025. Driving on tires with lower rolling resistance is a small but important part of the strategy.

Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 :: 29 27

ECO TIRES tion and flexing. Newer LRR tires use

Among other low rolling resistance

advanced compounding with silica-

tire options on the market are Toyo’s

based or alternative oils to provide

Versado Eco Touring all-season tires

more pleasant ride characteristics.

designed to improve fuel efficiency

Early LRR tires also had reduced

for hybrid, electric, and other vehicles

grip and wore more rapidly. This has

while maintaining a smooth, quiet ride.

changed significantly over time as tire

The Versado Eco uses naturally derived

technology has evolved.

tread compound materials, a low rolling

Even so, the primary mission of LRR

resistance design, and a recycled polyes-

tires is minimizing rolling resistance and

ter casing to conserve natural resources.

addressing safety considerations like wet

Michelin offers an array of GreenX tire

Tire rolling resistance has the potential

weather handling and traction. Those

options including Defender, Primacy,

to positively influence urban fuel econ-

looking for tires focused on high perfor-

and Energy Saver A/S tires. Efficiencies

omy up to 4 percent and 7 percent on

mance diving are not likely candidates

are achieved through multiple strategies

the open road. As a rule of thumb, a 10

for LRR tires.

including the use of a more rigid tread

percent reduction in tire rolling resis-

Choosing replacement LLR tires for

block to lower rolling resistance and

tance will result in a one to two percent

a Prius, LEAF, Volt, or other electric

silica-based tread compound to keep

improvement in vehicle fuel economy.

or hybrid can be relatively easy. Just

tires running cooler.

Hyundai presents a great example. The

replace the tires with ones identical to

While plenty of LRR tires are offered

automaker’s Sonata Eco model gains

those that originally came with the car.

for a wide range of vehicles, it’s not

about one mpg more in the city and

Automakers producing ‘green’ cars spend

always easy to choose since efficiency

three on the highway mainly through

considerable effort working with tire

comparisons are not yet available.

the use of LRR tires and smaller wheels,

manufacturers in selecting the right LRR

Traction, wear, and temperature resis-

in this case 17-inch versus 19-inch on

tire to maximize efficiency of a specific

tance ratings are to be found but effi-

the standard model.

model. Still, there are quite a number of

ciency is glaringly missing, although

Drivers shouldn’t be surprised if fuel

aftermarket tires developed for electrics

there is hope.

efficiency actually drops when worn

and hybrids so choices are many.

The National Highway Traffic Safety

tires are replaced with new LRR tires,

For example, Yokohama’s AVID S33D

Administration (NHTSA) has proposed a

even if they’re the same size, type, and

LRR all-season tires for third genera-

tire label that would provide wet trac-

brand. Simply, as tires wear their roll-

tion Toyota Prius hybrids and other

tion, tread wear, and fuel efficiency

ing resistance gradually drops, about

small cars reduce fuel consumption

(rolling resistance) ratings on a 0-100

20 percent during the life of a tire as

while retaining all-season traction. Like

scale for replacement tires. It has also

the tread depth and mass decreases.

the AVID, the Yokohama Geolandar G055

done extensive testing to generate data

The payoff will come over time and not

BluEarth tires we’ve been testing on a

for such a label. While not yet imple-

necessarily during the first miles run-

crossover vehicle feature the company’s

mented, this will be of real value to

ning new LLR tires.

advanced, lightweight Airtex inner liner

those shopping for tires that will deliver

Various techniques are used to reduce

that combines the elasticity of rubber

improved environmental performance in

rolling resistance. Reducing internal

with the lightness and superior gas-

the future.

friction is one way that comes with no

barrier characteristics of

noticeable change in grip characteristics

plastic to reduce tire

during braking and cornering. Another

weight and rolling

is changing the tread compound, which

resistance. This tire,

can change grip. This sometimes, but not

like others in the

always, means a tradeoff between fuel

Yokohama line, uses

economy and performance.

orange oil tread com-

Early LRR tires were noted for their

pound to enhance per-

harsher ride, a result of using much

formance and decrease

harder rubber compounds and stiffer

the use of petroleum in

sidewalls in an effort to reduce fric-

tire production.

28 :: Green Car Journal Issue No. 43

e-tron

AUDI A3

SPORTBACK The Swiss Army Knife of Plug-Ins

B Y

B I L L

S I U R U

hen Audi introduced its

0 to 60 mph launch and the kind of spirited

a Swiss Army Knife of hybrids because

all-new generation A3 in

driving experience expected of an Audi.

of its four selectable driving modes. EV

the U.S. in 2014, only the

The carâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lithium-ion battery pack

mode provides pure electric driving, the

sedan was offered with the promise that

is located beneath the rear bench seat,

default mode at every start. Hybrid mode

the popular Sportback version would be

allowing fold-flat seats and the hatch-

chooses the most efficient power and is

coming. That follow-up is the A3 e-tron, the

back utility of a Sportback since thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

ideal for long distances. Hold Battery

exclusive A3 Sportback choice here in the

no battery intrusion in the cargo area.

mode preserves charge and saves EV

2016 model year. This exclusivity makes

This battery allows up to 17 miles of all-

power for later use. Charge Battery mode

this $37,900 A3 e-tron all the more special.

electric driving to handle typical around-

charges the battery during highway driv-

The A3 e-tron plug-in hybrid makes use

town driving chores. Driving on battery

ing to ensure plenty of electric range

of the same 150-horsepower, 1.4 liter TFSI

and hybrid power delivers an overall

when returning to an urban area.

gasoline engine and six-speed S tronic

driving range of just under 400 miles.

With the A3 Sportback e-tron, Audi set

transmission as conventional Sportbacks

Fuel economy is an EPA estimated com-

out to prove that efficiency and perfor-

available in offshore markets. The e-tron

bined 89 MPGe when running on battery

mance can co-exist in a premium vehicle,

adds a liquid-cooled, 102 horsepower elec-

power and 35 mpg in hybrid mode.

without sacrifice. By all measures it has

tric motor to deliver a satisfying 7.6 second

Audi likens its A3 Sportback as kind of

accomplished this goal. Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 :: 29

CONNECTED GREEN CARS The Convergence of Two Worlds

B Y

R O N

C O G A N

e are heading toward

as traffic ground to a halt, then auto-

on the road today. Not all models with

self-driving cars quicker

matically paced your car as your lane

autonomous technologies are ‘green’

than anyone could have

began moving again. Or maybe the driver

cars, but assuredly many of them will

imagined just a few years ago. While

of the nearby Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

be since there’s a natural convergence of

it will clearly be some time before our

who misjudged how quickly traffic would

autonomous driving technology and more

highways are packed with driverless

stop, but escaped incident because of

efficient cars unfolding before us. This is

cars making their way to work, home,

on-board systems that sensed a collision

only gathering momentum as a growing

and parts beyond, there are glimpses of

and automatically initiated emergency

number of vehicles begin to feature sys-

the future driving alongside us now.

braking. And what about that Tesla

tems like these.

It may be the Honda Civic self-aligned

Model S ahead that signaled and changed

Already, cars are increasingly equipped

in the fast lane beside you, or the Ford

lanes seemingly on its own as its driver

with an array of sensors, radar, and cam-

Fusion Energi in your rear view mirror

focused on something else?

eras to facilitate driver assistance sys-

that stopped without driver assistance

These are real capabilities of vehicles

tems that help deal with mundane chores

30 :: Green Car Journal Issue No. 43

like backing up safely and parallel park-

driving pilot project that will find 100

ing. These same sensors and systems pro-

self-driving Volvos negotiating everyday

vide a foundation for even more sophisti-

driving tasks on 30 miles of public roads

cated autonomous driving capabilities.

around Gothenburg, Sweden.

Several automakers are striving might-

The specter of life with self-driving

ily to lead the field. Tesla is one of these,

cars presents its challenges, not the least

not only with the ability for its Model S

of which is consumer distrust of such

to autonomously stay in its lane and with

systems and the concern we will lose the

Not all models with autonomous technologies are ‘green’ cars, but assuredly many of them will be.

LEARNING TO

SELF-DRIVE It’s a dangerous world out there with road

traffic flow, but automatically and safely

driving enjoyment and sense of freedom

debris, varying weather conditions, and

change lanes with the flick of a turn sig-

that automobiles have brought us since

unpredictable drivers. These are just some

nal when Autosteer is engaged. Cadillac is

their invention. While we may be in a

of the challenges as autonomous cars use

another with its upcoming Super Cruise.

new era that finds technology impact-

artificial intelligence to drive better than

Volvo is also at the forefront of this

ing most facets of daily life – with this

humans. Teaching autonomous cars how

race to an autonomous driving future, in

technology increasingly making its way

to react in real-world scenarios is critical

part because autonomous cars are con-

to our cars – the love of driving remains

and the deep learning required data-inten-

sidered much safer ‘drivers’ than humans

a priority for many.

sive. Video game-notable NVIDIA, which

and this aligns well with Volvo’s ambi-

This is supported by a recent Volvo

works with automakers on advanced elec-

tious goal to eliminate traffic fatalities

survey in which a vast majority of those

tronics systems, is on it with its DRIVE

in its vehicles by 2020. Its XC90 plug-in

asked said autonomous car technology

PX-2 graphics processing unit (GPU). The

hybrid already features some of the most

should respect the love of driving and, in

world’s first in-car artificial intelligence supercomputer, DRIVE PX-2 aims to provide 360-degree situational awareness and facilitate the deep learning required for cars to sense their surroundings and navigate autonomously. Illustrating once again that technologies proved on the race track ultimately trickle down to production cars, NVIDIA is applying its AI prowess to driverless race cars that will compete next year in the FIA Formula-e Roborace Championship series. Ten teams will compete with identical driverless cars outfitted with Drive PX-2 GPUs in the series’ one hour races, with software representing their sole advantage. —RC Photo by Daniel Simon/Roborace

advanced autonomous systems out there

fact, autonomous cars should include a

including Sensus Connect, Intersection

steering wheel even if they are capable

Auto Brake, and Pilot Assist. Volvo has

of driving themselves. At the same time,

also created its Concept 26 autonomous

most felt that technology in autonomous

driving interior for the XC90, the first

cars would make their travel time more

such autonomous-focused concept inte-

productive. In other words, we want

rior built on a vehicle platform sold

these worlds to coexist. There’s a lot to

today. Volvo is taking a lead role in the

read into that …perhaps from the driv-

world’s first large-scale autonomous

er’s seat at 65 mph, no? Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 :: 33

LONG-TERM TESTS>

10,000 MILES IN A

Photography by Ian Billings

Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 :: 36

BMW i3 LIFE WITH THE ULTIMATE URBAN CAR

B Y

R O N

C O G A N

he urban landscape is cluttered with diverse ideas of what makes for

great

transportation. In

crowded city environs youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find an eclectic mix of mobility ranging from biking and walking to mass transit and personal use vehicles of all types. Gridlock is often a way of life and parking an epic challenge, with air quality in the most traffic-impacted cities a serious issue. It was with this in mind that BMW launched its innovative and award-winning i3 electric car, a model weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve now driven over 10,000 miles and found to be just about indispensable.

Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 :: 37

LONG-TERM TESTS>

It’s not that we’re in that crowded

variant with its combustion range

pounds lighter without the 650cc engine-

urban environment every day. While sur-

extender at $46,250. The range extender

generator and fuel tank.

rounded by open roads, our small city

provides an additional 65 miles or so

This car is nimble, quick, and just

offers downtown streets that are often

of driving range by creating on-board

plain fun to drive. It’s easy to maneuver

narrow with street parking that’s always

electricity to maintain battery charge

and has a turning circle that’s so tight

tight and sometimes nonexistent. We

when nearly depleted.

it’s amazing. While we often go about our

get it. Easy maneuverability and a small

Beneath the i3’s distinctive exterior

daily drives entirely on battery power, we

stature are important, as is the ability to

design is perhaps the most high-tech

really appreciate the added functionality

scoot around town with zero emissions

construction of any vehicle on the

of the range extender because we’ve used

and aggressive regenerative braking

road today. The car’s LIFE module, or

its capabilities many times, alleviating

that often doesn’t require anything more

passenger cell, is constructed of light-

any range anxiety that may have oth-

than lifting your foot off the accelera-

weight and super-strong carbon fiber

erwise occurred. We’re looking forward

tor to come to a stop. Then there’s the

reinforced plastic (CFRP). Fitted over

to another very satisfying 5,000 miles

downright peppy acceleration of an elec-

this is a body also made of CFRP. The

of battery and range-extended driving

tric motor delivering 100 percent torque

i3’s aluminum DRIVE module integrates

before this test car must go back.

right off the line. In fact, the i3 deliv-

the car’s lithium-ion batteries, electric

ers one of the fastest launches of any

drivetrain, and suspension.

BMW…and we sure appreciate that.

We charge our i3 tester overnight

Should everyday driving be this fun?

with BMW’s modern-chic looking wall

Don’t know. But we’re not owning up to

charger. The 220-volt charger brings the

the fact that this car is often more fun

battery up to a fully charged state in 3

to drive than exotic sports cars we’ve

1/2 hours or less depending on the car’s

driven on these very same roads.

charge level when it’s plugged in. In

BMW’s i3 comes in two forms.

the morning, we can count on a battery

There’s the base battery electric model

range of up to 72 miles in our i3 REx. The

with its EPA estimated 81 mile range

REx-less model nets a few more miles

and $42,400 MSRP, and the i3 REx

of electric driving since it’s about 260

36 :: Green Car Journal Issue No. 43

LONG-TERM TEST INTRO >

Photography by Sheree Gardner

2016 CHEVROLET VOLT

DRIVING CHEVROLET’S EXTENDED RANGE ELECTRIC CAR B Y

R O N

C O G A N

hevrolet’s second generation

around town? No problem, zero emis-

while releasing the paddle immedi-

2016 Volt features sportier

sions all the way. A journey of a thou-

ately returns a normal driving state.

styling, better performance,

sand miles for work or vacation? Also

Normal regenerative braking always

and a lighter and more powerful

no issues with the Volt’s overall driving

works in the background.

two-motor drive system than the gen-

range and EPA estimated 106 MPGe

Chevrolet did all this with the 2016

eration that came before it. The five-

when driving on batteries, and 42 com-

Volt, and more, at an entry point of

passenger, extended range electric

bined mpg while operating on electricity

$33,170 that goes considerably lower

now drives up to 53 miles on batteries

from the Volt’s engine-generator.

with federal and state incentives. We

alone, with its 1.5-liter, four-cylinder

The 2016 Volt is a pleasure to

think we’ll be taking this one out from

engine-generator creating electricity

drive and exhibits satisfying levels

the test fleet every opportunity we get.

to deliver an overall 420 mile range. If

of acceleration in both battery and

range anxiety is one of your concerns

extended-range modes. It’s loaded

with electric cars, that needn’t be even

with advanced electronics and fea-

a distant thought here.

tures most desired by drivers today.

It’s with this in mind that we’re

Regen-on-Demand, first used in the

eagerly anticipating road trips in our

Cadillac ELR, is a welcome addition

new long-term Chevy Volt test car.

that adds to driving fun and efficiency.

During early media drives, it was obvi-

Squeezing a steering-wheel paddle

ous that the all-new Volt would fulfill a

instantly engages aggressive regenera-

diversity of missions without breaking

tive braking that slows the car and

a sweat. Typical commutes and drives

generates electricity for the battery, Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 :: 37

LONG-TERM TEST INTRO>

HONDA HR-V

FUNCTIONAL, EFFICIENT, AND FUN

B Y

T O D D

K A H O

reen Car Journal’s 2016 Green

HR-Vs. The two-wheel drive CVT

fold-up rear bottom seat cushions for

SUV of the Year™ won over

model scores an EPA fuel economy rat-

carrying taller items.

our judges for a wide variety

ing of 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg

We are looking forward to many more

of reasons. It didn’t need exotic technol-

on the highway, 31 mpg combined. The

miles behind the wheel of the 2016

ogy to gain our favor. Rather, the HR-V

AWD model scores a slightly lower

Honda HR-V.

is a right-sized compact SUV that ful-

mpg rating, but with an efficient driv-

fills so many missions with an extreme-

ing style we expect our EX-L Navi

ly low overall environmental footprint.

AWD long-term tester to deliver an

The HR-V is propelled by a 1.8-liter,

average in the mid-30 mpg range from

140 horsepower four-cylinder engine

the first tank of fuel.

that delivers an admirable balance

Most impressive is the overall fit

of performance and economy. The

and finish found throughout the HR-V.

i-VTEC 16-valve four offers a ULEV-2

Considering the HR-V’s trim exterior

emissions rating from CARB. Power

dimensions, interior space is impres-

is delivered through a CVT automatic

sive, particularly in the rear cargo area.

transmission that’s standard on the

With the rear seats folded flat it can

all-wheel drive model, or a six-speed

swallow up nearly 59 cubic feet of gear,

manual transmission on front drive

while offering the versatility of Honda’s

38 :: Green Car Journal Issue No. 43

SPECIAL SPONSORED ADVERTISING CONTENT SECTION

BIODIESEL THE AMERICAN ALTERNATIVE TO FOREIGN OIL TODAY’S BIODIESEL IS PLAYING AN IMPORTANT ROLE in terms of both energy diversity and cleaner air. Just last year, the biodiesel industry produced nearly 2.1 billion gallons of fuel that displaced a like amount of petroleum-derived diesel. Importantly, the growing popularity of biodiesel promises to reduce carbon emissions by more than 18.2 million metric tons, according to EPA data. Advanced biodiesel blends American-sourced biofuel from stocks including soybean oil, recycled cooking oil, and animal fats with petroleum diesel. Its diversity is a real advantage since biodiesel is not dependent on a single resource, but many. Plus, this biofuel is made from domestic renewable resources that do not compete with food stocks. Oils and fats for biodiesel are a minor byproduct of producing food for humans and animals. Various blends of biodiesel are offered for differing needs. B5, a blend of 5 percent biodiesel with 95 percent petroleum diesel, is compatible with all diesel models sold in the United States. The majority of new diesel vehicles are also approved for use with B20, a higher blend of 20 percent biodiesel and 80 percent petroleum diesel. Diesel powertrains capable of biodiesel use are available in a wide range of cars and light trucks from manufacturers including BMW, Chevrolet, GMC, Ford, Jeep, Mercedes, Nissan, and Ram. Because of biodiesel’s widespread availability and the fact that engine modifications are not required for this ‘dropin’ alternative fuel, many fleets have found biodiesel to be the most cost effective way to comply with state and federal regulations. In fact, according to a new 2016 Fleet Purchasing Outlook Study conducted by NTEA – the association for the work truck industry – biodiesel now ranks as the #1 alternative fuel among fleets for current deployment and future interest. Also, there is no need for additional parts inventory or training of maintenance staff. When it comes to a workhorse powertrain for modern fleet use, the performance, reliability, and longevity of a modern advanced diesel engine just can’t be beat…and biodiesel simply makes the case stronger. Unlike other alternative fuel technologies, the infrastructure for Advanced Biodiesel is already in place. Biodiesel can be stored at existing filling stations and conveniently dispensed like conventional motor fuels. The customer experience is intuitive and the positive environmental case loud and clear. With the production of biodiesel easily scalable to meet growing demand in the years ahead, biodiesel – America’s Advanced Biofuel – is the ideal power source for the diesel vehicles of today and tomorrow. National Biodiesel Board®, www.biodiesel.org

America’s Advanced Biofuel

NISSAN T

issan’s fully-redesigned 2016

automatic transmission. An as-yet undis-

heads, and composite valve covers. The

Titan XD combines the capa-

closed V-6 will also be available.

CGI block, along with the dual overhead

bility of a heavy-duty pickup

The Titan XD benefits from the first

camshafts, contributes to Nissan’s goal

with the fuel economy and affordability

application of the new Cummins M2 two-

of delivering excellent noise, vibration,

of a half-ton model. It delivers welcome

stage turbo system, which helps reduce

and harshness characteristics.

functionality with a 5.0-liter Cummins

turbo lag through precision balancing

The XD features an extended 151.6-inch

turbodiesel that delivers 310 horsepower

between high-pressure and low-pressure

wheelbase to handle the higher towing and

and a formidable 555 lb-ft torque, capable

turbos. The engine’s Rotary Turbine

payload potential of the Cummins diesel

of carrying a 2,000 pound payload or tow-

Control provides solid performance

while maximizing stability, handling, and

ing up to 12,000 pounds. A coming half-ton

across the powerband and manages

ride comfort. It also uses a new heavy-

2017 Titan variant will ride on a unique

exhaust gas temperatures. Efficiency-

duty, highly stable suspension design.

chassis some 14.7 inches shorter than that

enhancing weight reduction is achieved

Titan XD buyers can choose between

of the XD with a 390 horsepower, 5.6-liter

with a compacted graphite iron cylinder

several available hitches including an inte-

Endurance V-8 connected to a seven-speed

block, high-strength aluminum alloy

grated gooseneck hitch engineered into the

42 :: Green Car Journal Issue No. 43

TITAN XD Half-Ton Friendliness in a Heavy-Duty Pickup B Y

TO D D

K A H O

frame that’s easily accessible in the bed. It

ton pickups. We drove the Titan XD loaded

analog and digital gauges and a 5-inch

is also snow plow-capable.

near maximum payload capacity and it

color display, plus diesel monitoring and

Clearly, the Titan XD is the right size

performed without complaint.

maintenance displays. A 7-inch color

pickup for many chores. Nowhere is

The Titan XD is offered in Crew Cab,

monitor includes NissanConnect with

this more evident than when it comes to

King Cab, and Single Cab versions with

navigation, mobile apps, and services.

overall driveability. The step up to a tra-

three available bed lengths. A work truck

While fuel economy estimates are not

ditional heavy-duty pickup is more than

version is also available. All are mated

required for heavy-duty pickup models,

many drivers care to deal with on a daily

to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Nissan expects the XD’s Cummins diesel

basis. Titan XD simply doesn’t feel as

The Titan XD is offered in several trims

to provide 20 percent better efficiency

cumbersome as a bigger and heavier HD

including a rugged-looking Pro-4X model

than a gas-powered V-8 while towing full

truck. We wouldn’t call it nimble, but it is

and a top-of-the-line Platinum Reserve.

loads. Our driving experience in an XD

certainly easier to maneuver, especially

All except the Pro-4X can be had with

with a fully-loaded pickup bed realized a

around town. Overall ride and handling is

two- or four-wheel drive. Inside, The Titan

mpg average of just over 20 mpg…pretty

quite pleasant and on par with most half-

XD’s instrument panel integrates both

impressive for an HD pickup. Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 :: 43

5 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE CHEVY IMPALA BI-FUEL B Y

R O N

1. ALTERNATIVE FUELS have been an important focus at GM over the past 25 years. The 2016 Chevrolet Impala Bi-Fuel is the latest model to offer the ability to seamlessly run on compressed natural gas (CNG) or gasoline. Natural gas is the cleanest-burning of all fossil fuels and emits fewer greenhouse gas emissions than conventionally powered vehicles. Plus, natural gas is an abundant resource in the U.S. and costs significantly less per gallon equivalent than gasoline.

3. CONNECTIVITY is well looked-after in the Impala Bi-Fuel, which offers OnStar with 4G LTE connectivity and Wi-Fi hotspot plus wireless smartphone charging. Chevroletâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s MyLink infotainment system and Apple CarPlay integrate smartphone functions onto an eightinch color touchscreen that allows calling up features like music and navigation apps

42 :: Green Car Journal Issue No. 43

C O G A N

2. GAS OR CNG? Dual fuel capability solves the range anxiety that occurs with vehicles running solely on an alternative fuel. Impala drivers can choose to run on CNG or gasoline with a dashboard switch. When running on natural gas, the system seamlessly switches to gasoline once the CNG tank is depleted. Fuel gauges are provided for both fuels.

4. FUELING CONVENIENCE is provided with both the gasoline fuel inlet and CNG pressure fitting located behind a common fuel filler door. Fueling with natural gas at a CNG pump takes about the same amount of time as refueling with gasoline.

5. BI-FUEL OPERATION requires the Impalaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 3.6-liter dual-fuel V-6 to be equipped with hardened valves and valve seats to enhance durability when running on CNG. Special regulators, filters, and high pressure fuel lines are also used. Driving range is an EPA estimated 119 miles on CNG and 368 miles on gasoline.

GIVE IT A TEST DRIVE.

WWW.CARSOFCHANGE.COM Green Car Journal Issue No. 43 :: 45

BMW i

IT’S ELECTRIC. IT’S ALSO AWARD WINNING. With an EPA-rated 81 miles total range per charge* and renewable materials integral to its design, it’s not hard to see why the all-electric BMW i3 was a winner of the 2015 Green Car of the Year ® award.† But don’t think the BMW i3 is short on excitement – after all, it’s a BMW. While fewer tailpipe emissions decrease your carbon footprint, powerful performance increases your pulse.