12 The Sunday Times MOTORING
FEBRUARY 19, 2012
NEWS
Full hybrid Yaris set for Geneva
Skoda trials electric Octavia
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ere is a sneak peek of the first full hybrid supermini on the market, the new Toyota Yaris Hybrid, which will have its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March. With the ability to run solely on electric power, with zero exhaust emissions, it also acts as a closed system and never needs to be recharged. The system is similar to that seen in the Auris Hybrid, but redeveloped in key areas to make it 20% lighter. The Yaris Hybrid’s 1.5-litre petrol engine is new, while the motor, battery pack and associated components are smaller. The result is a Yaris just like any other with the family face to match, but combining 98bhp with what Toyota is calling “segment-leading CO2 emissions.” Its key rival is the Honda Jazz Hybrid, which doesn’t run a full hybrid system and emits 104g/km, so expect sub-100g/km from the Yaris. Toyota is staying tight-lipped about final numbers until official tests have been run and the data confirmed. What’s particularly impressive is that Toyota has been able to package all the hybrid technology without compromising interior or boot space at all, leaving it with the same 286-litre luggage capacity as any other version. Modifications have been made, however, to the aerodynamics of the hybrid model to make sure it’s as efficient as it can be.
There will be driving modes available for using the electric motor as much as possible, creating a zeroemission, super-quiet car for in-town driving. When the batteries’ energy is depleted the petrol engine will cut back in and help to recharge them. Final specifications are yet to be confirmed, but all models will come with continuously variable automatic transmissions and climate control. (PA)
ests have begun on a zeroemission version of Skoda’s family hatchback, which will see 10 all-electric Green E Line Octavias rolling around the streets of Mlada Boleslav in the Czech Republic. The real-world evaluations mark Skoda’s first use of an electric powertrain on the public road. The technology, which is being developed in tandem with other Volkswagen Group companies, will give engineers an insight as to whether plug-in cars of the Octavia’s size are viable yet. It will also show the companies those aspects of the systems that need to be improved or could be developed further prior to production. Using a 60kW (80bhp) motor that can run at up to 114bhp for oneminute bursts, the Octavia Green E Line can hit 62 mph in 12 seconds, with a top speed of 84 mph. The motor’s 199lb.ft of torque is available from zero revs, making it very quick from stationary up to urban speeds. A total of 180 battery cells make up the energy storage, providing up to 93 miles of range – more than enough for most commuters, says Skoda. The batteries weigh a total of 315kg and are installed under the middle and rear of the car in such a way that it can still seat five people. Dr Eckhard Scholz, board member in charge of research and development, said: “ŠKODA and the entire Volkswagen Group have a longtime aim, and that is sustainable mobility based on renewable energy sources. “There is no doubt electric propulsion is becoming more and more important for mobility with as low emissions as possible. Working as we are with our Group partners, we think we are making very good progress.” (PA)
New Kia Cee’d has designs on the future
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orean car maker Kia is to launch an all-new version of its popular Cee’d at the Geneva Motor Show next month. The all-new Cee’d five-door hatchback is longer, wider and lower than its predecessor, with the same long wheelbase to ensure plenty of space for passengers. The car’s coupe-like proportions are emphasised by a steeply raked A-pillar, a low belt-line at the front and lengthened side windows. At the front, new Cee’d is dominated by the latest interpretation of Kia’s trademark ‘tiger-nose’ grille and aggressive, wraparound headlamp clusters housing signature LED daytime running lights. Inside, there is a new interior boasting higher quality materials.
Subaru’s double debut at Geneva Motor Show
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apanese car maker Subaru is preparing to wow the crowd at the influential Geneva Motor Show next month with two new models. First up is the firm’s hotly anticipated new sports coupe, the BRZ. Developed in co-operation with Toyota, this front-engine, rear-wheel drive coupe promises affordable performance motoring for keen drivers. Powered by Subaru’s trademark horizontally-opposed 2.0-litre Boxer engine, this car is expected to deliver impressive levels of grip and handling thanks to the lowest centre of gravity of any production car. Of equal importance will be the unveiling of Subaru’s fourth-generation Impreza. According to its maker, the car will boast superior reliability, handling and safety features, while its signature Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system and Boxer engine remain its core features. (PA)