Top 10 2012 EV Price Forecast and Summary Review

Here are 10 pure electric and plug-in hybrid cars expected to be sold with starting prices between $29,000 and $39,995 in the U.S. in 2012. They will include small city cars, 5-seat hatchbacks full of electronic wonders, and a 100-mile range electric SUV. At the top of the low cost list, at least for now, is the Mitsubishi i electric car can now selling for $29,125.

The following is our list of electric cars, including plug-in hybrids, where at least 1,000 are likely to be delivered in the U.S. in 2012. We include the announced prices and our educated guesses about prices not announced.

In 2012, volume manufacturing is increasing. By the end of 2012, Nissan will have delivered 70,000 LEAFs globally. GM will have delivered 70,000 Chevrolet Volts, Opel Amperas and a third electric car. Ford will be building and selling multiple electric cars, plug-in hybrids, and hybrids with common platforms and many shared components to drive down cost. Toyota and Honda will both offer multiple electric models. Some of the following will be 2012 model years, some 2013. If we don’t think that they will deliver at least 1,000 in the U.S. in 2012, we did not include them in this list.

2012 Electric Cars with Lowest U.S. Prices

Mitsubishi i (official name with small “i”) is bigger and with more zip for the U.S. market. This pure-electric city car can now be reserved starting at $29,125. Mitsubishi will challenge the Nissan Leaf, Ford Focus Electric, and Honda Fit Electric. The world’s best selling freeway-speed electric car is coming to the U.S. this November. This fun-to-drive 4-seat 5-door, will have a wheel base 5 inches wider for the U.S. market, but the micro-compact will still be able to get those precious city parking spaces that few U.S. cars can take. The more powerful U.S. version will have an electric range of EPA adjusted 62 miles with a 16kWh lithium battery. Mitsubishi I Review

Honda Fit EV looks just like the popular Honda Fit 5-door, 5-seat subcompact hatchback. The 2013 Fit EV sells for $36,625 or $399 per month on lease. The Fit EV Level 2 charges at double the speed of the Nissan Leaf and Mitsubishi i. The U.S. version will not have fast charging. Honda Fit Electric

Scion IQ Electric is a pure battery-electric small city car that will compete with the Mitsubishi i and the Smart ED. This micro-subcompact will include a less expensive battery pack for only a 50-mile electric range; the Scion Electric could be priced for volume. Although pricing has not been announced, we speculate that it will be priced between $28,000 and $29,900. In late Summer 2012 we expect announced pricing and order processing for late 2012 deliveries.

Toyota Prius Plug-in starts at $32,000. Toyota will start taking online reservations in a few weeks with an online configurator allowing selection of options and colors. The Prius Plug-in cost about $8,000 less than the Chevrolet Volt, a plug-in hybrid with a 40-mile electric range in comparison to the Prius PHV’s 15-mile. After federal tax credits, the difference narrows to only $3,000. The Prius Plug-in costs about $8,500 more than the classic Prius Liftback, but the difference narrows to  $6,000 after Federal Tax Credit. Prius PHV Test Drive and Review

Nissan LEAF is a pure battery-electric car with 100-mile range. Over 10,000 are now on U.S. roads; 50,000 will be delivered globally by December 31, 2011. The 2011 LEAF started at $32,780; the 2012 LEAF with twice the charge rate will start at $35,200 or $369 monthly. Drive it at 30 mph and you might get 140 miles; drive it at 70 mph running the air conditioner, 60 miles. This 5-door, 5-seat, hatchback has the right size and range for many who drive under 100 miles daily, or for households with more than one car. The LEAF is the first electric car to earn five stars from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. Nissan LEAF Review

Ford Focus Electric starts at $39,200 with double the charge speed of the LEAF. You can go online and configure your car, select a dealer and place your order. Although Nissan and Chevrolet have been getting most of the electric car media attention, both automakers are worried about Ford who will give customers the widest choice of electric and plug-in hybrid cars and vans. In 2011, Ford will make a big splash with a new Ford Focus Electric. Ford has also partnered with SunPower to offer an affordable rooftop solar system that will allow Focus Electric owners and other electric car drivers to “Drive Green for Life,” and charge with solar. Ford Focus Electric

Ford C-MAX Energi, an exciting new Crossover SUV can seat five. C-MAX Energi will offer more than 500 miles of overall driving range using the lithium battery, electric motor, and gasoline engine – more than any other plug-in. Ford wants to offer the passenger room and cargo space of the Prius PHV, but the electric range of the Chevrolet Volt, and probably offer a starting price between the two. Ford C-MAX Energi

Chevrolet Volt was awarded Car of the Year by Motor Trend and Automotive Magazine and awarded Green Car of the Year by Green Car Journal. General Motors is the current plug-in hybrid leader with the Chevrolet Volt, a plug-in hybrid with 40 miles of electric range and total range of 400 miles by engaging a small gasoline engine that is coupled with an electric generator. Our Volt Test Drive showed that this is plug-in hybrid is sportier to drive than regular hybrids and a great 4-door, 4-seat sedan for those who want to minimize fill-ups and avoid range anxiety. The Volt starts at $39,995 with nice tax credits or $350 monthly lease. Interviews with Chevy Volt Owners

CODA is $39,995 for an electric car with a 50% larger lithium battery than offered by Nissan and Ford. My test drive of the new CODA showed that this new electric car is similar in handling and performance to the Nissan Leaf and Ford Focus Electric which I have also driven. CODA has at least 40 percent more electric range than the LEAF and Focus Electric which each have 24 kW lithium batteries in comparison to CODA’s 36 kW lithium iron phosphate battery. CODA Review

Toyota RAV4 EV is a pure battery-electric SUV designed to deliver a 100-mile electric range in a popular 5-seat SUV with 73 cubic feet of storage. Toyota, which owns 2% of Tesla, uses an advanced Tesla lithium battery pack. The two have successfully collaborated in developing this electric SUV. Toyota can afford to price it below $40,000, but will they? Look for sales to start by next summer. RAV4 EV Test Drive

Smart Fortwo ED is leasing 250 Smart Fortwo ED at $599 monthly to United States test fleets and adding 300 to San Diego’s Car2Go car sharing. The Smart ED currently uses Tesla 16 kW battery packs, but dealer sales are likely to start with a more powerful 2013 model year city electric car and a more reasonable price.

At over $40,000 we will see more luxury offerings including the Tesla Roadster, the new Tesla Sedan S starting at $57,400, and the luxury plug-in hybrid from Fisker.

Future Electric Cars

Nissan, GM, Toyota, Honda, and Ford will all expand the number and variety of electric vehicle offerings. All major automakers are all testing electric cars for 2013 and beyond. Tesla and Fisker are working at more affordable electric cars that fit on this “lower cost” list.

By 2020, Europe with higher fuel prices and fewer oil subsidies is forecast to have more electric cars by 2020 than the United States. Better Place may deliver 100,000 of the Renault Fluence with its switchable battery to Israel, Denmark, and other countries. Volkswagen may teach everyone how to extend range by making vehicles light. The concept Up Light weighs just over 1,500 pounds, but it’s only a concept. We loved test-driving the Volkswagen Golf Blue E-Motion, but don’t plan on buying it in the U.S. before 2014. BMW will pilot the Active E coupe and then gear-up for future sales of the i3 hatchback. Look for future fun in the Fiat 500 EV.

For three years, we have read about China’s plans to bring electric cars to the U.S. Although China’s U.S. ambitions have slipped badly, its automakers cannot be ignored. China has over 100 million light electric vehicles, e-bikes and e-scooters in daily use. It’s new 5-year plan calls for 100 million electric charging stations in China by 2020. BYD, with gold-plated investors such as Warren Buffett, has only put a few hundred electric vehicles on the road in China and continues to delay introduction to the United States. CODA with its pricey $45,000 sedan continues to seek DOE loans, more investors, and a viable delivery date. Volvo, now owned by China’s Geely has the new C30 Drive E Electric, but the Volvo electric car will be selling only in Europe in the short-term. SAIC, Chery, and hundreds of players are also preparing EVs for China.

Japan and China will not be the only Asian electric car competitors. Hyundai and Kia are now selling impressive hybrids with lithium batteries. In the years ahead, Hyundai plans to offer electric cars and even a hydrogen fuel cell SUVs for under $40,000. India might bring us a Maharinda Reva or Tata EV that under prices everyone, but not by 2012, the basis for this report.

What is certain is that you have a growing selection of electric and plug-in hybrid cars expected to be sold with starting prices between $29,000 and $39,000 in the U.S. in 2012.

Electric Cars with Lowest U.S. Prices is a post from: Clean Fleet Report

Toyota Prius continues its 12-year hybrid car leadership with the best fuel economy, lowest carbon emissions, and in hybrid sales. Customers keep voting for the Prius with their pocketbooks. This fuel economy champion leads with 51 miles per gallon (mpg) city, 48 highway, and 50 combined. If you want better mileage drive in Eco mode. The 5-door Prius Liftback seats 5 in its midsized interior. The 60/40 split backseat can be lowered to make room for lots of work gear, home improvement projects, 2 bicycles, and other stuff. Manufacturer suggested price starts at about $23,520 MSRP (all prices in this article are starting points for negotiation, are subject to change, and can be higher due to destination, handling, and options). In the summer of 2012, the new smaller Prius C will take the top place for best mpg, now that Prius is a family of four. Toyota Prius Review

Toyota Prius v Crossover SUV – My test drive of the new Prius v convinces me that you can get 42 MPG with comfort for 5 people and the flexibility to hold the cargo carried in most SUVs. The Prius v will shake-up the crossover SUV and wagon market when it goes on sale starting at $26,400. At 44/40/42 MPG combined, the Prius v delivers double the mileage of many SUVs with more cargo flexibility than most. Toyota Prius v Test Drive and Specifications

Lexus CT200h delivers great mileage in a premium sport 5-door hatchback with 42 mpg by using the Prius Synergy drive system. I was delighted with my test drive of this in Sport mode on the track and Eco mode on the streets and highways. Now you can enjoy the premium features of a Lexus and still get 43 city, 40 highway, and 42 combined mpg. Legroom in this compact is fine for most, but a 6-foot, 3-inch driver complained about wanting more in the front and back seats. Lexus CT200h Owner’s Driving Experience and Review

Honda Civic Hybrid is new and improved in the 2012 model. With a lithium-ion battery the new Civic Hybrid is expected to achieve 45 MPG in contrast to the currently available 2011 Civic Hybrid with 41 combined mpg. Unlike driving the distinctive Prius, those that drive the 5-seat Civic Hybrid like having a car that looks “normal.” Looks aside, Honda struggles to match the success of the Toyota and Lexus hybrid brands. Honda Civic Review

Honda Insight is a 5-door hatchback and a hybrid price leader with $19,800 MSRP. The Insight will deliver 40 city, 43 highway, and 41 mpg combined. The Insight is sportier in looks and handling than the Civic. Unlike the Civic Hybrid, the backseats can be lowered for more cargo in the Insight. Insight Test Drive

Toyota Camry Hybrid 2012 delivers 43 mpg city, 39 highway, combined 41 mpg, to be the midsized sedan leader. The Camry is so popular that 15 million have been sold. It has been America’s best selling car for 9 years. Starting at $25,900, The Camry Hybrid LE  with excellent fuel economy will not take long to pay for the $3,360 premium over the non-hybrid LE that delivers 28 mpg combined. Toyota Camry Hybrid 2012

Ford Fusion Hybrid midsized sedan achieves 41 city, 36 highway, and 39 mpg combined. The Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid may travel up to 47 miles per hour in pure electric mode. The Fusion Hybrid provides a smooth, quiet, and comfortable ride with the Advanced Intake Variable Cam Timing providing seamless transition between gas and electric modes. The trunk only holds 12 cubic feet and the backseats do not lower. Ford has included a number of telematics and infotainment electronics. $27,625 MSRP. Fusion Hybrid Test Drive

Lincoln MKZ provides a premium interior and the smoothest test drive that I have experienced. Now you can have all your premium qualities, roomy midsized interior without sacrificing fuel economy. Using the same drive system as the Fusion Hybrid, you also achieve 41 city, 36 highway, and 39 mpg combined. The trunk only holds 12 cubic feet and the backseats do not lower. The model that I drove was only $34,333 for this premium hybrid, basically the same price as the Lincoln MKX non-hybrid. Lincoln MKZ Test Drive

Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is a beautifully designed mid-sized sedan that challenges the Ford Fusion Hybrid and the Toyota Camry Hybrid, and cost less than either with a $25,795 MSRP. This Sonata seats 5 in comfort. Benefitting from only .25 co-efficient of drag, it is as aerodynamic as the Prius; the Sonata Hybrid delivers 35 city, 40 highway, and 37 combined mpg using a lithium polymer battery pack. You may do better when using the ECO mode and sneak in a stealth mile in pure EV mode. It only has 11 cubic feet of trunk space.

Kia Optima Hybrid will appeal to those who like the Fusion Hybrid and the Sonata Hybrid. This attractive mid-sized sedan uses the same drive system and lithium battery pack as its first cousin the Sonata Hybrid. This Kia delivers 35 city, 40 highway, and 37 mpg combined. Pricing should soon be announced as 2011 sales begin.

Honda CR-Z is a fun sports coupe with good handling and performance. Sport car lovers are likely to get the 6-speed stick, although the CVT automatic transmission includes paddle shifters. You can choose your driving mode: Sport for more electric acceleration, Normal, or Econ when you’re stuck in traffic and want to save fuel. 35 city, 39 highway, 37 mpg combined with the CVT; about 3 mpg less with the stick shift. Lovers of the former CRX complain that the new 2-seat CR-Z lacks the acceleration of its predecessor. 25 cubic feet of cargo behind the front seat. The new CR-Z handles like the better mileage and bigger 4-seat Insight. The CR-Z sports hybrid has an MSPR of $19,345.

With high oil prices, hybrids are more popular than ever.  People have their favorite hybrid. Perhaps your favorite does not have quite the mileage of the above. Other quality hybrids include the Nissan Altima Hybrid, Infinity M35H, and several others. Car owners that really want to reduce their gasoline use and carbon footprint are lining up to buy new plug-in hybrids such as the Chevrolet Volt and pure battery-electrics such as the Nissan Leaf. Best Plug-in Hybrids and Battery Electric Cars

You can get good mileage without having to spend over $20,000 for a hybrid. Good mileage is available with the Fiat 500, Smart Fortwo, Ford Fiesta, Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit, Chevy Cruze, and MiniCooper. If you spend most of your time on freeways, turbo diesels are appealing alternative to hybrids.

This top 10 hybrid comparison includes the hybrid cars available for sale in the United States this year. Therefore it does not include the Honda Fit Hybrid and Toyota Yaris Hybrid, which we hope to see in the U.S. in the future. The list is commercially available cars and not specialty and conversions that might show-up in a few fleets and garages.

Please bookmark this web page and check back as we update the list with new models, like when the Ford C-MAX Hybrid challenges the Prius V for Crossover SUV leadership.

Hybrid SUV with AWD

Many people need an SUV for their work and/or family demands. Those that can wait until later in 2011 may find the Prius V their best choice and certainly the SUV with the best mileage and lowest carbon footprint. Others need space for up to 7 people and more cargo space. Those living where winter can bring snow and ice will value the optional AWD available in these hybrid SUVs. If you own 2 vehicles, consider making only one an SUV and save a bundle in upfront cost and annual driving with a hybrid sedan as your other car. SUVs with best mpg that you can buy today:

Ford Escape Hybrid is the most popular hybrid SUV and goes 32 mpg. You can still achieve 29 mpg with the optional four-wheel drive model. Carry five people with room left for lots of cargo.

Lexus RX 450h is a roomy SUV, that seats 5, and offers 30 miles per gallon combined miles per gallon (mpg). The RX 450h is one of five hybrids now offered by Lexus, the premium car hybrid champion. While the sporty new Lexus CT200h will deliver 42 mpg, the bigger RX 450h SUV delivers an impressive 29 mpg. The hybrid drive system is smart enough to know when to only use the electric motors, when to engage the 3.5 liter engine, and when to use both.

Toyota Highlander Hybrid can seat 7 people in 145 cubic feet in comparison to the 5 seat Lexus and Ford alternatives. The optional Highlander Hybrid 4WD uses two electric motors and a 3.5L engine to get you through a wide range of conditions at 28 mpg combined. With 7 people you have little cargo room, start collapsing seats and you have up to 94 cubic feet of cargo.

Cash Savings and Carbon Footprints

As I was being video taped, an interviewer asked me why anyone would buy a hybrid when they could not cost justify the added cost. I answered that when I bought my 2002 Prius, I paid about $5,000 more than a comparable non-hybrid, saved $1,000 per year for 7 years, then sold it for $4,000 more than a non-hybrid. For me it was a money maker. For those that don’t drive much, a hybrid may not save. Some hybrids are about performance and not saving money. In cities like San Francisco and New York, where taxis cover 90,000 miles per year, most buy hybrids and pay for the hybrid in months with major fuel savings.

Hybrids with the best mileage save at the pump year after year. They make the United States more energy secure. The U.S. is presently quite vulnerable to oil supply disruption, since 95 percent of U.S. transportation now depends on oil. Hybrids help clear the air with lower emissions. The best hybrids emit less than half the greenhouse gases of average cars, which produce 8 tons of CO2-equivalent annually, and a third of most SUVs. Here is how our best hybrids ranked in MPG and carbon emissions:

1. Toyota Prius – 50 mpg – 3.7 tons CO2e
2. Toyota Prius V SUV – 42 mpg – 4.5 tons CO2e
3. Lexus CT200h – 42 mpg – 4.5 tons CO2e
4. Honda Civic Hybrid – 41 mpg – 4.6 tons CO2e
5. Honda Insight – 41 mpg – 4.6 tons CO2e
6. Toyota Camry Hybrid – 41 mpg – 4.6 tons CO2e
7. Ford Fusion Hybrid – 39 mpg – 4.8 tons CO2e
8. Lincoln MKZ – 39 mpg – 4.8 tons CO2e
9. Hyundai Sonata Hybrid – 37 mpg – 5.1 tons CO2e
10. Kia Optima Hybrid – 37 mpg – 5.1 tons CO2e
11. Honda CR-Z – 37 mpg – 5.1 tons CO2e

This list was developed by first searching the U.S. EPA and DOE’s valuable fueleconomy.gov, with its extensive search capabilities. The EPA combined miles per gallon rating is based on 45% highway and 55% city driving. The carbon footprint is carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) based on 15,000 miles of driving, using the GREET 1.7 model which measures emissions from oil well to wheels. Reliable GREET 2 data is not available which includes the added lifecycle emissions from manufacturing materials and mining metals. Even though the industry recycles most materials after the 10 to 15 year life of a vehicle, GREET 2 would probably add about 20 percent to the above GHG emissions.

Best Plug-in Hybrids and Electric Cars

10 Hybrid Cars with Best Miles per Gallon is a post from: Clean Fleet Report

2012 Subaru Impreza delivers the best mileage of any all-wheel drive vehicle sold in the U.S. – 27-mpg city and 36-mpg highway – better than any hybrid AWD. The handling is designed to get you to your snow board / ski resort in the winter, off-road hike and bike spots in the summer, and get to school and work when the rain is pounding. Remember last winter’s miserable roads and high gas prices. The Impreza delivers better mileage in 2012 with more rear seat and cargo room. Available as either a compact 5-door hatchback or 4-door sedan, the Impreza sales start November 2011 with a base price of $17,495 for the sedan with a five-speed stick. A hatchback with automatic starts at $18,995 MSRP (all prices in this article are starting points for negotiation, are subject to change, and can be higher due to destination, handling, and options). 2012 Subaru Impreza Details

Lexus RX 450h AWD delivers safer driving in the snow, a roomy SUV, and 29 miles per gallon combined miles per gallon (mpg). The RX 450h is one of five hybrids now offered by Lexus, the premium car hybrid champion. While the sporty new Lexus CT200h will deliver 42 mpg, the bigger RX 450h delivers an impressive 29 mpg in a bigger, heavier SUV that delivers power to all four wheels, getting 30-mpg highway and 28-mpg around town. The hybrid drive system is smart enough to know when to only use the electric motors, when to engage the 3.5 liter engine, and when to use both. The RX 450h AWD starts at under $46,000.

Ford Escape Hybrid 4WD  deliver good mileage, wet and icy road handling starting at around $32,000 for Escape Hybrid 4WD. This 4WD delivers 29 mpg combined, 30 city, and 27 highway. Carry five people with room left for lots of cargo.

Toyota Highlander Hybrid 4WD can seat 7 people in 145 cubic feet in comparison to the 5 seat Lexus, Ford, and Mercury alternatives. The Highlander Hybrid 4WD uses two electric motors and a 3.5L engine to get you through a wide range of conditions. This 4WD delivers 28 combined, 28 city, 28 highway. Starting at $37,490, you get more room than the Lexus and Ford alternatives. With 7 people you have little cargo room, start collapsing seats and you have up to 94 cubic feet of cargo.

Nissan Juke AWD delivers good mileage without the added cost of being a hybrid. With 4 doors and a hatch, some find the styling fun and hip, others don’t like the looks. Because of the slopping roof, the back seat will not be popular with anyone over 5’10”. The cargo is limited to 10 cubic feet, but you can lower the backseat for 36 cubic feet. The Juke AWD, starting at about $20,500, is $10,000 less than the above hybrids, and is rated at 27 mpg combined, 25 city, and 30 highway.

Subaru Legacy AWD is a popular sedan designed to deliver mileage without being a hybrid and safe handling on icy roads. Subaru includes AWD in every vehicle it sells.  This sedan has been popular in colder climates for two decades. This sedan configured with a 2.5L engine and automatic delivers 26 mpg combined, 23 city, and 31 highway. Starting at $19,995 this 4-door, 5-seat midsized sedan makes all-wheel drive affordable for more people.

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport AWD is a 5-door, 5 passenger crossover SUV that makes four-wheel drive affordable and delivers 26 mpg combined, 24 city, and 29 highway. The Outlander Sport SE AWC starts at $22,995.

Audi TT Quattro offers a premium interior, performance, and multifunction sport steering with shift paddles. The Audi Quattro brand name assures you that have drive to all four wheels.  Audi provides a wide selection of AWD cars for those who value handling, performance, and take driving seriously. The Audi TT Coupe Quattro delivers 26 mpg combined, 22 city, and 31 highway.  Appointed with a rich leather interior and rich electronic entertainment, this Coupe Quattro starts at $38,300. The Audi TT Roadster Quattro also delivers 26 mpg combined, 22 city, and 31 highway, and starts at $41,300.

Subaru Outback Wagon 2.5i is a highly versatile SUV with AWD at a starting price of $23,195. The Outback delivers 24mpg combined, 23 city, and 29 highway with the 2.5L engine and automatic transmission. Comfortably seat 5 and still have 34 cubic feet of cargo, or use the 60/40 fold-down rear seat for 71.

Audi A4 and A5 Quattro delivers 24 mpg combined, 21 city, and 29 highway.  These premium sedans are popular with Audi lovers. The A4 starts at $32,850. The slightly bigger A5 starts at $36,500. If you like the performance and highway fuel-efficiency of turbo diesel, Audi offers one choice in the USA. It is the Q7 TDI Quattro. Because of the larger size and weight, the Q7 TDI only delivers 20 mpg combined, and the AWD version costs well north of $50,000.

Toyota RAV4 4WD is a more affordable SUV than the Toyota Highlander, starting at only $23, 425, yet a bit smaller and not matching the mileage. With a 2.4L engine and automatic the RAV4 4WD delivers 24 mpg combined, 21 city, and 27 highway. This SUV seats 5, but can be ordered with a third row to seat 7. Cargo is limited with 7 seated, but up to 73 cubic feet with back rows empty. In 2012, Toyota brings us an all-electric, Toyota RAV4 EV Powered by Tesla; AWD has not been announced.

Best AWD and 4WD Mileage

For millions that face snow and icy roads 10, 20, or even 40 percent of the year, a car or SUV must safely navigate dangerous conditions and still deliver good fuel economy. Winter storms and gasoline approaching $4 per gallon are making these dual demands more important.

A four-wheel drive provides better traction on ice by delivering power to all four wheels when the driver selects 4WD. All wheel drive vehicles (AWD) automatically deliver power to all wheels. Winter and mountain safety is further improved with snow tires or good all-weather radials. Added vehicle weight can help. Now you can have AWD and 4WD cars and SUVs that still deliver good fuel economy. Whether you are taking your kids to school in Chicago, getting to work in Washington D.C., or running a taxi fleet in New York, an AWD may help you through the storm.

Better mileage helps your pocketbook and helps our nation need less oil. If you want to lower your carbon footprint, all of these AWD and 4WD have lower emissions than the national average. Emissions for 15,000 miles of typical driving range from about 6 tons for the new Subaru Impreza to 6.5 tons CO2e for the best hybrid SUVs to 7.8 tons CO2e for the Subaru Outback Wagon AWD and Toyota RAV4 4WD.

This list was developed by first searching the U.S. EPA and DOE’s valuable fueleconomy.gov, then reviewing details on the vehicle maker websites. The EPA combined miles per gallon rating is based on 45% highway and 55% city driving.

Own or Rent an AWD

The average U.S. household has two cars. A growing trend is to put the most miles on the car with great mileage and have a bigger second vehicle for trips with passengers and tough road conditions. Bob and Weihong Eubank put the most miles on their Prius, but they are happy about having a Toyota Highlander Hybrid 4WD when heading for the mountains, or when loading 4 to 7 people in the SUV. Tim and Sandy Flood put most of their miles on commuter rail and on their Prius, but have a Honda CR-V AWD if they need more room or face bad roads.

In 2-car households, one vehicle could even be an electric car and the other a larger AWD. You might be surprised with how well some of the new electric cars handle snow and ice. When Clarkson Cote drove his new Chevrolet Volt 400 miles from New York to northern New Hampshire, the Volt handled the snow better than his relative’s truck with snow tires.

Instead of spending a small fortune to own a vehicle that gets you through the worst day of the year, consider what best meets your needs 350 days per year. When I lived in New Hampshire, I got along fine without AWD, driving my Saab with good all weather radial tires. Now living in California, my Prius did surprisingly well during the few days each year that I was on bad winter roads in the mountain, although I sometimes went through the hassle of putting on chains.  When we needed an SUV for the 2002 Winter Olympics, we rented a Ford Escape 4WD and were glad that we did. Consider renting an AWD if you rarely face icy roads.

If you need AWD and prefer to drive a four-door sedan, Subaru offers popular and affordable choices, and Audi Quattro sedans for premium comfort and handling at a premium price. A heavier SUV from Ford, Toyota, or Lexus does not necessarily give better traction or safety on the ice than a sedan, but it may give you the necessary room for up to 7 people, more cargo, and surprisingly use less gas. When that 100-year storm hits, relax. Schools are closed and you can work at home that day. Lots of room and premium comfort.

All-Wheel Drive Cars with Best Mileage is a post from: Clean Fleet Report

Over 60,000 electric cars and plug-in hybrids are now on the U.S. roads. The Nissan Leaf has the most drivers; Nissan plans to deliver 70,000 LEAFs by the end of 2012. In the same time period, GM will deliver 80,000 plug-in hybrids, primarily the popular Chevrolet Volt. Ford is gearing up to offer serious competition with the Ford Focus Electric and other electric cars. The Toyota Prius is now a family of four, including the new Prius PHV. Orders for the $29,125 Mitsubishi i are now being taken as lithium battery costs drop and customers benefit. Clean Fleet Report forecasts the U.S. best selling electric cars and plug-in hybrids through 2012.

Nissan LEAF is a pure battery-electric car with 100 mile range. 50,000 will be delivered globally by December 31, 2011. The 2011 LEAF can be purchased starting at $32,780 or leased for $349 monthly; the 2012 LEAF including DC Fast Charge and backup camera will start at $35,200 or $369 monthly. Drive it at 30 mph and you might get 140 miles; drive it at 70 mph running the air conditioner, 60 miles. LEAF Test drive. This 5-door, 5-seat, hatchback has the right size and range for many who drive under 100 miles daily, or for households with more than one car. The LEAF is the first electric car to earn five stars from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.

Chevrolet Volt was awarded Car of the Year by Motor Trend and Automotive Magazine and awarded Green Car of the Year by Green Car Journal. General Motors is the current plug-in hybrid leader with the Chevrolet Volt, a plug-in hybrid with 40 miles of electric range and total range of 400 miles by engaging a small gasoline engine that is coupled with an electric generator. GM has a complete Voltec Propulsion System roadmap, which envisions added offerings of pure battery-electric and diesel plug-in hybrids. Our Volt Test Drive showed that this is plug-in hybrid is sportier to drive than regular hybrids and a great 4-door, 4-seat sedan for those who want to minimize fill-ups and avoid range anxiety. The Volt starts at $39,995 with nice tax credits or $350 monthly lease.

Mitsubishi i (official name with small “i”) is bigger and with more zip for the U.S. market. This pure-electric city car can now be ordered starting at $29,125. Mitsubishi will challenge the Nissan Leaf, Ford Focus Electric, and Honda Fit Electric. This fun-to-drive 4-seat 5 door, will have a wheel base 5 inches wider for the U.S. market, but the micro-compact will still be able to get those precious city parking spaces that no other car can take except the Smart. The more powerful U.S. version will have an electric range of 62 miles (EPA adjusted) with a 16kWh lithium battery. Mitsubishi Electric Test Drive

Ford Focus Electric starts at $39,200 with double the charge speed of the LEAF. You can go online and configure your car, select a dealer and place your order. Although Nissan and Chevrolet have been getting most of the electric car media attention, both automakers are worried about Ford who will give customers the widest choice of electric and plug-in hybrid cars and vans. In 2011, Ford will make a big splash with a new Ford Focus Electric. Ford has also partnered with SunPower to offer an affordable rooftop solar system that will allow Focus Electric owners and other electric car drivers to “Drive Green for Life,” and charge with solar. Ford Focus Electric Test Drive

Toyota Prius Plug-in starts at $32,000. The Prius Plug-in cost about $8,000 less than the Chevrolet Volt, a plug-in hybrid with a 40-mile electric range in comparison to the Prius PHV’s 15-mile. After federal tax credits, the difference narrows to only $3,000. The Prius Plug-in costs about $8,500 more than the classic Prius Liftback, but the difference narrows to  $6,000 after Federal Tax Credit.  In 2012, Toyota Motor Corp is also expected to deliver the pure electric SUV, the RAV4 EV, and pure-electric city car, the Scion IQ EV. Toyota Prius PHV Test Drive and Review

Honda Fit EV. Honda CEO Takanobu Ito announced the Honda Fit EV and a plug-in hybrid for sale in the U.S. in 2012. The Fit EV looks like its gasoline cousin. Both are 5-door, 5-passenger subcompacts. The Fit EV will soon be on sale at $36,625 or $399 on lease. Late in 2012, Honda should announcing pricing for a plug-in hybrid mid-sized sedan likely to look like its FCX Clarity.

Tesla Roadster drivers have put more than 10 million U.S. miles on their cars. The new Roadster 2.5 accelerates zero to 60 in 3.7 seconds. These battery-electric luxury sports cars start at about $120,000. Like its Roadster, the company is going zero to sixty in less than four seconds. With the Roadster, you can forget range anxiety or the need to get a plug-in hybrid. You will enjoy the smooth handling, stealth acceleration, and 245-mile electric range. Tesla Roadster Test Drive

Tesla Model S Sedan is on track for customer deliveries mid-2012. Test drives have started for customers with Model S reservations. A much bigger market is expected for this luxury sedan that starts at $57,400 and has an optional battery pack with that gives the car a 300-mile range. Tesla will compete against these less expensive competitors with a luxury interior, electronics like a 17-inch display, 7 passenger capacity, switchable battery option, and up to triple the electric range of competitors. A new generation of lithium batteries is at the heart of the vehicles range of 160 miles with optional packs that provide 230 and 300 miles of range per electric charge. Over 5,000 customers have reserved the Model S.

Fisker Karma is a luxury plug-in hybrid sports car that competes with the Roadster. Fisker Karma prices start around $90,000. With 20kWh of lithium batteries, you could go 50 miles before the 2L turbo engine is engaged. The Karma invites you to accelerate, using two electric motors that deliver 403 horsepower, so your mileage may vary.  In theory it’s a 4 seater; good luck fitting someone in the back seat. The Karma is about sex appeal, performance, and luxury. A more affordable family sedan is planned for 2013.

Ford Transit Connect Electric. This pure battery-electric van has an electric charge range of 80 miles and is a great fit for many fleet, small business, and delivery applications. Although Nissan and Chevrolet are the center of EV attention, fleets are the early adapters of new vehicles. Southern California Edison, New York Power Authority, and Johnson Controls each ordered 20 Ford Transit Connect Electrics. Ford will deliver 500 to 1,000 of these practical electric delivery vans in 2011. Transit Connect Electric Test Drive and Review

Smart Fortwo ED is leasing 250 Smart Fortwo ED to the United States using Tesla battery packs, and car2go is car sharing 300 Smart ED in San Diego, but dealer sales are likely to start with a more powerful 2013 model year city electric car.

EV Forecasts and Renewable Energy

This report is about freeway speed EVs and PHEVs for U.S. delivery. It does not include the 40,000 GEM and other light-electric vehicles already on U.S. streets. Heavy vehicles, goods movement, e-bikes are not part of this report.

Accenture forecasts 1.5 million electric vehicles in the United States by 2015. By 2020, that many are forecasted just in California by the CEC. Over 10 million electric vehicles are easily possible by 2020. Single electric utilities have scenarios for charging over one million electric vehicles in their own service area by 2020. With renewable energy investment required of utilities in 30 states, these utilities are most interested in night time charging of electric vehicles with wind, geothermal, and hydropower. Utilities are also implementing smart grids and incentives for off-peak charging.

By 2011 year end, competition will be intense for electric car leadership. The above cars represent our best guess about the market share leaders for delivered plug-in vehicles on the United States roads in 2011, although not necessarily in order of installed market share.  Interviews with automakers and test drives make us confident about our forecasts for Nissan, Chevrolet, and Ford. Beyond those, deliveries could slip a year, or executives could accelerate plans by a year.  We are betting that executives at Toyota, Honda, and Mitsubishi will not want Nissan to grad too big a lead.

Over 100 competitors will be fighting for U.S. share by 2012. Some may be struggle to get significant share due to the time and cost of safety and other regulatory approvals, delays in funding, unpleasant surprises from a battery, drive system, or component supplier. It’s a tough business. Even Tesla had to add 700 pounds and two years to get the first Roadsters in customers’ hands.

CODA deliveries have slipped by a year, and may not reach the market until 2012, even though they hope for late 2011 deliveries. Promised test drives at the LA Auto Show did not happen and they have a new CEO. One thousand Volvo C30 Drive Electrics will be delivered in Europe in 2011. Let’s hope Volvo brings this C30 to the U.S. in future years.I was impressed with the performance of the VW Golf Blue E-Motion Concept that I test drove, but we may not see it in the U.S. until 2014. BMW will continue demonstration programs ahead of its commercial electric car launch in 2013. Think is focused on 2012 and beyond.

Electric cars with range extended by fuel cells continue to make progress. Mercedes is putting 200 of the new F-Cell B-Class on global streets, Toyota putting 100 of its 400-mile range FCHV into fleet applications, Honda and others move forward.

China could have several price leaders being delivered to U.S. customers in future years, but BYD, Coda, and Chery are slow to have everything in place for U.S. sales and service. India might bring us a Maharinda Reva or Nano EV that under prices everyone. Don’t count out the good old United States “can do” entrepreneurs with exciting innovation and venture capital backing.

What are your favorite electric cars on the list or off the list? What’s your 2011 forecast? Join the dialog. Check back. We will update the list as the market share battle unfolds. Bookmark Clean Fleet Report and check this report monthly for updates.

Best Electric Cars and Plug-in Hybrids for 2011 and 2012 is a post from: Clean Fleet Report

Most of these Green Cars and SUVs are also lowest in MPG

Toyota Prius continues to lead hybrid cars in fuel economy and lowest lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions. In some U.S. cities, this is the top seller with over 10 percent of monthly sales. This perennial favorite midsize 4-door hatchback delivers 50 miles per gallon (mpg) and is lowest on the list with 3.7 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent for the EPA annual driving cycle. Yes, 3.7 tons of CO2e is a lot; but many cars, light trucks, and SUVs create three times that emission; to get lower emissions you would need a plug-in car. The hatchback design allows for more cargo, especially if you drop part or all of the 60/40 back bench seat. This year, Toyota is also putting 500 Prius Plug-in Hybrids into fleet tests of electric cars. Read the details in the 2010  Toyota Prius Review

Honda Civic Hybrid is a good alternative for those who want a traditional looking sedan that seats 5. This front-wheel drive compact saves fuel at 42 mpg. At 4.4 annual tons of CO2e, this hybrid emits actually emits less greenhouse gases than its CNG cousin.  Civic Hybrid Review

2010 Honda Insight

Honda Insight is a sporty four-door hatchback with an Ecological Drive Assist System. Although the Insight looks like the Prius, it is a bit smaller, lighter, and often $2,000 less than the Prius. The Insight will deliver 41 mpg combined, with annual emissions of about 4.5 tons of CO2e. Read about our Honda Insight Test Drive.

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid

Ford Fusion Hybrid is appealing to those who want a made in America midsized sedan. This roomy 5-seater delivers 39 mpg and 4.7 tons of CO2e per year. The Fusion Hybrid and its first cousin the Mercury Milan Hybrid may travel up to 47 miles per hour in pure electric mode. The Advanced Intake Variable Cam Timing allows for more seamlessly transition between gas and electric modes, making for a smooth and quiet ride. The Mercury Milan Hybrid offers the same drive system and body, with upscale interior. Read about Clean Fleet Report’s Fusion Hybrid test drive.

smart fortwo is the new urban champion of fitting into city parking spaces that no other car can use, thus saving some owners over $20 daily in parking cost (or avoiding up to a $100 parking ticket). Both the coupe and the convertible deliver a combined 36 mpg with a 5.1 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle. OK aerodynamic experts, when the top is down on the convertible the mileage won’t be as good, but it will be fun.

Lexus HS 250h is a stylish compact 4-seat sedan that delivers 35 mpg and 5.3 tons of CO2e per year. The Lexus brand lets your friends know that are using less petroleum by choice; you can afford a bit of luxury.

Honda Civic CNG emits 5.4 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 28 mpg equivalent. This vehicle is popular with fleets that also want to reduce their criteria pollutant emissions and have their own CNG fueling. CNG buying accelerated last year when oil prices soared and CNG prices dropped with supply increases from hydrolic fracturing. GHG emissions are lower for fleets using CNG processed from bio-methane.

Nissan Altima Hybrid also delivers good mileage for a midsize sedan, benefiting from Nissan’s continuously variable transmission technology. The EPA rating is 5.4 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 34 mpg.

Toyota Camry Hybrid delivers good mileage for a midsize with an automatic transmission. The EPA rating is 5.4 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 34 mpg.

Ford Escape Hybrid comfortably carries 5 people and lots of cargo. This SUV achieves a combined 32 mpg and emissions of 5.7 tons of CO2e – double the mileage and half the emissions of many SUVs. The mileage is an impressive 29 mpg for the 4-wheel drive versions of this SUV. With a common drive system and chassis, the Mercury Mariner Hybrid and the Mazda Tribute Hybrid deliver the same carbon footprint and mileage.

John Addison test drives the MINI Cooper

Mini Cooper has a loyal following. It delivers a combined 32 mpg and emissions of 5.7 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle. Definitely less cargo space the many on the list, but with a nice cost savings compared to the larger hybrids.

Toyota Yaris has a combined 32 mpg and emissions of 5.7 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle. Starting at $12,605 this popular hatchback offers good mileage at an affordable price. Offered with 3 or 5 doors, or as a sedan, you have the option of a 60/40 back seat that drops for plenty of cargo room.

Clean Fleet Report – Lowest Greenhouse Gases for 2010

This list only covers only 2010 models for the United States market. All choices start at less than $40,000, have sales forecast for at least 1,000 cars for the United States, and can travel at freeway speeds.

The Tesla Roadster deserves special recognition for being a battery-electric car with lower emissions than any on the list, but it costs over $100,000. For our 1011 list, the Nissan Leaf, Prius Plug-in Hybrid, and Chevy Volt may all qualify as affordable with real commercial sales volume. Clean Fleet Report Electric Car Reports.

Clean Fleet Report focuses on the United States market – it’s what we know. If we included Asia, this list would include some exciting small cars and new electric cars. If we included Europe, some lighter high-performing diesels would be included. In the U.S., the Audi A3 TDI, Volkswagen Golf TDI, Jetta TDI, and Jetta SportWagen TDI all deliver 34 mpg with 6.2 tons CO2 emissions. Impressive mileage, but too much greenhouse gas emissions to make the list. For those who do lots of freeway driving, these cars deserve consideration.

Some exciting 2011 models will be contending for a spot on next years list. These include the Ford Fiesta, Chevy Cruze, and a few other smaller cars and new hybrids.

This list was developed by first searching the U.S. EPA and DOE’s valuable fueleconomy.gov. The EPA combined miles per gallon rating is based on 45% highway and 55% city driving. The carbon footprint is carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) based on 15,000 miles of driving, using the GREET 1.7 model.

Selecting a low carbon footprint car may make the planet a little better, the United States a little more energy secure, and save enough fuel to put some serious money in your pocket.

2010 Cars with the Lowest Carbon Footprint is a post from: Clean Fleet Report

U.S. Car Ownership Drops by 3.5 Million in 2009

In the United States, we embarrassingly have more vehicles than people with driver’s licenses. We have 246 million vehicles. AAA estimates that it costs $8,000 per year for each car owned, which creates a financial burden on cash-strapped Americans.

To the rescue are 10 positive trends that helped Americans scrap 14 million cars in 2009, while only buying 10.5 million new ones. The 2009 drop was the only large decline in the past 50 years shows the U.S. Department of Transportation.

1.    Urban Density. For the first time, most Americans live in urban areas where they need fewer cars, have better public transit, can share cars, and accomplish more trips with walking.

2.   Public Transit. Americans made 11 billion trips on U.S. transit in 2008, a 50-year record. Use dropped only slightly despite transit operators being forced to cut some routes and remove buses as the recession drove down local sales tax revenues needed for public transit.

3.    Smart Growth. Community and regional planners are making cities vibrant, with work, services, and play close at hand. Portland, Oregon, is a role model in creating urban density and great public transportation. California with SB375 is requiring regional plans that integrate development, transportation, and greenhouse gas reduction. Join me on May 11 at the American Planning Association in Chicago when I present “More Smiles, Less Miles.”

4.    One Car Households. The average suburban U.S. household has two vehicles. Some more. The average urban U.S. household has one vehicle. More American families and roommates are going from three cars to two cars to one car.

5.    Employer Commute and Flexwork Programs. Major employers are saving employees billions in travel costs. Employers sponsor ride sharing, last mile shuttles from transit, and guaranteed ride homes. Some employers have web sites and lunch-and-learns to help employees in the same zip codes match-up for car pooling. 57 million Americans work at home, at least part-time, with the help of flexwork programs. Employer programs have helped with reduced car ownership.

6.    Recession. The recession dispelled the myth that demand for cars and gasoline is price inelastic. When consumers are stretched, demand is elastic. About 20 percent of a U.S. carowner’s disposable income is spent on the car, maintenance, insurance, and fuel. Oil prices have more than doubled since their bottom in March 2009. The era of cheap gasoline is over as producers go to more expensive techniques such as deep oil drilling and strip mining Canada for tar sands.

7.    Cash for Clunkers removed 700,000 vehicles from the U.S. roads.

8.    Rail Connected. City transit is enhanced with regional commuter rail and with rail connected cities. Our latest World Series was dubbed the “Amtrak Series” as fans easily whisked between New York and Philadelphia. Rail connects the transit systems of cities into effective regional transportation. Fewer cars are needed. Yes, the United States lags behind Europe and Japan. Even China is implementing 5,000 miles of high speed rail. Given small hope, suburban rail and rail connected cities are on the rise in parts of the United States. APTA Center for High-Speed Rail

9.    Car Sharing. In 600 global cities, cars can be used by the hour.  Car sharing is popular with individuals and fleets. At many university and colleges, students with good grades can participate at age 18. Add transit and bicycling and many students live car free. Zipcar’s  350,000 members each take over 15 personally owned vehicles off the road. Members of Zipcar and car sharing programs report a 47% increase in public transit trips, a 10% increase in bicycling trips, and a 26% increase in walking trips. The success of car sharing has lead to success of bicycle sharing in Europe, giving millions last mile solutions between transit stations and employers and other city destinations.

10.    Intermodal Intelligence. Internet savvy people now use Google Maps, 511, car share apps, and smart phone GPS apps to compare car directions and time with public transit directions and time. With a few clicks on a social network a shared ride is arranged, or a shared car reserved. In the old millennium we got everywhere by solo driving in gridlock. In the new millennium we plan and use a mix of car driving, transit, and other modes to save time and money.

Ten Reasons for drop in Car Ownership is a post from: Clean Fleet Report

United States Market Leaders EVs for 2011 and 2012

Nissan is the first automaker to put over 20,000 pure battery-electric cars on U.S. highways. 50,000 will be delivered globally by the end of 2012. The 2012 LEAF with DC Fast Charge and backup camera included starts at $35,200 or $369 per month. The Nissan Leaf is battery-electric with a 100-mile range per charge. LEAF Test drive. This 5-door, 5-seat, hatchback has the right size and range for many who drive under 100 miles daily, or for households with more than one car. Nissan will make another 50,000 LEAFs in 2012 and open a 150,000 electric car plant in Tennessee in 2013.

General Motors wants to be the plug-in leader with the Chevrolet Volt, a plug-in hybrid with 40 miles of electric range and 500 miles per gasoline fill-up range. The Volt has a starting price of $39,995. GM has a complete Voltec Propulsion System roadmap that envisions added offerings of pure battery-electric and diesel. The second plug-in hybrid from GM is the Opel Ampera, now selling in Europe. In 2013, deliveries start for the Cadillac ELR using a plug-in hybrid drive system similar to the Volt and for the Chevy Spark EV, GM’s first pure battery electric small city car. GM will deliver about 10,000 plug-in cars in 2011 and 65,000 in 2012. Chevy Volt Owner’s Range and Driving Experiences.

Ford will be selling at least two electric cars by the end of 2011 and five models by the end of 2012. The best seller will be the Ford Focus Electric, a battery-electric that will compete with the Nissan LEAF. The Focus Electric can now be ordered starting at $39,200. Ford also will be taking orders for a 2012 C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid, an exciting Crossover SUV that seats 5. In the future, the Ford Focus available any way the customer wants it: battery-electric, plug-in hybrid, hybrid, or fuel-efficient sedan. Ford is already selling the Transit Connect Electric compact van, delivering 500 to 1,000 to fleets in 2011. Ford 2012 hybrids will also have electric motors and lithium batteries as Ford invests heavily in an electric future.

Mitsubishi i fits tight parking spaces and tight electric car buyer budgets. The Mitsubishi i can now be reserved starting at $29,125. This fun-to-drive 5 door, 4 seat hatchback, has a wheel base 5 inches wider than Japan’s popular iMiEV for the U.S. market, but the micro-compact will still be able to get those precious city parking spaces that no other car can take except the Smart. The more powerful U.S. version will have an electric range of 62 miles (EPA adjusted) with a 16kWh lithium battery.

Toyota, world-leading seller of hybrids, will offer both plug-in hybrids and pure battery electric cars. The Prius Plug-in Hybrid looks like another Prius until you spot the J1772 plug for smart charging and experience the 15-mile electric range. With a starting price of $32,000, Toyota plans to sell 15,000 Prius Plug-ins in 2012. Spring 2012, Toyota will also sell the new battery-electric SUV, the RAV4 EV, with a 100-mile electric range.  As city cars grow in popularity, the new pure battery-electric Scion IQ EV will compete with the Mitsubishi i and the Smart ED with dealer sales starting in Summer 2012.

Honda is preparing the Honda Fit EV and a plug-in hybrid for sale in the U.S. in 2012. The 2013 Fit EV can soon be purchased for $36,625 or $399 per month lease. The new EV will use Blue Energy lithium-ion batteries. Honda’s plug-in hybrid is likely to to be a premium midsized sedan, similar to its Clarity FCX, and be priced in late 2012.

Tesla owners are the first to put 10 million electric miles on U.S. roads. Like its Roadster, the company is going zero to sixty in less than four seconds. Tesla is starting test drives of a roomy Model S hatchback that starts at $57,400, about half the price of the Roadster. The Roadster is a battery-electric sports car with a 240-mile range; the Model S is a luxury sedan with remarkable electric range options of 130 to 300 miles per charge. Tesla is working with shareholder Toyota to bring back the Toyota RAV4 EV, an electric SUV. Tesla is working with shareholder Daimler to put Smart EDs on U.S. streets this year. In the future, the Tesla Model X will be a Crossover SUV for those that want more premium styling and interiors than alternatives from Chevrolet, Ford, and others.

Smart is putting 300 of these electric city cars into the San Diego Car2Go car sharing program. Fleet leasing of the Smart Fortwo ED is also underway in the United States using Tesla battery packs, but these second generation cars are underpowered on steep hills.  Dealer sales are likely to start with a more powerful generation-three 2013 model year with a 55kW EM-motive motor and 17.6kWh ACCUmotive lithium battery.

Fisker Karma is a luxury sports plug-in hybrid with prices starting around $90,000. With 20kWh of lithium batteries, you could go 50 miles before the 2L turbo engine is engaged. The Karma invites you to accelerate, using two electric motors that deliver 403 horsepower, so your mileage may vary. In theory it’s a 4-seater; good luck fitting someone in the back seat. The Karma is about sex appeal, performance, and luxury. The 2013 Fisker Surf will be a premium sportswagen starting at under $50,000. A Fisker Nina crossover SUV is planned at more affordable prices.

Surprise entries will be party of intense competition in 2012 with more choices and better prices for the customer.

U.S. electric car Forecast

Accenture forecasts 1.5 million electric vehicles in the United States by 2015. Over 10 million electric vehicles are possible by 2020, especially if oil prices rise as battery prices fall. Single electric utilities have scenarios for charging over one million electric vehicles in their own service area by 2020. With renewable energy investment required of utilities in 30 states, these utilities are most interested in night time charging of electric vehicles with wind, geothermal, and hydropower. Utilities are also implementing smart grids and incentives for off-peak charging.

By 2011 year-end, competition will be intense for electric car leadership. The above Top 10 describe our best guess about the market share leaders for delivered plug-in vehicles on the United States roads in 2012. Battery-electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and electric vehicles with range extended by engines or fuel cells were all considered.

Over 100 competitors will be fighting for U.S. share by the end of 2012. Some may be struggle to get significant share due to the time and cost of safety and other regulatory approvals, delays in funding, or unpleasant surprises from a supplier. It’s a tough business. Even Tesla had to add 700 pounds and two years to get the first Roadsters in customers’ hands.

Asia Prepares for the U.S. Market

For three years, we have read about China’s plans to bring electric cars to the U.S. Although China’s U.S. ambitions have slipped badly, its automakers cannot be ignored. China has over 100 million light electric vehicles, e-bikes and e-scooters in daily use. It’s new 5-year plan calls for 100 million electric charging stations in China by 2020. BYD, with gold-plated investors such as Warren Buffett, has only put a few hundred electric vehicles on the road in China and continues to delay introduction to the United States. CODA with its pricey $45,000 sedan continues to seek DOE loans, more investors, and a viable delivery date. Volvo, now owned by China’s Geely has the new C30 Drive E Electric, but the Volvo electric car will be selling only in Europe in the short-term. SAIC, Chery, and hundreds of players are also preparing EVs for China. India might bring us a Maharinda Reva or Nano EV that under prices everyone, but not by 2012, the basis for this Top 10 Report.

European Innovation

By 2020, Europe with higher fuel prices and fewer oil subsidies, is forecast to have more electric cars by 2020 than the United States. Better Place may deliver 100,000 of the Renault Fluence with its switchable battery to Israel, Denmark, and other countries. Volkswagen may teach everyone how to extend range by making vehicles light. The concept Up Light weighs just over 1,500 pounds, but it’s only a concept. We loved test-driving the Volkswagen Golf Blue E-Motion, but don’t plan on buying it in the U.S. before 2014. You will likely be able to buy the Audi E-Tron sooner. BMW’s first U.S. electric car commercial offering, the Megacity Vehicle, may be a U.S. hit in 2013. For fun in the city in 2013, the Fiat 500 EV may be what you want. Competition will be tough, as we have witnessed in the bankruptcy of Think. There is a lot of European innovation that did not make this Top 10 List, which focuses on the U.S. market for the next 12 months.

Please bookmark this Top 10 List and check back as we update. Exciting new electric cars are being driven on the U.S. streets and freeways. Nissan is an early mover with battery-electric cars and General Motors with plug-in hybrids. Competition increases from Mitsubishi, Ford, Toyota, Honda, and dozens of Asian, European and American innovators. The winner will be the customer.

2011 Electric Car U.S. Model Comparison

Top 10 Electric Car Makers is a post from: Clean Fleet Report

Toyota Prius continues to lead hybrid cars in fuel economy and lowest lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions. This perennial favorite midsize 4-door hatchback delivers 50 miles per gallon (mpg) and is lowest on the list with 3.7 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent for the EPA annual driving cycle. Yes, 3.7 tons of CO2e is a lot; but many cars, light trucks, and SUVs create three times that emission; to get lower emissions you would need a plug-in car. The hatchback design allows for more cargo, especially if you drop part or all of the 60/40 back bench seat. This year, Toyota is also putting 500 plug-in Priuses into fleet tests of electric cars. Read the details in the 2010 Toyota Prius Review.

Honda Civic Hybrid is a good alternative for those who want a traditional looking sedan that seats 5. This front-wheel drive compact saves fuel at 42 mpg. At 4.4 annual tons of CO2e, this hybrid emits actually emits less greenhouse gases than its CNG cousin. Civic Hybrid Review.

Honda Insight is a sporty four-door hatchback with an Ecological Drive Assist System. Although the Insight looks like the Prius, it is a bit smaller, lighter, and often $2,000 less than the Prius. The Insight will deliver 41 mpg combined, with annual emissions of about 4.5 tons of CO2e. Read about our 2010 Honda Insight Test Drive.

Ford Fusion Hybrid is appealing to those who want a made in America midsized sedan. This roomy 5-seater delivers 39 mpg and 4.7 tons of CO2e per year. The Fusion Hybrid and its first cousin the Mercury Milan Hybrid may travel up to 47 miles per hour in pure electric mode. The Advanced Intake Variable Cam Timing allows for more seamlessly transition between gas and electric modes, making for a smooth and quiet ride. The Mercury Milan Hybrid offers the same drive system and body, with upscale interior. Read about Clean Fleet Report’s Fusion Hybrid test drive.

Lexus HS 250h is a stylish compact 5-seat sedan that delivers 35 mpg and 5.3 tons of CO2e per year. The Lexus brand lets your friends know that are using less petroleum by choice; you can afford a bit of luxury. Lexus HS 250h Review  Lexus HS 250h Test Drive

Nissan Altima Hybrid also delivers good mileage for a midsize, benefiting from Nissan’s continuously variable transmission technology. The EPA rating is 5.4 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 34 mpg.

Toyota Camry Hybrid delivers good mileage for a midsize with an automatic transmission. The EPA rating is 5.4 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 34 mpg.

Ford Escape Hybrid comfortably carries 5 people and lots of cargo. This SUV achieves a combined 32 mpg and emissions of 5.7 tons of CO2e – double the mileage and half the emissions of many SUVs. The mileage is an impressive 29 mpg for the 4-wheel drive versions of this SUV. With a common drive system and chassis, the Mercury Mariner Hybrid delivers the same carbon footprint and mileage.

Lexus RX 450h with more acceleration and room than the others,  costs more, starting at over $42,000. For a powerful SUV, it still conserves with 30 mpg and 6.1 tons of CO2e. Haul 5 people and lots of stuff without sacrificing quality and styling in the RX450h. The all wheel drive version has slightly better mileage than the Ford Escape Hybrid 4WD.

Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid looks and feels like the popular 5-seat Chevy Malibu, but you will go farther on a tank of gas. This mild hybrid gets 29 miles per gallon, with 6.3 tons of CO2e per year emissions. This vehicle is only offered to government and corporate fleets. It was not displayed, for example, at the LA Auto Show.

Clean Fleet Report – Top 10 Hybrids for 2010

Your top 10 choices include hatchbacks that start at under $20,000 and stretch to roomy premium SUVs that cost over $40,000. If you are not too concerned with vehicle and annual fuel costs, there are a number of other 2010 hybrid SUVs on the market including the Toyota Highlander, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra and Yukon, and the pricey and powerful Cadillac Escalade. The Silverado and Sierra are also available as hybrid pickup trucks.

Hybrid is no guarantee of saving at the pump. The Smart and the MiniCooper get double the mpg of some of the 2010 hybrid SUVs and pickup trucks.

The list includes only 2010 model year hybrids offered in the United States. For example, offered only in Japan, the new Toyota Sai will get better mileage than the Prius. Some of these 2010 models were announced early in 2009. Other 2010 models have yet to be announced. Major auto shows are coming so check back for the latest in hybrids that take away that pain at the pump and deliver a quiet ride.

This list was developed by first searching the U.S. EPA and DOE’s valuable fueleconomy.gov. The EPA combined miles per gallon rating is based on 45% highway and 55% city driving. The carbon footprint is carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) based on 15,000 miles of driving, using the GREET 1.7 model.

Battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles are not part of this list. Clean Fleet Report Electric Car Reports.

Hybrids are in demand now that oil prices have doubled since March. You may want to make the nation a bit more energy secure, make the world a little better, or just save fuel cost for years by making your next car a hybrid.

2010 Hybrid Cars for Best Mileage and Lowest Carbon Footprint is a post from: Clean Fleet Report

Toyota Prius tops Clean Fleet list with lowest GHG

People and fleets that use vehicles with the lowest greenhouse gas emissions per mile are rewarded with making our future a little better and with their fuel costs being much lower. The following cars, wagons, and SUVs have the lowest greenhouse gas emissions per mile of any vehicles available for volume commercial sales in the United States in 2009. All can achieve freeway speed. In many cases, they also have the best fuel economy. All are now available and priced well below $40,000 per vehicle, with some below $20,000.

From California to Capitol Hill to Copenhagen, plans and incentives are being created for a cap-and-trade of emissions. Passenger vehicles can get up to a $7,500 per vehicle tax break for being zero emission. The rewards for buying and selling low emission vehicles will increase. The incentives will be paid for, in part, by higher costs for gas guzzlers.

Reduced greenhouse gas emissions are becoming a priority with fleet managers and millions of conscientious consumers. These Clean Fleet Top 10 Low Carbon Footprint Passenger Vehicles are listed from lowest to highest in carbon footprint.

1. Toyota Prius
2. Honda Civic Hybrid
3. Honda Insight
4. Ford Fusion Hybrid
5. smart fortwo
6. Nissan Altima Hybrid
7. Honda Civic CNG
8. Toyota Camry Hybrid
9. Ford Escape Hybrid
10. Mini Cooper and Clubman

This list was developed by first searching the U.S. EPA and DOE’s valuable fueleconomy.gov, with its extensive search capabilities. The EPA combined miles per gallon rating is based on 45% highway and 55% city driving. The carbon footprint is carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) based on 15,000 miles of driving, using the GREET 1.7 model.

The Toyota Prius continues to lead the four-door sedan field in fuel economy and lowest lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions. This perennial favorite midsize is lowest on the list with 3.7 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent for the EPA annual driving cycle; combined fuel economy is 50 mpg. Yes, 3.7 tons of CO2e is a lot; but many cars, light trucks, and SUVs create three times that emission. This year, Toyota is also putting 500 plug-in hybrid Priuses into fleet tests, so stay tuned for big news next year.

The Honda Civic Hybrid compact rates at 4.4 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 42 mpg.

The new Honda Insight four-door sedan with an Ecological Drive Assist System is priced for thousands less than the Prius. The Insight will deliver 41 mpg combined, with annual emissions of about 4.5 tons of CO2e.

The Ford Fusion Hybrid midsized sedan has an EPA rating of 41 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. Clean Fleet Report makes an unofficial estimate that emissions will be 4.8 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle. The Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid may travel up to 47 miles per hour in pure electric mode. The Advanced Intake Variable Cam Timing allows the Fusion and Milan hybrids to more seamlessly transition between gas and electric modes.

The smart fortwo is the new urban champion of fitting into city parking spaces that no other car can use, thus saving some owners over $20 daily in parking cost (or avoiding up to a $100 parking ticket). This little coupe gets a combined 36 mpg with a 5.1 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle.

The Nissan Altima Hybrid also delivers good mileage for a midsize, benefiting from Nissan’s continuously variable transmission technology. The EPA rating is 5.4 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 34 mpg.

The Honda Civic CNG emits 5.4 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 28 mpg equivalent. This vehicle is popular with fleets that also want to reduce their criteria pollutant emissions and have their own CNG fueling. Heavy CNG buying accelerated last year when oil prices soared.

Toyota Camry Hybrid delivers good mileage for a midsize with an automatic transmission. The EPA rating is 5.4 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 34 mpg. Toyota has been showing a concept Camry CNG Hybrid which would lower CO2e to only 4.6 tons should Toyota decide to offer it to fleets.

The Ford Escape Hybrid is the only SUV to achieve one of the 10 lowest emissions of greenhouse gases. Comfortably holding five and lots of cargo this offers an appealing choice to the fuel economy and emission conscious individual or fleet. This SUV achieves a combined 32 mpg and emissions of 5.7 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle. With a common drive system, the Mercury Mariner Hybrid and Mazda Tribute Hybrid deliver the same carbon footprint and respectable mileage.

The Mini Cooper and Clubman have a loyal following that enjoy good gas mileage with a combined 32 mpg and emissions of 5.7 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle. Definitely less cargo space the many on the list, but with a nice cost savings compared to the larger hybrids. BMW is leasing 500 of the new Mini E electric vehicle with freeway speed and a 150 mile range per charge. Should this be offered in larger quantity in 2010, the Mini E could lead on this list.

Fleets are also early adopters of vehicles with even less emissions including electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell, plug-in hybrid conversions, and diesel hybrid concept cars. Because these are not offered for commercial volume sale, or because they are priced out of reach, they are not part of this 2009 list.

Many users of EV charge their vehicles with solar power, producing zero greenhouse gas emissions from source-to-wheels. Non-freeway speed pioneers, such as Chrysler GEM, deserve recognition. Tesla may put 1,000 freeway speed EVs on the road this year. Although an average $100,000 price tag puts the Tesla Roadster out of reach for most of us, in a few years Tesla may be mass producing an affordable battery-electric sedan. Over the next three years, the above list will change as Nissan, Ford, BYD, and dozens of emerging EV and PHEV makers enter the affordable vehicle competition. More Clean Fleet Report EV Coverage.

Not considered in this Top 10 list are vehicles with the lowest smog-forming emissions, once the only factor considered by government regulators and buyers. In general, vehicles with low greenhouse gas emissions are low in criteria pollutants.

If you are planning to buy a passenger vehicle including an SUV, this list may be a good starting point. The focus is on vehicles with low CO2e emissions available for commercial sales in the United States, thereby excluding some of the small diesel wonders in Europe and electric vehicles selling in Asia.  Some people will need larger SUVs and trucks, while others will need more affordable choices.

The Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit were close runner-ups in making the Top 10. The list should be more exciting in 2010 as Toyota and GM prepare to battle for plug-in hybrid leadership and dozens of companies challenge Nissan’s determination to lead in battery-electric vehicles.

John Addison publishes the Clean Fleet Report and is the author of Save Gas, Save the Planet.

Top 10 Low Carbon Footprint Cars (and one SUV) for 2009 is a post from: Clean Fleet Report

Honda Insight to Underprice Toyota Prius

The four-door sedan continues to be a popular vehicle for fleets and for individuals. These sedans often deliver the right amount of space for 4 or 5 passengers and enough cargo space for a taxi. The following 10 four-door sedans have the lowest greenhouse gas emissions per mile of any vehicles available for volume commercial sales in the United States in 2009. In many cases, they also have the best fuel economy. All can achieve freeway speeds. Buying these clean cars often gives fleets tax breaks and special funding opportunities.

Reduced greenhouse gas emissions are becoming a priority with fleet managers and millions of conscientious consumers. These Top 10 Low Carbon Footprint Four-Doors are listed from lowest to highest in carbon footprint.

1. Toyota Prius
2. Honda Civic Hybrid
3. Honda Insight
4. Ford Fusion Hybrid
5. Nissan Altima Hybrid
6. Honda Civic CNG
7. Toyota Camry Hybrid
8. Toyota Yaris
9. Chevrolet Aveo
10. Volkswagen Jetta TDI

2009 will be a challenging year for automakers. This list is likely to change with new announcements and also because at least one on the list may not be announced for volume fleet availability.

This list was developed by first searching the U.S. EPA and DOE’s valuable fueleconomy.gov, with its extensive search capabilities. The EPA combined miles per gallon rating is based on 45% highway and 55% city driving. The carbon footprint is carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e) based on 15,000 miles of driving, using the GREET 1.7 model.

Fleets are also early adopters of vehicles with even less emissions including electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell, plug-in hybrid conversions, and diesel hybrid concept cars. Because these are not offered for commercial volume sale, they are not part of this Top 10 Four-Door Sedan list. Electric and alt-fuel vehicles are also covered in detail at Clean Fleet Report.

The Toyota Prius continues to lead the four-door sedan field in fuel economy and lowest lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions. This perennial favorite midsize is lowest on the list with 4 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent for the EPA annual driving cycle; combined fuel economy is 46 mpg. Yes, 4 tons of CO₂e is a lot; by comparison the 2009 Lamborghini Murcielago rates at 18.3 tons and only gets 10 mpg. Sorry fleet managers, you’ll need to take that Lamborghini out of the budget. At the North American International Auto Show, Toyota announced the 2010 Prius with an expected 50 mpg combined and an optional solar roof option to power accessories and thereby boost mileage. Prius

The Honda Civic Hybrid compact rates at 4.4 tons of CO₂e for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 42 mpg. Civic Hybrid

The new Honda Insight four-door sedan with an Ecological Drive Assist System is  priced for thousands less than the Prius. Honda will start selling the Insight in North America in spring 2009. The Insight will deliver 41 mpg combined, with annual emissions of about 4.5 tons of CO₂e. Honda Insight

The Ford Fusion Hybrid midsized sedan will be on sale in the US by next spring, with an EPA certified 41 mpg rating in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. Clean Fleet Report makes an unofficial estimate that emissions will be 4.8 tons of CO₂e for the EPA annual driving cycle. The Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid may travel up to 47 miles per hour in pure electric mode. The Advanced Intake Variable Cam Timing allows the Fusion and Milan hybrids to more seamlessly transition between gas and electric modes. Green Car Congress

The Nissan Altima Hybrid also delivers good mileage for a midsize, benefiting from Nissan’s continuously variable transmission technology. The EPA rating is 5.4 tons of CO₂e for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 34 mpg.

The Honda Civic CNG emits 5.4 tons of CO₂e for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 28 mpg equivalent. This vehicle is popular with fleets that also want to reduce their criteria pollutant emissions and have their own CNG fueling. Heavy CNG buying accelerated last year when oil prices soared.

Toyota Camry Hybrid delivers good mileage for a midsize with an automatic transmission. The EPA rating is 5.4 tons of CO₂e for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 34 mpg. Toyota has been showing a concept Camry CNG Hybrid which would lower CO₂e to only 4.6 tons should Toyota decide to offer it to fleets.

Toyota Yaris is a less expensive subcompact, when priced in comparison to the larger hybrids listed above. The Yaris delivers good mileage for this affordable subcompact when using a 5-speed stick, and is respectable with an automatic. The Yaris has a 5.7 ton CO₂e footprint and a combined 32 mpg rating. Yaris

The Chevrolet Aveo is a pick for fleets that prefer to buy from a company headquartered in the United States. This affordable compact delivers good mileage with a manual 5-speed, delivering an EPA rating is 6.1 tons of CO₂e for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 30 mpg.

The Volkswagen Jetta TDI delivers very good freeway mileage for this turbodiesel which outperforms many hybrids. This VW rates at 6.2 tons of equivalent for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 34 mpg with a 6-speed shift. The mileage is equally good in the SportsWagen version, and almost as good with an automatic transmission. Drivers often report getting over 40 mpg.

Carbon emissions are of growing concern. Government fleets are showing leadership in transportation solutions with shrinking carbon footprints. The stock market is favoring corporations that are sustainable. As states implement climate solution law, lowering CO₂e is critical. California, in 2009 has the CO₂e emission standard of 323 grams per mile for passenger and light-duty vehicles. The standard drops each year to 205 grams per mile.

Not considered in this Top 10 list are vehicles with the lowest smog-forming emissions, once the only factor considered by government regulators and buyers. In general, vehicles with low greenhouse gas emissions are low in criteria pollutants.

The list should be more exciting in 2010. During 2009, expanded fleet trials of plug-in hybrids, fuel cell vehicles, and electric vehicles are on-going.

Fleets need wide range of vehicles. The 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid has more cargo space and a smaller carbon footprint (5.7 tons) and better mileage (32 mpg) than some of the above sedans. The optional AWD is desirable where roads get icy. With a common drive system, the Mercury Mariner Hybrid and Mazda Tribute Hybrid deliver the same carbon footprint and respectable mileage.

Delivering lower emissions than some on the list is the Honda Fit, which is a four-door small station wagon with a carbon footprint of only 5.9 tons of CO₂e. Honda is developing an even more efficient Fit Hybrid which it is likely to commercialize in Japan and possibly the U.S.

If you are planning to buy any four-door sedans, this list may be a good starting point. The focus is on low CO₂e emissions and likely commercial availability in the United States, thereby excluding some of the small diesel wonders in Europe and electric vehicles in Asia. Some people will need larger sedans, while others will need affordable small cars, including small station wagons and two-doors which are not part of the list. Executives and sales managers that once required luxury sedans may now insist on one of the green alternatives in the Clean Fleet Report Top 10 Low Carbon Footprint Four-Door Sedans for 2009.

Top 10 Low Carbon Footprint Four-Door Sedans for 2009 is a post from: Clean Fleet Report