Category Archives: Electric/Hybrid

Interesting links dealing specifically with electric and hybrid transportation that doesn’t suck.

Best Motoring Eco Car Track Battle

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Here’s another point in the discussion of making green cars fun vs. making fun cars green. Best Motoring put together this track battle around a rain-soaked Tsukuba circuit after Honda released the CR-Z in Japan. The two main cars to pay attention to are the Tec-Arts Eco AE86 and the Modulo Sports CR-Z. The Tec-Arts Eco AE86 has been modified to improve its gas mileage. The alternator and the starter were updated to modern units and the power steering was converted from hydraulic to electric assist all in the name of reducing parasitic drag on the engine. Reflective window tint was also installed to reduce the need of the air conditioning. The Modulo Sports CR-Z is a factory trim package that was available only in Japan. It comes with sport springs, dampers, brake pads and Advan Neova AD08 tires. Watch the video to see how they did. The race starts at 3:30 after the introduction of the cars.


Source: YouTube user GmoneyGripNY

HKS Honda CR-Z Green Monster

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The whole premise of the RX-8 EV conversion project is that we’re taking a fun sports car and converting the drive train to something that performs better and is environmentally responsible. That way we have an engaging car with zero tailpipe emissions. What if we approached that goal from the other direction? What if we took an environmentally responsible car and did everything we could to make it fun? That’s what HKS have done with their Green Monster Honda CR-Z project. Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to find a subtitled version of this video. This is what I’ve been able to gather by watching the whole series of videos about the project. HKS supercharged the 1.5 liter engine while retaining the factory Integrated Motor Assist (IMA). They decided to go with a supercharger because the factory ECU cuts off the engine at stops and that wouldn’t allow a turbocharger to cycle hot oil out of its bearings. HKS went all out and made forged engine internals to pump the CR-Z’s output to a staggering 320 horsepower. It’s also got an Endless big brake kit, HKS Hipermax coilovers and 235 section Advan Neova AD08 tires. Tanaguchi’s time attack around Tsukuba with the car starts at 3:10 in the video. What do you guys think of this approach to building a fun green car? Can any car be fun with enough performance upgrades or is it better to start with something that has a sports car soul?


Source: YouTube user tritondsgn

2012 Isle of Man TT Zero Coverage

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This year was a significant one for the Isle of Man TT Zero electric motorcycle time trial. It was the first year an electric motorcycle broke the 100 mph average lap speed otherwise known as the “ton lap.” In fact, all three riders on the podium were able to achieve ton laps. The all new MotoCzysz Ep1c took first and third and the Mugen Shinden placed second at it’s debut race.


Source: YouTube user 666 sicco via Asphalt and Rubber

How Much is Too Much for Gasoline?

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Honda did this street poll to see how expensive gasoline had to be for people to consider buying a more fuel efficient car. Most people said $5/gallon which we are forecast to hit this summer. They also ask some interesting questions about fuel efficiency and alternative fuel. I thought it was pretty interesting to see where the general public stood on these issues.


Source: Honda on YouTube