Transport

Toyota To Commercially Produce Fuel Cell Cars by 2015 says New President

August 9th

Toyota Motor Corp. President Akio Toyoda said Wednesday the Japanese automaker plans to start commercial production of fuel-cell vehicles by 2015.

Toyota is "making great progress on hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and hopes to make this technology available and affordable for customers within the next half dozen years," Toyoda told an auto industry seminar held in Traverse City, Michigan.

Kia Launches New Hybrid - Forte LPI

July 17th

Kia announces the Kia Forte LPI Hybrid. Kia's first commercialized hybrid electric vehicle. The vehicle will be equipped with a braking energy recovery system, 1.6 liter engine, and a 180v lithium ion polymer battery. Also included is a electric motor good for 20 PS. It also will qualify for listing as a Super Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV).

Having your cake and eating it...

July 13th

The new Lexus HS - a hybrid-only luxury offering from Toyota, already has won advance orders for 1,500 vehicles.

First Flight, Powered by Fuel Cell

July 9th

On July 7th in Hamburg Germany the first flight occurred, the first powered by a fuel cell. The Antares DLR-H2 left the ground at 1pm Germany time. She has a wingspan of 20 meters, 8 meters broader than the Wright Flyer of 1903.

Basically Antares is a standard motorized glider retro-fitted with a fuel cell drive. She has a cruising range of 750km (466miles.) Top speed is 170kph (106mph.).