A123 Systems to supply li-ion battery modules to Smith Electric Vehicles

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, USA

A123 Systems has reached an agreement to supply battery modules for the entire lineup of commercial electric vehicles manufactured by Smith Electric Vehicles. A123 says that it will begin shipping its 5-kWh automotive-class prismatic modules to Smith for integration into battery packs in the second half of 2011. According to Smith Electric [...]

Magna E-Car Systems opens hybrid and EV development center in Auburn Hills, MI

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid
Magna International, the world’s third-largest automotive parts producer, announced its intentions to establish a new global unit, E-Car Systems, at this year’s EcoXperience ride & drive track at the Detroit Auto Show. Now, Magna has opened the doors of its new hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) system development center and battery testing [...]

Infiniti M hybrid gets new steering and brake systems

Filed under: Hybrid, Infiniti

Nissan is introducing two new power-saving technologies on the new Infiniti M hybrid that could eventually be adapted to both electric and conventional vehicles. One is an electro-hydraulic power-steering assist system combines the best of both electric and hydraulic systems. Traditional engine-driven hydraulic power steering has been preferred by many drivers because [...]

Toyota reportedly testing all of its SUV’s stability control systems

Filed under: SUV, Recalls, Safety, Lexus, Toyota, Luxury

2010 Lexus GX460 – Click above for high-res image gallery

Further proof that Toyota is taking Consumer Reports’ recent test and subsequent Do Not Buy rating of its Lexus GX 460 sport utility vehicle seriously is a report from AutoWeek that the Japanese giant is testing all of the [...]