The Hybrid Jeep EV, An Electric Wrangler Prototype

On Tuesday, on behalf of Chrysler LLC and Chrysler’s in-house hybrid technology design team, Chrysler ENVI, CEO Bob Nardelli unveiled a series of three “production intent” electric vehicles, one of which Chrysler intends to begin mass producing by 2010. Unfortunately, the consuming public will be held in suspense as to which of the three makes the production cut - at least until 2009, when preliminary models become available for commercial and fleet sales. While we await the final decision with bated breath, RideLust has decided to profile each of Chrysler’s ENVI vehicles individually, beginning with the most rugged [read: least like the loathsome Prius plug-in], the Jeep EV.

Jeep EV photo gallery after the jump

Tagged by Chrysler suits as an extended-range electric-vehicle [ER-EV], the Jeep EV is essentially a hybrid version of the Jeep Wrangler [though it bears an uncanny resemblance to the Jeep Commander from the rear]. In keeping with the Jeep Wrangler’s legendary off-road capability, the Jeep EV is equipped with a body-on-frame electrical drive train that individually powers each of the Jeep EV’s four wheels. To keep it green, the Jeep EV [like all 3 of the Chrysler ENVI vehicles], is tri-powered by an electric motor, a lithium-ion battery, and small gasoline engine integrated with an electric generator. By itself, the electric motor generates a whopping 268-hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, making it at least as powerful as any standard Jeep. Unlike any standard Jeep, however, the Jeep EV can average approximately 400 miles off of 8 gallons of gasoline, and another 40 miles relying completely on electric propulsion, consuming no fuel and producing zero emissions.

According to Chrysler, the Jeep EV was entirely engineered with to be the ultimate off-roading vehicle, intended to “…[provide] nature ambassadors with the ability to roam the planet and take care of it at the same time.”

We say: So, where do we sign?

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Nissan To Sell Pure Electric Cars In Oregon [Nissan Electric Cars]

Nissan will begin selling electric cars in Oregon state as early as 2010, according to a statement by Nissan-Renault CEO Carlos Ghosn at the LA Auto Show. There's been a lot buzz surrounding Nissan electric cars, especially with the debut of the Nissan Denki Cube concept at the New York Auto Show earlier this year. Oregon's governor Ted Kulongoski is recommending the state replace the $1,500 hybrid tax credit with a $5,000 electric vehicle credit, essentially subsidizing part of the cost of the vehicle. Nissan also plans a larger scale production of electric cars by 2012. Details in the statement from Nissan below.

LOS ANGELES (Nov. 19, 2008) – Carlos Ghosn, president and CEO, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today announced a new electric-vehicle partnership with the state of Oregon, in line with Nissan’s commitment to begin offering pure electric cars in 2010 in the United States and Japan. The announcement came in a keynote address at the opening of the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show.

“We see in Oregon the vision that is evident in all the places that are eager for sustainable mobility,” said Mr. Ghosn. “Demonstrating their care for the environment, the state and its partners are creating the conditions that will promote zero-emission vehicles as an attractive choice for consumers.”

Nissan will launch its first electric vehicle in Oregon in late 2010. Oregon Gov. Ted Kulongoski is proposing replacing the current $1,500 tax credit on hybrid vehicles with a $5,000 credit on all-electric cars.

[Source: Nissan]

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GM and Toyota: Electric Vehicles and the Big Bad Battery Debate

Toyota and GM are in a race to get their exciting new Hybrid/Electric cars to the market. Toyota is working on the next generation Prius, while GM is pressing to get their concept car the Volt completed on schedule. Both auto makers seem to be effected by the same hurdle: Lithium Ion Batteries.

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