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Filed under: Biodiesel, Manufacturing/Plants

Blue Sun Biodiesel, the company that supplies B20 to the top biodiesel municipal fleet in the nation, has got at least one wealthy friend. An anonymous “private individual” has given the company a $3 million unsecured term loan for building up to ten new biodiesel blending and terminal locations this year. The facilities will handle B20 (branded as Fusion biodiesel) and B100. The $3m is not the only good financial news the company is announcing: an undisclosed amount of credit is also being finalized “to support continued infrastructure development” (full text pasted after the jump). After a possible merger with M-Wave fell through earlier this year, Blue Sun must be glad to have at least one major financial deal notched up for 2008.

Press Release:

Blue Sun Biodiesel Raises Capital: Closes $3 Million Unsecured Term Loan

GOLDEN, Colo., April 4, 2008 /PRNewswire/ — Blue Sun Biodiesel recently closed on an unsecured $3 million dollar loan. The loan was made by a private individual. Blue Sun is also in the process of finalizing a separate credit instrument to support continued infrastructure development.

“With the failed M-Wave merger and its attendant funding, we needed to arrange interim funding to assure the uninterrupted supply of B100 for our growing customer base and this facility will provide that assurance,” said Blue Sun’s CEO Jeff Probst. “We will use these funds to acquire, blend and distribute our branded Fusion(TM) and M-Tech industry leading specialty fuels to our customers in fourteen western states.”

Blue Sun will use the infrastructure credit instrument to support fuel terminal development in 2008. Blue Sun plans to build up to 10 new blending/terminal locations to support the distribution network for their Blue Sun B100 and B20 diesel fuels.

“The backing we’ve received from the financial community validates Blue Sun’s strategic direction,” said Blue Sun President Michael Miller. “The infusion will help drive our next stage of growth, allows us to leverage our vertically integrated model and to complete projects which expand availability of our biodiesel products. The year has started off fast with first-quarter volumes up over three fold from a year ago.”

About Blue Sun Biodiesel

Blue Sun Biodiesel, LLC is a vertically integrated manufacturer and marketer of premium agricultural and renewable fuels products. Blue Sun’s exclusive distribution network features specially-appointed and trained distributors and proprietary high-volume, state-of-the-art ratio blending terminals, which ensure Blue Sun Fusion (TM) is blended and supplied according to its industry-leading quality specifications. For more information, please visit http://www.gobluesun.com/.

[Source: Blue Sun Biodiesel, LLC]

 

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written by Sebastian Blanco \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: SUVs, Euro, Land Rover, UK

Click above for 28 new hi-res photos of the Defender SVX

Companies can crow about the ability of their SUVs, but for a great number of people, the land Rover Defender is the epitome of the SUV concept. As iconic as the original Jeep, the Defender does its thing, and does it better than just about any other vehicle in its class. Wagon or convertible, new or old, the Defender will happily wade into whatever slop its driver points it at and come out the other side no worse for wear. As we reported late last year, Land Rover is building a limited run of 1,800 Defender SVX models to celebrate the marque's 60th anniversary. The SVX kit dresses up the Landie with flashier trim on the grille, side steps and roll cage; a swankier set of wheels; special badging and decals; plus interior appointments including Recaros, a Garmin GPS, and that all-important iPod hookup. Glitzing up a Defender seems akin to a mud wrestler putting on Harry Winston jewelery before heading into battle, but at the end of the day, at least you know it'll clean up nice.


[Source: Land Rover via The Land Rover Chronicles]

 

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written by Alex Nunez \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: Aftermarket, Motorsports, Hatchbacks, Volvo

Click above for a photo galllery of Skruffse's RWD C30

While Volvo's C30 has wily charms in its stock configuration, we could see how it'd be even more entertaining with the power being sent to the proper wheels. While we're talking revisions, a honkingly large turbocharger and external-reservoir dampers would be welcome additions, too. The race-ready ride height is dead sexy, and while it's a crazy thing to do to a perfectly good brand new Volvo, Sweden's Skruffse has carried out some beautiful fabrication work. The use is obviously racing of some sort, and with wide tires at all four corners we're surmising that it's something that involves turning, versus drag racing. Seeing this car's tow rig - a first-generation V70, it all comes together -- those willing to strip the C30 down like a stolen Pinto and rejigger the chassis are true Volvo nuts. We're pretty sure the warranty has been voided, though.


[Source: CarScoop]

 

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written by Dan Roth \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: Ethanol, Legislation and Policy

A new group called the Bioenergy Alliance (BEA) will launch in Miami tomorrow with the goal of expanding Brazilian ethanol exports to the U.S, Mexico and Guatemala. Currently, all ethanol that is imported to the U.S. - hundreds of millions of gallons a year - is subject to a 54-cent-a-gallon tariff. While the announcement by FMC Agricultural Products (pasted after the jump) doesn’t specifically mention the tariff, when you have representatives of Petrobras and the founders of the Inter-American Ethanol Commission - former Florida governor Jeb Bush and former minister of agriculture of Brazil, Roberto Rodrigues - together on a panel, you can bet the topic will come up. FMC points out that definitively designating ethanol as a commodity is an important first step in increasing Brazil’s export. What is ethanol currently designated as, does anyone know?

Press Release:

Brazilian Ethanol Seeks Market in the United States, Mexico and Guatemala

SAO PAULO, Brazil, April 4, 2008 /PRNewswire/ — FMC will be launching the Bioenergy Alliance (BEA) in Miami, an important event starting April 6 that will gather together leading businessman and political figures in ethanol from the Americas on a tour through the United States, Mexico and Guatemala. The event seeks to strengthen the actions and initiatives of its clients in the international ethanol market. A major challenge to be met in this regard is the definitive designation of ethanol as a commodity, a fundamental step for conquering new markets.

The first panel will take place in Miami on Sunday, April 6, at 4:00 p.m. Among important politicians and businessmen present will be the founders of the Inter-American Ethanol Commission, Jeb Bush and former minister of agriculture of Brazil, Roberto Rodrigues. The panel will address Brazil-U.S. relations and their potential future development. Also in attendance will be Petrobras, factory owners, sugarcane growers and Brazilian businessmen from the sector.

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), author of several studies on opportunities in ethanol, will also be present. Roberto Rodrigues will present Brazilian expectations in the area, above all the importance of opening markets, one of Brazil’s objectives. Although Brazil produces close to 40% of world ethanol, it exports only 13% of production. Following the first panel in Miami, the group will travel to Mexico City for the second day of the event, which will address opportunities for ethanol in the context of NAFTA, and then move on to Guatemala.

The initiative of the FMC, an agricultural products company with US$ 326 million in revenue in 2007 (Brazil), will involve the largest two ethanol producers and technology leaders of the world, Brazil and the United States, which account for 85% of world ethanol production. The Bioenergy Alliance will address not only the question of investment and trade opportunities between the two ethanol leaders, but also possibilities for business expansion of the sugar alcohol sector to Mexico and other countries in Central America. The event will take place over the course of a week in Miami, Mexico City and Guatemala City.

[Source: FMC Agricultural Products]

 

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written by Sebastian Blanco \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: Etc., Ford, Lifestyle

Charles Ales is into Ford Mustangs. In fact, he owns several; his collection includes all three BOSS variants and four new Shelbys. Over years of collecting cars and hobnobbing with others who share his interests, he noticed that the real car people's enthusiasm for their rides borders on religious fervor. An idea popped into Charles' head last summer, and The Mustang Church of America and Museum was born. It's even got its own logo: the Christian fish symbol with the running pony inside.

Built next to the house in which he was born, the facility is set to open later this summer and will display Mr. Ales' collection of Mustangs. He also plans to host car shows, swap meets and two Mustang blessings a year. Charles and his adopted son Robert Brunch, both ordained ministers, will preside over Sunday services in the non-denominational church. "I'll preach goodness and helping my fellow humankind. I'll preach what we're supposed to do - make this a better world than we found it," he told the local Pittsburg, KS Morning Sun newspaper.

The mural behind his pulpit will show Jesus at the wheel of a '66 Mustang. Bet you don't have one of those at your church.
[Source: The Morning Sun]

 

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written by Alex Nunez \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: EV/Plug-in

Luscious Garage is as green as a garage could be. As ABG reported back in September, this female-owned shop specializes in service for hybrids and was constructed with every possible attention to environmental details. It not only hosts the monthly meetings of the San Francisco Electric Vehicle Association, it has got to be the only garage that has art exhibits and cultural events.

Recently Luscious began converting Priuses into plug-in hybrids, a service for which there is already a waiting list. Now they also offer charging for electric cars, including Toyota RAV4 EVs which use the small paddle inductive charger original built to work with the EV1. While specializing in hybrids, they’d be happy to service your car. Think of it as a way to support green automotives while waiting for that plug-in car to come to market.

[Source: Luscious Garage]

 

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written by Marc Geller \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: Recalls/TSBs, Volkswagen

If you are one of the nearly half-million Americans driving a 1999-2005 Volkswagen Passat, your dealer will be expecting a visit. Every gasoline-powered Passat (the list includes the 1.8-liter I4, 2.0-liter I4, 2.8-liter V6, and 4.0-liter W8) is being recalled for a heat shield issue. Apparently, the shield near the catalytic converter on some automatic-equipped cars may be damaged, so VW wants the dealers to check them out and add additional shielding if necessary.

While it has your attention, Volkswagen has also found some faulty fuel lines on cars with the 1.8-liter turbocharged engine, and some of the all-wheel-drive equipped cars may have damaged fuel tank ventilation valves. Thankfully, no accidents or injuries have been reported from any of the problems. VW will begin notifying owners on May 30.

[Source: Automotive News, subs. req'd]

 

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written by Michael Harley \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: Etc., GM

Earlier this week, in an example of cross-magazine synergy, both Automobile and Car and Driver ran April Fool's gags trumpeting the return of a rejuvenated, Toyota-owned Oldsmobile. The pubs even shared the same images, which depicted Oldsmofied versions of the Toyota Sequoia (Oldsmobile Super 88) and 4Runner (Oldsmobile Intrigue). It was goofy fun, and we all had a laugh and moved on. It would appear that not everyone caught the joke, however, and this is where things get substantially more amusing.

Continue reading Oldsmobile Redux: The rest of the story...

 

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written by Alex Nunez \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: Diesel, Ethanol, Flex-Fuel, Hybrid, AutoblogGreen Exclusive

We last chatted with the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers at the New York Auto Show. We heard then about the Alliance’s safety and eco-related stances. On Monday, the Alliance will announce that 1.8 million alternative-fueled autos (diesels, hybrids and flex-fuel) were sold in the U.S. in 2007, up just a bit - 250,000 - from 2006. Both hybrids and flex-fuel vehicle sales climbed while diesels dipped. The Alliance believes that more than 2m alternative vehicles will be sold in America in 2008. The hurdles to wider acceptance are the same as we’ve heard before: high cost of diesels and a lack of E85 fueling stations (to say nothing of hydrogen). Still, 1.8m vehicles is not insignificant. These aren’t perfect green rides - I’m looking at you, Escalade hybrid - but in the uphill battle to green up America’s fleet of vehicles, it’s a start. You can download a PDF that lists all of the Alliance members’ 70+ alternative fuel vehicles here. More details after the jump.

Press Release:

SALES OF ALTERNATIVE FUEL AUTOS INCREASED BY 15 PERCENT IN 2007

Washington, DC– Newly released sales figures from R.L. Polk reveal a record number of alternative fuel automobiles (AFA) rolled off dealer lots in 2007. In total, close to 1.8 million Alternative Fuel Autos were sold last year, roughly 250,000 more than were sold in 2006. Sales of E-85 capable vehicles flexible fuel vehicles were up significantly as were sales of hybrid electric vehicles. Sales of clean diesel vehicles fell slightly.

“Gas prices, consumer incentives, and the increasing number of AFA models available to consumers continue to play a role in the rising popularity of these vehicles,” said Dave McCurdy, president and CEO Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers. “And while we’re pleased these vehicles continue to grow in popularity, refueling infrastructure challenges may prevent the promise of these vehicles from being fully realized. For example, out of more than 170,000 refueling stations in the U.S. less than 1500 offer ethanol.”

In 2008, more than 70 models of AFAs are being offered. This is up from only 11 models in 2001. McCurdy added, “Each year the number of AFAs available to consumers is increasing. We’re hopeful that soon we’ll be able to add a new generation of plug-in hybrids and other promising technologies to this list.”

Currently there are more than 12 million alternative fuel autos registered in the U.S. and automakers are hopeful that this year sales of AFAs may exceed 2 million. With more choices available than ever before automakers are optimistic that the popularity of these vehicles will continue to grow.

McCurdy added, “Automakers recognize that our actions speak louder than our words. Last year we supported an aggressive nationwide increase in fuel economy standards that will increase fuel economy by 40 percent while at the same time reduce carbon dioxide emissions from new autos by 30 percent through 2020. We are hopeful that through the use of alternative fuel autos as well as improvements to the conventional international combustion we can meet the challenge of improving fuel economy, enhancing energy security and reducing carbon dioxide emissions while continuing to provide consumers with the vehicles they demand at an affordable price.”
For more information about Alternative Fuel Automobiles visit http://www.discoveralternatives.com/.

[Source: Auto Alliance]

 

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written by Sebastian Blanco \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: Garage, Coupes, Supercars, Nissan

UPDATE: Due to its awesomeness, we are re-running the GT-R drive.

Click above to view our massive gallery of the 2009 Nissan GT-R.

var digg_url = 'http://digg.com/autos/Autoblog_s_First_Drive_with_the_GT_R'; With only 20 miles separating us from North Lake Tahoe, it's obvious that I hadn't secured the hood of our Super Silver Nissan GT-R after poking and prodding inside the engine bay. The left side of the bonnet is raised about a quarter-inch and flapping slightly at speed, so we pull off into a newborn subdivision to slam it shut. I step back inside and catch a glimpse of a silver Corvette in the side view mirror. The telltale air intake on the front bumper confirms that the man behind the wheel is an aficionado; it's a C6 Z06 and there's no doubt the driver knows what the GT-R is.


All photos (C) 2008 Damon Lavrinc / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2009 Nissan GT-R

 

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written by Damon Lavrinc \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, Supercars, Aston Martin, Mercedes Benz, AMG

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Aston Martin N400 V8 Vantage.

What began as a rumor that Mercedes-Benz would begin supplying Aston Martin with engines has evolved into a full-blown partnership that may include both automakers co-developing platforms and technology. The newest report comes courtesy of Autocar, suggesting that M-B is considering purchasing a stake in Aston Martin and the Kuwaiti Investment Authority would in turn receive a seven-percent slice of the Daimler AG pie.

The partnership would make sense on several levels. Aston Martin, which is a small fish in a very large pool, will need to purchase major components from mainstream suppliers once its ties with Ford are officially severed. Imagine AMG-levels of power nestled inside Aston's sensuous sheet metal. Yum. But the partnership wouldn't be one sided. Recent reports coming out of Germany say that M-B is looking to employ a lightweight aluminum platform for the next generation SL. Aston Martin has the technology to help develop such an architecture, and with Mercedes stepping away from McLaren next year after production of the SLR ends, M-B needs a new supercar manufacturer to join the party.

Thanks for the tip, Mike!



[Source: Autocar]

 

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written by Damon Lavrinc \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, GM, UAW/Unions

The United Auto Workers (UAW) are gearing up to strike against General Motors if progress isn't made on local negotiations affecting three factories in the U.S. The workers at the Arlington, Texas; Parma, Ohio; and Delta Township, Michigan plants are required to give the General a five day notice before the stoppage occurs, and they've told GM's negotiators that if progress isn't made in five days on the local contracts, they'll be laying down their tools. The dispute is primarily over which factory workers will be forced into a lower wage rate. If the work stoppage occurs, it will further compound issues GM is already facing with the American Axle strike, which has forced the automaker to slow or stop production at 30 factories across the U.S and Canada.

[Source: Detroit News]

 

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written by Damon Lavrinc \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, BMW, Green Daily

Can’t wait for BMW to possibly unleash a new green vehicle? Got enough cash in the bank to (almost) buy two Tesla Roadsters? Then say hello to your new ride: an all electric 1995 BMW 840Ci. The car has been converted by Eco-Conversions to run on Xellerion nickel-zinc batteries that will move the vehicle for 100+ miles between charges and, according to the description, “provide enough power to maintain the feel and performance of a luxury sports car” (read: go over 100 mph). The all-electric BMW is currently on sale on eBay for the low, low price of $160,000 (want it without waiting? The Buy It Now option is just $165,000). The car is currently in Lisle, Illinois and there are another five days before the auction ends. My birthday’s coming up, in case you’re feeing generous. Thanks to James H for the tip!

[Source: eBay]

 

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written by Sebastian Blanco \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: Coupes, Supercars, Porsche

While we like to chide the Stuttgart crew for "updates" to its 911 range, this newest one actually has some serious substance underneath the tweaked sheet metal. In addition to the revised headlamp and taillight design, CAR is reporting that Porsche will upgrade both the 3.6- and 3.8-liter flat-six boxers with direct-injection. The technology, first employed by Porsche on the 2007 Cayenne, boosted horsepower and torque by around 10- to 15-percent in the SUV, and we hope that similar gains can be made with its iconic six. More impressive, although not entirely unexpected, is the rumored fitment of Porsche's first dual-clutch gearbox. The Doppel Kupplungen transmission will be available on the new 911 after it's unveiled sometime this summer, with sales expected to begin this fall. There's no word on what models will benefit from the DSG 'box initially, nor was there any info about how the new tranny would be implemented on Porsche's all-wheel-drive models.

[Source: CAR]

 

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written by Damon Lavrinc \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: Etc., Hybrid, Hyundai, Kia, Asia

Yes, it’s true. The good hard-working folks employed by the president’s office (of South Korea) are about to get Hyundai hybrid happy. (Or possibly sad if you’re the dude or dudette getting the Kia.) The plan, according to office spokesman Lee Dong-kwan, is “…to use the hybrid-electric vehicles (HEV) to raise public awareness of the environment industry as an alternative engine for growth and energy-saving [sic].” He went on to say that the president, newly-elected Lee Myung-bak, would also be using the car “if needed.” It is pure speculation on my part that the “need” is unlikely to arise.

The two models being considered are the Hyundai Vernon (sold here in non-hybrid form as the Accent and pictured above) and the Kia Pride. As well as showcasing the environmental attitudes of the country’s leadership, the move may also reflect the direction of the South Korean car manufacturer.

[Source: The Korea Times]

 

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written by Domenick Yoney \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: Sedans/Saloons, Recalls/TSBs, Safety, Chrysler, Dodge

Anyone who's rolling in a 2007-2008 Chrysler Sebring or Dodge Avenger, take note. Chryslerberus is recalling all 181,000 of those vehicles sold during that time to fix an electrical defect that affects unused connectors on the tire pressure monitoring system. Apparently, corrosion can cause a short, and owners could experience their vehicles failing to start, stalling once underway, or some other affectations of the electrical components, including the cruise control. Formal notices are going to be sent out later this month, and dealers have been instructed to locate the problem and seal the affected circuits. Check your mailboxes, folks.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]

 

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written by Damon Lavrinc \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: Ford, Earnings/Financials

Ford revealed today that its CEO Alan Mullaly was compensated with a package worth $21.7 million last year. His base pay was $2 million and he received incentive bonuses totaling $7 million. The rest of his money pile comes from stock options and the like. All told, Ford's top five highest paid execs accounted for some $60 million of the Blue Oval's total bill in 2007. Mulally actually made $28.2 million in 2006, but $11 million of that was what it cost Ford to buy out his contract with Boeing.

$60 million is a lot of money to pay five people in one year, which strikes at the heart of an age old question in modern American business: how much should executives get paid? If they're doing their job and the company is profitable, no one seems to quibble over a million here and a million there, but instead credits the CEO for his or her expert leadership. When a company is losing money like Ford, however, those big bucks suddenly seem like funds that could have been used to develop new products, pay lower-tiered workers better or pad the company's cash reserves just in case.

Bill Ford Jr., Ford's last CEO who has turned down a salary until Ford turns a profit, hired Mulally to do what he couldn't: make Ford profitable again. But hiring a guy like Mulally costs money, which is what we're seeing here. It is too early to determine if Mulally is earning his wage, so the impatient see his compensation package as completely unwarranted. We're willing to wait a few years, and if Ford is back in the black by then, we know the cost of doing business with Mulally was worth it for the guys and gals from Dearborn.

[Source: Automotive News, sub. req'd, Photo by GEOFF ROBINS/AFP/Getty]

 

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written by John Neff \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: Green Culture, Green Daily, USA

Every year, AAA runs a study which they refer to as “Your Driving Costs” which calculates the average costs of owning and operating the five top-selling models in three popular size classes: small, medium and large sedans. This year, the study indicates that the average cost of driving a passenger vehicle in the United States has increased 1.9 cents per mile in the last year; up to 54.1 cents per mile. High gas prices and additional taxes, among other things, have overcome the downward trend set by maintenance, full-coverage insurance and depreciation.

Want to save some green? AAA suggests a pretty obvious option: consider choosing a smaller vehicle or a minivan over an SUV. The annual average cost of driving a small sedan is $6,320 per year, while a large sedan costs $9,769 per year. Your average minivan will run you $8,644 per year, compared to $10,448 for a four-wheel-drive mid-size SUV. Besides the cost savings, we’d be remiss if we didn’t point out that the smaller sized car will likely include a smaller-sized engine emitting less CO₂ into the air.

Want to know more? The entire report can be downloaded in .pdf form from this page.

[Source: AAA]

 

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written by Jeremy Korzeniewski \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: Government/Legal, GM, Earnings/Financials

Bankrupt supplier Delphi was expected to finalize a financing package this morning that would finally allow the company to emerge from the red, but in the 11th hour one of its investors backed out leaving the supplier, its largest customer General Motors and the company's shareholders in the lurch. Appaloosa Management LP had lead a $2.55 billion equity plan that was a large part of Delphi's financing package, and without which, the supplier will have to remain in its technically bankrupt state until other arrangements can be made. Appaloosa expressed that it would be willing to consider alternative arrangements, while Delphi has suggested it may take the investment firm to court. For its part, GM, which also pledged up to $2.8 billion in loans for Delphi, expressed its regret over this morning's turn of events in a press released pasted after the jump.

[Source: Automotive News, sub. req'd]

Continue reading Delphi investor backs out, bankruptcy exit delayed

 

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written by John Neff \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: Aftermarket, Time Warp, Coupes, Auction Action, Ford

Click on the image for more shots of the '64 Galaxy with Rocket Axle

We're pretty pumped-up about this auction for a 1964 Ford Galaxy from Dana Mecum's Original Spring Classic, running from May 15-18 in Indianapolis, IN. Even if we didn't love the '64 Galaxy as an A/FX drag-car, which we do, the rare Latham axial flow supercharger induction system with quad Carter single-barrel carbs that feed the 425-horsepower 427 Ford big block race motor would seal the deal for us.

Still not impressed? Perhaps you didn't notice the FREAKIN' ROCKET ENGINE hanging off the rear axle! For those unaware, this adds historical significance to this particular Galaxy. The Turbonique Corporation from the roaring-'60s, when literally anything seemed possible, offered what it referred to as a "Turbo Drag Axle" that could add as much as 1,000 horsepower to a drag car using a snail-housing supercharger spinning at up to 92,000 RPM and force-fed N-Propyl Nitrate liquid rocket fuel. Yes you read that right... rocket fuel.

The Galaxy in this auction was built and owned by tobacco heir Zachary Reynolds of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco fame and is referred to as the "Tobacco King". The Turbo Drag Axle hanging off the rear end offers 850 additional horsepower in this application and the car has been souped up to handle the juice with chassis and suspension stiffening. While it's not likely to ever make another pass down the 1,320, with just 3,611 original miles and all of the period-correct modifications, this is one vehicle that deserves to be appreciated for years to come. Thanks for the tip, Trevor!


[Source: Dana Mecum's Original Spring Classic Auction]

 

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written by Jeremy Korzeniewski \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: Transportation Alternatives, On Two Wheels, Green Daily

Photo by RatherBeBiking. Licensed under Creative Commons license 2.0.

In case you need an excuse to trade in the car for a bike this spring and summer, the League of American Bicyclists is ready to help. The League has declared the week of 12th-16th of May to be Bike-to-Work Week (with Friday the 16th to be Bike-to-Work Day. May itself is National Bike Month, and the League is offering a large PDF that lists 50 ways to celebrate the month, like hosting a murder mystery on a bike or ride with your child to school. So far, there are National Bike Month events listed for 18 states. More to come, I’m sure.

[Source: League of American Bicyclists]

 

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written by Sebastian Blanco \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: Safety, Videos

Click above to watch video

We are inundated with safety reminders every time we get into our cars and turn the key. Your car reminds you to fasten your safety belt with incessant beeps and warning lights fill your dashboard when brake or airbag sensors think something is wrong. But, as the video pasted after the break proves, even standing next to your car can be dangerous under the right circumstances. Dynamometers, or dynos, can be awfully dangerous and are usually surrounded by some sort of guard rail, but not this one in Russia. While it's hard to ignore the guy in the red pants, keep your eyes on the older gentleman at the rear of the room.

While our first inclination was to laugh, the reality is that this face-plant could have been much worse. We're glad that the man in the video appears to be alright. Papa!

[Source: Dragtimes.com]

Continue reading VIDEO: Safety 101 around a dynamometer

 

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written by Jeremy Korzeniewski \\ tags: Ecology, Green cars, News

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, On Two Wheels, Vectrix

If you live in California and have a hankerin’ for some quality electric maxi-scooter action, it’s time to grab your checkbook and head for your nearest Vectrix dealership. The California Center for Sustainable Energy (CCSE) has been busy dishing out rebates for a select few rides and there is only so much cash left in the kettle.

The “Fueling Alternatives” program lists a small number of natural gas-powered vehicles that qualify for the rebate but apparently the money reserved for those has already run out. The only other eligible vehicle manufacturers left are GEM and Vectrix and, unless you live in a gated community or on a golf course, I would go with the 62 mph-capable Vectrix.

If you live in Northern California, there is a San Francisco-based dealer, British Motor Cars Distributors, who would be happy to take your order and, according to their website, they deliver. San Rafael residents might want to give Marin BMW Motorcycles a ring. For the rest of California, hang tight, help may soon be on the way. More info after the jump.

Press Release:

CCSE Gives Cash Back to Owners of Alternative Fuel Vehicles

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March 25, 2008) - The California Center for Sustainable Energy (CCSE) has been chosen by the Air Resources Board (ARB) as the administrator of the Fueling Alternatives statewide program that offers cash rebates to residents who purchase alternative fuel vehicles. The grant funded by the ARB gives up to $5,000 in incentives to Californians, who purchase electric, compressed natural gas and other qualifying cars and motorcycles. Two CCSE program participants will be available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, April 1, 2008 at the EcoCenter to showcase qualifying vehicles and discuss the benefits of the rebate program. The EcoCenter, located at 4001 El Cajon Boulevard in San Diego, is the main fueling point in San Diego for alternative fuel vehicles housing ethanol, propane and natural gas pumps, as well as an electric power station. In addition to being an alternative fuel hub, the EcoCenter is a climate change and green transportation education center for school children. Executive Director of the EcoCenter, Judy Bishop will also be available for interviews.

Overall, $1.62 million in funding will be dispensed under the Fueling Alternatives rebate program administered by the California Center for Sustainable Energy. The program is part of $25 million of overall funding that came out of Assembly Bill 1811 — authored by Speaker Fabian Nunez (D-Los Angeles) and passed in 2007 — which promotes alternative fuel infrastructure and vehicles. The rebates are available on a first come first served basis for qualifying vehicles that are purchased or leased between May 24, 2007 and March 31, 2009. The program has been so successful, however, that the budget for rebates on compressed natural gas vehicles has already been met.

Rebates up to $1,500 are still available for the Vectrix zero emission motorcycle, and between $950 and $1,300 for certain models of the GEM neighborhood electric vehicle. To receive a rebate, vehicles must have emission certification from the ARB, comply with all federal motor vehicle safety standards and meet a minimum manufacturer warranty. For a complete listing of eligible vehicles, go to www.fuelingalts.energycenter.org. “CCSE is delighted to be the administrator of this important green transportation initiative. The program fits well with our mission of sustainable energy solutions,” said Director of Engineering, Robert Gilleskie.

ARB estimates that there are currently about 25,000 dedicated alternative fuel vehicles in California, collectively saving millions of gallons of gasoline each year while emitting fewer pollutants than conventional internal combustion engines. To find the cleanest cars available on the market today, vi