Archive for the ‘America’ Category

Back in June, Mitsubishi unveiled the production version of its i-MiEV battery electric vehicle. The curious-looking five-door hatch went on sale in Japan six weeks later at a retail cost of ¥3 million ($33,800). It runs off a 16 kWh lithium ion battery, which powers an electric motor for about 100 miles per charge.

At the time of the unveiling, there was some discussion about the possibility of Mitsubishi selling the i-MiEV in the U.S., and news eventually followed that the BEV will roll onto American lots in mid-2011. Now comes word that Mitsubishi may also roll out a gas version of the i-MiEV for U.S. consumers.

This wouldn't require a...

Toyota Motor Sales USA made an intriguing announcement this week: the automaker told U.S. dealers that Toyota is extending the range of its Prius lineup in American showrooms. Based on statements from dealers with first-hand knowledge of the announcement, it appears that Toyota's intent is simply to leverage the immense popularity of the Prius brand, which has become synonymous with the term "hybrid". Said Dealer Earl Stewart, "The Highlander hybrid and Camry hybrid do OK, but calling it 'Synergy Drive' never resonated with consumers".

Exactly how this will play out on Toyota lots remains unsure, and to the best of our knowledge, the...

Democracy and John Stuart Mill's marketplace of ideas are often shrill, and almost always messy, in practice. And clearly people of good faith--and the rest too--disagree on aspects of the Detroit bailouts put together by the Obama Administration.

But now right-wing radio talk-show host Rush Limbaugh has advised his listeners of a boycott of GM products, taking direct aim at the dwindling paychecks and job prospects of tens of thousands of remaining General Motors workers.

Here at High Gear Media, we like to think we've explored many aspects of the debate. We've both criticized the president and the Automotive Task Force--here, here, here, ...