ELECTRIC (11th) AVENUE: New York Auto Show Puts the Spark Back into Electric Vehicles

NEW YORK, April 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- An ever-growing list of state-of-the art electric cars whose kind has not been seen since the early days of the automobile will be on display at the New York International Automobile Show at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center at 11th Avenue between 34th and 40th Street.  These new rides are innovative, high-tech, stylish, fun to drive and emission free.  

"It's hard to believe that electric powered vehicles – that seem so futuristic today – were first built in the late 1890s," said show chairman John LaSorsa.   "Back then, these electric 'horseless carriages' lost out to the internal combustion engine for the hearts and minds of the newly emerging car buyers, but that preeminence is rapidly changing.  What we are seeing today is the beginning of an automotive revolution that is literally taking us back to the future," continued LaSorsa.  

With their quirky styling, cool colors, sophisticated technology and entertaining driving characteristics—here's a look at some of the electric cars that are breaking the mold for the way we will drive tomorrow based on a great idea from the past.

Ford Focus Electric:

The all-new Focus Electric is Ford's first-ever all-electric passenger car. Powered by a lithium-ion battery it has an expected 100 mile range with a top speed of 84mph and is capable of fully recharging in three to four hours at home using a wall-mounted 240-volt charge station.  Focus Electric also introduces new features and technologies such as a unique version of the MyFord Touch driver connect system especially for electric vehicles. Inside, the cluster display uses blue butterflies to represent the surplus range beyond one's charge point destination – the more butterflies there are, the greater the range.  To reinforce the message, at the end of each trip a display screen provides distance driven, miles gained through regenerative braking, energy consumed and a comparative gasoline savings achieved by driving electric.  A smartphone app called MyFord Mobile for smart phones will allow consumers to see charging status, initiate charging and heat or cool the interior while still plugged-in to the charging grid.

Chevrolet Volt

The five-door, four-passenger Volt is an electric driven vehicle designed and engineered to operate in all climates, with a range of up to 379 miles. Powered by GM's Voltec propulsion system, it consists of a 16-kWh lithium-ion battery pack and electric drive unit that provide pure electric range between 25 and 50 miles. A 1.4L gasoline-powered engine extends the range up to an additional 344 miles on a full tank of fuel by operating the vehicle's electric drive system until the car can be plugged in and recharged or refueled.  When the battery energy is depleted, the Volt seamlessly transitions to extended-range mode. Power is inverted from a 1.4L 63-kW (84-hp) gasoline-powered onboard engine to the electric drive unit to provide up to 344 additional miles of range.

Nissan LEAF

The 2011 Nissan LEAF is a medium-size hatchback that comfortably seats five adults and has a range of 100 miles on one full charge. It is powered by 48 laminated compact lithium-ion battery modules and a high-response 80kW AC synchronous motor that generates 107 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque, providing a highly responsive, fun-to-drive experience. The LEAF can be charged up to 80% of its full capacity in 30 minutes when equipped with a quick charge port and using a DC fast charger. Charging at home through a 220V outlet is estimated to take approximately eight hours. The exterior of the LEAF utilizes a flat underbody (including a large front flat floor cover, motor area undercover, front undercover and rear diffuser with fins) to help manage airflow under the vehicle.

BMW ActiveE

At the heart of the BMW ActiveE is a powerful electric motor which propels the car from zero to 60mph in just nine seconds from a standing start.  While it's top speed is electronically limited to 90mph.  The ActiveE  also features an 'intermediate position' for the accelerator pedal that results in the car's own kinetic energy being used to move forward, without consuming energy from the batteries. To further increase the range of the ActiveE ECO PRO Mode can be selected whereby the drive configuration and comfort functions are modified to use less energy. 

Honda FIT EV

The 5-passenger FIT EV is fitted with a high-density motor that delivers excellent efficiency and power while remaining quiet at high speeds. The Fit EV will achieve an estimated 100-mile driving range per charge and driving range can be maximized by use of a 3-mode electric drive system that allows the driver to select between Econ, Normal, and Sport to instantly and seamlessly change the driving experience. While in Econ mode, practical driving range can increase by as much as 17 percent, compared to driving in Normal mode, and up to 25 percent compared to driving in Sport mode. Acceleration improves significantly when in Sport mode, generating performance similar to a vehicle equipped with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine. In addition to the 3-mode E-Drive system, the Fit EV will include several interactive coaching systems to assist the driver in maximizing battery range.

Mitsubishi MiEV

The Mitsubishi "i" is more than an electric vehicle, and it's more than the sum of four decades of dedicated EV engineering. The Mitsubishi "i" is a celebration of the innovative spirit. It's proof that eco-friendly driving is feasible, affordable, and fun. Featuring world-class performance, zero emissions, an expected range of 85 miles, comfortable seating for four and an expressive, endearing style that says green in all of its five colors, the Mitsubishi "i" will be arriving in the United States in Fall, 2011.  

About the 2011 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS)

Showcasing the latest automotive trends, the 2011 New York International Auto Show will unveil an extensive collection of the most technologically advanced vehicles on display anywhere in the world. More than four floors of displays, including the new Javits Center North exhibition hall, will house nearly 1,000 stunning new 2011/2012 vehicles as well as sensational futuristic concept cars.  NYIAS is owned and produced by the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association.

Show Hours:

Monday – Saturday:  10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Sundays:  10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Pre-Show Private Group Tours: The price includes a ticket to the show, early access to the floor and a tour by an automotive expert. Visit www.autoshowNY.com for more information or to reserve a place on one of our tours!

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SOURCE New York International Auto Show