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RAC survey finds UK drivers increasing reliance on cars, spurning public transport in response to COVID-19

Green Car Congress

More than half of UK drivers (57%) say having access to a car is more important than it was before the coronavirus pandemic, with reluctance to use public transport in the future at its highest level in 18 years, according to research for the RAC’s annual Report on Motoring.

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Volkswagen introduces new Coasting 2.0 micro hybrid system and new natural gas engine at Vienna Motor Symposium

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At the 38 th Vienna Motor Symposium Volkswagen is introducing a new, more fuel-efficient “Coasting - Engine off” micro hybrid system—which shuts off the engine completely—as well as a new, compact three-cylinder natural gas engine for the Polo. Volkswagen has been represented in the marketplace with CNG engines since 2002.

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DOE awards more than $5M to two projects developing advanced hydrogen fuel cell components

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At the same time, fuel cell durability has doubled, expensive platinum content has been reduced by a factor of five, and the cost of fuel cells has already fallen 80% since 2002. will leverage advanced blower technology to develop and demonstrate an efficient and low-cost fuel cell air management system.

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DOE launches H2USA public-private partnership to deploy hydrogen infrastructure for transportation

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Through H 2 USA, industry and government partners will focus on identifying actions to encourage early adopters of fuel cell electric vehicles; conduct coordinated technical and market analysis; and evaluate alternative fueling infrastructure that can enable cost reductions and economies of scale.

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SAIC-GM-Wuling completes expansion of Qingdao mini-commercial vehicle facility; 70% increase in capacity

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all our facilities, this plant stands out as a global GM benchmark for low-cost manufacturing, throughput and innovation. SGMW, a joint venture between GM China, Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation Group (SAIC) and Wuling Motors, was established in 2002. —GM Chairman and CEO Dan Akerson.

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Report: Nissan To Introduce Compact Hybrids in Japan in 2011

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The Nikkei reports that Nissan Motor Co. Nissan is likely to develop a low-cost, compact powertrain similar to those in Honda hybrids, with an electric motor to provide additional power to a constantly working engine. The motor will run on high-performance lithium ion batteries.

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DOE to award up to $184M for advanced vehicle research and development in 8 areas of interest

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Electric motor efficiency targets within the FOA. This subtopic seeks research and development projects on novel lubricant formulations expected to improve the efficiency of advanced combustion regime engines by at least 10% (improvement based on comparison to similarly configured 2002 or later commercially available combustion engine).

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