NASCAR Driver Leilani Munter Introduces the Inizio Electric Supercar

NASCAR driver turned environmentalist, Leilani Munter, takes time out from the 2011 Detroit Auto Show to introduce Green Energy News to the world’s faster electric car, the Inizio, by Li-Ion Motors. Capable of speeds of up to 170mph (RTX model), the Inizio goes from 0-60mph in 3.4 seconds, faster than it’s competition (Tesla Roadster), which reaches 60mph in just about 3.7 seconds. With a price tag of $130,000 USD, the Inizio certainly isn’t a practical choice for everyone; but just like when Chevy announced the 454ci LS6 engine in 1970, the Inizio marks a new era of American muscle… and it sure looks green.

Concept SUV Takes no Prisoners at NAIAS-

Ford Motor Company has announced their newest gas efficient concept, a sleek and sexy compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) which promises to deliver improved fuel economy by up to 20 percent and a reduction of CO2 emissions up to 15 percent when compared to the competition. Besides the innovative 1.6-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost™ engine, the Vertrek features an aerodynamic design that, according to the company, will boost efficiency by at least 5 percent over other Ford SUVs such as the Escape or Kuga. “Customer demands are converging globally toward a compact sport utility vehicle that is stylish and great fun to drive while at the same time providing the package, capability, engaging technology and fuel economy they expect,” said Jim Farley, group vice president, Global Marketing, Sales and Service. “The Ford Vertrek concept will allow us to hear directly from these customers about trade-offs they are prepared to make as we look to deliver a future production model that brings to life all these attributes.” A remarkable feature of new generation Ford vehicles like the Vertrek is the “Auto Start-Stop” system, which shuts down the engine when the vehicle is at idle – ie. at a stoplight – and quickly restarts when the driver pushes the gas pedal. This proprietary technology can lower fuel consumption by up to 5 percent in mixed driving conditions and could potentially increase to as much as 10 percent in city driving and heavy traffic. The company has also implemented Smart Regenerative Charging technology which converts kinetic energy that the vehicle creates by breaking into electric energy for the battery so it can be used by the electrical systems at a later stage — ultimately helping to enhance fuel economy. “The Ford Vertrek concept is inspired by contemporary compact sport utility customers’ expectations and aspirations,” said J Mays, group vice president, Design, and chief creative officer. “It unites stylish design, world-class craftsmanship and outstanding capability to present a fresh vision that we believe will resonate globally.” Video below is shot by us at GEN when visiting the NAIAS Ford press conference on January 10th, 2011.

Santa Monica, CA-

Green Energy News had the recent pleasure of test driving the brand spankin’ new, highly-anticipated zero emission vehicle (ZEV) developed by Nissan, dubbed LEAF – or Leading, Environmentally Friendly, Affordable, Family Car. The LEAF contains a 600 lb laminated lithium-ion battery that is mounted in the center of the vehicle which clearly boosted the handling performance and stability around corners and bends in the road. To boot, battery life will typically last around ten years – longer than conventional car batteries. Once the battery has outlived its purpose in the vehicle, it can be reused in a number of alternative energy applications from wind projects to energy backup/storage for up to 20 years! A depleted battery will take about 16-18 hours to fully charge in a standard 110V dedicated outlet, 8 hours at a 220V station, and 26 minutes to reach 80 percent capacity at a DC quick-charge station rated 62.5 kW (500V DC).

One of the most valuable assets to the LEAF is its regenerative breaking capability. As the car coasts or rolls to a stop, the electric motor acts as an electric generator. Meaning, energy which is generated by breaking is then stored in the battery for later use. But Nissan doesn’t just stop there. The LEAF offers phenomenal technological perks with a navigation system that will locate EV charging stations wherever you may be found at the time; a trip computer which offers instant, average energy consumption, driving time and driving range; an automatic temperature control (ATC) system; a remote connection monitor which allows the owner to track the battery state of charge/charging status; a 3.3 kW onboard charger; as well as a handsfree phone system. The enhanced SL model actually has a solar panel on the spoiler and a backup camera in the rear much like a lot of newer, high-end vehicles. In fact, this five-person EV is very similar to that of a luxury car in its feel, handling capabilities, technology and security features. According to their website, total ownership costs are projected to be equal to or lower than comparably equipped gas-powered cars. A downside of EVs in general is that they may use up to about 25 percent of the battery’s energy when powering the HVAC (Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning) system, since the motor does not produce sufficient heat. This factor will reduce the overall battery efficiency for those who live in colder climates… however drivers will find that operating the AC is more efficient than using the heater. All things considered, the LEAF is affordable with federal and local government incentives, spacious, and efficient in almost every way. The only foreseen problem is due to its range capability, which is around 100 miles per charge based upon driving conditions and location. This could be a problem in areas with little or no charging stations. Although Nissan’s LEAF will be manufactured in Japan, the company expects to bring manufacturing to their Smyrna, GA plant in about two years.

The Review:

Design- While the Nissan LEAF doesn’t turn heads like the Nissan GT-R, it boasts smooth lines and a modern feel. We think it looks like a mix between a luxury crossover SUV (think Lexus RX-350) and a Toyota Matrix… with a little Nissan Versa added in to round it out. The interior was spacious and the backseat had more than enough room for a photographer and cameraman with gear. The Nissan LEAF is a true 5-passenger vehicle with ample room for a compact car. Being a hatchback, the trunk space was deep and spacious. Looking into the trunk… it appeared as if the back seats would fold down as well. The design of the LEAF can be summed up quite simply… practical! The fact that the LEAF utilizes recycled materials/PET for the interior and bumpers scores extra points with the people at Green Energy News. Taking the extra steps to promote sustainability, despite cost, is what will set apart the next generation of green vehicles and electric cars.

Performance- Whoa… this car has some power! The 107 HP (80kw) motor puts out 206 lb-ft of torque which is available at 0 MPH. The flat torque curve means that this car MOVES right off the line. At moderate speeds (approx 45 MPH) the LEAF had NO problems passing other vehicles with minimal effort. Toward the end of the video, you can see the LEAF accelerating into a right turn, reaching almost 50 MPH from a creeping start with ease. The LEAF is responsive and fun to drive. Is it a sports car… no. Is it more fun to drive than a traditional compact… BY FAR! The lithium ion battery pack is center mounted under the vehicle creating even balance and sturdy handling. We had the chance to cruise down PCH, up Sunset Blvd (lots of hills and curves), and back down to Santa Monica to get a feel for the car in different driving environments. When the production models start to roll in late 2010, take a test drive and feel the future of modern electric vehicles.

Price- With an MSRP of a little over $32,780, the LEAF seems to edge out it’s competition (Chevy VOLT- expected MSRP around $40k) on affordability. Here in California, the LEAF will qualify $5,000 in CA State rebates on top of $7,500 in federal tax credits, bringing the net cost down to around $20k. At that price point, the LEAF is a steal for those living in areas with the charging infrastructure to support their driving habits.

Overall- The Nissan LEAF just might be the answer for an affordable, practical electric car. The average range of 100-miles on a full charge should be enough to get most Americans to and from work each day, re-charging in about 8-hours overnight via 220V power. With level 3 charging stations planned at many locations across the country, the ability to get an 80% charge in about 30 minutes seems like it will be a reality many places in 2011. That being said, the LEAF might not be a practical choice for everyone. Being realistic, not all cities in the U.S. have the infrastructure needed to support the daily driving of EV’s. While the LEAF might not be the right choice for everyone right now, the technology and design show a bright future for EV’s in the U.S. Congratulations to Nissan for taking a HUGE step in the right direction with the zero emission LEAF.

**UPDATE: COMPANY SEEMS TO HAVE BEEN FRAUDULENT & CONFERENCE HAS BEEN CANCELED W/OUT REFUNDS. IF YOU HAVE LOST MONEY VIA ENGEX, CONTACT THE CALIFORNIA ATTORNEY GENERAL’S OFFICE.**

Access over $500 BILLION in government contracts and SBIR/STTR grants at EngEx 2010-

You heard right… every year, the U.S. Federal Government gives out over $500 BILLION in government contracts. Of that $500 billion, close to 23% MUST be awarded to small businesses. By attending EngEx 2010, you’ll have access to several educational workshops which will equip you and your company with the information necessary to obtain the proper certification to work with the government, as well as the inside knowledge needed to bid effectively on government projects. In addition to government contracts, EngEx will provide you with access to over $2.2 BILLION in SBIR (small business innovation research) and STTR grants.

EngEx Unites 39 fields of engineering to focus on energy, water, infrastructure, environmental technologies. To help create business opportunities, EngEx 2010 has participation from 9 Government Agencies including The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Transportation (DOT), Bureau of Land Management (BLM), NAVFAC SW, Department of Commerce, the U.S. International Trade Administration with the World Bank Group, Small Business Administration (SBA) and the U.S. EXIM Bank.

NAB 2010 | Las Vegas, NV

The NAB show in Las Vegas was a great success this year, with over 88,000 attendees searching for the latest advances in film and broadcast equipment. In addition to innovative technologies, this year’s event featured environmentally-conscious alternatives in an effort to promote a greener, more sustainable business world. Green initiatives include (but aren’t limited to) replacement of direct mail with the use of electronic communication; a ‘green’ media newsroom, in which paperless press kits were encouraged over the traditional hardcopy option; and utilization of post-consumer recycled materials for conference bags and necessary direct mail marketing. Along with the many eco-friendly developments, NAB joined forces with Carbonfund.org to provide an opportunity for attendees, exhibitors, and speakers to offset carbon emissions associated with attending the conference and exhibition.

The 2nd annual Go Green Expo in L.A. kicked off January 22-24th at the Los Angeles Convention Center, and featured over 300 exhibitors from all around the world looking to market their pioneering green products and services to environmentally responsible shoppers. In addition, attendees had the pleasure of listening to keynote speakers, such as Ed Begley, Jr. and Mariel Hemingway, give their advice on the easiest, most affordable ways that the everyday consumer can go green. Due to increasing water shortage and contamination issues in America and throughout the world, water filtration and conservation were a major feature at this year’s exposition. Green Energy News, video below, had the pleasure of dropping by to help spread the cause.

Interview with Sony’s Executive Director of Production Services, Thom Dohner, on Eco Packaging Performance and Future Developments-

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has recently uncovered its latest eco-fueled endeavor – the ultralight single-disc DVD case – which utilizes roughly 20 percent less plastic than the existing industry standard. The case was debuted May 19th, 2009 with the release of “Paul Blart: Mall Cop” and features an omitted “O-ring”, that which is projected to conserve approximately 322 tons of wood (or 2,200 trees). The studio has affirmed that it will be pursuing eco packaging for all future single-disc DVD releases, and with this implementation, SPHE assesses a 2 million pound reduction in carbon emissions annually – equal to 104,000 gallons of consumed gasoline. The company has also employed lighter plastic wrap on all releases and has improved packaging materials to feature up to 30 percent total Post Consumer Waste (PCW). We recently sat down with Thom Dohner, Executive Director of Production Services for Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, and discussed environmental responsibility behind Sony’s green movement, consumer reaction to the studio’s pioneering eco alternative and reliability of these cases when compared to the forerunner.

U.S. Department of the Treasury and Department of Energy to make Direct Cash Payments for Businesses Developing Renewable Energy Facilities-

The U.S. government announced Friday that it is now accepting applications for renewable energy funding led by President Barack Obama’s initiative to expand nationwide sustainability and green energy job prospects. The U.S. Department of Energy, along with the U.S. Department of the Treasury will be allocating direct payments in place of tax credits to companies that establish and develop renewable energy facilities; funding to the sum of roughly $3 billion for approximately 5,000 generation plants producing varying sources of renewable energy. Secretary Steven Chu states, “This program will play a major role in encouraging private sector capital to invest in clean energy development, creating new jobs that can’t be outsourced. It is an investment that will continue to help our economy grow and ensure advancement in clean and renewable energy development.” The Recovery Act approves the Treasury to make direct monetary payments to businesses which construct and activate facilities that produce sustainable energy beginning January 1, 2009, which was previously apportioned through tax credits. The Department of the Treasury and Energy anticipate a rush of businesses applying for the cash payment, which will help to support a prompt stimulation in regional economies. “As we move quickly to get our economy back on track and to repair the financial system, we must make investments that lay the foundation for a stronger economic future,” said Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner. “Too many renewable energy projects have stalled due to a lack of financing. The Recovery Act program will lead to investment in our long-term energy needs, move us towards energy independence, increase jobs at energy-specific businesses, and protect our environment.”

NYPA Plans  Solar Photovoltaic Project to Provide Green Energy Statewide-


It was announced earlier today that New York Governor, David A. Paterson, has partnered with the New York Power Authority (NYPA) to construct another 100 MW generating solar energy power plantfor the state. This follows the recently publicized 50 MW solar photovoltaic project that the Governor initiated with the help of the Long Island Power Authority. These solar power developments will collectively total 150 MW and will place New York as the second highest state with established solar energy production ability. The proposal will help execute the governor’s clean energy investing agenda, stimulate the dwindling economy by providing green energy jobs statewide and strengthen energy independence in the United States. The governor’s assertive renewable energy policy – ‘45 by 15’ – requires that 45 percent of New York’s electricity must be provided by renewable energy by the year 2015. It has been projected that the powerful initiative will create roughly 50,000 renewable energy jobs for the state. Governor Paterson is hopeful about New York’s solar energy future, stating, “Today’s announcement is a critical step forward in achieving New York’s goals under its Renewable Portfolio Standard and in boosting the State’s energy independence… The installation of 100 megawatts of solar power at our schools, municipal and commercial buildings, and other State sites will enhance New York State’s status as a leader in the new clean energy economy and will create clean energy jobs right here in New York State.”

The New York Power Authority will begin by delivering a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) so that they may explore a public-private partnership for the induction of 100 megawatts of solar photovoltaic roof or ground-mounted solar arrays at city facilities, businesses, State agencies and public/private schools. The power authority is requesting proposals which will encourage economic growth for resident solar module production. Lucrative benefits for local companies may possibly involve prospects to produce solar PV components statewide and establish green energy jobs in the area involving installation, operation, maintenance and support of the solar photovoltaic systems. The solar energy plant announcement is the fourth green energy program the governor has brought forth in the last few weeks, which is helping to station New York as an international pioneer in dedicated green energy advancements. The other proposals involve Governor Paterson partnering with General Electric to create a new sodium battery production plant in the Capital area that will provide New York with over 300 new green jobs, as well as investing more than $25 million to create the New York Battery and Energy Storage Technology Consortium (NY BEST) so that advancements can be made with plug-in hybrid vehicles – and last – but not least, the creation of Long Island’s first built-in Smart Energy Corridor, which will aid commercial, residential and industrial Long Island Power Authority consumers in reducing energy consumption, while increasing reliability with smarter grid technology, encouraging energy efficiency and creating new green energy jobs. “This is an exciting new possibility that will help move New York State toward its goals for a renewable and sustainable energy future. A public-private partnership like this will spur job growth in Upstate New York with a potential for manufacturing and assembly, in addition to construction, operation and maintenance of the photovoltaic systems,” said Senator Darrel J. Aubertine, Chair of the State Energy Committee, “This combination of green energy and good jobs is what we’re hoping to foster more of throughout the state and I look forward to working with the industry and leading institutions to make sure this is just the beginning of more good news to come.”

First Large-Scale Rooftop Wind Power System-

Green Energy Technologies LLC, a leading supplier of municipal wind energy circuits, announced their most recent proprietary wind technology at the WINDPOWER Conference 2009. The inimitable rooftop wind turbine, called the Wind Cube, is designed specifically for on-site alternative electricity production by power consumers in metropolitan and suburban areas. Measuring a mere 22 x 22 x 12 feet, the commercial wind turbines are intended to fulfill a vast array of consumer’s energy needs; from industrial office buildings, to large-scale retailers, utility customers in isolated areas, and even university campuses. The WindCube unveils ground-breaking automation which utilizes the speed wind tunnel effect, branded in physics as the Bernoulli Principle, to capture and amplify wind power to deliver more kilowatt hours (kWh). It is available as single 60 kW or dual 120 kW systems and tower-mounted or rooftop models. The design works once wind is enveloped inside the WindCube, where the flow grows more intense and initiates amplified speed to yield more green energy. Due to this increased wind stimulation, the WindCube is capable of encapsulating wind energy traveling as slow as 5 mph and while most wind industry engineers produce energy through free-steam wind, this technology generates the same amount of power as a traditional turbine with 50 ft. diameter blades. One WindCube is said to yield about 160,000 kWh annually at an average wind speed of 15 mph. It creates electrical energy by operating its motor backwards using an impeller, which expels the need for a transmission box, significantly lowering the cost of ownership – since most problems arise due to the transmission equipment failures in conventional wind turbines.

In addition to amplified energy production, the WindCube and other small-scale renewable wind power systems provide consumers with the possibility of net metering, a simple and inexpensive method for promoting and rewarding the use of wind energy. It is utilized when a customer generates more electricity than is required for their needs, which causes the existing electricity meter to spin in reverse, assigning a monetary credit to their electric bill every month. The other advantages associated with renewable energy credits (RECs) is involved in President Obama’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, which includes specific conditions granting buyers of small wind systems a federal tax credit of 30 percent of the total installed cost for systems installed and utilized between now and the year 2016. To boot, there are many states throughout the U.S. which provide some form of incentives to make the renewable power switch. The cost is figured to be around $250,000-$300,000 plus the cost of installation, and not to mention, federal and state incentives can reduce the cost by as much as 70 to 80 percent. “Now building owners anywhere can consider being a part of the renewable energy picture,” stated Mark L. Cironi, president and founder of Green Energy Technologies, and with John W. Fedor, WindCube inventor. “With WindCube, it’s not necessary to have the wind of Kansas or Nebraska to become a generator of wind power. In states with excellent renewable energy incentives, moderate wind and high electric rates, the payback can be as little as three years.” The revolutionary design behind the WindCube points to additional advancements in future wind energy science, as well as other forms of renewable sources. The initial outline may lead way to more efficient and cost-saving implementations, which will help change the way some individuals think about environmentally conscious practices – and that is absolutely priceless.