Ford has teamed up with DeWalt, Garmin, Magneti Marelli, Master Lock, and Sprint to create a technological toolset for their worktrucks. A
n onboard computer is teamed with RFID technology, GPS, and mobile communications to expand on the idea of a worktruck acting as mobile office for the construction oriented worker or manager. Besides that the old Italian racing supplier marque Magneti Marelli is involved (I used to put their stickers on my slot cars), the most interesting feature is the use of RFID technology to keep track of tools in the truck. In addition to letting the driver know if a tool is missing, the system can be programmed for specific tool lists for a particular type of job and used to make sure all required tools are loaded before leaving the shop or office. The Crew Chief feature uses GPS technology to track errant workers on an extended coffee break, or route them to the nearest job site, much like current GPS systems operated from a dispatch office. Master Lock provides a cable locking system that can be run through tool handles and other openings to secure what's loaded from theft. A monthly fee is required to access all features, and no doubt the proprietary technology will help build brand loyalty for Ford. A similar, though not as technologically capable, system was introduced by GMC as a concept in 1999.
TOYOTA HYDROGEN HYBRID FUEL CELL HYBRID MAKES 2300-MILE ROAD TRIP
As evidence of the viability and reliability of their hydrogen-hybrid fuel-cell powertrain system, a Toyota Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle (FCHV) 
made a 2300-mile trek from Fairbanks, Alaska to Vancouver, British Columbia with no major problems. The route included remote sections of the Yukon Territory and speeds of 90 mph. The vehicle was able to cover 316 miles on a single fueling and could have gone nearly 400 miles. A cutaway display of the system, along with the vehicle, was on view at the 2008 NAIS/ Detroit Auto Show. In the accompanying photo taken at the show can be seen the hydrogen tanks as well as the hydrogen fuel stack and hybrid battery.
GM DEBUTS BUICK LACROSSE HYBRID IN CHINA, FOLLOWING TOYOTA'S PRIUS
GM, in partnership with SAIC Motor Corp., brings its first hybrid to China. Like Toyota, GM is hoping high fuel prices, and a government supported awareness of the environment and energy efficiency, will convince Chinese auto buyers to spend more for hybrid cars. Last year, the number one selling car in China was the Volkswagen Santana. The Santana is for the most part a long-wheelbase version of the old Quantum, and is based on the B2 Passat. One might think of it as the Crown Victoria of China as it's used for Taxis and Police Cars. GM has not said what the new LaCrosse will sell for, but the Toyota Prius sells for more than twice as much as the Santana.
Read my piece published January 9th, 2007, in the Daily Oklahoman regarding the recent Energy Bill.
GM has come up with an intriguing variation of the hybrid vehicle concept with the Chevrolet Volt. Hybrids currently in production, such a
s the Toyota Prius or Ford Escape Hybrid, utilize an electric motor in combination with an internal combustion engine to drive the wheels. In these configurations the electric motor is primarily used to get the vehicle going from a start, or at low speeds, with the internal combustion engine becoming the primary source of power at all other times. What sets the Volt concept apart is the electric motor is the only source of power connected to the wheels, with the internal combustion engine used as a generator to recharge the onboard batteries when needed. This configuration allows the internal combustion engine to run at a constant and most efficient speed. It also allows the use of any conventional or alternative fuel in the engine, or the use of a hydrogen fuel-cell to generate electricity.
While GM prefers to not call the Volt a hybrid, instead referring to it as using their E-Flex Propulsion System, it is in truth a "series hybrid."
Another interesting thing about the Volt is that it is also a "plug-in hybrid," meaning the batteries can be charged by plugging the car into a standard electrical outlet. The concept is expected to be able to run on battery power alone for approximately 40 miles, which would enable a majority of daily commuters to drive the car to work and back each day without the internal combustion engine ever running. You can see the plug cord in the accompanying photo.
Like any electric powered vehicle battery technology and availability plays a huge role in the eventual success or failure of the Volt. While officially unveiled in January 2007, questions of battery availability have delayed its expected production until 2010.
The Volt will accommodate four to five passengers and is expected to cost in the $20,000 to $30,000 price range. In Europe, the E-Flex Propulsion system is being used in the Opel Flextreme concept, with a diesel engine and hatchback styling suitable to the European market.