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The typically gas powered r8 could be making its debut as an electric vehicle very soon.

The ever-amazing R8, typically gas-powered is making a new splash at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September. It is being reported by Auto Motor und Sport that the flashy Audi R8 will be introducing an all-electric model that will be supported by a diesel engine to increase the range. There has been speculation that Audi is only building the car to flex their “electric” muscle, and simply show they can build a automobile that can rival the Tesla.

Sorry folks, Inside Line reports that the rumors are all FALSE. The post above was based on Auto Motor und Sport’s article. DrivePwr will continue to stay close to the story as the details unfold. Stay Tuned!

Chrysler needs $448 million, and they just might get it.

Today, U.S. automaker Chrysler LLC submitted proposals nearing $448 million to the U.S. Department of Energy for research and development of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids. Today, U.S. automaker Chrysler LLC submitted proposals nearing $448 million to the U.S. Department of Energy for research and development of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids. Good timing, huh? Operating in bankruptcy since April 30th, it seems rather convenient for Chrysler to propose this agreement on the eve of a judges ruling to the sell of assets to a U.S. and Canadian owned company. Chrysler, it’s partners, and the Department of Energy, would pay $224 million each upon approval of the proposals If approved, the proposal would include an investment of close to 83 million to build a technology and manufacturing center in Michigan to assist in the development of the new technologies and vehicles. It is reported that the complex should be up and running by 2010 and produce more than 20,000 vehicles a year, Chrysler said.

As a former Ad guy, I have always been impressed with the creative product that comes out of Crispin Porter+Bogusky. Their work includes brands like Burger King and Microsoft Windows. The latest from the Agency places the Jetta TDI against the Prius. The commercial is funny and meaningful, and does a great job articulating the benefits of the new Jetta TDI. It certainly struck a chord with me - all the noise with out sacrificing the MPG’s. Very cool. Enjoy!

Matchmade in Heaven.

Today, a post on Tesla Motor’s website indicates a new strategic partnership with Daimler AG.  Tesla Motor’s has relinquished 10% of their equity to ink the partnership with the Daimler. The new partnership will allow Daimler AG access to battery systems, electric drive systems, and vehicle projects.

Our strategic partnership is an important step to accelerate the commercialization of electric drives globally,” said Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Daimler AG.

Cross your fingers, this could be a giant step for sustainable mobility! The acquisition has been estimated at double digit multi million dollar deal.

About Tesla Motors
San Carlos, Calif.-based Tesla Motors Inc. makes electric vehicles with exceptional design, performance and efficiency, while conforming to all North American and European safety, environmental and durability standards. The Roadster has a 0-to-60 mph acceleration of 3.9 seconds yet is more energy efficient than a Toyota Prius. Tesla expects to begin producing the all-electric, zero-emission Model S sedan in late 2011.

source: http://www.teslamotors.com/media/press_room.php?id=1356

Wow, what a tease! Discussions about the future of Tesla Motor’s Model S have really hit an all-time high in recent days, especially with the recent article in BusinessWeek. DrivePwr was excited to stumble on the recent article and thought it would be a good idea to blog this one out.

So, as you can see from the image above, Tesla Motors has decided to give a sneak-peak of the Model S, but I have to say that this is more than a simple tease. This is the epitome of everything going on with Tesla Motors, and I think with this photo and the recent news, the proof is in the pudding. I think one could argue they are losing their identity through the recent credit crunch and their internal firings. They have fired about 80 of their 380 people, and have further delayed the launch of the Model S. It looks like the launch, according the BusinessWeek article, will be delayed until 2011. Ouch.  Tesla Motors better get to work on the 1,200 back orders of their Roadster, or they could really find themselves in a tough spot.

All-in-all the loss of Tesla’s identity could force the company, who does zero marketing, to start investing in their reputation. If the the October 11th credit crunch holds strong, this could leave Tesla with out their Energy Department loan guarantees and could ignite a fire that will prove tough to put out.  Falling oil prices could sway the attention from Tesla Motors and force them to grab the spot light again. With that said, I’m not sure the teaser photo was the solution, but merely a band-aid.