Roadside Reading: 16th August 2011

The auto industry changes so fast that it’s hard sometimes to keep up with everything that’s happening without spending hours out our busy schedules reading up on things. Posted daily at lunchtime, Roadside Reading features five blurbs that will quickly and efficiently give you your fix on all things car related.

1,630 km, one charge = a new world record
German engineers have pulverized the world record for the longest distance travelled by an EV on a single charge with an impressive total of 1,630 km (1,013 miles) with their machine, affectionately called Schluckspecht or “heavy drinker.” (more info: Left Lane News)

Bentley toying with the idea of diesel and hybrid powertrains
Bentley’s main man, Wolfgang Durheimer, says he isn’t against the idea of developing hybrid products in the future. What’s more, it looks like diesel cars are part of the luxury automaker’s plans. (more info: What Car?)

Lots of alternative fuels, but gas still rules
While alternative fuels are increasingly available at gas stations across the US and more and more companies and government agencies are building fleets that can run on them, gas consumption still isn’t going down. The answer lies in the limited availability and economic viability of ethanol (E85) and the fact that drivers mainly choose gas when given the option. (more info: Fast Company)

Scion to redefine itself with three new products
Scion is having trouble setting itself apart from the competition with its three current machines, but the arrival of the subcompact iQ, the sporty FR-S and even a mini pick-up truck could well change the way consumers see the Toyota-owned brand. So what’ll happen to the xB and xD when their stint is up? (more info: AutoWeek)

Mopar strikes back
After the recession in 2009 that had Mopar going the way of the Titanic, the Chrysler Group’s parts and service division is about to make a major comeback. Mopar is getting ready to assail new markets by adding new components and new services and slapping its badge on a vehicle for the first time, a move it’ll likely be repeating in 2012. (more info : The Detroit Bureau)


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