Toyota RAV4 EV Coming to Market in 2012

Recent reports have incorrectly stated that the 2012 RAV4 EV will only be marketed to fleet and car sharing programs. We’d like to set the record straight. The 2012 RAV4 EV will definitely be sold to the general public. We anticipate robust public interest in the RAV4 EV and are keen to inform consumers that their future vehicle options include a battery electric Toyota. 

Toyota is the only manufacturer bringing two battery electric vehicles to the market in 2012 - the RAV4 EV and the Scion iQ EV. While the RAV4 EV will be available to the public, the Scion iQ EV will be marketed to fleet and car sharing programs only. 

Multiple reports have been corrected on various automotive blog sites

Vauxhall partners with Europcar to launch electric vehicle

Vauxhall has launched an electric version of its Ampera range, which will be introduced to the UK next year in a partnership with rental company Europcar.

The company intends to introduce the Ampera to the European market as a rental car, aiming to help expand the use of electric mobility and boost its position as a "trendsetter".

The General Motors-owned brand has signed a deal with Europcar to launch the vehicles across Europe, starting with Germany in November. The Ampera will then be rolled out across France, Italy, Portugal, Spain and the UK from the start of next year.

The car's wheels are electrically powered at all times, and when the Ampera is driven exclusively in battery mode it uses no fuel and produces no emissions. Once the battery runs out, a gasoline engine powers a generator that keeps the electric motor running.

The Ampera can be charged through any household 240 volt outlet. It can reach a top speed of 100mph.

Alain Visser, Opel/Vauxhall vice president of sales, marketing and aftersales, said: "Electric cars are among the best long-term solutions to meet society's energy and environmental challenges.

"The fact that Europcar is going to introduce the Opel/Vauxhall Ampera in its day-to-day business is further proof that our extended-range electric vehicle is completely suitable for everyday use, even as a fleet vehicle in the tough rental car business."

Source: http://www.marketingmagazine.co.uk/sectors/autos/article/1080341/Vauxhall-partners-Europcar-launch-electric-vehicle/

Audi backs first Sunday Times iPad supplement app

News International is launching its first ever supplement app for the iPad edition of the Sunday Times, with exclusive brand partner Audi.


The supplement app will be based on a print supplement appearing in the Sunday Times this weekend, which is extracts from the German car manufacturer’s new book about its victories at Le Mans 24 hours race.

The supplement app, created by Bartle Bogle Hegarty, follows on from the iPhone, iPad and Android app Audi UK rolled out last month (6 June)to support its presence at Le Mans.

News International launched its Sunday Times iPad app at the end of last year.


Source: http://www.marketingmagazine.co.uk/sectors/autos/article/1080483/Audi-backs-first-Sunday-Times-iPad-supplement-app/

Rugby Legend Jonah Lomu Drives the New Lamborghini Aventador

The supersports car manufacturer at Sant’Agata Bolognese has recently received a celebrity visit from none other than the world rugby superstar Jonah Lomu, who started out with the All Blacks in 1994 and became the top try scorer in the 1999 World Cup.


During his visit to the assembly lines and new facilities, where the carbon fibre monocoque of the new Aventador LP 700-4 is made, Lomu was impressed by the efficiency and craftsmanship of the Raging Bull.

After admiring the fine collection of models in the museum that have made Lamborghini history, the physically imposing rugby legend (who is 196 cm tall and weighs 125 kg) had the chance to try out the Gallardo Superleggera on the road and get behind the wheel of the Aventador.


Power for the Lamborghini Aventador comes from a 6.5-liter V12 engine producing 690 hp at 8,250 rpm and a maximum torque of 509 lb-ft at 5,500 rpm. Mated to the Lamborghini’s new ISR (Independent Shifting Rod) 7-speed transmission, the all-wheel-drive supercar goes from naught to sixty in 2.9 seconds with a top speed of 217 mph.


“The feeling you get in a Lamborghini and the adrenaline rush at every bend are unbelievable! It’s an extreme but comfortable car!” the enthused rugby star stated.


Jonah Lomu is in Italy to promote the “Friends for Japan” appeal, the proceeds of which will go towards rebuilding the areas hit by the tragic tsunami of March 11. The appeal events will climax in a rugby match between Italy and Japan on August 13 in Cesena.