Electricnick, The EV Revolution

What does the Frankfurt Auto Show 2009 mean for the electric drive vehicle and hybrid industry.

The gist is that this year’s Frankfurt Auto Show shows almost all car makers have heard consumer demand for the electric drive.  Everyone is showing they are actively working on it.

Those Who See The Electric Future.  We can see that Renault, is serious  about electric vehicle, EV technology with its ZE collection. with enough platforms to make it a relevant key player for tomorrow.  Renault’s strength? Its alliance with Nissan and strategic partnership with Better Place.  The other serious European contender is Mercedes with its BlueZero line, which gives it enough choice for tomorrow’s needs.  Both are the obvious European winners followed by a Hyundai, resoundingly eager for a share of the pie with its BlueWill hybrids.  Peugeot is also showing its teeth with an nice looking hybrid 308 and a 3008.

Those Not So Convinced.  In the other camp, we have Toyota, VW, Audi and Honda, to name the biggest.  Pretty much all are heavily invested in fuel efficient internal combustion engines, ICE and diesels for the Europeans and have said they see little mid-term future in the pure electric drive as long as battery price remains high.

Those In The Middle.  BMW shows an impressive EfficientDynamics concept that hopefully will make it into production.  Fiat, with its brands has worked on ICE technology and might pick up the pieces with the Chrysler ENVI team’s work.

Who Is Missing? Many gave the show a skip.  If Nissan did not show up, it is most likely because Renault covers he European market.  Other absents include Mitsubishi, among others.

All in all, this show says manufacturers are working on alternative propulsion vehicles.  We will see who is serious about it and who has used it to attract attention in the next few months.