Lotus Range Extender

This week’s Geneva show brought a production-ready version of the company’s range-extending motor/generator setup and the announcement that Lotus developed the powertrain for Rolls-Royce’s Phantom EV.

Announced in late 2009, the three-cylinder range extender has now sprouted a supercharged variant and is ready for sale to automakers as a drop-in solution for EV battery charging. Lotus is able to use a simple two-valve-per-cylinder design since the motor is designed for use in an optimized speed range. This, along with the integrated intake and exhaust manifolds, helps keep weight down. Power from the 1.3-liter engine is rated at 47 hp at 3500 rpm for the naturally aspirated model and 67 hp for the supercharged version. Both drive a generator supplied by Fagor Automation, providing power for the batteries of the OEM’s choosing. In Geneva, Lotus showed the system installed in its Evora 414Evolution hybrid concept.

Magnaflow Exhaust System Performance 5 in. x 8 in. x 18 in

Magnaflow Exhaust System Performance - Polished, Stainless steel
Part Number: M6616829
Manufacturer Number: 16829
Magnaflow Exhaust System Magnaflow Exhaust System
List Price: $600.70
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MAGNAFLOW CAT-BACK EXHAUST SYSTEM, STAINLESS STEEL, POLISHED -- Complies with most state and federal laws; Designed and tested to meet legal sound level limits; Increases horsepower on an average range of 10 percent; 3 in. main piping diameter, 3 in. tail pipe diameter; Dual rear exit; Single inlet and dual outlet muffler configuration; Includes installation hardware, 5 in. x 8 in. x 18 in. polished stainless steel muffler, and dual 3.5 in. polished stainless steel tips with round shape, straight cut, and non-rolled edge design; Made of 100 percent tough and durable stainless steel; Dyno tested and proven to provide performance gains in horsepower and torque; Delivers great sound with a smooth and deep tone; Built to last, all welded, and mandrel-bent; Easy weld-on installation.

Chevrolet Cruze starts at $16,995

The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, the next significant salvo into the small-car segment, will arrive in September with a base price of just $16,995.

The Cruze, which rides on General Motors' global small-car underpinnings called Delta, is the company's most important small vehicle in years. It features a fuel-efficient powertrain, a relatively handsome appearance and long option list. The car ultimately replaces the Cobalt in Chevy's lineup. Production of that model ends in June. It starts at $14,990.

The base price is for the 1.8-liter Ecotec four-cylinder with a six-speed manual transmission. Electronic stability control, power windows and locks and traction control are standard. It also comes with six months of OnStar service and a three-month XM satellite radio subscription.

The LT, which upgrades to the 1.4-liter Ecotec turbo with a six-speed automatic and 16-inch wheels, is $18,895.

For the same price, buyers can also opt for the Cruze Eco model, which GM says can get up to 40 mpg on the highway. It pairs the 1.4-liter turbo engine with a six-speed manual and features 17-inch alloy wheels, low-rolling-resistance tires and an enhanced aerodynamics package.

The LTZ trim is $22,695 and adds leather, a six-way power driver's seat, Bluetooth, automatic climate control and 18-inch alloy wheels. Power is drawn from the turbo unit working in tandem with the six-speed automatic.

All prices include destination charges.

The long list of options includes a 40-gig hard drive, heated lather seats, upgraded audio and an RS appearance pack.