Bentley’s entry into the alternative fuel market is the Bentley Continental Supersports. The vehicle is not simply this luxury automaker’s first FlexFuel capable vehicle; it will also be the fastest Bentley ever. That is right; the vehicle will come with 621 base horsepower, a 3.7 second 0-60mph time and a top speed of 204 mph. This two seater is also 110kg lighter than the Continental GT Speed.

“Available worldwide from autumn 2009, the Continental Supersports will be FlexFuel compatible in the majority of markets from launch with North American cars offering the capability by summer 2010, following regulatory approval.

The Continental Supersports began as an ‘under the radar’ project exploring the possibilities of weight reduction on the Continental GT but with more power and torque. A largely experimental process crystallised over a period of 24 months into an official new car programme, driven by the passion and enthusiasm of a small group of Bentley engineers and designers. “ (Source: Newspress)

I love the looks of the Continental GT and the Supersports does not disappoint. The car is absolutely stunning and while not everyone is a proponent of FlexFuel as a truly eco-friendly alternative fuel choice, it is a step in the right direction in my opinion.

Now for the eye candy.

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Filed Under: Flex Fuel

Volvo is helping Thailand in working toward the country’s goal of energy independence; the auto manufacturer as just released the Volvo S80 and Volvo C30 flexifuel models in the country. These flexifuel vehicles, often called flexfuel here in the United States, will run on the E85 ethanol blend.

Dr.Wannarat Charnnukul, Minister of Energy, said “The government holds as a main policy to promote the use of alternative energy no matter what change happens to the oil price. The higher mixture of ethanol in gasoline would reduce the country’s reliance on crude oil imports and reduce the cost of living. It would also strengthen the country’s long-term energy security and economy. Over the past several months, we have deeply appreciated the friendly cooperation from Volvo in supporting the government’s energy policy. I think Volvo S80 2.5 FT will be another compelling choice for Thai motorists.” (Source: Volvo Cars Newsroom)

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Filed Under: Flex Fuel, Volvo

Ethanol is a gasoline alternative that is in use throughout the United States, and around the world, today. Proponents of ethanol discuss the smaller carbon footprint that vehicles running on ethanol have when compared to traditional gasoline-based vehicles. Those who are opposed to ethanol being a long-term alternative to gasoline discuss the possibility that increased ethanol production can lead to food and feed shortages worldwide.

Recently, the Illinois Corn Growers Association (ICGA) held a press conference to reveal data from two studies on the use of corn-based ethanol.

“The conclusions of these two scientific studies are historic,” said Rob Elliott, vice president of the ICGA. “Amid the long and sometimes heated debate between ethanol proponents and detractors, these studies indicate that modern ethanol plants have a superior carbon footprint and net energy benefit when compared to gasoline refineries. And, the Korves study provides compelling data that ethanol production can grow substantially at no risk to food supplies.” (Source: PR Newswire)

It is unclear whether ethanol will be one of the major alternative fuel players in the future but at this time, it is a viable option. Whether the option remains viable is yet to be seen.

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Filed Under: Flex Fuel

The convertible Saab’s history is long, dating back 25 years when Saab introduced the first four-seat convertible car to the market. Fast forward to 2008 and Saab will be revealing its newest convertible concept at the 2008 Paris Motorshow – the Saab 9-X Air. Designed alongside the Saab 9-X BioHybrid, the 9-X Air is a flex fuel concept running on E85.

“Running on E85 fuel (85% bioethanol/15% petrol), the engine delivers a sporty 200 hp (147 kW), giving zero to 62 mph acceleration in 8.1 seconds and projected CO2 tailpipe emissions of just 107 g/km over the combined cycle. Compared to normal petrol, the overall environmental impact on a source-to-wheel basis of using E85 is even more beneficial” (Source: Newspress.)

Personally, I love the lines of this concept car. Infiniti is coming out with a convertible G37 in the summer of 2009 and although it is not a green car, it is definitely a car I am excited to see. However, this Saab is equally as attractive as the G37 convertible but the green aspect is highly desirable. I hope that this concept makes it to production.

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Filed Under: Auto Shows, Europe, Flex Fuel, Saab