The Autoblog showed this new vehicle a couple of days ago. It's the Loremo, which stands for LOw REsistance MObile, and the company is offering two versions, one of which gets 150 mpg. Now, it looks a bit different, as you can see, but it's cool in a funky kind of way. It definitely looks better than a Scion bB, that miniaturized Chevy Astro at least.
http://www.autoblog.com/2006/02/27/loremo-debuts-150-mpg-concept-car-in-geneva/
I would consider buying one, but it will initially only be available in Europe. It just goes to show that a hybrid isn't necessary. Diesels would be a good solution here once low sulfur fuel gets here next year, as they are in Europe. But, (and I have to insert my opinion here), what bothers me is that hybrids get tax deductions here even if they're less efficient than other normal gasoline-powered cars. It's the efficiency that should matter, not the technology! I get 30+ mpg on the highway, so how about I get a small tax deduction as well? Don't even get me started on the fact that Bush and the Republicans still allow a tax deduction on the extremely large SUV's for "business" purposes. That is unforgiveable with our current energy and political situation.
+ Atul
No. It isn't a MINI.
Posted by: RW | March 02, 2006 at 05:48 AM
If it was branded a MINI, would you buy it? :-)
I'm assuming you have a MINI. Is it auto or manual, base or Cooper S?
I'm curious as to what kind of fuel economy you get with your MINI?
+ Atul
Posted by: Atul | March 02, 2006 at 02:10 PM
I own a 2005 MINI Cooper. It is an automatic and I average 30.2 combined and do 50/50 city/highway.
If MINI came out with one I would be ecstatic - but to be honest you don't get a MINI because of fuel economy, you get it 'cuz its a MINI.
Now come on over and put your two cents into the Roundtable for this week man!
Posted by: RW | March 02, 2006 at 08:26 PM