LIVE FROM THE DETROIT AUTO SHOW 2011 - PART SIX

EV Channels Review

This segment from the 2011 Detroit Auto Show focuses on two distinct automotive trends: Tesla's upcoming Model S and Porsche's innovative use of flywheel hybrid technology. The Model S is highlighted as Tesla's first mass-produced, in-house engineered vehicle, a five-seat all-electric luxury sedan/hatchback with a projected range of 180-300 miles, slated for launch before the end of 2012. The discussion emphasizes Tesla's ambition to be recognized as a serious, world-class car manufacturer. In contrast, Porsche's GT3 R hybrid, featuring a flywheel for energy recapture, is presented as a high-performance, albeit niche, application of hybrid technology. While effective for racing, its suitability for road cars is questioned due to limited energy storage capacity compared to battery-based hybrids. The segment also touches upon the growing European market demand for green, high-performance vehicles and the broader adoption challenges for electric and hybrid cars in the US.