thecarconnection.com any car loving road hog could have a ringside seat to the greatest show on earth; the Detroit – North American Car Show.
While the grey cloud of “auto bailout” hung over COBO Hall, the vibes of a new president, future “car czar” and lots of fuel efficient technology lifted some spirits. Nothing like lots of lickable paint and chrome to bring a smile to your face. The biggest buzz went to the BYD- Chinese car company showing off their electric car. Their new phosphate battery is lighter and goes longer, suggesting a strong Prius contender when it arrives on US shores in 2011, if not sooner. It may take a year to find the right dealer network to finance the distribution into the appropriate urban markets given the lack of cash for dealer development.
[caption id="attachment_325" align="alignright" width="320" caption="Chrysler 200c"]
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The Chrysler 200c and Lexus es250h caught some folks off guard, with the Chrysler product evoking comments once heard over the 300; “strong lines, sexy body, cool dash features including iPhone-chic technology.” However, the es250 got a royal thumping from the car rags, dismissing the car as a poor relation-hybrid belonging on the other side of the tracks.
The show features lots of Hybrid/E-car entries including the Audi, Hyundai and more GM Cobalt along with the much touted Volt. As everyone races for longer range 100miles and faster top spead, 80mph, the biggest concern is the heat generated by the batteries. BYD has a long history of battery manufacturing dating back to when cell phones were bricks and laptops were called portable pc’s. Get the prices on these e-rods in line with post-Christmas laptops and we’ll see them sell.
Stay tuned for more on the North American Auto Showdebuting the latest releases in car love; Ford Taurus, Audi T3, VW and more on the Hyundai Genesis 2009 Car of the Year.
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Sarah Lee writes on all things cars, gourmet food, travel, art and books. You can reach her with any car questions at: sarahlee@mycarlady.com,mvides422@gmail.com,carlady@cox.net For a great, no hassle deal on your next new or used car, go to: www.mycarlady.com]]>