Volvo confirms V60 Plug-In Hybrid for production ahead of Geneva debut

After releasing first details and a lonely picture, Volvo has more information and pictures of their newest products. The V60 plug-in hybrid is a statement of the world's first diesel-hybrid plug-in, packaging coupled a 2.4-liter five-cylinder turbo diesel with a 70-hp electric motor on the rear axle.

The hybrid diesel car, the driver can select one of three modes of drive: Pure for AC electric drive for propulsion and power for an extra boost by both Hybrid. The flexible drive train also gives the driver the opportunity to save battery life and operating costs purely on diesel pusher (for example, when entering the city), and a through-the-road all-wheel-drive option by both engines when traction is limited.

As a plug-in hybrid, the Volvo Accumulator in 7.5 hours on a 6 amp socket, are charged 4.5 to 10 amps or as little as 3 hours at 16 amps. And while the production targets were not discussed in yesterday's announcement, Volvo has now confirmed that the V60 plug-in hybrid will hit dealers next year. Follow the jump for the press release and check the pictures in the gallery below for a closer look as the cars debut at the Geneva Motor Show approaches.

2012 Kia Rio looks sharp ahead of Geneva rollout

Kia has the first pictures of its investment program to 2012 Rio Hatchback published before its official debut in Geneva Motor Show, and we could say it's a real eye-catcher. The Korean automaker has done some fantastic things with style in recent years - thanks in part to strong leadership from design director Peter Schreyer - and now the smaller Rio gets a healthy dose of modernity. It looks fantastic in these photos, and we are excited about the new angles and curves live in the metal.
The Rio comes with a number of petrol and diesel units in other markets, including a 1.1-liter diesel, produced only 85 g / km CO2 will be offered. We are curious to most new 1.2-liter turbocharged direct injection engine - we have heard about this three-cylinder engine before - and if it proves to be well received in Europe, Kia will probably offer it here in the United States the first start of the Rio's.
Look for the Rio, go on sale in Britain in September, expected to start with a three-door version in early 2012. We do not have any official word about when we see the facelifted Rio here in the United States, but we would suspect that it will get around about the same time as the Euro-spec version. Hit the jump for Kia official release. Thank you to everyone for the tips!

Mazda to lease EVs in Japan next year

Mazda is preparing a fleet of electric vehicles, which will be available for leasing in Japan. Based on the Demio/Mazda2, these EVs use the automaker's new SKYACTIV drive technology. Mazda is for a 200-mile driving range shots (about 124 miles) and plans to begin leasing program in spring 2012.

The target group will be the vehicle for community groups and fleet customers. Mazda ultimate goal of the program is to refine his knowledge of electric vehicles by collecting data on EV requirements and drive technology. For full details, follow the jump for the automaker's short press release.