Click image for hi-res photos of the Subaru's EV display at Geneva

While the Legacy Boxer Diesel was technically the big showpiece for Subaru at Geneva, a glance at the automaker's booth showed that electric vehicles were given equally prominent billing. The R1e was set up alongside the G4e concept that made its debut at last year's Tokyo Motor Show. The R1e is an all-electric variant of the Japan-only R1 microcar. Right now, 40 of the Pokemon-looking EVs are in service with Tokyo Electric Power Co. in Japan, where they're being field-tested by employees. When connected to a quick charger, its battery power can be replenished in just 15 minutes. Fully charged, it has an operating range of around 100 kilometers. Next year, Subaru hopes to increase the test fleet to 100 cars.

The G4e represents Subaru's longer-term goals. Equipped with Li-Ion battery technology, the lightweight 5-door EV concept should offer double the range of the R1e. In his remarks to the assembled media, Fuji Heavy Industries president Ikuo Mori said, "Subaru's goal is to become the leading brand in the electric vehicle market." He then added that the automaker would continue its EV development programs with an eye towards creating the ultimate zero-emissions car for urban commuters. Something like that G4e with a legit 125-mile range would look mighty attractive with oil prices being what they are today.


[Source: Subaru]

Click image for a hi-res gallery of the Škoda Superb GreenLine

The latest version of the VW Passat-derived Škoda Superb is making its official debut in Geneva this week, and the Czech marque's flagship will also be offered in the eco-themed GreenLine trim. Many of Volkswagen's BlueMotion lessions are applied here, meaning a redesigned, more aerodynamic fascia, lowered ride height, reduced weight, taller gearing and an efficient engine underhood. In the case of the Superb GreenLine, power is derived from a 1.9L TDI PD DPF with a diesel particulate filter good for 103-horses and around 184 lb-ft of torque. End result? 46 U.S. mpg (5.1 l / 100 km) in the combined cycle and carbon dioxide emissions of 136 g/km. And no, we don't think you need to take the giant leaf graphic as part of the deal.


[Source: Škoda]

Click image for a gallery of the Golf TDI Hybrid

German buff mag Auto Bild has spilled the beans on the Geneva-bound Volkswagen Golf TDI Hybrid concept. As we reported earlier, the car will average 69 US mpg in the European cycle and emit just 90 g/km of carbon dioxide, but we now know more details on the powertrain itself.

According to the Google Translation, the diesel engine is a 75 PS (74 HP) 3-cylinder TDI, presumably the 1.4L unit used in the Polo BlueMotion (thanks to commenter Eddy for that reminder). It's augmented by a 27-horsepower electric motor what's powered by a trunk-mounted NiMH battery back. As previously reported, a 7-speed DSG is used in lieu of the CVTs commonly employed by other hybrids, which should make for a more engaging experience behind the wheel. The Golf TDI Hybrid is a full hybrid, so it can run on diesel, electric, or a combination of the two. It also employs regenerative braking ad a stop/start system. The driver can keep an eye on the powertrain's goings-on via an Energy Monitor screen on the instrument panel. Visually, the car wears a new paint color called Vivid Blue and sports a lowered suspension, a narrower grille opening, and low-rolling-resistance tires, all in the interests of improved aerodynamics and fuel economy. We'll bring you more on the Golf TDI Hybrid when it makes its formal debut next week.


[Source: Auto Bild via German Car Blog]

Click image for a huge photo gallery

We all had a chuckle at the idea of the Rinspeed sQuba Concept when the initial renderings of the Geneva-bound concept emerged. The Swiss tuner and specialty manufacturer gets the last laugh, however, as it has released photos and video of the actual car operating submerged, and you know what? It's awesome. The sQuba (the "Q" in the name appears to be a nod to the gadget-producing Q Branch in the James Bond universe) is a full EV that relies on three separate electric motors to accomplish its mission. One powers the sports car when it's driving on land, while the others supply juice to the twin screws used for underwater propulsion. Movable fender-mounted Seabob jets appear to serve the same purpose as the diving planes on a traditional sub. Oh, and did we mention that it is capable of autonomous operation on land?

The car features on-board underwater breathing apparatus for its driver and passenger, who sit in a salt water-resistant cockpit fitted with high-friction surfaces designed to help keep them planted in their seats. Rinspeed notes that a roadster was the chosen body style for the sQuba because its open-top configuration is more bouyant and allows for easier egress in the event of an underwater emergency. Some might deem it pointless, but the sQuba is the best kind of concept car: a flight of fancy that just also happens to work. It's fantastic, and we want to steal it and then drive it off a pier at speed, just like 007 did with his white submersible Lotus 31 years ago. Watch video of the sQuba in action after the jump!


[Source: Rinspeed]