A round-up of today’s other stories in brief
Electric universe
In its latest collaborative effort, BMW has announced that it is to co-operate with French carmaker PSA Peugeot Citroën on developing hybrid components for front-wheel-drive vehicles. The components are to be used in those vehicles that have electrified drive trains.
The move prepares the way for the joint development of electric models in the future as well.
Peugeot is set to be the first to take diesel hybrid powertrains to the passenger car market in its 3008 crossover and it is a format that is likely to interest the German premium brand.
BMW and PSA already share engine powertrains on the Mini, Peugeot and Citroen models and they agreed recently to jointly develop a new four-cylinder petrol engine.
A6 awaits its launch
Audi is close to holding the official unveiling of its new A6. This is the car Audi plans to use to challenge the Mercedes E-Class and BMW 5-Series for leadership in the premium saloon segment. The car’s new design features several common styling cues taken from both the new A4 and A8 models, along with angular headlights that are likely to feature full LED technology. The grille on these final test models is misleading, however, as the new car will feature a regular format already in evidence on the rest of its range.
The car makes its official debut at the Geneva Motor show in spring.
Car sharing comes to Dublin’s streets
A car sharing scheme has been launched in Dublin. GoCar, which was piloted successfully in Cork for two years, is based on similar schemes that have run in many other European and American cities. It offers a “realistic” alternative to car ownership, according to director Marc Rafferty.
GoCar is best thought of as the automotive equivalent of the Dublin bike scheme, with users able to access a number of vehicles around the city. The cost covers the use of the car, VAT, fuel and comprehensive insurance. According to Rafferty, GoCar isn’t an alternative to public transport but should be used in conjunction with it. Users of the scheme can access the car with a pin code and pay for both the length of time they use the car and per kilometre of usage.
The scheme is likely to suit those who need a car occasionally. “Private customers save the expense of buying or maintaining a car or second household car. Business customers save on the cost of staff parking, company cars and associated administrative costs,” said Rafferty.
Once registered with GoCar, customers can book 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The cars cost from €4.75 per hour and 33c per kilometre and can be booked for one hour or as long as required. For more details or register, see gocar.ie