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Mercedes proves E-Class hybrid tech with unusual test

IN AN impressive display of performance and economy, Mercedes-Benz has completed a lengthy test of its new E300 Bluetech Hybrid saloon by driving it almost the length of the country on a single tank of fuel with a flat-out speed test at either end. With ex-rally driver Mick Linford at the wheel the standard production E300 Bluetech Hybrid began with a full tank of fuel at Newquay Cornwall Airport, the most southerly airport in mainland Britain. Down the main runway it completed an acceleration test to past 62mph from rest in a little over seven seconds and reached 136mph before braking for the end of the runway.

Crown Victorious: 2013 Ford Taurus Interceptor might save precincts fuel and money

The 2012 Ford Taurus Police Interceptor will use 35 percent less fuel than the Crown Victoria, while the Explorer-based 2013 Ford Police Interceptor utility vehicle will use 32 percent less than its competitors, Ford said on Friday. The city and highway ratings of the 3.5-liter Taurus are 18 mpg and 26 mpg, which betters the Crown Victoria by 25 percent. The additional 10 percent in Ford's estimate is said to come from the Taurus Interceptor's improved idling habits.

Toyota tests chips that improve hybrid efficiency by 10 percent

Toyota announced on Tuesday that it has developed a new semiconductor, claiming it can boost fuel efficiency in hybrid cars by an impressive 10 percent. The semiconductors manage the flow of electricity through the power-control unit that connects the battery to an electric or hybrid car's motor and generator. The newly developed semiconductors are said to consume only a tenth of the energy of today's chips, while allowing the power-control unit to be 80 percent smaller.