Battery-powered BMWs and the first CODA e-car are coming down the road

(BMW)

I duo
BMW will create a sub-brand known as BMW i to market a line of battery-powered cars starting in 2013. At least two models will be introduced: a four-seat, battery-powered vehicle intended for urban areas and known as the i3; and a hybrid sports car, the i8, that the company says will be able to reach nearly 60 mph in five seconds.

-- New York Times News Service

(CODA)

CODA intro
A startup California developer of electric cars says its first model will be manufactured in China and go on sale in the U.S. this year. CODA Automotive Inc. says its four-door sedan can compete with rivals because its battery technology delivers a longer driving range and more consistent performance at low outdoor temperatures. CODA's battery can carry a 34 kilowatt charge, versus 24 kilowatts for Nissan's Leaf. CODA will retail for $44,900.

-- The Associated Press