Start-stop system technology has been used in gas-electric hybrids but has now moved over to conventional vehicles to improve mileage and lower emissions by shutting off the engine when it's not being used. Shutting down the idling engine can reduce fuel consumption and emissions by up to 12 percent in conventional gasoline-powered vehicles. The majority of new cars and trucks will be equipped with the new system over the next ten to fifteen years.
New plans to support the sales and use of alternative-fuel vehicles, including cars and trucks that run on hydrogen and natural gas instead of just those that run on electricity, were announced by President Obama. Mr. Obama also proposed increasing the current $7,500 tax credit for advanced technology vehicles to a maximum of $10,000 that would be broadened to include more than plug-in cars. Speaking at a Daimler truck factory, the president proposed a 50% tax credit to cover the additional cost of alternative fuel trucks.
New plans to support the sales and use of alternative-fuel vehicles, including cars and trucks that run on hydrogen and natural gas instead of just those that run on electricity, were announced by President Obama. Mr. Obama also proposed increasing the current $7,500 tax credit for advanced technology vehicles to a maximum of $10,000 that would be broadened to include more than plug-in cars. Speaking at a Daimler truck factory, the president proposed a 50% tax credit to cover the additional cost of alternative fuel trucks.
Ford will offer its MyFord Touch infotainment system with four real climate control and radio knobs and numerous audio preset and climate buttons on its 2013 F-series Super Duty pickups. Consumers have complained about the lack of knobs and buttons on other MyFord Touch-equipped vehicles. Ford says it is offering the large knobs and buttons because truck customers are often wearing work gloves and the knobs make the controls easier to use.
Federal regulators heard concerns that regulations covering nonbinding rules for embedded electronics could encourage drivers to use more risky portable devices while behind the wheel. The NHTSA proposed guidelines to simplify the operation of on-board devices, but there are fears that even nonbinding guidelines could push drivers to use smart phones not meant to be manipulated while driving.