Continued high gas prices will generate interest in plug-in hybrids, EVs and other fuel-efficient vehicles. Some are eligible for a tax credit and other incentives. An increase in gas prices often results in renewed interest in the number of commuters taking public transportation, and a tax break is available for them as well.
Liquefied gas or propane was first used in 1913, but this cheaper gas alternative is now enjoying renewed interest from light- and medium-duty truck fleets due to rising fuel prices and tax credit availability. The cost of a gallon of propane has remained about 30% to 40% less than a gallon of gasoline over a 15-year average. None of the large manufacturers offers a propane truck direct from the factory, but several large companies specialize in converting engines to run on propane at a conversion cost ranging from $8,000 - $16,000 per vehicle.
Significance of the Data Chart shows 2012’s most fuel-efficient vehicles by EPA estimated mileage For all electric Mitsubishi i-MiEV and Nissan Leaf, conversion factor used to translate miles per gallon gasoline equivalent Chevy Volt runs on gas and electricity
GM is developing a marketing campaign promoting diesel in advance of next year's diesel-powered Chevrolet Cruze launch in the U.S. The all-new Cadillac ATS will also offer a diesel engine. Sharply rising gas prices could result in increased demand for diesels. Current U.S. market penetration includes VW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz and BMW; Jeep, Porsche, and Mazda plan to produce diesel-powered models by 2014.
A new Hertz on Demand/Move About partnership will provide Electric Vehicle car sharing services to corporations, utilities and municipalities in Germany while also exploring further European market opportunities. The partnership is designed to meet the growing demand for using EVs on a shared "Mobility-on-Demand" basis. Dedicated shared vehicles placed on corporations' sites can be used for business purposes such as off-site meetings.