Every year people are injured or killed because they are unprepared or overconfident on snowy, icy roads. Rules to remember for safe driving in winter weather include having proper equipment, driving slower, and do not tailgate or use cruise control. If weather conditions are too bad, pull over to a safe spot or stay home.
A recent study by Highway Data Loss Institute indicated hybrid vehicle owners are 25 percent less likely to be injured in a crash due to the vehicle's increased weight. However, hybrids are 20 percent more likely to be in a crash with a pedestrian because they can be harder to hear in electric mode. The Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act of 2010 requires electric and hybrid car manufacturers to add noises that alert the blind and other pedestrians.
Ford unveiled its new redesigned Ford Escape at the Los Angeles Auto Show and expects sales to begin next spring. The five-passenger SUV will feature improved power and fuel economy with the new look of a sloping crossover with a hint of a minivan. Ford says pricing will be similar to that of the current model.
CarGurus is urging used car shoppers to visit dealer lots and shop for good deals now instead of putting it off. CarGurus analysts expect prices on used cars will bottom out by Jan. 8, 2012, at 4.6% below their August peak, with the most dramatic dip (2%) occurring between Thanksgiving and the first week of January.
Nissan says it is seeing continuing demand for its limited-production Leaf electric vehicle in spite of rumors that consumer fascination with battery-powered cars is declining. The automaker reports that owners say the car they bought as a second car is actually being used by drivers as their family’s number one vehicle. The nationwide rollout of Leaf availability is continuing with anticipated delivery of another 10,000 to consumers in 2012.