Government grants which can no longer be applied for will be awarded to help fleets pay for hybrid trucks and diesel emission reduction equipment for existing vehicles. The Energy Policy Act of 2005 included programs that can benefit fleets.
Competing cash for clunker bills in Congress disagree on exactly what constitutes a clunker and who will be eligible for the vouchers. One is geared more towards stimulating domestic auto sales while the other focuses on fuel economy.
Four 2010 Ford models will be the first to be offered with a high-performance, fuel-efficient Ecoboost V6 engine with twin turbochargers and direct injection. Ford intends to offer the Ecoboost in 90% of vehicles and six-speed transmissions in all of them by 2013.
Dealers are voicing support for the Pre-Owned Automobile Dealers Alliance (POADA) just days after the group was launched. One dealer says the timing is perfect given the current auto trends and economics. Members will have access to programs to help boost sales.
Lawmakers are still looking for a compromise between competing cash for clunkers bills in Congress. Democrats met with President Obama but Sen. Dianne Feinstein said she can't support the compromise because environmental issues are not addressed. She says the pending compromise favors the automakers.