Dramatic Drop in U.S. Hybrid Vehicle Sales

Sales of hybrid gas-electric cars are dropping due to the weak U.S. economy and dramatic improvements in traditional internal combustion engines. U.S. sales of Toyota's Prius were 9.4 per cent lower in the first 10 months of 2011 than the same timeframe of 2010 while other manufacturers report even greater sales shrinkage. Lower gas prices have contributed to the drop along with new internal combustion technology.

 

Majority of Americans No Longer Upset Over GM Bailout

A public opinion poll found more than 70% of Americans had a positive attitude towards GM, a turnaround from the 70% negative opinion recorded two years earlier after the $50 billion GM bailout. However, it is unlikely the government will sell off its remaining 500 million shares in GM anytime soon. To break even would require a share price of around $53.

 

Teen Crash Statistics Decline With Experience Behind the Wheel

A recent AAA study showed that teen drivers are 50% more likely to crash in the first month of having their license than they are after a full year of experience driving on their own. Over 50% of the crashes that involved teen drivers in their first month behind the wheel typically involved three common mistakes: failure to reduce speed, inattention and failure to yield. Crashes decline once a teen gains experience.

 

NHTSA to Examine EV Batteries Following Chevrolet Volt Fire

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is examining lithium-ion batteries used in electric cars after a Chevrolet Volt ignited shortly after undergoing a crash test. GM said the fire would not have occurred if the automaker's protocols for deactivating the battery after the crash had been followed. Federal officials said they had no reason at this time to view the Volt as unsafe.

 

Nissan’s New NV3500 Passenger Vans Due in Early 2012

Following its introduction of a full-sized commercial panel van in both standard and tall models, Nissan's new NV3500 HD Passenger Van seats 12, uses the same platform, will be offered with V-6 or V-8, and will be available at about one-third of its dealerships early next year. Nissan expects the majority of its passenger vans to serve as hotel and parking lot shuttles.