Inexpensive Features That Make Driving Safer, More Fun
Vehicle manufacturers must comply with features that are mandated by the government for safety, environmental, or other reasons. They include electronic stability control and new roof crush standards. Although not mandated, other features consumers should consider are the capless fuel cap, automatic up and down windows, Bluetooth connectivity, three blink blinkers, and blind spot detection. These are all inexpensive, useful, and make driving easier and safer.
Some Hybrids Not as ‘Green’ as Consumers Think
Environmental impact and fuel economy are only part of the equation when considering a hybrid purchase. The Union of Concerned Scientists found many hybrid models do not save consumers as much money as they might expect. Some hybrid engines deliver strong fuel efficiency while others increase the engine's power, resulting in less improvement in fuel economy and environmental benefit. Consumers should consider the time required for fuel savings to make up for the hybrid's premium price over its conventional counterpart prior to making their decision.
Wholesale Values on Fuel Efficient Cars Higher than Expected
Late model fuel efficient car wholesale values may have peaked in June, but they?re expected to be higher in August they were in January. NADA Used Car Guide senior analyst Jonathan Banks says prices of some popular 2006-09 model year cars could be as much as 30% higher next month.
Companies Cut Fuel Costs by Slowing Truckers Down
Trucking companies are looking for ways to cut fuel costs and encourage drivers to get the best fuel economy from their rigs. Some companies have made changes to the computerized governors on their trucks' engines while others have paid drivers extra who know how to get the best fuel economy. Safety advocates say slowing big rigs down saves lives as well as fuel. Some truckers argue slower trucks cause more crashes.
The Changing Role of Diamond Lanes
Commuter lanes, often referred to as carpool, diamond, HOV, high occupancy, or express lanes, were created to reduce the number of cars on the road. It was thought this would further reduce U.S. dependency on foreign oil and air pollution. Recent census data indicates this is not working, however. Commuters using diamond lanes have dropped nationwide from 20% to approximately 10.5% over the past three decades. Carpools are effective if groups of people work and live in similar locations with similar work schedules. The California Department of Transportation and county governments now allow solo drivers to use restricted lanes during commute hours if they pay for the privilege. It appears the purpose of diamond lanes now is less about the environment and more about generating revenue.
