Buyers Flocking To Fuel Efficient Used Cars, Spiking Prices
Cars are not supposed to be a good investment. The rule of thumb says that a car loses at least 10 percent of its value the moment it leaves the dealership. But soaring used-car values are turning that formula on its head for many fuel-efficient vehicles, which are suddenly in high demand as Americans fret about escalating gas prices and do not want to pay for a new car. Used cars overall are retaining a higher percentage of their original value than ever before.
GSA Directed to Buy More Alternative Fuel Vehicles
President Obama has directed the GSA to buy only vehicles using alternative fuel by the end of 2015. GSA manages vehicle purchases for federal agencies and assists the government in managing a fleet of 660,000 vehicles. GSA will begin compliance by purchasing 100 electric vehicles including Volt and Leaf models. Alternative fuel vehicles include electric, natural gas, clean diesel and flex-fuel cars using E-85.
Experts Offer Summer Safe-Driving Tips
Summer weather can be just as hazardous as winter, so experts are advising motorists on how to handle situations such as flash floods, electrical storms and tornadoes.
Plug-in EVs Part of Reaching 56.2 MPG, but Hybrids Will Play Bigger Role
While certain industry groups were upset that the Obama administration plans to lower its 2025 fuel economy from 62 mpg to 56.2 mpg, the mandates would still be ambitious with meeting 5% per year increases. Plug-in electric vehicles will be part of accomplishing this goal, but other vehicles, especially hybrid electric vehicles, will play a bigger part.
Could ‘Flybrid’ Technology Replace Batteries?
A British firm is developing "flybrid" technology that could replace batteries in boosting vehicle fuel economy. The company says flybrids are simpler and less expensive than gas-electric hybrids. The technology has already been tested at the famed Le Mans race.
