Telematics Could Lower Fleet Insurance Rates
Aviva is offering a new insurance policy to fleets that already have installed telematics systems. The goal is to reduce accidents, which can lead to lower premiums. Certain criteria must be met, and officials must agree on a target for accident costs.
Smarter Vehicle Safety Technology Moving Beyond Evasive Action
Car-to-car communications are being developed that will save more lives and vehicles in the event of potential collisions. ?Intelligent vehicle? safety technology is being displayed by automakers and suppliers at a NHTSA conference in National Harbor, Md., that is going beyond just warning drivers to take evasive actions.
No Letter Grade for New Fuel Economy Labels
NHTSA and the EPA released the final design for the new fuel economy labels that must be on passenger cars and light trucks by 2013 model year. The new labels provide more information to the consumer but don't have a letter grade sought by environmental groups.
UPS Looks to Plastic for Fuel Savings
UPS has researched many combinations of vehicles to find improved efficiency. The solutions using hybrid, electric or CNG gas have added too much complexity and not enough savings. UPS is currently testing a new truck design made of plastic which saves weight and permits smaller engines, giving dramatic fuel savings.
Ford C-Max Energy Plug-in Hybrid Could Take Lead in Miles Traveled
While Ford has trailed behind competitors in bringing out pure electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, the company is confident its upcoming products will offer unique advantages. Its 2013 Ford C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid will be able to travel up to 500 miles on a single charge and single tank of gasoline. Ford's plan is not just to match Volt but beat it.
