Fuel Efficient Vehicles Help Ford Surge to Best Profit in 13 Years
While nowhere near the huge $17.6 billion profit reported for first quarter 1998, its first quarter 2011 net income of an anticipated $2.1 billion will be the largest quarterly profit in 13 years. Sales of more fuel-efficient models such as the Fiesta subcompact and Explorer sport-utility vehicle have surged along with gasoline prices.
Forbes Picks Worst Cars on the Road
Forbes used a number of Consumer Reports lists to pick the worst vehicles on the road. If a vehicle was among lowest rated on two or more lists, it moved to the next round of consideration. Nine of the twelve vehicles on the list were American brands.
SUVs Are Safer But Also Heavier and Thirsty for Gas
Federal officials are working to balance regulations regarding safety and fuel economy. NHTSA doesn't want to reverse declining highway deaths, which many partially attribute to the popularity of heavy SUVs. But weight also hampers gas mileage, and EPA wants to boost average fuel economy standards.
Automakers Showing Off Fuel Efficient Cars in New York as Gas Prices Spike
Automakers have been launching more fuel-efficient models this week at the New York International Auto Show ? the idea being luring more budget-minded consumers into showrooms as gas prices continue to climb. Several of the launches are compact and subcompact models getting 20% to 30% more fuel efficiency than previous versions, and large vehicle entries with emphasis on fuel economy.
