California Preparing Next Round in Alternative Fuel, Technology Funding
In its third year of program funding, the California Energy Commission is putting together its 2011-2012 plan for alternative and renewable fuel and vehicle technology. Commercial trucks will receive the largest portion, and all other clean technologies and fuels are receiving funds.
Sifting Through Complicated 35.5 MPG Rating for 2016 Model Vehicles
In a broad sense, corporate average fuel economy standards for 2016 model year vehicles will be 35.5 miles per gallon. Simple numbers don't tell the whole story. The EPA says 35.5, and NHTSA's standard comes out to 34.1. There are layers of rules to sift through, all subject to credits, allowances, and exemptions.
Disabled Suffer Burns From Car Seat Heaters
The disabled and paralyzed have suffered severe burns as a result of automobile seat heaters. Recalls have been issued for hundreds of thousands of vehicles. Temperatures can rise to 160 degrees while 3rd-degree burns can be caused at 120 degrees. Some manufacturers have limited seat temperature to 105 degrees for safety reasons.
Hyundai Elantra Offers High-End Features for Economy Car
USA Today auto reviewer Jim Healey says the new Hyundai Elantra offers good value and is generally a satisfying vehicle. He notes the high-end features that are available for such an "economy" car.
New Aerodynamic Fix Available for 18-Wheelers
The UnderTray is a plastic and metal structure that reportedly can improve fuel efficiency of highway big rigs by up to 12%. The device is designed to improve the aerodynamic efficiency of the 18-wheeler and reduce the low-pressure drag behind the trailer.
