Rural Driving Statistically Much More Dangerous
Rural roads claim 57% of highway deaths despite only 23% of people in the U.S. living in rural areas. The illusion of safety, drunkenness, lower seatbelt use, poorer road conditions and slower emergency care combine to increase rural highway fatalities.
Growth in Large SUV Sales Outpaces Overall Auto Market
U.S. consumers have been buying small cars 9 to 1 over large SUVs in 2010, but the large SUV segment is the fastest growing. Some consumers simply want the roominess and power and can afford the extra fuel at these prices.
Dollar Thrifty Uncertain Over Avis Bid
Dollar Thrifty Corp. has rejected a takeover bid from Avis Budget Group even though the total amount was higher than a bid from rival Hertz. Dollar said Avis didn't provide certain data and was unwilling to provide a reverse termination fee in the offer.
Pickens Brings Natural Gas to Senate While EVs May Get Less Funding
Natural gas icon T. Boone Pickens has been very successful in bringing funding for natural gas vehicles to a Senate energy bill where Democrats are desperately attempting to achieve majority vote. Natural gas would get $4 billion in funding while electric vehicles would receive only $400 million even though the Obama administration has been pushing for EVs.
Nissan, Chevrolet Face Marketing Challenge for First Mass Market EVs
By the end of this year, the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Volt will be sitting in dealership lots waiting for buyers to walk through the door. One major challenge for automakers and dealers is creating effective marketing that educates, filters through to good candidates, and shows how the initial price point can fit into their budgets.
