‘Clash for Clunkers’ Unlikely to Achieve Intended Goals
Is the "Cash for Clunkers" bill making its way through Congress good public policy or just more government meddling in the free market? The bill has been approved by the House of Representatives and is awaiting Senate approval. In its current form, buyers will receive a $4,500 vouchers for their 'clunker.' The voucher is good toward the purchase of a new car that gets better mileage than their old car. One catch is that the old car must be crushed.
Hi-Tech Shippers Shorten Supply Chain by Manufacturing in Mexico
While industry is returning to Mexico to take advantage of US markets, truck shipping problems continue to hinder commerce. The Mexican government is working on streamlining border crossing for commercial trucks along with combating drug-related violence.
NHTSA Urges Safety Precautions to Reduce Van Rollover Risks
Large passenger vans fully loaded with people and luggage are at increased risk for rollover crash. Precautions including belting all passengers, driver training and vehicle maintenance with special emphasis on tire inflation are recommended by the NHTSA.
Toyota Industries Corp. Creating World’s First Hybrid Lift Truck
Toyota Industries Corp. has created the world's first hybrid lift truck, which it will launch in Japan in December. The "Geneo-Hybrid" runs on a 2.5 liter diesel engine, electric motor, and nickel-metal hydride battery, and will cut emissions and fuel consumption by 50%. The timeline for launching the lift truck in the U.S. has not yet been determined.
KBB Says Used Truck Prices May Peak Soon
Used-vehicle values have been increasing much of the year, according to Kelley Blue Book. The hottest segments, including truck, may peak in coming months and prices will level off, returning to more traditional patterns.
