The proposed legislation would provide financial support for experimental vehicle research, including new types of hybrids, hydrogen cells and other batteries, and new environmentally friendly engine systems. The U.S. Department of Energy would administer the funds. The major auto manufacturers and the United Auto Workers union have voiced support for this bill, which would provide a further boost to the rebounding auto industry after the success of the CARS program.

Peters, accompanied by House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer of Maryland, announced the proposal on September 3 in Troy, Michigan. The legislation is seen as a boon for Michigan’s economy, which heavily depends on the auto industry; it will also please environmentalists who praise its emphasis on alternative fuel sources rather than reliance on fossil fuels. If the bill is passed, funding might be available to auto manufacturers by the end of this year.

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View photos of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics

Details released by the auto manufacturer indicate that the Vision EfficientDynamics will incorporate a three-cylinder turbodiesel engine with two electric motors, allowing enhanced fuel economy without sacrificing pickup or performance. A proprietary software program combines both the hybrid and electric powertrains, producing an engine capable of 356 horsepower, comparable with other performance vehicles on the market. Environmental concerns have not been neglected, however; the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics uses standard plug-in hybrid technology with an estimated driving range of about 400 miles, making it a viable choice for green enthusiasts. Seating four comfortably, the Vision EfficientDynamics may produce the highest performance of any family-friendly hybrid on the market.

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Touted as a success by environmentalists and economists, the “Cash for Clunkers” program removed 690,114 older vehicles with poor gas mileage from the roads, replacing them with newer fuel-efficient cars. The beneficial effects of this government program have been obvious in the automotive industry, with both General Motors and Ford announcing increases in production for the latter half of this year. “Cash for Clunkers” provided an incentive for consumers to purchase new vehicles, and the increase in demand is creating more jobs in the previously struggling automotive sector. Toyota, General Motors, Ford, and Honda topped the list of auto makers with the most “Cash for Clunkers” transactions, together netting over 64 percent of total rebate applications.

The environmental impact of this program is equally impressive, with an estimated 58 percent improvement in fuel economy expected due to the trade-ins. Most “Cash for Clunkers” trade-ins were trucks or SUVs, while the new vehicles purchased were primarily passenger cars. The White House reported that the cars purchased under this program averaged fuel economy 19 percent higher than the average of all new cars currently produced, making the “Cash for Clunkers” program a big win for environmentalists as well.

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Cash for Clunkers Ends Monday

The highly successful “Cash for Clunkers” program will end Monday, according to Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. Part of the overall stimulus package, this program offered up to $4500 in rebates to car buyers who traded in certain older vehicles with poor fuel economy. “Cash for Clunkers” was designed to have a twofold effect, both reducing harmful emissions and giving the cash-strapped automobile industry a much needed boost in sales. Consumer reaction to the program was far more enthusiastic than predicted, necessitating additional funds to cover the cost of the consumer rebates. Despite continuing consumer demand, Lahood announced that applications for rebates will no longer be accepted after Monday, August 21, 2009.

Lahood indicated that the Cash for Clunkers program had already processed over $1.9 billion dollars in rebates, with over 450,000 dealer transactions already recorded by the Federal government. “This program has been a lifeline to the automobile industry, jump starting a major sector of the economy and putting people back to work,” Lahood said. Auto manufacturers saw the greatest increase in sales in their fuel-efficient passenger vehicles, with the White Hosue estimating an increase in gas mileage of approximately sixty-one percent over the trade-in vehicles.

The Cash for Clunkers program, also known as CARS, was originally only funded for $1 billion, but after the unexpected consumer response to the program, $2 billion in additional funds was passed by Congress. It is expected that these funds will be essentially depleted by the end of the program. Auto manufacturers and consumers alike have seen the benefits of this program, with Ford Motor Company announcing plans to step up production in response to extremely brisk sales of fuel-efficient cars in the first two weeks of August.

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Tesla Model S Sedan

Recently, CNN.com posted a story about the new funding Tesla received from the federal government to aid in their production of electric vehicles. Tesla has already produced a roadster that has amazing specs for an electric car, and now this new funding will go to assist the production of the Model S Sedan.

Read the CNN.com article here: cnn.com

The Model S has a stunning luxury design and amazing features that make other electric vehicles pale in comparison:

RANGE

• Up to 300 mile range
• 45 minute QuickCharge
• Charges from 120V, 240V or 480V
• 5 minute battery swap

UTILITY

• Seating for 7 people
• Unique hatch for oversized items
• 60/40 flat-folding rear seat
• 2nd trunk under hood

PERFORMANCE & TECHNOLOGY

• 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds
• PURE electric
• 2X as efficient as hybrids
• Proven powertrain from leading EV manufacturer
• 17 inch infotainment touchscreen

Base Price $49,900* Deliveries Begin 2011

* Price shown includes $7,500 Federal Tax credit.  Consult a tax expert for details.

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Pros and Cons of Obama’s New Plan For Fuel Efficiency

Our nation’s automotive industry is currently falling apart at an astounding rate. Because of this, leading auto manufacturers in the U.S. have to make some drastic changes – and in some cases this may mean a complete restructuring and overhaul of the way they operate and do business on a daily basis. In light of this dilemma, President Barack Obama has decided to step in and take matters into his own hands; at least where the environmental impact of our vehicles is concerned.

In a speech given on Tuesday, May 19, the president challenged U.S. automakers to create more fuel-efficient, environmentally friendly vehicles. Obama’s plan is to cut green-house gases considerably; 20% by 2020, 42% by 2030, and 83% by 2050. Additionally, President Barack Obama wants to make sure all new vehicles being produced by 2016 meet a new minimum requirement of 35 miles-per-gallon. While all this may sound great in concept, for many, including our nation’s top vehicle manufacturers, this new proposed bill is really a double-edged sword.

For starters, it’s going to cost our automakers millions of dollars to convert and upgrade their existing technologies, and it will cost them even more to invest in the research and development of low-carbon electricity and cleaner, more efficient fuels. And with the financial crisis the automotive industry is already facing, it’s not clear where they will get the capital needed to begin this process – and some manufacturers simply can’t afford to spend time on these new innovations, either.

But of course the automotive industry aren’t the only ones who are struggling financially – as you are probably well aware of, more and more families and individuals are having quite a bit of financial problems as well. And what many supporters of this proposed bill don’t realize is the fact that developing cleaner and more fuel efficient cars will actually increase the price tag of new vehicles – as much as an additional $1,300 for some. Opponents of the bill, however, warn of a much higher added cost – maybe even to the tune of $6,000.

Fuel Efficiency Will Cost Taxpayers?

And that’s not all – even some of President Obama’s own colleagues are opposed to the bill. Director of the Office of Management and Budget, Peter Orzag suggests that reducing green-house gases will actually reduce average yearly incomes for families and individuals, as well. Furthermore, our nation’s economic output is also reduced by 2% to 3% for every 1% our taxes are increased. And who do you think is going to foot the bill for a project of this magnitude; the American taxpayer, of course.

However, supporters of President Obama’s proposed bill see this is a golden opportunity to make a solid investment in our nation’s future. If American automakers can begin producing cleaner and more fuel-efficient vehicles in a timely manner, and make them available at a price that the general public can afford, we might actually be able to revive our economy and start on the road to recovery as soon as possible.

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2009 Toyota Prius

The top choice for a hybrid vehicle today is the 2009 Toyota Prius Hybrid. The 2008 Prius was considered a top choice as well, due to its outstanding fuel economy. When it comes to hybrids, gas mileage is of the utmost importance. It is what consumers are most interested in. The Toyota Prius sweeps the board by achieving 48 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on the highway. With more trunk space and interior space for comfort, the Prius does not seem as stuffy and small as the typical economy car, making it more desirable. It is also relatively affordable compared to other hybrids of its class.

2009 Honda Civic

Coming in as number two on the list is 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid. This vehicle competes well with the Prius because it too is affordable for a hybrid and fairly roomy inside. The gas mileage is still incredible good at 40 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on the highway. The Honda Civic Hybrid is considered to be a very reliable vehicle, which brings it to the number two spot. This vehicle also comes with a fantastic extended warranty deal which solidifies its position on the list.

2009 Ford Escape

Third on this list is the 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid, which maintains an SUV style body and yet gives vehicle owners far superior gas mileage than its SUV contemporaries. Families can now have the convenience of a larger vehicle without the headaches of the killer fuel costs. The Escape is stylish, comfortable and powerful, making it third on the top 3 hybrid vehicles and their features list.

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Memorial Day Gas Price Spike?

Has anyone else noticed how gas prices always seem to go up on the weekends? Not only do we find that gas prices increase on weekends but they also consistently rise when we have a holiday. Are gas prices going up for Memorial Day weekend? If gas price patterns are any indication, the answer would be yes.

Why are gas prices going up for Memorial Day weekend? As a rule, gas prices tend to begin an increase in the spring and peak in late summer, when people are driving more. With good weather and vacations, gasoline demand increases. The two elements that affect the cost of gasoline are crude oil prices and the level of supply to demand. Even when crude oil prices are stable, gas prices will fluctuate due to demand and competition between local gas stations. If crude oil prices do not change, we can expect an increase of 10 to 20 cents between January and summer.

Gas prices going up for Memorial Day weekend gives one something to think about. Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, was a day established in remembrance of those who lost their lives in service to our nation. Traditional observance of Memorial Day has declined over the years. Americans have forgotten the meaning and traditions; and the graves of the fallen are increasingly ignored. Some Americans feel Memorial Day is for honoring all of the deceased, not just those who died in service to our country.

One day out of an entire year was set aside for the nation to come together to remember, to reflect, and to honor those who gave their all in service to our nation. Those of us who still adhere to some of the traditions of Memorial Day typically go to place flowers on the graves of our loved ones. If the price of a gallon shoots up for the weekend, it will make it more difficult for some.

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Adaptive Headlamps

If you have ever encountered problems with night vision, especially around bends in the road which conventional headlights cannot illuminate properly, you may be asking, “Are adaptive headlamps for cars a good idea?” As the increasing percentage of nighttime driving accidents occur after dark, it is important to keep safety in mind and take every precaution possible. These percentages are significant, because while the driving which takes place at night is much lower than daytime, the amount of accidents have increased due to improper night vision.

Are adaptive headlamps for cars a good idea? Adaptive headlights are able to “adapt” to the changes in driving behavior, while improving illumination. Electronic sensors present in these headlights, detect changes in speed, steering wheel movements, and the yaw, or, the rotation of the vehicle around its axis. The headlights can turn up to a 30° angle to illuminate difficult turns along the roadway. For example, if you were driving at a high rate of speed at night, and the curve was hard to maneuver, the adaptive headlamps would turn in relation to your movements with the steering wheel, giving you a higher rate of visibility. Although not present in some makes of vehicles, some car manufacturers make use of side reflectors which rotate in order to reflect the lighting to the appropriate angle needed.

Just in case you were concerned as to the sensitivity of these sensors, they are “smart” and know when they are needed. This keeps your lights from blinding approaching drivers from the other side.

As you can see there are a wealth of benefits with having adaptive headlamps for your vehicle. By improving your night vision, and simply improving tricky vehicle maneuvers, you can easily reduce your risk of accidents and injury. Are adaptive headlamps for cars a good idea? The answer is “Absolutely!”

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With current Fiat technology needing an overhaul to meet U.S. safety standards, American-produced Fiat cars in Chrysler plants could take up to 3 years, and Jerry believes Chrysler could just re-invest in itself to come up with better cars in the same timeframe.

What do you think about the Chrysler-Fiat Merger?
Are your tax dollars worth keeping Chrysler afloat? Jerry believes our government doesn’t care about Chrysler, but is determined to save GM.

Leave your comments below.

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