Entries Tagged 'Automotive News' ↓

Congress approved a cash for clunkers program on Thursday which provides goverment incentives between $3500 and $4500 to citizens who trade vehicles for more fuel efficient ones. The bill is supposed to reduce dependence on foreign oil, help protect the environment, and prop up the ailing and failing US Auto industry.

Hybrid vehicles are definitely an option for consumers hoping to get these government funds, but they are not a requirement. Car owners get a voucher for $3500 if they trade a vehicle getting 18mph or less for one getting at least 22mpg. If the fuel mileage difference grows to 10mpg, the voucher grows to $4500. Similarly, owners of SUV, trucks, or vans getting 18mpg or worse rececive a voucher for $3500 for trading for a new vehicle getting 2mpg or better. It grows to $4500 if the new vehicle gets 5mpg better.

If a consumer has a vehicle that is worth more than $3500 to $4500, obviously this program will not help. It was intended to target vehicles made in 1984 or earlier. Not only is the fuel mileage an issue, but these cars are much dirtier polluters than some of today’s hybrid cars or even the standard IC engine cars classified as ZEV - or Zero Emissions Vehicles.

Here are a few features of Obama’s new Presidential Limo…

Doors are armor plated an astounding eight inches thick. They weigh approximately as much as a Boeing 757 jet.

The driver’s window can withstand shots from armor piercing bullets. It is the only window that will roll down, although it moves only three inches. This is designed to allow the driver to pay a toll or speak with secret service agents.

The bodypanels are composites made of hardened steel, ceramic, and titanium to reduce the threat from projectiles.

Armor plated gas tank fitted with a special foam that prevents it from exploding if shot.

A five inch thick steel plate runs beneath the chassis to protect against any bombs that could be placed beneath the vehicle.

The tires are kevlar reinforced and have steel rims beneath them to allow for escape even if the rubber material is blasted or burned away.

It was announced today that Chrysler and Fiat are engaged in talks about whether the Italian car maker will buy a piece of the failing American company so it can sell its small cars in North America. I think Chrysler would benefit, because it could then put a few more eco-friendly, gas-sipping compacts on its dealer lots. Chrysler would also have access to the Fiat parts bin, with engine and transmission choices. Fiat might benefit by having a string of dealerships at it’s disposal, and possibly even leveraging Chrysler assembly plants. Apparently, four billion bucks doesn’t go as far as it used to.

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