Surprise, surprise hybrids top city picks by Forbes

According to Forbes, the soon to be deceased Honda Insight hybrid and the Toyota Prius are the two top cars for city driving. The Honda Civic hybrid came in at number 6. Of course it isn't a surprise that hybrid cars would dominate the list of best city driving cars. If they didn't, that would have been a surprise.

Hybrid cars: Is there a media bias?

So, Toyota has announced a huge recall which includes the Prius hybrid car, but not only the Prius. Yet, I have seen several T.V. headlines, such as on MSNBC, and I have read several online headlines which have announced, “Toyota Prius recalled”. While it is true that the Prius is part of the recall, the recall has nothing to do with hybrid cars.

So why is the media so attentive to issues regarding hybrids, when hybrids make up only 1% of total car sales? Is it hybrid hate, or do hybrids really draw that much attention?

E85 and Hybrid Cars: Hollywood, Democrats and Republicans

I just finished replying to a CNN Commentary by Robert Redford on Kicking the Oil Habit. Lately, the idea of kicking the oil habit has become a hot topic, but there is growing partisan spin using this platform for political gain. I find this unacceptable. Ultimately, both parties have enabled America's oil addiction, and most Americans have happily helped. Lately the favorite buzzword of many politicians has become E85 or ethanol. Yet, far too many scientists note that ethanol will never end America's oil addiction, nor even foreign oil dependency, if we don't move towards significantly more fuel efficient vehicles, such as hybrid cars. Yet, it seems that not only are politicians misguided, but even cultural leaders, such as Robert Redford, whom are too focused on partisanship, rather than real leadership and solutions for such a serious issue. (Full Story)

AutoWeek gushes over the Vue hybrid

AutoWeek recently test drove the Saturn Vue Greenline hybrid and they apparently loved GM's new hybrid. Now, I have not driven the Vue hybrid and it might be an excellent vehicle, but I'm also very skeptical of AutoWeek. Sometimes it seems that AutoWeek is more of a puppet of GM, concerned more with maintaining a slice of GM's monstrous advertising budget than with objective GM reporting. Additionally, the article tries to compare Ford Escape hybrid fuel economy to Vue fuel economy based on "track" testing. This is silly. Tracks determine mostly highway fuel economy. If you drive in congestion, then the Vue is going to offer far worse fuel economy compared to the hybrid Escape. If you drive mostly on the open highway, then the Vue hybrid is definitely worth your consideration compared to the Escape hybrid. (AutoWeek Review)

Ethanol isn't enough, but ethanol hybrids could be just right

Over the last several months there has been a tremendous amount of hype around ethanol. In fact, GM's GoYellow campaign seems to imply that every American could drive a flex-fuel Hummer and America could still end foreign oil dependency. Yet, scientists don't agree, and they say corn-based ethanol will have little effect on foreign oil consumption.

Of course, ethanol supporters suggest other forms of biomass, such as cellulosic ethanol - which still requires undeveloped technologies - could possibly achieve a 30% drop in gasoline consumption by 2030. "There are many people who believe that biomass has the power to replace our appetite for gasoline," said Kimberly Gray, professor of civil and environmental engineering at Northwestern University. "But that will only occur with significant improvements in energy efficiency and smart growth." (more)

In reality, despite GM's marketing deception, corn offers very little hope for America's fuel needs, especially if GM only produces Tahoes and Hummers. America needs smaller vehicles, and it needs millions and millions of hybrid cars. While smaller flex-fuel hybrid cars won't end gasoline consumption anytime soon, they could end foreign oil dependency - something flex-fuel gas guzzlers will NEVER accomplish.

Toyota Prius Recall

Toyota has announced a huge recall, which includes a number of Toyota vehicles, including the Prius hybrid car. The problem is related to the steering wheel, but Toyota has stated that problem has not resulted in any accidents.(MSNBC)

GM and E85: Fool's Gold?

Flip, flop. Mandates on the oil industry are bad, mandates on the oil industry are good - that's the position of Hillary Clinton on mandating that the oil industry put E85 pumps in half of America's gas stations. Hillary Clinton, like all good politicians, has learned to stand for votes, rather than convictions. While she has publicly stated that ethanol mandates would hike fuel prices and VOTED against them, now she knows ethanol mandates will hike auto worker votes in her direction. Convictions or votes? Votes or convictions?

Despite Hillary's strong convictions, I say, E85 is Fool's Gold for GM. (Full Story)

Honda Will Share Hybrid Technology

Honda announced that it would share its hybrid technology if other auto companies were interested, joining at least Toyota and GM/Chrysler/BMW. Already Nissan is going to lease Toyota hybrid technology for the upcoming Altima hybrid, and Ford leases some Toyota software. Perhaps, Honda is making a play for Hyundai, whom recently announced the delay of any hybrid cars until 2009? (More)

Government warns high gas prices here to stay

Think gas prices are high? Don't expect them to go down any time this summer. If anything, expect higher prices. Even worse, if a hurricane hits, prices will spike. That's the message the government is forecasting. (More)

I guess that means high demand for hybrid cars, and no break on pricing.

Japan versus Detroit: Who acts more American?

Automobiles versus fuel?

When automakers have faced Congress over the last week, there has been a striking contrast in style. Toyota, for example, has focused on incentives for building more fuel efficient automobiles, such as hybrid cars. Detroit, on the other hand, has focused on new fuels, such as ethanol, for their gas-guzzlers.

While ethanol holds great promise as an alternative fuel, the automotive technology to utilize ethanol is already complete. What isn't complete are new vehicles, such as flex-fuel hybrids, for example, which could make inefficient burning ethanol much more efficient. Fortunately, Ford has at least proposed such a vehicle.

Still, shouldn't GM focus on being a better automaker? If they want to be an energy company, maybe its time to sell the auto business? For decades GM has used fuel cell vehicles as an excuse not to compete with Japanese efficiency, now they are using ethanol. At a time when foreign oil dependency is causing so many problems for America, why is it that Japanese companies are doing so much more to alleviate the problem? You make cars, Detroit, not energy. (Sources: AutomotiveNews)

Ford Committed to Hybrid Vehicles

"I believe very strongly that hybrid technology will be one of the technologies going forward. It is helping us learn so much about other things as well," stated Nancy Gioia, Director of Ford's hybrid vehicles, recently. Despite numerous rumors that Ford might pull the plug on the Mazda Tribute Hybrid, Mrs. Gioia did also confirm that the hybrid Tribute should be available some time next year. Still, Ford hopes to produce 250,000 hybrid cars by 2010, whereas Toyota will top that number this year alone. Is Ford committed enough?

CNBC's Hydrogen Hybrid Video

Are you interested in the future of hybrid cars? Well, one potential path is hydrogen hybrids. These are not fuel cell hybrids that are fueled by hydrogen. There are no fuel cells in these hybrids. Hydrogen hybrids could help reduce foreign oil dependency, clean the environment, and build the fueling network for future fuel cell hybrid vehicles. (Watch)

CR: High gas prices creating hybrid interest

According to a survey by Consumer Reports, "More than a third of American drivers say they are considering getting rid of their current vehicle in favor of something more fuel efficient." Half of those concerned are interested in hybrid cars. Interestingly, those most interested in hybrids are very concerned with oil consumption and the environment - not just fuel economy. Even more important; however, those not interested in a hybrid were primarily worried about costs. As hybrid technology improves in the next couple years and as prices reduce, the market for hybrids will be huge.

Saturn Vue hybrid pricing announced

The Saturn Vue Hybrid, known as the Green Line, will begin at $22,995. While this price will make it the cheapest hybrid SUV, it will also be less fuel efficient than its closest competitor, the Ford Escape hybrid. The Vue Green Line is expected to hit dealerships towards the end of summer.

Prius production should pick up later this year

A couple of weeks ago Toyota announced that the production of the Toyota Prius had been reduced. This reduction of the world's most popular hybrid car wasn't caused by a lack of demand, mind you, it was caused by limited hybrid production capabilities. As it turns out, Prius production had to be reduced in order for Toyota to produce its news hybrid vehicle, the Toyota Camry hybrid. Nonetheless, the Prius production reduction - say that 3 times - has produced long waiting list in many of the Nation's hottest Prii markets. Fortunately, sources indicate that production of the Prius hybrid should be back to normal levels later this year when the Camry hybrid starts its American production in Kentucky. So, if you are disappointed in your Prius quests, just try to hold on a few more months.

GM, The Great American Company?

GM is going to cap the price of gasoline at $1.99 for those in California or Florida whom buy certain vehicles, such as the Chevy Tahoe, for 12 months. The cap is expected to save buyers around $100.00 per month, or $1,200 per year. Hmmm. So, if GM offered a hybrid Tahoe instead, you could easily cover the extra hybrid costs in just a couple of years via gasoline savings - five at the most? In addition, we could significantly disrupt America's dependence on foreign oil and dramatically improve air pollution? But who gives a crap about those issues!!!! (Source: AutomotiveNews)

Hybrid Vehicles: Neither an interim technology, nor a bridge to the future

The time for the hybrid car revolution is now

I regularly note that one of the best things about hybrid cars is the potential of hybrid technology. For example, the second generation Toyota Prius hybrid made great gains in efficiency and performance compared to the first generation Prius.

Ultimately, hybrids are an emerging technology and the best is yet to come.

Ironically, earlier today I noted that GM regularly tries to downplay hybrids, yet also admits that its fuel cell vehicles will be fuel cell hybrid vehicles. So, is this just deceptive marketing by GM, or don't they really believe in the future of fuel cells?

Inevitably, I don't care. The future will emerge - with or without GM. (More)

More than a Honda Fit hybrid?

Sure the Honda Insight is dead, but it will result in a brighter future for hybrid vehicles. In the past, Honda has been unsure about the future of hybrids, but the announcement that Toyota is going to produce a new 4 door hybrid that is more fuel efficient than the Insight and cheaper than the Civic hybrid is great news for hybrid consumers. While the new car might be similar to the current Fit, I think that Honda has realized that they need more than a Fit hybrid to challenge the Toyota Prius. Thus, I expect Honda's new hybrid to be a unique vehicle - a move Ford and GM need to heed.

Cheaper insurance for UK hybrid drivers

"We see climate change and the resulting flooding and subsidence as the biggest threat to our business over the next few years." Thus, Keith Maxwell announced that the drivers of hybrid cars would receive a 13% discount on insurance from More Than. (MORE)

Isn't GM full of it on hybrid vehicles?

Not long ago, GM's Rick Wagoner stated that hybrid cars were only about image for GM. Yet, if GM believes that the future is hydrogen, isn't calling hybrids just a P.R. move simply a lie? Even GM fuel cell engineers have stated that fuel cell vehicles WILL be fuel cell HYBRID VEHICLES. Thus, wouldn't pursuing hybrids today, help make tomorrow's fuel cell hybrid vehicles more cost effective sooner?

Not in your gas-guzzler

I was looking at this picture regarding Condi Rice's speech at Boston University and I couldn't help but think, How many of you valiant souls drive fuel efficient vehicles? Perhaps it's just my neighborhood, but I know FAR too many war protestors that drive gas-guzzlers. I say, NOT IN YOUR GAS-GUZZLER! If you drive a gas-guzzler, I say you've given up your right to protest a war ultimately rooted in oil. If you drive a gas-guzzler, whether you like or not, we are fighting the war IN YOUR NAME!

UC Davis hybrid prepares for Challenge X

UC Davis has strong history with hybrid cars, especially plug-in hybrids, so it comes as no surprise that students from the University will enter Challenge X. "UC Davis is the latest entrant to the upcoming Challenge X, a competition to develop a fuel-efficient SUV sponsored by the Department of Energy and General Motors. The UC Davis team's entry, called Trinity, is a modified Chevrolet Equinox whose batteries solely power the SUV for 50 miles before switching to the gasoline-electric hybrid system. A fuel cell powers secondary electrical systems such as air-conditioning." (AutoblogGreen)

No Hyundai hybrids cars until 2009 - At least

Reports are circulating that Hyundai will delay the development of any hybrid cars until at least 2009 due to "currency problems". (More)

Gen Y: Gas guzzling will be the rage?

While Gen Y likes to think of themselves as individuals, they are individuals that like to stand out. They are the bling-bling generation and when it comes to automobiles, most often, bigger is better. "Historically, the auto industry has made the assumption that young, entry-level buyers want small cars," says John Wolkonowicz, a senior analyst at forecasting firm Global Insight. "Usually, this assumption is far from true." Wolkonowicz says this group wants Escalades, Navigators and Hummers. For this generation hybrid cars aren't cool, they don't help "you get more chicks." I don't know about you, but I sure feel better about the future.

How will the next Ford Escape hybrid be different?

Recently, Nancy Gioia told AutoWeek that while the new Ford Escape hybrid design wouldn't remind anybody of some crazy science experiment, it would be different. Gioia said, "there is going to be some differentiation. People who drive hybrids want to make a statement that they are driving a hybrid." Hmmm, a shot at the Prius, Mrs. Gioia? Perhaps taking sly swings at your competition is a good marketing tool, but sales are really all that matter, right? By that standard it is the Escape hybrid which seems ugly - at least according to buyers. Nonetheless, I like the hybrid Escape and hope the new design helps sales. More important, Mrs. Gioia, make it a flex-fuel hybrid.

What do you think about the death of the Honda Insight

I know there are some huge Honda Insight fans out there, but the writing on the wall that the end was near has been building for more than a year. When it comes to hybrid cars, the Insight will always be a reminder of change, but it was never intended to be a big seller. Hopefully, the death of the Honda Insight will simply lead to more widely-appealing hybrids from Honda.

NY adding more hybrid taxis

New York City is adding more hybrid vehicles to their taxi fleet. Would you go out of your way for, or would you request a hybrid taxi?(MORE)

Congress and Detroit: The Dangers of E85

It will take years before ethanol, especially E85, makes a noticeable dent in America's gasoline consumption. Still, in a decade, if 10% of gasoline consumption were reduced in favor of ethanol, would it matter?

Perhaps not as much as first thought. First, in 10 years demand for fuel is going to go up. Second, without subsidies ethanol offers little in terms of free market competition, it simply isn't cheaper than gasoline. Sure, it does reduce foreign oil dependency, but how much and is that enough?

(Finished in Comments)

GM's Rick Wagoner is a hypocrite

Rick Wagoner lobbied members of Congress today for help with ethanol, noting that because Detroit automakers believe in free markets, "Incentives rather than mandates are the way to go." Yet, aides to Wagoner admitted that mandates would be required for energy companies. I guess there is nothing like free markets, huh, Mr. Wagoner? Why should we expect anything less than hypocrisy and deception from a man whom admits that his company's efforts to develop hybrid cars are purely about image?
(Source: AutomotiveNews)

Professional grade gas-guzzling: This is American?

O.K. I'm just going to vent for a few minutes. See, I'm offended that retired autoworkers would appeal to Americans and question how American are American-made Toyota, etc vehicles.

Are these folks really worried about America, or just their own pocketbooks?

How American is it that GM's best selling vehicles require ever-increasing foreign oil dependency? How American is it that GM's fuel efficient vehicles are largely produced OUTSIDE of America?

So, gas-guzzling is the only way to keep America strong? (Full Story in Comments)

Toyota Camry Hybrid Testimonials

I wanted to share with you that I just purchased a 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid. I took it on the hwy, driving about 200 miles round trip. Without using the cruise control and Using the AC, I achieved an average of 37 mpg. That's extremely close to what was estimated for hwy driving of 38 mpg. I love the car, and am very glad I bought it. I traded in a 2003 Toyota Matrix 4X4. The Camry gets almost double what the Matrix achieved.

Sincerely,
C. P.

Are you the owner of a Toyota Camry hybrid? Tell us about your experiences with the Camry hybrid. What kind of gas mileage do you get in your hybrid Camry and in what kind of driving?

Add your Toyota Camry hybrid testimonial below.

More on the Camry hybrid.

More hybrid car testimonials.

New hybrid technology plugged to Congress

Yesterday, a number of scientists promoted plug-in hybrid vehicles to Congress whom might offer $250 million in incentives for such a program. (MORE)

New Honda hybrid, bolder hybrid plans

Honda appears interested in challenging the success of the Toyota Prius hybrid car, and has announced a new, family hybrid that will be priced less than the Civic hybrid. Rumors have been running wild that the Fit will be converted into a hybrid utilizing the Insight hybrid powertrain, but Honda did not name the vehicle. Even more interesting, is the expectation that Honda believes the vehicle can achieve U.S. sales of more than 100,000. In the past Honda has been much more bearish regarding hybrid vehicles than Toyota, but such a move seems to indicate that Honda is afraid to give Toyota too big a lead in hybrid production.

Used hybrids fetching a premium

Used hybrid cars, particularly the Toyota Prius, are losing little value - even after a year or two - according to recent data. The Honda Civic hybrid is also doing well in used sales. Since some hybrids, especially the Prius, are so hard to find, buying a used one can offer a better selection of colors and other amenities which could be putting a premium on used hybrids. Thus, if you were hoping to find a bargain on a slightly used Prius, you probably won't have much luck until gas prices drop significantly.

Forbes Getting on the Hybrid Train? Unbelievable!

A week or so ago, a number of articles hit the web announcing sluggish sales of hybrid cars. Then a few weeks later, another round of articles announced that hybrid sales were again hot. One of those articles, Hybrids Stuck In Neutral clearly covered the main issues behind the so-called sales slump, but it was the conclusion of the story that really hit me.

"A half-century ago, General Motors CEO Charles Wilson boasted, "What's good for General Motors is good for America." The bloom is off that rose, and lately GM has been grasping for straws, promoting its conventional Chevrolet lineup as "An American Revolution." With all due respect, a real "American Revolution" in the car business would be to move the country to hybrids."

Forbes publishing a hybrid revolution article? Unbelievable!

While Forbes has been a bit bearish regarding hybrids in the past, their change in tone wasn't just a temporary flinch. Today, Forbes published, GM's Fuelish Talk which takes a hard look at GM's automotive business. Again, while a clear and concise article, it was the conclusion that struck me.

"Finally, I think that GM should rise to the challenge of the Toyota Prius and make its own unique hybrid--something special, akin to the BMW Mini. If done right, the company could keep a factory busy making this vehicle, and get top dollar for it, too."

While I've made this claim numerous times, it's great to hear such a sentiment repeated by such a conservative business magazine.

Toyota Hybrids: The Calm Before the Storm?

When I first heard that Toyota was going to cut Prius production in order to produce the Camry hybrid, I was very disappointed. Let's face it, hybrid cars wouldn't even be on America's radar if not for Toyota, but cutting Prius production? How could they?

Now I know that many hybrid parts, particularly batteries, are in short supply and every automaker can only produce so many hybrids. Nonetheless, the hybrid supply chain is growing and no automaker is more knowledgeable about that subject than Toyota. They have essentially built the hybrid supply chain. Therefore, when I read that Toyota believes hybrids will become an important part of their profits by 2008, my disappointment turned to elation.

While there are numerous hybrid skeptics out there, I cannot help but feel that they remind of people that predicted computers were silly back in the early 80's, or that e-mail and the Internet were silly in the early 90's - and these were smart, successful people. I fully believe that the potential of hybrid technology has barely been tapped, the best is still yet to come. Ultimately, you can never judge an emerging technology only by the capabilities of the present - something done habitually by many hybrid critics.

GM might be building hybrids for P.R. and Nissan might think that hybrid technology isn't yet ready, but Toyota is now just sitting back quietly as the entire automotive world argues about the future of hybrids. But Toyota isn't just sitting, they are using their huge profits to take their hybrid technology to the next level.

Every other automaker better beware - this could just be the calm before the storm.

Foreign Oil Dependency: It all comes down to clean vehicle tax incentives

High gasoline prices are only the most obvious, negative result of America's foreign oil dependency. The worldwide geopolitical crisis that America is facing in an effort to maintain its dependency on oil is the real, but less visible, problem.

Now that CAFE is essentially dead, or at least rendered useless, the only thing that can make a difference are tax incentives. Congress must give consumers strong tax incentives to buy hybrid cars or to use bio-diesel, for example.

If automakers don't want to develop such technologies - they don't have to - but let consumers reward those that can and will.

It is simply ridiculous that vehicles, such as the Hummer, can receive a $25,000 small business tax deduction - a tax incentive far greater than any hybrid receives. When the Hummer achieves 35 mpg, then it might deserve such a deduction.

It's time for Americans to make a stand and demand that we stop giving so many incentives to oil companies and the likes, and that we give those incentives to consumers that reduce their oil use, or that move beyond oil.

American automakers have thus far failed America, oil companies have failed America, and if Congress doesn't pass a strong set of tax incentives for consumers, not corporations, to buy clean technologies, they will continue their failure of America.

Let's not let it happen. (More)

GM boss says only building hybrids for image

GM's boss Rick Wagoner doesn't believe in hybrid cars and is quoted as saying that GM is only building hybrids for 'image reasons'. Mr. Wagoner also noted that addressing CAFE will not help reduce America's foreign oil dependency. "We continue to think it's a misguided policy with literally nothing to show for 30 years, and built around the false premise that one can regulate energy policy changes without having anyone make any changes or sacrifices," he said. (AutomotiveNews) Why should we expect anything less from a marketing company that builds cars? Maybe we should sacrifice GM's gas guzzlers, since they seem unwilling to accept any responsibility for growing foreign oil dependency?

Ford Considering Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle

Yesterday, when Bill Ford was getting hammered by Ford shareholders, he announced that Ford was exploring a plug-in hybrid vehicle. Would plug-in technology have a significant effect on Ford's sales of hybrid cars, or was Ford just looking for a little positive buzz?

Level Field Institute isn't Level Headed

Starting today the Level Field Institute, founded by American automakers, retired automakers, and dealers are going to attack claims that foreign automakers provide American jobs.

I say stop complaining about foreign cars and start lobbying Detroit to build cars that foreign car buyers want. Not everyone in America wants a gas-guzzler or a truck and many are offended by how little effort and concern, over the decades, that Detroit has put into fuel efficiency.

Fuel cell, blah, blah, blah.

Moreover, it's terribly ironic and hypocritical for the American auto industry to expect Americans to protect American jobs when it also means increasing foreign oil dependency.

I have long believed that American companies, not Japanese, should have marketed the first hybrid cars. I can hear Bob Lutz now, "Hybrids don't make business sense!"

Well, then, why are you now building them, Mr. Lutz? Not to mention that Americans provided $1 billion tax dollars for the Big 3 to build them in the 90s. For Mr. Lutz, it makes much more sense to spend billions every year marketing the American virtues of guzzling foreign oil rather than investing in fuel efficiency. Now that's American leadership!

The Big 3 should have one cause today, ending foreign oil dependency. Yet, today, GM and Ford success, even survivability, is still hinged upon the success of today's worst gas guzzlers.

Stop blaming Americans for buying foreign cars and start making America a safer and cleaner country. If GM and Ford had cars that equaled the capabilities of the Prius, they would sell better than the Prius.

I know, I know, they just aren't profitable, foreign oil dependency is so much more cost effective.

12 Billion in Profits? Why not a few more hybrid cars?

Toyota recorded a $12 billion profit in its last fiscal year according to the Detroit News. That's great, so why not do something positive with that $12 billion? While I give kudos to Toyota for hybrid cars, the auto giant has appeared to have lost some steam regarding its hybrids. It has been reported numerous times, including on this site, that Toyota has reduced its output of the popular Prius hybrid car in order to produce the new Camry hybrid. While I know that Toyota is hampered by a shortage of hybrid supplies, particularly batteries, can't $12 billion help a little in alleviating that shortage?

What Can the New X-Prize Accomplish?

Almost 2 years ago I drove out to the Mojave Desert in the middle of the morning to watch Burt Rutan blast into suborbital space with SpaceShipOne. While the X-Prize did accomplish its goal, the private business space race has been slow to develop. Of course, conquering space is much more complicated than building an extremely fuel efficient vehicle, isn't it?

That's why the X-Prize's newest venture, a 250 mpg vehicle, is very compelling.

It seems automakers can develop extremely efficient technologies, for example, hybrid cars with lithium-ion batteries, or hybrids that plug-in to the grid for extra power. Combined with lighter materials, new aerodynamic designs, and the automotive revolution seems at hand.

So, why isn't it happening?

While I don't really think the X-Prize will result in much that the standard auto industry hasn't explored, I think the X-Prize could inspire the public - the average auto consumer. The time has come for America to rethink its relationship to the automobile, hopefully, the X-Prize can spur that movement.

GM and Ford Claim Hybrid Car Pool Lane Discrimination

Sometimes I think it is best just to keep quiet. This is one of those situations for Ford and GM. "Ford Motor Co. and General Motors Corp., seeking to boost sales, want the federal government to force New York and California to let solo drivers of their hybrid vehicles join those of Honda and Toyota cars in highway carpool lanes." (JSONLINE)

While I like the Ford Escape hybrid, it doesn't achieve the kind of mileage that the Honda Civic hybrid or the Toyota Prius hybrid achieves. More important, the Toyota Highlander hybrid also doesn't not qualify for HOV lane access in these states - so there is no discrimination. The point of New York and California HOV legislation was to promote the very best fuel efficiency.

Both of these American companies should be leading the fight against foreign oil dependency, instead they survive only by increasing America's dependency.

Congress and CAFE: Two Peas in a Pod

Not long ago I referenced a story that ridiculed Congress and its conservationist policies. On a day members of Congress went to a gas station about a block from their offices to speak about high gas prices, almost every member was driven, spoke as their vehicles idled, and then was driven back one block to their offices. Even worse, most members were in gas-guzzlers. As if that were not enough, most members regularly drive gas-guzzlers.

This is Congressional leadership? Reminds me of what my old football coach used to say, "Anybody can talk the talk, but only champions walk the walk.

Apparently, there aren't many champions in either Congress or the White House these days, maybe there hasn't been in a long time. In today's world LEADERS would be driving hybrid cars, bio-diesel cars, or maybe flex-fuel vehicles fueled with E85, not Tahoes, Escalades, and BMW 760's. Maybe a REAL leader would even - dare I say - walk!?

Today, Congress is focused on CAFE, something they didn't act on just a year ago, but it's good politics now that Americans are angry about high gas prices. It seems success in Congress is driven by doing little and blaming someone else for the problem.

While I am an advocate for increasing CAFE, the plan is really going nowhere. The boldest move that has reasonable support - although probably not enough support - is to raise CAFE by 10 mpg in 10 years. In 10 years, with millions more Americans driving longer commutes while in more congestion, 10 mpg will basically accomplish, well, nothing.

The best case scenario for this plan is that we'll only be importing as much oil in the future as today. Whooohooo!

Nothing short of an automotive revolution is going to change America's oil addiction, and 10 mpg is far from a revolution. Unfortunately, only dire catastrophe will wake Americans up to such a realization, and without REAL leadership coming from Congress and the White House, such a catastrophe appears inevitable.

Bosch Ready to Start Filling Hybrid Parts Void

The makers of hybrid cars have had one major problem, lack of hybrid parts. Slowly, that is beginning to change. Bosch recently told AutoWeek that "We have concluded the prototype, and we have concluded it very successfully. We are now in the business-development phase and are in contact with customers about contracts."

"At this point, we are offering the electric motor, the power electronics, engine controls - meaning adapted engine controls - and, depending on the requirements, brake technology in the form of brake-by-wire."

Aside from gasoline electric hybrid cars, Bosch is also focusing its hybrid efforts on diesel hybrids as well.

Gas guzzling: Tax incentives versus CAFE

Gas guzzling kills

I love discussing the connection between gas-guzzling, wars in Iraq, 9/11 and other forms of terrorism.

"There is no connection between Iraq, 9/11 and gas guzzling," so many often say.

Really? So, why do we care so much about the Middle East, but not other areas of the world? Why did we stop Saddam in the first Persian Gulf War? Was it about human rights? If so, why didn't - and why don't we - care about the slaughter of millions in Sudan, or Rwanda?

Do we really care that much about people from Qatar?

One only need listen to Bin Laden's own words to understand that there is a clear connection between America's need, or greed, for foreign oil and 9/11.

But back to the point. Whether it is the cost of gasoline, fear of foreign oil dependency, or a desire to protect the environment, many realize that America's oil addiction cannot continue.

So, which is a better tool to fight this dependency, CAFE or tax incentives?

I say put the power in the hands of the people. Congress and corporations have had decades to make a difference and the only thing they've accomplished is perpetually increased foreign oil dependency.

I say let Ford and GM do whatever they want. Put the power in the hands of the people!!

Instead of increasing CAFE, take that high CAFE number and give a huge tax incentive to EVERY customer that buys a vehicle that meets that CAFE number. That's the best way to promote technologies, such as hybrid cars.

Increase CAFE and automakers will just find some kind of loophole to do nothing.

If you want to buy a gas guzzler, no problem, but you'll pay high gas prices and receive no tax credit. Buy a Prius, buy an Escape hybrid, even a Tahoe hybrid and you get a HUGE tax credit - as long as it meets that high CAFE number - plus you'll you use less gas.

Tax incentives for Hummers? Please!!!!!! This must end, as must any other corporate welfare and loopholes for automakers, as must tax incentives for oil companies.

Give this money to the people and let the corporations fight for customers. By, of and for the PEOPLE, not the corporations!!!!

Fickle consumers underscore need for hybrid technology

Most Consumers Still Demand Performance and/or Size

Hybrid technology is just emerging and still evolving, but already there are mild hybrids, full hybrids, one-mode hybrids, two-mode hybrids, gasoline hybrids, diesel hybrids, hydrogen hybrids, plug-in hybrids, flex-fuel hybrids, etc.

Another class of hybrids, performance hybrids, have often been the source of much media ridicule because they are as much about performance as fuel efficiency. Such hybrids include the Lexus RX400h and the Honda Accord hybrid. Additionally, other hybrids, such as the Toyota Highlander hybrid, could have been made to be more fuel efficient, but Toyota figured Highlander drivers, and many SUV drivers, still favored a certain level of performance more than fuel efficiency. Much evidence seems to show that Toyota is right.

According to a CNN/Kelly Blue Book study, almost 25% of consumers are willing to give up performance and size for better fuel economy; however, 25% refuse to give up anything for better fuel economy. The other 50% will give up a little size, or a little performance, etc.

Along those same lines, an AutoWeek article notes, Loyalists won't quit big SUVs; hauling power, improved fuel economy help move vehicles . "Arguably, Americans insist on SUVs. It's unique to their lifestyle and utility."

Additionally, while Congress is going to finally address CAFE, it now appears that the new regulations will still protect Detroit's SUV domain. It is just too obvious in Congress that Detroit probably cannot survive if CAFE is pushed too high.

Unfortunately, performance and size are simply more important to most Americans than is fuel efficiency. Nonetheless, ever rising oil prices, ever more realizations of the connection between foreign oil, terrorism and American hate, will slowly force more and more Americans to take fuel efficiency seriously.

The technology behind hybrid cars enables automakers to continue to provide performance and size to Americans, while also significantly reducing foreign oil dependency. This isn't something that should be done, it is something that must be done. While Congress will probably be weak on CAFE, they should be overly aggressive in offering tax incentives to promote hybrid technology.

Join our Campaign to Make Congress Act On Hybrid Tax Incentives.

Did you feel your gas price relief?

When I saw the headline, Motorists finally get a little pump relief, I couldn't stop laughing. Gas prices decline by a penny and that is now called relief? WOW!

The hybrid revolution: Is Toyota just coasting?

According to Toyota, its hybrid cars are selling as fast as they can be made. Contrary to recent articles, even the Highlander hybrid and the Lexus RX400h, are also selling well, notes a recent AutoWeek story.

Nonetheless, Toyota isn't necessarily selling many more hybrids this year compared to last year. In fact, with the release of the Camry hybrid, for example, Toyota has had to reduce its production of the popular Prius, in order to have the capacity to build the hybrid Camry. Thus, overall sales of Toyota hybrids are not accelerating as fast as in the past, even though interest is growing.

So, why isn't Toyota producing more hybrids?

"Expanding hybrid volume requires increasing the number of vehicles that have the hybrid option available," stated Jim Press, President of Toyota U.S.A. "That's driven by engineering resources, and it's difficult to accelerate that."

One can only speculate that "engineering resources" also includes technical parts from suppliers, such as batteries. Why don't suppliers rush to this demand? Maybe the better question is, why should they? NiMH batteries appear to already be a dead technology soon to be replaced by lithium-ion technology. Yet, unfortunately, this whole transition will take years, maybe even a decade.

Whatever the causes for this lack of "engineering resources", it appears that Toyota is either willing, or has no choice, to just coast for a few years, producing only a few hundred thousand hybrids annually.

Hopefully, soon-to-be-released hybrid technology from GM and Chrysler, or a new hybrid Fit from Honda, will accelerate Toyota's hybrid production.

Honda Fit Hybrid Confirmed?

According to an anonymous source, Honda will produce the Fit hybrid and will offer it for sale as early as 2007. The same source indicated that the Fit hybrid will use the same powertrain as Honda's Insight hybrid. Additionally, the source also noted that a CR-V hybrid might be available for sale before the end of this year. Let's cross our fingers and hope that Honda has truly decided to add the Fit to its selection of hybrid cars. Such a hybrid would certainly open up hybrid technology to a wider range of incomes, which could significantly help speed up the hybrid revolution.

Camry hybrid? Get on the list.

Waiting lists for hybrid cars are not anything new, many people still have their name down on a Toyota Prius. Well, Toyota might have found another winner in the Camry hybrid. According to CNBC, there is now a 1 month waiting list for the Camry hybrid, nationwide. Some markets, such as Chicago, have a 2 month waiting list.

Is Silicon Valley the Next Detroit, but Cleaner and Greener?

Sometimes I just don't think that Ford and GM are going to find the light at the end of the tunnel. They simply seem to be lost in the past and unable to find a new vision for the future.

While I hope that changes, as the technology behind automobiles evolves from motors and gasoline into computers and batteries, perhaps Silicon Valley is better positioned for the future than is Detroit. That's the point of the article, A car that could save the planet—fast.

This movement, "a growing cluster of engineers, startups, and investors, most of them based in Silicon Valley, that believe they can do what major automakers have failed at for decades: Think beyond the golf cart and deliver an electric vehicle (EV) to the mass market."

"Beyond that, startups are forming to equip new "plug-in" hybrids that run almost entirely on their electric motors. And around the country, a handful of other exotic EVs are showing up on the road -- including George Clooney's new ride, a $108,000 commuter coupe that's just 3 feet wide."

Hybrid cars, such as the Prius, have demonstrated that automakers can do better, much better. If Detroit can't be the place for this automotive revolution, let's hope that Silicon Valley can.

No Surprise: Hybrid Sales Surged in 2005

You've come a long way baby!

In 2005, sales of hybrid cars more than doubled, significantly led by the Toyota Prius (AP). Still, hybrids only account for around 1% of total U.S. auto sales. While gas prices make hybrid vehicles more appealing, the price of hybrids will still have to come down in order to make hybrids desirable to a significant percentage of American consumers. Inevitably, most potential hybrid buyers cannot help but notice the price of a standard Camry compared to a hybrid Camry or a standard Civic compared to a Civic hybrid. If it takes five years or more to recover this investment, you've already lost most Americans. Nonetheless, as the Prius clearly demonstrates, unique hybrids can be hot sellers.

Time to Declare War on Foreign Oil Dependency?

I think America is at War, a war that most Americans refuse to acknowledge, and the fight for independence from foreign oil dependency is shaping up to be the most important war America has ever fought.

Former CIA Director R. James Woolsey has become a huge advocate for ending America's foreign oil dependency, and he is very outspoken about the dangers of America's oil addiction.

"If you want to see who's paying for all that [extremism and terrorism], next time you pull in to fill up, turn the rearview mirror a little bit so you can look at yourself for a minute as you get out with your credit card," Woolsey said during a meeting with reporters and editors of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

Yet, Americans don't really think about that - to our direct connection to extremism and terrorism - instead we think about how expensive is $3.00 oil. Sadly, $3.00 oil is nothing compared to what could happen.

Aside from the problems in Iran, Nigeria, Venezuela, aside from hurricanes, aside from rapidly growing oil demand in China and India, an attack on Saudi oil refineries could have an even greater impact on gasoline prices.

How bad?

Today oil is at $70.00 per barrel, but if Saudi oil refineries were damaged - not destroyed - oil could easily climb to over $150.00 per barrel. Add intensified problems with Iran, or another major hurricane and who knows how high oil prices could climb.

What would a year of $7.00 gasoline do for the American economy? How high would $7.00 gas push the cost of groceries and other commodities? How would $7.00 gas help your commute?

What We Can Do

Fighting this war isn't a battle between ethanol versus biodiesel, or clean diesel cars versus hybrid cars. All of these technologies and alternative fuels MUST be utilized. Conservation MUST be utilized.

While politicians can blame one another, and citizens can blame politicians, automakers and the drivers of gas-guzzlers, blame will not win the war. While many in Congress blame other members, or the President, how many members regularly drive a hybrid car, fill up with ethanol or biodiesel, or maybe even walk a little more? Not very many according to recent reports. What about citizens?

Ultimately, little can be done in the short term to fix gas prices or to reduce foreign oil dependency. Today, average citizens must try to conserve, buy hybrid cars, use ethanol where available, or give bio-diesel a try. Moreover, we have to think about the future. We must make Congress and the President create more tax incentives for clean automobiles and clean fuels, not for Hummers and for oil companies.

Finally, we need to let automakers and politicians know that if they can't, or won't, help us fight this war, we'll find alternatives to them.

Join our campaign to make Congress Act.

Is raising CAFE worth bankrupting GM?

When Congress failed to pass legislation that would have increased CAFE less than a year ago, hardly anyone cared. Today, 10 states - essentially Democratic strongholds - are suing Bush for the problem.

Yes, the last time CAFE came before Congress, the majority of Republicans were against the legislation; however, enough Republicans did vote to change CAFE, if not for Democrats loyal to the auto unions also voting against CAFE increases. Ultimately, America's oil addiction has been perpetuated by both parties - even if one party is more at fault.

Still, can you blame some of these politicians? Their constituents probably would have lost even more jobs, and the entire American auto industry could have been pushed into bankruptcy if CAFE had been significantly increased.

On the other hand, Detroit should have beat Japan to hybrid cars, for example, but American leadership in automobiles has been missing for decades. Still, we can't wait forever for American automakers to get with the program.

So, all politics aside, if raising CAFE meant bankrupting GM, would the ends justify the means? Might bankruptcy finally be what is needed to get the American auto industry focused correctly, or is this going to far?

Altima hybrid will not be available until 2007

The Nissan Altima hybrid will not challenge the current field of hybrid cars until 2007, rather than in late 2006. The hybrid Altima will only be sold in 8 states and it does not appear that Nissan has high expectations for this vehicle, probably due to the fact that Nissan had to lease hybrid technology from Toyota to produce their first hybrid. If sales of the Toyota Camry hybrid exceed expectations, I'd suspect Nissan will become more bullish in marketing this hybrid.

Click out MotorTrend for more pictures.

$500.00 Tax Rebate for High Gas Prices?

"To ease the sting of higher gas prices," U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Lansing, "has called for a one-time, $500 per person tax rebate for people earning up to $119,950 annually. It would be paid for by rolling back $5 billion in tax breaks for oil companies." (DetroitNews)

Is this a good idea?

New Army hybrid vehicle can power a city block

The Army is working with Oshkosh Truck Corp to develop a new line of Heavy Expanded Mobility Technical Hybrid Trucks. "Oshkosh Truck, the military's exclusive provider of the Army's heavy cargo-hauling HEMTT vehicles, is finishing up prototypes of its electric hybrid. It not only increases gas mileage by about 20 percent from the standard 3 to 4 miles per gallon, it generates enough electricity to power a city block or hospital." (AP)

How hybrid vehicles can save America

"At some point the love affair with horsepower will run out of gas. If it doesn't, we will." (The Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

Gas guzzling is the root of all evil. O.K., I'm just kidding. Still, gas-guzzling is causing massive problems throughout the world. Let's face it, the geopolitical scene in the Middle East revolves entirely around oil, and very important glaciers are probably melting due to gas-guzzling global warming emissions. Of course, most Americans simply tune these issues out of every day consciousness.

The only thing that really gets Americans emotionally engaged is $3.00 gas, but still not enough to stop our love affair with gas-guzzling. In reality, $3.00 gas isn't that expensive, it just isn't dirt cheap.

Year after year America consumes more and more gas and more and more of it comes from countries that perceive America as enemy, not friend.

While huge SUVs, for example, aren't as popular as they have been, they are still selling extremely well. More alarming, if these gas hogs do not sell well, the American auto industry will almost certainly collapse.

Therefore, hybrid vehicles have become absolutely essential for America's survival. Inevitably, Americans want power and they want speed, but this combination is synonymous with gas-guzzling. Only hybrid technology can provide this combination, while also reducing gas consumption.

While others might speak of ethanol or bio-fuel, which are excellent options, they will not go far enough. If ethanol is someday cheaper than gasoline for all Americans, demand will just keep increasing, creating the need for more and more ethanol. Then one day, a drought or some other disaster, will wipe out a significant percent of our ethanol supplies.

Conservation might the best solution, at least in the short term, but such a topic seems offensive to many Americans, and might also bring down Detroit.

Inevitably, America and the world needs significantly more fuel efficient automobiles and hybrid technology can cross that bridge. Along the way, any number of hybrid breakthroughs just might result in even more efficient, fuel cell hybrid vehicles - available at cost-effective prices.

While I wouldn't mind a ban on any vehicle that doesn't achieve, say 30 mpg, most Americans simply aren't going to support such a move in the near term. Thus, it is vitally important that Americans who demand large vehicles and other performance autos, to embrace hybrid vehicles.

Likewise, the Big 3 automakers, especially GM, must also embrace hybrid technology and one can only hope that GM's Two Mode Hybrids live up to expectations. If GM can be successful selling these vehicles in America, the future could be much brighter not just for consumers, but for GM and America as well.

Ultimately, America must embrace technology, especially clean and green technology, if the economy is to remain strong. Otherwise, America will quickly become but a footnote in the history of 21st Century Superpowers.

Ford's Slow Hybrid Sales Surge 50% in April

Last week I read at least 4 articles talking about the slow sales of hybrid vehicles. MotorTrend, for example, carried the article Hybrid Sales Running On Empty.

Then, today, I read that Ford increased its sales of hybrid vehicles by 50% in April - some slump(Reuters).

While it is true that incentives played a role in the sales increase of the Ford Escape hybrid, I bet rising gas prices also didn't hurt. Still, the whole "hybrids losing momentum" sentiment was really annoying.

Sales of the Toyota Prius weren't slow, nor were the sales of the Honda Civic hybrid. These two vehicles account for the far majority of hybrid vehicle sales, yet because the Honda Accord hybrid isn't selling well - a performance hybrid - hybrid sales are slumping?

Hybrid cars are an emerging technology and not every hybrid is going to sell well - there will be winners and losers. Additionally, costs and the price of gas are extremely important. Still, with no end in sight for high gasoline prices, I expect a lot more slow sales from hybrid cars.

Nonetheless, I don't get it. Why does it seem so many want to see hybrids fail?

My First Camry Hybrid Test Drive

On Friday morning my local Toyota dealer called me to tell me that they had just received their first 2007 Camry hybrid. An hour later, I was at the dealership, but there wasn't any Camry hybrid in sight.

After a few calls around the lot, we learned that it was already on a test drive, and that another customer was also waiting to take Toyota's newest hybrid for a test drive as well.

Finally, it was my turn in this hot, red hybrid.

This was my first up close look at the newly designed Camry. What an improvement! The Camry has never been a visually stunning vehicle, but it is now. I would almost call the new Camry, sporty, but one thing is certain, this is the best looking Camry ever.

As I sat in the Camry, it was immediately obvious how much roomier this new hybrid is compared to the Prius. Much like most other hybrids, sitting in the Camry hybrid feels very much like sitting in a conventional vehicle. Almost everything about the Prius, on the other hand, seems different.

As I looked around the cabin, I quickly noticed the sunroof, something which isn't available on the Prius. This Camry also came with leather and a few other amenities which pushed the price to about $29,000, versus about $25,000 for a base level Camry hybrid.

The 2006 Prius that I checked out in the lot while waiting for my test drive actually cost a few hundred more than this Camry. While both hybrid cars offered leather and top electronics, the Prius also offered a navigation system and rear back up camera. Still, it goes to show how difficult it is to understand the pricing of hybrids.

As we pulled out of the dealer lot, it was immediately obvious that the hybrid Camry offers more horsepower than the Prius, of course that also means that the Camry isn't as fuel efficient as the Prius. Additionally, I feel that the Prius drives a little stiff, whereas the Camry offers a bit of a smoother drive.

Unfortunately, my test drive did not last long. Just as we were about to pull onto the freeway, my salesman's phone rang and we were directed back to the lot. This Camry hybrid was no longer available for sale.

While I was disappointed that I didn't get to hit the freeway, I'm sure the Camry hybrid would have offered more power there as well, compared to the Prius.

The Prius Versus the Camry Hybrid

Some people hate the design of the futuristic Prius. I find the Prius to be one of the most efficiently designed vehicles ever made, and I don't just mean regarding fuel efficiency. For such a small vehicle, the Prius offers an incredible amount of storage and space. Additionally, one of my favorite Prius amenities is the hatchback, which is just incredibly useful.

For those whom hate the design of the Prius, the Camry hybrid is a very nice alternative. Unlike most hybrid vehicles that are compared to their conventional cousins, many hybrid Camry buyers might only compare the Camry hybrid to the Prius, rather than to a conventional Camry. This could really help the Camry hybrid sell, even though it is more expensive than a standard Camry.

Ultimately, these two Toyota hybrids feel and look very different. The Prius is a unique, sensible, very fuel efficient vehicle. The Camry hybrid is sensibly elegant, offering a little more luxury, a little more refinement, but a little less fuel economy for a few thousand more than the Prius.

Nonetheless, with gas prices above $3.00, I think both cars will be hot sellers.

Hybrid Technology: One Mode Versus Two Mode

Soon, the first hybrid cars from GM and Chrysler will be available for sale, and so too will a new type of hybrid technology.

The New York Times notes, "the new technology is different in some crucial respects. It has the potential to operate much more efficiently at highway speeds, with a greater boost from the electric motors. The components are lighter and more compact and can be readily adapted to different types of vehicles. It is particularly well suited to large trucks and S.U.V.'s — the biggest gas hogs in Americans' garages — where it will have the greatest impact on overall fuel consumption."

Wouldn't going from an SUV to a hybrid car, rather than a large hybrid SUV, "have the greatest impact on overall fuel consumption"?

Still, if consumers have to have a "gas hog", a hybrid "gas hog" will be 25% less piggish - and that's at least a good start.