Drivers Order Big Extras for Small Cars

(NEWSER) - The Obama administration is hyping the cash-for-clunkers program as a chance for Americans to buy more fuel efficient cars, but not all buyers are going greener. Bulky SUVs and even trucks can be purchased with the $3 billion government subsidies, reports AP. Washington is refusing to release detailed records of the clunkers program, but one auto website has posted data showing buyers are gravitating toward gas guzzlers. More»

But big trucks are becoming scarce as automakers retool for fuel efficient models

(NEWSER) - Gas prices are down and the sales of SUVs and pickup trucks are accelerating, albeit only into second gear, reports the Wall Street Journal. As gas edges closer to $2, buyers are picking up bargains on the big gas guzzlers dealers couldn’t give away couple of months ago. And desperate manufacturers still are offering huge discounts on leftover 2008s. More»

Move would catch US up to Europe, China and Japan

(NEWSER) - The Obama administration is trying to convince automakers to accept a significant hike in fuel efficiency standards that would put US vehicles on par with those sold in Europe, Japan and China. The administration would like to raise the standard to 56.2 miles per gallon, or roughly double the current level, by 2025, the New York Times reports. Automakers have the tech to do that, but aren’t thrilled with the cars it would produce. More»

Transportation Department, EPA make new targets official

(AP) - The Obama administration is setting tough gas mileage standards for new cars and trucks, spurring the next generation of fuel-sipping gas-electric hybrids, efficient engines, and electric cars. The heads of the Transportation Department and the Environmental Protection Agency will today sign final rules requiring 2016 model-year vehicles to meet fuel efficiency targets of 35.5 miles per gallon combined for cars and trucks, an increase of nearly 10mpg over current standards. More»

Half of those that appealed will be allowed to stay open

(NEWSER) - About 600 GM dealerships are getting a second life. Of the 1,160 dealers who appealed orders to shut down as part of bankruptcy proceedings, approximately half will be allowed to stay open. But one dealer tells the Detroit News that it's no cause for celebration until the conditions are made clear, possibly as soon as today. More»