SUV Apocalypse Nears

Consumers viewing fuel efficiency as 'one factor' again

(NEWSER) - Oil prices have been falling since mid-June, and though it’s debatable whether speculators or market fundamentals drove the boom (and now possible bust), it is clear that $4 a gallon gas crimped demand. But for how long? With prices now again below that psychological threshold but still $1.19 more than a year ago, auto industry data suggest that even mild relief could reverse the trend toward fuel efficiency, the LA Times reports. More»

Gas costs make 'golf carts' smart choices

(NEWSER) - High gas prices are forcing Americans to seriously pursue other transportation options—even in Texas, the heart of oil country. Chrysler’s Global Electric Motorcar division, which sells tiny, utilitarian vehicles, has seen dealerships triple sales. The Wall Street Journal visits a Texas family that’s embraced the cost-efficiency of their 25-mph miniautos, which resemble golf carts. More»

Seth Fletcher explains why America needs to learn from its mistakes

(NEWSER) - America is responding to the recent spike in gas prices in the same “depressingly predictable” fashion it always has. “We’re shocked to see prices top $4 a gallon, as if it’s never happened before,” writes Seth Fletcher in the New York Times . “We demand that something be done—not to reduce our dependence on oil, but to cut the cost of a fill-up.” Thankfully, Barack Obama’s got a real solution in mind: He’s calling for more funding for electric car research and tax breaks. More»

Forbes compiles autos that changed the world

(NEWSER) - Cars can create or symbolize profound change—in lifestyle, financial status, and even forms of government. Forbes looks at 10 that changed the world:

1. Toyota Prius. The flagship model for all hybrids, the Prius opened people's minds to the ugly environmental impact of driving. It remains the world's best-selling hybrid vehicle.
2. Dodge Caravan. The success of the family-friendly Caravan, and competitors' imitations, kicked the minivan craze into gear.

Rocker makes the case for drivers going big and going green

(NEWSER) - Motorists considering electric cars can hang on to their Cadillac dreams as well, writes Neil Young at the Huffington Post. Barack Obama's plan to get a million electric vehicles on American roads within a decade is possible—and the cars don't need to be tiny or even have new designs, writes the rock legend, pointing to his own converted 1959 Lincoln Continental as proof. More»