In a "one-year race to design an ultra-efficient car that's 'safe, affordable, and desirable'", it was a gasoline engine that took home the $5million prize.  The winner came in with a rating of 100 mpg, which is good news for political groups wanting to up the minimum requirement for new vehicles, not due to be changed until 2025.  Although these cars aren't quite ready for the road, I look forward to the day when everyone can drive one.  A car loan will be much easier to pay off when a tank of gas lasts forever.  See the article here.

In order to meet the increasingly stringent demands of fuel efficiency regulations, Mazda is rolling out some new green technologies that will be featured in future cars.  Car and Driver's article is here.  A short summary: We like Mazda’s strategy for the simple reason that stuff like stop/start, energy regen, and diesel engines can be added without greatly affecting the fun-to-drive appeal of the company’s cars, nor will they add huge levels of cost.  Sounds good to me.  

Yes there are 100 different cars out there that can be considered "green."  This is evidence that fuel efficiency has passed way beyond fad stage.  See Yahoo!'s list here, where cars are ranked according to their green rating. 

Honda has a new concept to be shown at the 2010 Geneva International Motor Show.  The 3R-C3, not to be confused with this, is described as a "revolutionary three wheeled battery electric vehicle concept shows what a future minimal urban transport vehicle for one person might look like. The battery electric drivetrain is mounted low in the three wheeled chassis, therefore keeping the centre of gravity low and thus improving stability."  I think it looks like one of the motorcycles from Tron, which at the end of the day, is pretty cool.  It will be featured alongside the FCX Clarity.  See the press release here.  

If you are wondering if your Toyota vehicle is listed under all the new recalls try the Toyota recall finder tool.  It uses your VIN to do an official lookup.  Also check out the official statement from the COO of Toyota USA.

Flip through this 32 page online document to learn about which cars are fuel efficient and which ones are not.   Learn more about fuel economy at the US Department of Energy (DOE) website. 

 

Another SUV Hybrid from our video department.  Features power and acceleration, controlled ride, interior space (ESV), and increased efficiency safety. 

If you can afford the 50K plus price tag, this vehicle is perfect for the warrior dad who wants to keep Mother Earth happy.  Features towing and hauling ability; spacious interior; compliant ride and handling relevant to other SUV's.