Gas Mileage and Gas Prices

Which Automaker Dominated the World Markets in 2011?

Fuel Economy Advisor — Thu, 10 May 2012 02:42:10 +0000

Four automakers can lay claim to the world markets of 2011. GM believes that it owns the right to claim 9.03 million in sales internationally. Some dispute that claim. VW claims 8.156 million, Nissan/Renault claims 8.1 million and Toyota claims 7.9 million. With one in dispute and three so close together, it might be a four-way tie.

Which Automaker Dominated the World Markets in 2011?

GM may have inflated its strong figures when it included 1.2M in Chinese sales attributed to Wuling, a loosely connected automaker that isn’t quite a part of the GM family. Even with this figure removed, it ranks number four. So, whether its 9.03 or 7.7 million, GM has the largest share in China and the USA, the two largest car markets. It can claim over 30 percent in third-ranked Brazil, 21 percent in fourth-ranked Germany, and 26 percent in sixth-ranked Russia.

VW’s 8.156 million includes 42% of the fourth-ranked German market, 34% of the third-ranked Brazilian market, and 31% of the enormous Chinese market. It also makes a strong showing in the U.S. (almost 5 percent) and Russia (over 14 percent).

Nissan/Renault snagged 30% of the Russian market, 17% in China, and 13% or more in the U.S., Germany and Brazil.

Toyota, with its 7.9 million, remained the top seller in Japan (64 percent) and earned 20% of all U.S. sales, 12% in China and 13% in Russia. It also maintained decent showings in Germany and Brazil. The hybrid Prius continues to outsell all other hybrids.

Jason Lancaster likes seeing which automakers dominated the global markets in 2011 and looks forward to seeing trends in 2012. He works with Toyota Parts Center, an online seller of genuine Toyota Sienna parts.

Do You Need an Extended Warranty on a Hybrid Vehicle?

Fuel Economy Advisor — Mon, 07 May 2012 04:55:06 +0000

If you are buying a hybrid car or are about to buy one, sooner or later you are going to be asked by the dealer if you want to buy an extended car warranty to go with the vehicle. But the answer to that question really depends on the level of risk you are willing to take.

Hybrid Cars and Warranties

Hybrid cars have more complex components than standard vehicles, and for this reason many car manufacturers have had to bump up the period of protection for the batteries that help to power the vehicles.

On most hybrid vehicles the manufacturer’s warranty covers all of the hybrid components for the first 100,000 miles, but in California there are stricter emission laws that extend those warranties for 150,000 miles.

When a Warranty Runs Out

There is no sense in buying an extended warranty if your car is already protected by the manufacturer warranty. But as soon as that warranty expires and something breaks down on your car you will have to pay for those expenses out of pocket.

by dronir

An extended warranty is definitely not for everyone, and as most hybrid cars made recently are much more reliable than the first hybrids to be made 10 years ago, it’s not essential that you own one. In fact, the car dealership will probably make it sound like you HAVE to have an extended warranty from them. But if you really feel the need for a warranty you should tell the dealer that you want to shop around and compare prices first.

The Risk of a Warranty

By purchasing an extended warranty you are betting on something breaking down on the car. So if nothing happens in the time frame of the warranty you will have essentially wasted your money.

However, if you would rather have the peace of mind of knowing that if anything did break down on your hybrid you would not have to pay anything for it, then some warranty coverage may help put you at ease.

Manufacturer Warranties

If you are going to be buying a brand new hybrid vehicle like the Prius for instance, you should know that the manufacturer’s warranty already covers the car for the first 36,000 miles or 3 years. But beyond that the powertrain warranty that covers the engine and drive components extends for another 60,000 miles or 5 years.

After weighing all of your options, if you are still intent on getting extended warranty protection on your vehicle you should know that there are quite a few companies that offer excellent reliability. Dealerships will make it sound like they are the only ones that can protect your car, but the problem is that if something does break down on your car you will have to take it back to that same dealer to get it repaired.

Finding the Right Company

A good warranty company will pay for any protected parts on your car if they fail and you will be able to take your car to any licensed shop in the nation. Also, never get your warranty through a company that promises to reimburse you. The good companies will pay the shop directly so you don’t ever have to pay any money out of pocket.

So the decision to get a warranty on your hybrid car really depends on both your financial situation and your willingness to take risks. It might seem like a risk to not buy a warranty if something expensive does fail, but it’s just as much a risk to spend the money on a warranty that you will never be able to use. For this I recommend warranty coverage that offers refund insurance that will pay you back some of the money if you never have to use it.

You can find more information on car warranties at http://extendedcarwarrantys.com/ where there are reviews on some of the best companies online.

The Acura 2013 ILX Hybrid is Announced with Built-In Navigation System

Fuel Economy Advisor — Fri, 04 May 2012 07:02:16 +0000

It might have taken them a while to get on the Hybrid band-wagon, but the Acura brand (owned by Honda) have finally announced that they will be releasing their very own eco-friendly car model. Their first entry into the Hybrid car market will be the Acura 2013 ILX which was announced earlier last month at the Vancouver International Auto Show.

The new, greener model was unveiled next to an updated version of their 2012 TSX A-Spec – meaning it was a very busy Show for Honda’s luxury Acura badge. The Vice President for Honda Canada, Jerry Chenkin, was quoted as saying that this was a significant step for Acura as the new Hybrid model was their gateway into the luxury market – and was going to come with a raft of exceptional features designed to save money and be better for the environment than previous cars. For example, it comes with an in-built factory-installed navigation system which is designed to save drivers fuel and mileage due to the clever traffic jam avoidance technology.

Compact Sedan That Economizes Your Drive

The Hybrid Acura ILX 2013 version will be a compact sedan and has been designed to curry favor with drivers that are looking to economize their driving. But at the same time it will still retain the sleek and sporty feel of a luxury Acura car. The ILX has a 1.5 liter engine which is further complimented with an Integrated Motor Assist electric motor.

Uses Gas and Electric Engines Where Appropriate

As the majority of competing Hybrid cars on the US market, the latest Acura ILX will still retain the use of a standard gas engine as the main power source under the hood (which will be used when starting from still) — this means that the 2013 Acura ILX won’t be 100% electric (but then what Hyrbid truly is?) but will work when it can to use the electric engine aspect. It comes with a lithium-ion battery which retains electricity and when used together the two separate engines can produce 110 horse power at a very good 5,500 RPM rate.

Reduces CO2 Emissions and Helps With Fuel Costs

In order to further lesson CO2 emissions and fuel costs, the Acura 2013 ILX really gets to work when it is braking. This is because it will deactivate the gas engine and let the electric motor take over, helped by the generator which constantly re-charges the lithium battery pack.

Acura GPS Navigation System

The Acura Navigation System

Because the new ILX comes with a factory-installed navigation device for GPS, it means the customer will not need to buy a standalone unit (think Garmin and TomTom). The Acura Navigation System comes with live traffic alerts meaning it will notify the driver when a jam is up ahead and re-route the car on a different journey whilst avoiding any queues. In terms of the environmental effect, this should help to reduce the amount of fuel used, as traffic jams are the number one cause of high fuel consumption. Independent research conducted by the Navteq Company (who supply the digital GPS maps) has revealed that this can greatly reduce annual driving time and overall fuel costs each year — meaning it will contribute to the positive environment effect of driving the new Acura Hybrid car to some degree.

Want to Know More?

Additional information on the positive environmental effects of using the in-built Acura GPS with traffic alerts can be found by clicking on this article: Acura Navigation DVD – The 2012 Version. It has a table on it which goes into more detail on which models and years accept which version of the update – so you can find out how your carbon footprint could be altered by simply updating your maps (and 2012 versions come as standard on the new Acura ILX Hybrid model).

This article was courtesy of the team at: GPSNavigationDVD.net.

New Features and MPG of the 2013 Honda Accord

Fuel Economy Advisor — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 11:09:42 +0000

Honda has recently unveiled their new concept car, the 2013 Honda Accord. This model will feature a newly designed exterior as well as interior to include the engine and transmission. When you first gaze up this car you will notice the front end of the car has a new mesh design with crystallized chrome outlining the fog lamps. On the rear of the vehicle, engineers have created a unique rear end that has an integrated spoiler and custom exhaust ends that will make this car stand out. Inside, there will be a new advanced climate control system that will circulate the air within the car to maximize heating and cooling. Also included in the newly redesigned car will be safety features that are new to the Honda brands. It will feature Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning and Lanewatch. All these features are used to help cover your blind spots and to make you a safer driver.

The Honda engineers also revamped the engine, which now features a new 2.4-liter direct injection 4-cyclinder. This engine will produce a solid 181 horsepower with 177 pounds of torque, making this a small but powerful engine. To compliment the new engine, Honda has also added a new Continuously Variable Transmission system, which gives the option to manually select the gear ratios for the transmission, which will enhance performance.

One of the biggest benefits of the new 2.4-liter engine is the increased MPG. These enhancements made to the engine and transmission will help the accord to compete and possibly beat other class leading miles per gallon fuel efficiency cars. Although official details of the actual MPG are not known yet, some experts believe that the 2013 Honda Accord could get up to 40 miles per gallon on the highway. This would be a significant achievement in the battle for fuel efficient cars.

As you can see, the new 2013 Honda Accord is going to be one of the most anticipated cars for 2013. With an improved engine and better fuel economy, it will be a fan favorite for many potential car buyers.

Top 3 Cars In 2010 For Best Gas Mileage

Fuel Economy Advisor — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 17:05:48 +0000

The top pick for highest gas mileage car is the 2010 Toyota Prius. At around twenty thousand dollars you can expect to get 48 miles per gallon on the highway and 45 in town (with some reporting it breaks the 50 MPG barrier). This car is powered by a 16 valve four cylinder engine. The 110 peak horse power out of this four cylinder engine will give great response when passing. These cars are offered in the United States at Toyota dealerships all over the country. The Toyota Prius is a smaller sedan that is offered in four door and seats five people. These are great for carpooling making great use of the seating capacity.

The second pick for highest gas mileage in a car is the 2010 Honda Civic Hybrid. With a base price around 22,000 dollars you can expect to get 45 miles to the gallon on the highway and 40 miles per gallon in town. This car is powered by a 1.8 liter eight valve four cylinder backed by electric power to help in being more economic. This power plant will get you around with 110 peak horse power. These are smaller sedans that can seat five comfortably.

The third pick in top gas mileage cars is the Smart Car. This car has a one liter three cylinder engine that has a peak horse power rating of 70hp and gets around 40 MPG. The base price on the Smart Car starts out at around 11,500 dollars. This will make it affordable from the start with years of savings on fuel. These cars will run best when using premium higher octane gasoline. With seats for two people these cars make the perfect commuter. All the comforts of the larger cars will be found in the Smart Car just in a smaller package. The biggest advantage over gas mileage for this car is the maneuverability which is do to the short wheel base.

Checking Car Value with Kelly Blue Book Used Cars

Fuel Economy Advisor — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 19:20:17 +0000

Looking for a good deal on a used car (or even a new car)? Make sure you determine the real value of the auto first. Probably the best way to do this is to check with the Kelly Blue Book value. By grading the car based on how old it is, how much mileage it has on it, and the general overall appearance of the vehicle, Kelly Blue Book can give you a pretty good idea of what the car is worth. People have been using them for years, so you know they’re pretty trustworthy.

If you’re looking to sell your car, looking at Kelly Blue Book Used Cars is a great way to make sure you don’t under price yourself — or overprice yourself out of a sale. If you really want to move a car fast, price it 5% to 10% below the blue book value. Anyone shopping for a car will immediately recognize the deal and take it off your hands right away. If you’re not in any rush, price the car about 5% to 10% over the Kelly Blue Book Used Car value. This will give you a little wiggle room with haggling and negotiating.

More resources for selling used cars:

AutoTrader
Cars.com
Find or Sell Used Cars on Yahoo! Autos
Selling Your Used Car Advice from Edmunds

Lexus, Toyota Recall; Floor Mat Causes Crash

Fuel Economy Advisor — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 13:45:12 +0000

Toyota Motor said Tuesday it will soon issue a recall for at least 3.8 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles to fix a potential safety problem caused by a car’s floor mat jamming the accelerator.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, meanwhile, urged motorists not to wait for a fix. “This is an urgent matter,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “For everyone’s sake, we strongly urge owners of these vehicles to remove mats or other obstacles that could lead to unintended acceleration.”

The impending U.S. recall, the largest in Toyota history, followed a horrific crash last month in San Diego in which a mat was suspected of snagging a gas pedal on a runaway Lexus, ending with a fiery crash that killed four family members.

A minute before the crash, the driver called police to say the car had no brakes and the accelerator was stuck. The runaway car was doing more than 120 mph when it hit a sport-utility vehicle, launched off an embankment, rolled several times and burst into flames. The car, equipped with all-weather floor mats, was on loan from a dealership while the driver’s own vehicle was being repaired.

“The tragic accident in San Diego was certainly an eye opener for all of us,” said Senior Vice President Irving Miller, prompting the company to review previous allegations of unintended acceleration caused by floor mat interference.

Miller said the company could not quantify the number of complaints, nor could it estimate the cost of the safety campaign.

Hybrid MPG: Toyota Prius vs. Nissan Altima vs. Honda Civic

Fuel Economy Advisor — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 21:50:10 +0000

Now that we are hearing more and more about fuel saving hybrid cars that run on batteries, we wanted to know how the top contenders compare in fuel consumption and value. So we took at the look at the 3 Hybrids rated the most fuel effecient for 2009: The 2009 Toyota Prius Hybrid, the 2009 Nissan Altima Hybrid and the 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid.

All of these figures are based on the assumption that you have driven the car at least 1500 miles to break it in. Assuming 1500 miles annually and gas prices at $2.44 per gallon, combined MPG (Miles Per Gallon) and the assumption that you refill when the tank is at 10% full.

The Toyota Prius Hybrid does the best in the city at a whopping 45 MPG, but breaks even when it comes to the highway at 45 MPG and again takes the lead in the combined gas mileage at 46 MPG. It should cost you about $1.33 to drive 25 miles, while only using only .54 of a gallon of gas. This car will cost about $794.00 to fill up on a yearly basis.

The Nissan Altima Hybrid does not do as well as either car, as it only gets 35 miles in the city and 33 on the highway. It only pulls a combined 34 MPG. To drive 25 miles would cost you $1.79 and only gets 612 miles on a tank of gas.
You’re looking at $1076.00 in annual fuel cost based on 612 miles per tank fill up.

The Honda Civic Hybrid comes in about even with the Honda Prius with 40 miles in the city and 45 on the highway. It pulls a combined 42 MPG, it cost $1.45 to drive 25 miles, while only using .60 of a gallon. To fill this car up it will cost you $43.92, while getting 612 miles off of a fill up, and a yearly fuel cost of $871.00.

How to Finance Your Next Car Purchase; Any Credit Auto Loans

Fuel Economy Advisor — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 11:36:47 +0000

Are you worried about getting a car loan in these tough economic times? Getting a car loan can be very easy if you know what you are doing. Here are some tips on how to get an auto loan:

1. The first thing that you should do is put together a monthly budget of your expenses so you can see the amount of money that you can afford for a car payment.

2. The second thing that you need to do is to put together some money for a down payment on the car. You can get a lower car payment and a lower interest rate if you put down a decent down payment. You should try to put down at least thirty percent so that you don’t have a hefty auto loan to deal with.

3. The third thing that you should do is select three types of cars that you might like to own; then go view them at a car dealership. It is important to weigh your pros and cons when selecting a car to buy because the loan is a huge responsibility.

4. The fourth thing that you need to do is serious discuss financing with a few car salesmen so that you can see what types of car financing that they offer so that you are prepared when you go to apply.

Getting a car loan is now very easy through Any Credit Auto Loans. This company helps consumers to find the best auto financing available; the company says that your prior credit history does not matter. They will help you get an auto loan no matter what your credit history looks like. This service is free and consumers can begin the process by filling out an application. The application is pretty short but it can be very beneficial to helping you find a great place to get your car financing. The whole process takes less than 24 hours and you will learn very fast if your application has been approved. They will help you get the car that you want in no time!

Russia And Iran Form Gas Cartel; Evil Axis Controls US Fuel

2009 New York International Auto Show Starts This Weekend

Fuel Economy Advisor — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 19:36:18 +0000

The week of April 10th through the 19th, the annual New York Auto Show will be taking place at Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City. With giveaways, prizes, high-tech displays, celebrities and much much more, it is a world of entertainment for the whole family.

The 2009 NY Auto Show is the best place to get a look at the latest and greatest advancements in automobile technology. (Event Schedule) Whether you are interested in going fast or going green, there is something there for everyone. While you cannot actually purchase a car at the New York Car Show, take a look around and get some ideas for your next buy. Not only is there the opportunity to check out a display of antique cars, there is also vast information on the newest developments such as increased gas mileage, lowered emissions and brand new safety features developed to keep you and your family safe.

The winners of “Car of the Year” are all smaller cars which get great gas mileage:

If you plan on checking out the NY Auto Show this weekend, be sure not to miss the raffle for the 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera, benefiting the Diabetes Foundation. Also, definitely check out the automotive career fair, which is a great opportunity for students soon to graduate. The exhibit of custom cars is sure to awe as well.

The New York Car Show will be running at the convention center from April 10th through April 19th, from 11am to 10:30pm (7pm on Sundays). It is open to the public and tickets can be purchased online or at the door. The NY Auto Show is an event that is sure to delight the whole family.

Gas Mileage and Gas Prices

Which Automaker Dominated the World Markets in 2011?

Most Commented Articles:

Do You Need an Extended Warranty on a Hybrid Vehicle?

Hybrid Cars and Warranties

When a Warranty Runs Out

The Risk of a Warranty

Manufacturer Warranties

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