subject: Fuel Costs Spike Changes In The Auto Industry [print this page] The high gas prices seem to be going nowhere, from what we were used to in the late 90"s with an average cost of gasoline at $1.50 a gallon the new increase to more than $3.50 a gallon being the average it has taken a toll on everyone, including the auto industry.
The prices are speculated to continue their climb and even though the prices in the United States seem almost too much to bear, be thankful that they are not reaching the levels that have been seen in the European countries where they are more than double than that of United States fuel prices.
With the impact that the gas prices have caused to many Americans, it has made some severe changes in the auto industry. Auto sales have actually increased and are speculated to be even higher next year. People are trading in their large gas guzzling vehicles and purchasing smaller and more economical vehicles in their place. The top autos for sales include Toyota Prius, Nissan Leaf, Ford Fusion and Honda CR-Z. Hybrid vehicles are also on the rise as more and more people are concerned not only about conserving energy and protecting the planet but about saving money and protecting their wallet.
Dealerships are taking into consideration the needs of the many Americans out there and are planning their sales floors accordingly. This means you will see less large trucks and SUV"s on the lots and smaller economy cars, hybrids and even motorcycles and scooters will be found on the lots.
Motorcycles have become a very popular choice for many Americans. Most Vespas can get 70 miles per gallon of gas and the new Harley Davidson"s can get at least 50 miles per gallon of gas. Although motorcycles are not the solution for everyone they have certainly made their way into many a home"s garage. If you live in a climate that is warm all year and you have no need to transport children or soccer balls or Girl Scout cookies then the motorcycle could save you a fortune on gas over the period of one year. For those who still need an enclosed vehicle and room to transport children, groceries, camping gear or other items the hybrids and smaller economy SUV"s are the answer.
Some of the impacts that the auto industry has noticed is the need for more efficiency in order to sell their vehicles. The manufacturers are busy creating newer and more efficient engines that will require less gas to operate and fuel efficient tires that are designed to offer less roll resistance. In general all parts have been reduced in weight by about 10% and the overall vehicle weight by 205 to 750 pounds. The changes may not offer a major boost for fuel efficiency but with each new technology that is added it helps to add up to a pretty good savings by the end of the year.
by: Grim Pelecon
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