Tag

Fuel Economy

All articles tagged with #fuel economy

May E15 Waiver Expands Ethanol Fuel Amid Global Tensions
energy14 days ago

May E15 Waiver Expands Ethanol Fuel Amid Global Tensions

From May 1–20 the EPA is allowing a temporary nationwide E15 (15% ethanol) waiver to let more stations sell this blend in a bid to bolster the domestic fuel supply amid geopolitical tensions. E15 is cheaper but has lower energy density, typically shaving about 1.5–2% off fuel economy (more in heavy use), and can damage older engines and small equipment not designed for higher ethanol content. Most 2001+ vehicles can run E15, but carbureted engines and some specialty equipment should avoid it. The policy also aims to simplify fuel markets by lightening “boutique” blends into a single national pool, though smog concerns in summer remain a consideration. Readers should verify fuel choices for their specific vehicle and equipment.

politics4 months ago

Trump to Roll Back Biden-Era Vehicle Fuel Efficiency Rules

The Trump administration plans to roll back Biden-era vehicle fuel efficiency standards, arguing it will save the economy around $100 billion, though critics say it won't lower car prices and will hinder environmental progress. The move aims to return to traditional fuel economy standards, emphasizing consumer choice and affordability, amid rising vehicle prices and ongoing regulatory changes.

2025 Toyota 4Runner: Hybrid Fuel Economy and Pricing Insights
automotive1 year ago

2025 Toyota 4Runner: Hybrid Fuel Economy and Pricing Insights

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner's new i-Force Max hybrid model offers worse highway fuel economy compared to its standard gasoline counterpart, primarily due to its exclusive 4WD configuration and off-road features that reduce efficiency. While the hybrid improves city mileage significantly, its highway performance is hindered by the depletion of battery charge and less aerodynamic design. This trend is not unique to Toyota, as similar issues are seen in other hybrid SUVs like the Jeep Wrangler 4xe.

"The 2025 Toyota Camry: America's Best-Selling Car Goes Hybrid-Only"
automotive2 years ago

"The 2025 Toyota Camry: America's Best-Selling Car Goes Hybrid-Only"

The new Toyota Camry for 2025 will only be available as a hybrid, featuring the fifth generation Toyota Hybrid System with improved fuel economy and a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The decision to go all-in on hybrids reflects Toyota's focus on meeting consumer demand and maintaining the Camry's status as a top-selling sedan in the U.S. The new Camry also includes iterative updates to infotainment and driver-assist systems, while prioritizing improvements to ride, handling, steering, and brake-pedal feel to stay true to its sedan roots.

"2025 Toyota Camry: Fun, Affordable, and Fuel-Efficient Hybrid-Only Evolution"
automotive2 years ago

"2025 Toyota Camry: Fun, Affordable, and Fuel-Efficient Hybrid-Only Evolution"

The 2025 Toyota Camry will be available exclusively as a hybrid, reflecting Toyota's commitment to a hybrid-first approach. Priced at $28,400 base, the new Camry boasts a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive or electronic on-demand all-wheel drive, and a manufacturer-estimated combined 51 mpg. Its design features a distinctive "hammerhead" front end and familiar interior with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The driving experience is described as comfortable and fun, with responsive steering and strong acceleration. The hybrid powertrain aims to ease the transition for traditional car buyers towards more sustainable vehicles, offering a safe and affordable option with improved fuel efficiency.

"US Set to Implement Revised EV Mileage Rating Rule, Boosting Automakers"
automotive2 years ago

"US Set to Implement Revised EV Mileage Rating Rule, Boosting Automakers"

The US Energy Department is set to announce final rules that will soften its proposal to slash electric vehicles' mileage ratings to meet fuel economy requirements, a move that is seen as a win for automakers and the United Auto Workers union. The revised rules will gradually reduce the petroleum equivalent EV fuel economy rating through 2030, giving automakers more time to adjust, and are a response to concerns raised by automakers and the UAW. Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency is expected to unveil revised vehicle greenhouse gas emissions requirements that will ease proposed yearly requirements through 2030, providing a boost for plug-in hybrid vehicles and scaling back certain proposals that the industry had objected to.

"2025 Ram 1500 High Output I-6: The Fuel Efficiency Trade-Off"
automotive2 years ago

"2025 Ram 1500 High Output I-6: The Fuel Efficiency Trade-Off"

The new 2025 Ram 1500 trucks feature lighter and more efficient inline-six engines, but they may not be cheaper to run due to their requirement for higher octane gasoline. The Standard Output engine can run on 87-octane fuel while offering improved fuel economy, while the High Output version requires at least 91-octane fuel to unleash its full power. Despite minor improvements in fuel economy, the higher fuel costs associated with the High Output engine may offset any savings compared to the previous V8 model.

"2025 Kia Carnival: Hybrid Minivan with Enhanced Styling and Powertrain"
automotive2 years ago

"2025 Kia Carnival: Hybrid Minivan with Enhanced Styling and Powertrain"

Kia Motors is introducing a hybrid model of its Carnival minivan to meet consumer demand for more efficient vehicles and comply with federal fuel economy standards. The hybrid option, set to be released alongside an updated traditional model, aims to attract a wider audience. The new models feature updated styling and interior technologies, with the hybrid expected to account for half of the Carnival's sales. Kia is also increasing production capacity to meet potential demand and aims to surpass its record U.S. sales from last year.

"GM's Shift: Embracing Plug-In Hybrids in North America"
automotive2 years ago

"GM's Shift: Embracing Plug-In Hybrids in North America"

GM CEO Mary Barra confirmed plans to bring plug-in hybrid options to North America in response to more stringent fuel economy and tailpipe emission standards, with the company aiming to comply in a capital and cost-efficient manner by leveraging existing technology. This move comes as the Biden administration pushes for significant reductions in vehicle fuel consumption and tailpipe emissions, with GM committed to eliminating tailpipe emissions from its light-duty vehicles by 2035 while acknowledging the importance of deploying plug-in technology in strategic segments to deliver environmental benefits as the nation builds its charging infrastructure.

EU Reaches Historic Agreement on Migration Rules, Facing Ratification Challenge
world-news2 years ago

EU Reaches Historic Agreement on Migration Rules, Facing Ratification Challenge

The European Union has reached an agreement on tougher migration rules, despite opposition claiming it will weaken migrant rights. In France, lawmakers approved greater powers for authorities to deport foreigners deemed undesirable. Chaos and logistical challenges disrupted the presidential election in Congo, leading to extended voting hours. Junior doctors in England have begun a three-day strike demanding better pay, while new vehicles in the US achieved a record high fuel economy rating in 2022. Disappointing corporate profits halted the Wall Street rally, with major indices experiencing losses.

The Rise of Hybrids: A Shift in the Auto Industry's EV Transition
automotive2 years ago

The Rise of Hybrids: A Shift in the Auto Industry's EV Transition

As sales of all-electric vehicles (EVs) grow slower than expected, automakers are turning to hybrid cars and trucks to meet consumer demand and avoid penalties related to fuel economy and emissions standards. Hybrid vehicles, such as the Toyota Prius, are outpacing EVs in sales, accounting for 8.3% of U.S. car sales compared to 6.9% for EVs. Hybrids offer a lower cost alternative to EVs and address concerns like range anxiety and charging infrastructure. Major automakers, including Ford, Stellantis, and Toyota, are increasing production and sales of hybrid vehicles to lower fuel consumption and emissions in the short-term while easing consumers into vehicle electrification.

Best Cars for Commuting with Kids: Upgrade from a Mustang
automotive2 years ago

Best Cars for Commuting with Kids: Upgrade from a Mustang

Robert, who currently owns a 2014 Mustang, is looking to upgrade to a more family-friendly vehicle with four doors and better fuel economy for commuting with his 4-year-old to school in Florida. Experts suggest options such as the Kia EV6 hatchback, Infiniti Q50 Red Sport, Kia Stinger, and Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack, each offering a combination of sportiness, practicality, and varying levels of power and fuel efficiency within his budget of $35,000.

"Sheetz Gas Stations Offer $1.99 per Gallon for Thanksgiving Weekend"
business2 years ago

"Sheetz Gas Stations Offer $1.99 per Gallon for Thanksgiving Weekend"

Sheetz, an operator of 670 gas stations in the mid-Atlantic, will sell unleaded 88 gasoline for $1.99 per gallon at its Pennsylvania, Ohio, North Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia locations over the Thanksgiving weekend. The offer is valid until the end of Monday. However, only vehicles from 2001 and newer can use this type of gas, which is blended with 15% ethanol. While unleaded 88 may result in a 4%-5% drop in fuel economy compared to regular gas, the difference in efficiency is only around 1%-2% when compared to most gas sold in the U.S. Given the current gas prices averaging between $3.10 and $3.59 in the Mid-Atlantic, the discounted price is still worth considering.