Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[US truck fleets turning towards CNG, LPG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/21/us-truck-fleets-turning-towards-cng-lpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/21/us-truck-fleets-turning-towards-cng-lpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/21/us-truck-fleets-turning-towards-cng-lpg/#commentsFiled under: , ,

International Transtar big rig with trailer - front three-quarter view

Fleets can save well over $150,000 in fuel costs over the six-year life of a truck.

The electric vehicle market is turning into a financial nightmare for many of the automakers and suppliers that invested in the technology. Hybrids only comprise three percent of total new car sales, despite there being over 40 different models. And fuel cells are still more science lab experiment than mass-production reality.

But in a different part of the market, the green revolution looks a lot more promising. Commercial truck fleets in the United States are now keenly interested in converting their trucks to nun on natural gas or propane.

Thanks to the precipitous drop in prices for compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquid propane (LPG), fleets can save a fortune by switching over to these fuels. OEMs such as Freightliner and Thomas Built Bus have jumped into the market. International now offers the Transtar Class 8 semi (above) that runs on CNG. A cost calculator on the truck maker's website shows that a fleet can save well over $150,000 in fuel costs over the six-year life of a truck. For fleets that run their per-mile operating costs to the penny, this is a financial windfall.

Continue reading US truck fleets turning towards CNG, LPG

US truck fleets turning towards CNG, LPG originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Mar 2013 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternative fuelsautogascngcommercial truckdieselfrackingfreightlinerfuel economygasinternationallpgthomas built bustruckingtrucking fleetThu, 21 Mar 2013 18:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20510232/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/21/us-truck-fleets-turning-towards-cng-lpg/20510232/article-detail.xml 20510232 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/international-transtar-lpg_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/international-transtar-lpg.jpg <![CDATA[NYC chef busted for hoarding gas after restaurant fire injures 3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/nyc-chef-busted-for-hoarding-gas-after-restaurant-fire-injures-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/nyc-chef-busted-for-hoarding-gas-after-restaurant-fire-injures-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/nyc-chef-busted-for-hoarding-gas-after-restaurant-fire-injures-3/#commentsFiled under: ,

Eno Asian Bistro & Lounge in Manhattan - Entrance

After the flooding and power outages, one of the biggest impacts Superstorm Sandy has had in the Northeast remains a rash of gasoline shortages. To get around the problem, Fei Teng, a 42-year-old sushi chef at a Manhattan restaurant called 1066 ENO, was reportedly hoarding gas in the restaurant's basement using soy sauce buckets. How do we know this? According to the New York Daily News, another restaurant employee accidently spilled most of the fuel onto the floor, which subsequently somehow ignited.

Three employees were injured during the resultant blaze, with a chef receiving first- and second-degree burns to his body and face, while a busboy and waitress received more serious second- and third-degree burns on their legs. The report is from Saturday, which indicated that the employees were still in the hospital and that the restaurant was still closed. There was no word as to whether Teng will face any charges, but this bizarre disaster is further proof that you should only use properly labeled gas cans for storage - and keep them in well-ventilated areas.

NYC chef busted for hoarding gas after restaurant fire injures 3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Nov 2012 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1066 enoenoeno asian bistrogasgas shortagegasoline hoardinggasoline shortagehurricane sandymanhattansandysuperstorm sandyWed, 14 Nov 2012 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20377337/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/14/nyc-chef-busted-for-hoarding-gas-after-restaurant-fire-injures-3/20377337/article-detail.xml 20377337 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/eno-asian-bistro_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/eno-asian-bistro.jpg <![CDATA[Italians buy more bikes than cars for the first time since WWII]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/04/italians-buy-more-bikes-than-cars-for-the-first-time-since-wwii/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/04/italians-buy-more-bikes-than-cars-for-the-first-time-since-wwii/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/04/italians-buy-more-bikes-than-cars-for-the-first-time-since-wwii/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Monica Bellucci on bicycle

In the midst of economic turmoil in Europe, more Italians are turning to bikes as their preferred mode of transportation. Such is the bicycle's popularity in Italy that purchases of the pedal-powered two wheelers have eclipsed automobile sales for the first time since World War II.

According to The Christian Science Monitor, last year 1.75 million bikes were sold in Italy, compared to 1.748 million motor vehicles. Contributing to this trend are rising fuel prices and hefty costs associated with keeping a car on the road. Gas prices recently hit €2 a liter ($9.50 a gallon), and the average cost of ownership is estimated at around €7,0000 ($9,000) a year.

There is also the sheer congestion associated with driving in many parts of Italy. Narrow roads and a high level of automobile ownership (6 in 10 own cars, one of the highest rates in the world), have made for cramped streets in many Italian cities. The author of the report notes that a several-mile journey in the heart of Rome is quicker by bike than taxi.

Fiat boss Sergio Marchionne is among those feeling the heat from this trend, admitting "Anyone operating in the automotive sector in Europe today is experiencing varying degrees of unhappiness. The European car market is a disaster." Fiat released industry figures that showed September auto sales down 25 percent compared to the same period in 2011.

Antonio Della Venezia, president of the Italian Federation of Bike Lovers told Italian paper La Republica, "People who have only ever driven cars are changing their thinking. I don't think Italy will go back to the levels of car sales that we saw before 2008."

He may be right. Many families are downsizing to just one car, participating in carpool groups, and purchasing bicycles as alternatives to the rising costs of automobile ownership. It is estimated that around 200,000 old bikes have been restored for regular use. The inexpensive and convenient mode of transportation has once again caught on in Italy - just ask Monica Bellucci.

Italians buy more bikes than cars for the first time since WWII originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Oct 2012 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bicyclebicyclingcyclingeuropefuel pricesgasgas pricesItalymonica bellucciromesergio marchionneThu, 04 Oct 2012 15:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20341755/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/04/italians-buy-more-bikes-than-cars-for-the-first-time-since-wwii/20341755/article-detail.xml 20341755 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/monica-bellucci-bicycle_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/monica-bellucci-bicycle.jpg <![CDATA[Why gas stations in NJ, PA are selling $8/gallon gas in protest]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/12/why-gas-stations-in-nj-pa-are-selling-8-gallon-gas-in-protest/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/12/why-gas-stations-in-nj-pa-are-selling-8-gallon-gas-in-protest/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/12/why-gas-stations-in-nj-pa-are-selling-8-gallon-gas-in-protest/#commentsFiled under: ,



Over 50 gas stations across New Jersey and Pennsylvania have raised the price of their fuel to more than eight dollars a gallon. They are all Lukoil stations, and their owners have raised prices in protest of practices by Lukoil North America that they say leave individual gas station owners at a competitive disadvantage.

According to a report by the Huffington Post (full disclosure: HP is also owned by Autoblog parent AOL), the protest is a response to the high prices that Lukoil apparently charges its franchise owners for fuel. The owners of the gas stations contend that they are paying more for delivery than what competing stations are charging to the public.

Sal Risalvato is a member of the New Jersey Gasoline, Convenience, Automotive Association, and is one of the owners frustrated with Lukoil. "They essentially sell the very same gasoline to stations in close proximity of each other at different prices in order to game the market and compete with other gasoline brands," says Risalvato. The result of this practice, he claims, is pricing that may differ by as much as 25 cents a gallon between a given Lukoil station and a nearby competitor. In a business where some people drive miles out of the way for the cheapest gas prices, the effects of that disparity can be massive.

Protesting Lukoil franchise owners have upped their gas prices to eight dollars a gallon and beyond to raise awareness for these practices. Lukoil, Russia's second-largest oil producer, first arrived in the U.S. in 2003. Today there are more than 500 stations throughout the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions.

Why gas stations in NJ, PA are selling $8/gallon gas in protest originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Sep 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fuelfuel pricesgasgas priceshigh gas priceshuffpolukoilpain at the pumpprotestsal risalvatoWed, 12 Sep 2012 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20321763/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/12/why-gas-stations-in-nj-pa-are-selling-8-gallon-gas-in-protest/20321763/article-detail.xml 20321763 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/gas-pump-nozzle_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/gas-pump-nozzle.jpg <![CDATA[Romanian gas is like a troupe of French maids for your engine]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/romanian-gas-is-like-a-troupe-of-french-maids-for-your-engine/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/romanian-gas-is-like-a-troupe-of-french-maids-for-your-engine/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/romanian-gas-is-like-a-troupe-of-french-maids-for-your-engine/#commentsFiled under: , ,

French maids cleaning your engine thanks to Rompetrol commercial

Ah, Romania, that country of 19 million that many would be hard pressed to find on a map without a label. The nation that's given us world-class literature, Olympic athletes, the Roma, a flighty chap we call Dracula and a stretch of the Transfagarasan Highway, among the world's best drives, among other things. Romania is also known for beautiful women, and according to a Rompetrol commercial, if you fill up with its new Efix Gasoline 95 or diesel, it will be like having a team of those women - dressed as French maids, of course - cleaning out your engine.

The fuel itself is mixed with additives to help clean the engine, but it appears that instead of selling petrol or diesel with Efix, as Chevron here sells fuel with its Techron additive, the fuel itself is called Efix. Which is neither here nor there, really, when there are Romanian maids in French cosplay in the commercial below.

Continue reading Romanian gas is like a troupe of French maids for your engine

Romanian gas is like a troupe of French maids for your engine originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jul 2012 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieselefixefix 95 gasolineefix dieselfrench maidgasromaniarompetrolvideovideosyoutubeFri, 13 Jul 2012 12:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20277397/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/13/romanian-gas-is-like-a-troupe-of-french-maids-for-your-engine/20277397/article-detail.xml 20277397 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/efix95commercial_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/efix95commercial.jpg <![CDATA[The U.S. is exporting oil products, so why is the price of gas still high?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/07/the-u-s-is-exporting-oil-products-so-why-is-the-price-of-gas-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/07/the-u-s-is-exporting-oil-products-so-why-is-the-price-of-gas-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/07/the-u-s-is-exporting-oil-products-so-why-is-the-price-of-gas-s/#commentsFiled under: ,



It has always been the habit of the party that doesn't occupy the White House to blame various ills on the party that does. Especially in the past few years when it has come to gas prices, the party-in-waiting has blamed the POTUS for "pain at the pump." We're not taking sides here - Republicans are doing it to Obama now, just like Democrats did it to Bush. Unfortunately for their arguments, the President has about as much control over the price of oil as he does over the price of bread; if you saw what it took to get either to the retail outlet, the enormity of intricacies would make it plain.

Case in point: In 2008, the U.S. began exporting oil products like gas and diesel for the first time in decades and, according to a report in Fortune, even though the U.S. is producing more oil than any time in the past eight years, the price of gas is still high. Part of the issue is the bottleneck in transportation: Two pipelines carry the black gold to the nation's major clearinghouse for oil in Cushing, Oklahoma, where the president can be seen in the image above, and there aren't enough pipelines to get it from there to refiners. One analyst called Cushing "the 'Roach Motel' for crude" because it could get in but not really get out.

On top of this, domestic gas demand has dropped. That has added to the glut of oil awaiting shipment, which drove down the price of our own benchmark oil, West Texas Intermediate (WTI), by double digits compared to its European counterpart, Brent crude. Obviously, oil-market traders - whose contracts set the price for oil - couldn't let that continue, so they essentially walked away from WTI, a move that had the effect of setting the benchmark price at the higher Brent crude price. Put simply, they asked "Why sell a cheap commodity when I can sell the same commodity for more money?" And as we know, more expensive oil means more expensive gasoline.

That's the gist, but naturally this is a huge simplification. For instance, there are more than 100 kinds of oil traded on the markets and we've only mentioned two, and middlemen between drillers and the gas station can number in the dozens. But the point is that when you want to know what's up with gas prices, don't look at toward the White House - no matter who is in office - look at traders who will work to get the best prices they can, at refiners who can idle facilities to support prices and at the minutiae of production. The U.S. doesn't even own the oil drilled here - companies purchase drilling rights from the government and the oil they find belongs to them; they can sell it to anyone anywhere. Once they get it out of Cushing, that is. And if you think the much disputed Keystone Pipeline might help, some analysts believe it will make the price of oil rise.

The U.S. is exporting oil products, so why is the price of gas still high? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Jun 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brent crudegasgas pricesoiloil pricespain at the pumpprice of gaswest texas intermediateThu, 07 Jun 2012 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20236130/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/07/the-u-s-is-exporting-oil-products-so-why-is-the-price-of-gas-s/20236130/article-detail.xml 20236130 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/141709219_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/141709219.jpg <![CDATA[ABC: Thousands of rejected/condemned gas pumps in use, could cost you $$$]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/abc-thousands-of-rejected-condemned-gas-pumps-in-use-could-cos/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/abc-thousands-of-rejected-condemned-gas-pumps-in-use-could-cos/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/abc-thousands-of-rejected-condemned-gas-pumps-in-use-could-cos/#commentsFiled under: ,

gas pump measurement

Most of us likely assume that the gas pump that is providing petrol is giving you the fuel that you pay for - no more or less. While that may be true in most cases, ABC News in Baltimore, Maryland proves that sometimes pumps do bad things to good people.

The report details Maryland state gas station inspections that have revealed over 4,000 defective pumps over the last four years. In all, that's between five and six percent of the 40,000 gas pumps in Maryland, or way too many error-prone pumps for our tastes.

While our primary concern is that customers aren't getting what they pay for, it seems the gas station owners are more likely to get the short end of the stick. The report claims that station owners are three times more likely to lose money than the customer. Scroll down to watch the ABC News report.

Continue reading ABC: Thousands of rejected/condemned gas pumps in use, could cost you $$$

ABC: Thousands of rejected/condemned gas pumps in use, could cost you $$$ originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2012 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abc newsgasgas pricesmarylandpumpvideoTue, 22 May 2012 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20241247/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/22/abc-thousands-of-rejected-condemned-gas-pumps-in-use-could-cos/20241247/article-detail.xml 20241247 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/gas-measure_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/gas-measure.jpg <![CDATA[America's obesity problem equals a billion gallons of gas per year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/01/americas-obesity-problem-equals-a-billion-gallons-of-gas-per-ye/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/01/americas-obesity-problem-equals-a-billion-gallons-of-gas-per-ye/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/01/americas-obesity-problem-equals-a-billion-gallons-of-gas-per-ye/#commentsFiled under:

Driving While Eating

Newsflash: Americans are fat. And no, we're not just big boned. Obesity has reached epidemic proportions over the past couple decades, and as a result diabetes, heart disease and just about every other health issue are on the rise.

The Atlantic reports that the amount of fuel we're using is on the rise as well, as heavy occupants need more fuel to get from Point A to *insert drive-thru joke here*. A 2006 study shows that Americans weigh so much more than they did in 1960 that we're using up an additional billion gallons of petrol every year.

That's about $4 billion a year at today's gas prices, and nearly one percent of overall fuel usage. And that was back in 2006 - as we continue to plump up, the dollars continue to pile up. Inside Line reports that each pound we gain as a population adds up to another $39 million. It's too bad we can't get stop/start tech for our appetites.

America's obesity problem equals a billion gallons of gas per year originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 May 2012 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fatfuel usegasheavy americansobeseobesityoverweightpetrolTue, 01 May 2012 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20227705/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/01/americas-obesity-problem-equals-a-billion-gallons-of-gas-per-ye/20227705/article-detail.xml 20227705 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/driving-while-eating_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/driving-while-eating.jpg <![CDATA[Gas pumps found to be germiest things we touch]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/29/gas-pumps-found-to-be-germiest-things-we-touch/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/29/gas-pumps-found-to-be-germiest-things-we-touch/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/29/gas-pumps-found-to-be-germiest-things-we-touch/#commentsFiled under:

Gasoline pump germs

We think Nissan has found its new spokesman for the all-electric Leaf. A microbiologist at the University of Arizona known as "Dr. Germ" says he's identified gas pumps as the biggest biohazard in modern society.

According to The Los Angeles Times, the doctor's research results show 71 percent of gas pump handles are "'highly contaminated' with the kinds of germs most associated with a high risk of illness." Other highly-contaminated items we encounter on an everyday basis include public mailboxes, ATM machines and escalators.

Now, before you run off and buy an electric car to avoid germ-covered gas pumps, know this: The study also found 40 percent of parking meters to be similarly infested. Maybe you should just keep a can of disinfectant wipes in the car. It'd be cheaper, at least.

Gas pumps found to be germiest things we touch originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 29 Oct 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gasgas pumpsgasolinegermsparkingparking metersSat, 29 Oct 2011 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20093428/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/29/gas-pumps-found-to-be-germiest-things-we-touch/20093428/article-detail.xml 20093428 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/gasolinepumpgerms-opt-1319834253_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/gasolinepumpgerms-opt-1319834253.jpg <![CDATA[Maine gas stations ignoring penalties, shorting customers fuel to make more money]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/04/maine-gas-stations-ignoring-penalties-shorting-customers-fuel-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/04/maine-gas-stations-ignoring-penalties-shorting-customers-fuel-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/04/maine-gas-stations-ignoring-penalties-shorting-customers-fuel-t/#commentsFiled under: ,

Maine gas pump

Think you're paying too much at the pump? Perhaps you are - but not as much as those gassing up in Maine. No, the Pine Tree State doesn't have the highest gas prices in the land (that would still be Hawaii), but it does have a problem with out-of-spec gas pumps. According to state inspection officials, several stations have been found with multiple pumps delivering less fuel than customers are paying for, some of them so inaccurate that the agriculture department has had to order them immediately shut down.

Worse yet, the state lacks the resources to determine whether gas stations owners are purposefully shorting customers or these problems are just random occurrences. While officials say one out-of-spec pump that's not delivering enough fuel might be balanced by one that's flowing more freely than it should, recent inspections have discovered pumps operating up to seven times outside the allowable margin of error. Yet the state can't readily analyze the data it collects during inspections because of outdated computer systems - and a staff of only nine inspectors.

Maine politicians are understandably upset about the issue, but in these times of widespread deficits and budget slashing, it remains to be seen whether they will do anything about it. Of course, Maine is probably not unique in having an overworked weights and measures staff, so we wonder whether we might notice this issue popping up in other places around the country?

Maine gas stations ignoring penalties, shorting customers fuel to make more money originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gasgas pricesmainescamTue, 04 Oct 2011 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20072712/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/04/maine-gas-stations-ignoring-penalties-shorting-customers-fuel-t/20072712/article-detail.xml 20072712 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/maine-gas-pump_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/maine-gas-pump.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz focusing on escaping dreaded gas guzzler tax]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/03/mercedes-benz-focusing-on-escaping-dreaded-gas-guzzler-tax/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/03/mercedes-benz-focusing-on-escaping-dreaded-gas-guzzler-tax/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/03/mercedes-benz-focusing-on-escaping-dreaded-gas-guzzler-tax/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG
2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG - Click above for high-res image gallery

For the 2012 model year, Mercedes-Benz will have at least two fewer vehicles on the "gas-guzzler" tax list published by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency. This will continue a positive trend for the company. Iin 2011, 12 M-B models are subject to the dreaded gas-guzzler tax, one less than in 2010 and 10 fewer than in 2006.

Instituted back in 1978, the gas-guzzler tax is applied at the point of purchase against vehicles with "exceptionally low fuel economy." The one-time fee ranges from $1,200 to $7,700.

In addition to eliminating vehicles from the list, M-B says five 2011 models - S600, S65 AMG, CL600, CL63 AMG and CL65 AMG - are subject to reduced taxes compared to the prior year's amount. Vehicles expected to escape the dreaded gas guzzler tax for 2012 include the CLS550 and CLS63 AMG. Both are completely redesigned for the new year and have improved fuel economy ratings.

Mercedes-Benz focusing on escaping dreaded gas guzzler tax originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cls 550cls 63 amggasgas guzzlergas guzzler taxmercedesmercedes-benzmercedes-benz gas guzzlerFri, 03 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19957068/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/03/mercedes-benz-focusing-on-escaping-dreaded-gas-guzzler-tax/19957068/article-detail.xml 19957068 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/110-mercedes-benz-2012-cls-amg-first-drive-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/110-mercedes-benz-2012-cls-amg-first-drive-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Are gas prices changing home buying habits?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/25/are-gas-prices-changing-home-buying-habits/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/25/are-gas-prices-changing-home-buying-habits/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/25/are-gas-prices-changing-home-buying-habits/#commentsFiled under: ,

gas station

Rising gas prices have an affect over many aspects of our lives. Besides increasing the cost of operating automobiles, more expensive fuel leads to an increase in the cost of shipped goods, food and airline tickets. Can gas prices also create changing attitudes amongst home shoppers?

Coldwell Bankers Real Estate recently conducted a survey of real estate professionals, and it found that 75 percent reported clients reevaluating where they search for homes. Home shoppers are looking to reduce commuting distance in order to reduce fuel consumption. The survey found that 77 percent of real estate professionals saw an increase in the number of folks looking for home offices and 68 percent of that pool believe the surge is attributable to rising fuel costs.

The folks at Nielsen have a different take on the matter, however, and believe U.S. consumers have adjusted to a new "spending reality." Folks are adjusting their spending habits to conserve where possible, but Nielsen doesn't believe it's on the level of the 2008 economic freakout.

So now we're going to turn to you, dear Autoblog reader. If you're in the market for a house, have rising gas prices shaped your search in any way? Sound off in Comments.

Are gas prices changing home buying habits? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 May 2011 18:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fuel costsfuel pricesgasgas pricesgas prices home buyinghome buyingnielsenreal estaterealtorWed, 25 May 2011 18:41:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19947625/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/25/are-gas-prices-changing-home-buying-habits/19947625/article-detail.xml 19947625 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/abandoned-gas-station_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/abandoned-gas-station.jpg <![CDATA[Computer glitch causes gas station to sell 8,000 gallons at $1.10]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/computer-glitch-causes-gas-station-to-sell-8-000-gallons-at-1-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/computer-glitch-causes-gas-station-to-sell-8-000-gallons-at-1-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/computer-glitch-causes-gas-station-to-sell-8-000-gallons-at-1-1/#commentsBSOD

When residents of Wilmington - a neighborhood of Los Angeles, California - got word that a local Valero fueling station was selling gas for the bargain price of $1.10 per gallon, almost immediately, vehicles lined up 'round the corner. This wasn't one of those promo deals on fuel, though. It was a computer glitch that lead to the station dispensing some 8,000 gallons of gas at just $1.10 each.

According to KCAL 9, it took hours for the on-duty gas station attendant to notice the glitch (didn't the line-up of cars give it away?). In the meantime, police arrived on the scene to direct traffic around the overcrowded station.

When station owner Kenny Nguyen got wind of his unintended act of kindness, he immediately shut down all of the pumps. All told, Nguyen estimates that he lost nearly $21,000 due to the glitch. Ouch.

Computer glitch causes gas station to sell 8,000 gallons at $1.10 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 May 2011 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cheap gasgasgas pricesgasolinepump pricesvaleroTue, 17 May 2011 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19942581/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/17/computer-glitch-causes-gas-station-to-sell-8-000-gallons-at-1-1/19942581/article-detail.xml 19942581 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/2228633614f24352ca3co_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/2228633614f24352ca3co.jpg <![CDATA[It's Official: National average gas price hits $4]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/13/its-official-national-average-gas-price-hits-4/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/13/its-official-national-average-gas-price-hits-4/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/13/its-official-national-average-gas-price-hits-4/#commentsFiled under:

Woman pumping gas

The national average price of gasoline has hit exactly $4 a gallon, approximately a dime below its all-time high. According to a Lundberg Survey of fueling stations released on Sunday, pump prices rose 12 cents over the past two weeks. On July 7, 2008, the national average price of gas soared to $4.114 a gallon, a record-setting high, according to data from the U.S. Department of Energy.

If you're hunting for bargain gas, and willing to drive to get it, then Tucson, AZ offers you the lowest average price among cities surveyed at just $3.62 a gallon. Meanwhile, drivers in Chicago suffered the most, having to dish out an average of $4.50 for a single gallon of the go-juice.

The U.S. Department of Energy will release its weekly survey of diesel and gasoline prices on Monday afternoon. Who's willing to bet that prices will have come down by then?

It's Official: National average gas price hits $4 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 May 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>44 gas4.00 gasgasgas pricesgasoline priceslundberg studypump pricesU.S. department of transportationusdotFri, 13 May 2011 09:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19938727/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/13/its-official-national-average-gas-price-hits-4/19938727/article-detail.xml 19938727 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/woman-pumping-gas_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/woman-pumping-gas.jpg <![CDATA[Infographic: Gas is still cheap]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/25/graphic-gas-is-still-cheap/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/25/graphic-gas-is-still-cheap/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/25/graphic-gas-is-still-cheap/#commentsFiled under:

Gas prices compared to other common items
See? Gas really is cheaper than you think... Click above to enlarge

Nationwide, motorists are shelling out an average of $3.55 per gallon of petrol. That's a lot more cash than you were paying last year at this time, but - stop us if you've heard this one before - an interesting graphic from Good shows that gas is a real bargain compared to other liquids we consume every day.

For example, a gallon of freshly brewed coffee from Starbucks will set you back $32. Move up from coffee to Guinness and you're looking at doubling your tally to $64 for every 128 ounces consumed. We know you won't be shocked that Dom Perignon is $755 per gallon, but did you know that nail polish is $1,015 for the same portion size? If you want a consumable with comparable per-gallon pricing, you'll have to pick up some Coca-Cola, which retails for $3.84 per gallon.

Okay, so you probably don't feel any better about gas prices (we sure don't), but you click on the image above to see how other items you use every day compare to the price of a gallon of gas.

[Source: Good via Kicking Tires]

Continue reading Infographic: Gas is still cheap

Infographic: Gas is still cheap originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Mar 2011 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gasgas 3.55 per gallongas infographicgas per gallongas pricesgas prices per gallongood graphicgood graphic consumable prices versus gasolineFri, 25 Mar 2011 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19890968/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/25/graphic-gas-is-still-cheap/19890968/article-detail.xml 19890968 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/fluids-by-the-gallon-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/fluids-by-the-gallon-opt.jpg <![CDATA[SEMA 2010: Ford showcases Explorers customized for a variety of lifestyles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/03/sema-2010-ford-has-a-2011-explorer-to-fit-your-lifestyle-shows/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/03/sema-2010-ford-has-a-2011-explorer-to-fit-your-lifestyle-shows/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/03/sema-2010-ford-has-a-2011-explorer-to-fit-your-lifestyle-shows/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Custom 2011 Ford Explorers
Custom 2011 Ford Explorers at SEMA - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford is quite eager to show off the versatility of its all-new 2011 Explorer, so naturally, the automaker has decided to bring a trio of tuned examples to Las Vegas for the 2010 SEMA show. The Blue Oval handed out keys to Funkmaster Flex and Team Baurtwell, Galpin Auto Sports and CGS Performance Products, with each group providing a unique take on the Ford's new crossover.

Funkmaster Flex and his Team Baurtwell crew approached the Explorer with the idea of making it into an urban utility vehicle. Besides the obvious exterior and interior upgrades, Funkmaster Flex has packed this example with a complete Sony Xplod audio setup - a real treat for serious audiophiles.

Galpin Auto Sports designed its Explorer as a full-on luxury crossover. A leather-trimmed headliner has a central section of suede running the length of the ceiling, and that dual-texture styling is replicated in the seats. For second row passengers, an iPad pops out of the console, able to operate in either portrait or landscape mode while docked.

CGS Performance Products takes the luxury idea to a different level by adding in several touches that would be attractive to people with active lifestyles. 22-inch wheels might not be ready for all sorts of off-roading, but the carbon fiber mountain bikes attached to the roof can surely handle all sorts of outdoorsy tasks.

For the full details about each new Explorer, hop the jump and taking a gander at the press release, and peruse through our gallery of high-res images, below.


Gallery: SEMA 2010: Custom 2011 Ford Explorers

Custom 2011 Ford Explorers2011 Ford Explorer by Team Baurtwell2011 Ford Explorer by Team Baurtwell2011 Ford Explorer by Team Baurtwell2011 Ford Explorer by Team Baurtwell

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading SEMA 2010: Ford showcases Explorers customized for a variety of lifestyles

SEMA 2010: Ford showcases Explorers customized for a variety of lifestyles originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford explorercgs performance productsfordFord ExplorerFunkmasterFlexgalpinGalpin Auto Sportsgassemasema 2010sema auto showsema auto show 2010sema showsema show 2010team baurtwellWed, 03 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19701526/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/03/sema-2010-ford-has-a-2011-explorer-to-fit-your-lifestyle-shows/19701526/article-detail.xml 19701526 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/leadexplorerssema2010_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/leadexplorerssema2010.jpg <![CDATA[Ford unhinges rest of its Explorer-filled, SEMA-bound toybox]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/14/ford-unhinges-rest-of-its-sema-bound-toybox/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/14/ford-unhinges-rest-of-its-sema-bound-toybox/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/14/ford-unhinges-rest-of-its-sema-bound-toybox/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Galpin Auto Sports Explorer - Click above for high-res image gallery of Ford customs to debut at SEMA

SEMA 2010 is just around the corner and Ford has supplied a number of vehicles to various aftermarket tuning companies ahead of the festivities. The 2011 Ford Explorer is just one of the vehicles receiving the tuner treatment, but it's getting a lot of attention. Ford has supplied three of them to different companies, to create three different styles: Urban, Luxury and Adventure.

The Urban style was handled by Funkmaster Flex and the Team Baurtwell shop. The crew from GAS, or Galpin Auto Sports, turned its Explorer into a high-end machine for Luxury. CGS Motorsports handled Adventure and added lifestyle touches to the 'ute while still providing an upscale, custom feel.

Other vehicles wearing a Blue Oval at SEMA include; You can view each vehicle in the gallery below, and a full press release is available after the jump.


Gallery: Ford's lineup for SEMA 2010

CGS Motorsports ExplorerFunkmaster Flex ExplorerFord Edge by K-Daddyz KustomzFord Fusion Sport by Steeda AutosportsGalpin Ford Explorer

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford unhinges rest of its Explorer-filled, SEMA-bound toybox

Ford unhinges rest of its Explorer-filled, SEMA-bound toybox originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Oct 2010 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford2011 ford edge2011 ford explorer2011 ford fusion2011 ford taurus sho2011 lincoln2011 lincoln mkxblue ovalcgs motorsportsfordford fusion sportFunkMaster FlexgalpinGalpin Auto SportsGASHR springsID agencyK-Daddyz Kustomzrick bottom designsSEMASEMA 2010steedaSteeda Autosportsteam baurtwellThu, 14 Oct 2010 18:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19674753/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/14/ford-unhinges-rest-of-its-sema-bound-toybox/19674753/article-detail.xml 19674753 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/gas-sema-explorer_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/gas-sema-explorer.jpg <![CDATA[Taxes drive gas prices to over $7 a gallon in UK, mass boycott coming soon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/21/taxes-drive-gas-prices-to-over-7-a-gallon-in-uk-mass-boycott-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/21/taxes-drive-gas-prices-to-over-7-a-gallon-in-uk-mass-boycott-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/21/taxes-drive-gas-prices-to-over-7-a-gallon-in-uk-mass-boycott-c/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Through the power of Facebook, up to a half a million drivers in the UK are expected to boycott gas next month shortly before the nation heads to the polls for a general election in which Prime Minister (PM) Gordon Brown is fighting stiff competition for the win.

Many Brits are upset with recent gas tax increases that were supported and passed by PM Brown. Protesters hope that the mass demonstration will be the nail in the coffin for his chances of winning. Gas prices have soared in Britain, reaching U.S. $1.87 a liter (about $7.06 a gallon) last week. The numbers are a significant increase from a year ago when gas was only $5.55 a gallon. Further upsetting residents, the government pockets a whopping $4.42 from each gallon sold, yet still insists that more taxes are needed. Another government-mandated tax increase is scheduled for this fall followed by one more next winter and, frankly, many people are fed up.

On May 1st, protesters will go into action by blocking entry into local gas stations. As boycott organizer Jo Slater said, "We need to take action, the only way we'll see petrol prices fall is if we hit someone in the pocket." Additional protests are scheduled across the nation with support from the trucking industry and farmers.

Here in the states, we constantly hear complaints of gas prices that are astronomical. Sure, $2.80 might seem like a lot to us, but it's like a slap in the face compared to the UK's knock-out blow. Ouch. Our thanks go to Andy for this one!

[Source: NewsoftheWorld | Image: BradleyPJohnson - C.C. 2.0]

Taxes drive gas prices to over $7 a gallon in UK, mass boycott coming soon originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Apr 2010 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boycoot taxBoycootTaxboycott gas taxBoycottGasTaxdemonstration ukDemonstrationUkgasgas pricesgas taxgas tax ukGasolinegasoline pricesGasolinePricesGasPricesGasTaxGasTaxUkpetrolpetrol pricepetrol pricespetrol taxpetrol tax ukpetrol taxes ukPetrolPricePetrolPricesPetrolTaxPetrolTaxesUkPetrolTaxUkprotest gas taxprotest petrol taxprotest ukProtestGasTaxProtestPetrolTaxProtestUkWed, 21 Apr 2010 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19447712/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/21/taxes-drive-gas-prices-to-over-7-a-gallon-in-uk-mass-boycott-c/19447712/article-detail.xml 19447712 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/05/308366527_c186bde478_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/05/308366527_c186bde478.jpg <![CDATA[Tricked-Out Treat! Galpin Auto Sports builds Halloween-themed hearse]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/31/tricked-out-or-treat-galpin-auto-sports-builds-halloween-themed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/31/tricked-out-or-treat-galpin-auto-sports-builds-halloween-themed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/31/tricked-out-or-treat-galpin-auto-sports-builds-halloween-themed/#commentsFiled under: ,


Galpin Auto Sports Halloween-themed Hearse - Click above for high-res image gallery

We generally don't think of a hearse as a great platform for customizing, but then again, we've never known Galpin Auto Sports to shy away from messing with anything on four wheels. That's why we weren't surprised to see this specially-built conveyance of corpses constructed by the Southern California customizer. The hearse features a Halloween theme including dozens of hand-painted skulls on the front and side, as well as a spiderweb grille. It's not all spooky, though, and Galpin has made the interior an inviting place to be, with a working barbeque, chilled cooler, and a flatscreen TV all in the coffin. Not a bad place to spend your last few hours above ground!


Gallery: Galpin Auto Sports Halloween-themed Hearse


[Source: Galpin Auto Sports]

Tricked-Out Treat! Galpin Auto Sports builds Halloween-themed hearse originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Galpin Auto SportsGalpin Auto Sports HearseGalpinAutoSportsGalpinAutoSportsHearseGASSat, 31 Oct 2009 19:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19217754/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/10/31/tricked-out-or-treat-galpin-auto-sports-builds-halloween-themed/19217754/article-detail.xml 19217754 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/galpinhearse_lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/galpinhearse_lead.jpg <![CDATA[New Hyundai Assurance provision locks gas at $1.49/gal for one year [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/new-hyundai-assurance-provision-locks-gas-at-1-49-gal-for-one-y/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/new-hyundai-assurance-provision-locks-gas-at-1-49-gal-for-one-y/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/new-hyundai-assurance-provision-locks-gas-at-1-49-gal-for-one-y/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Hyundai Assurance Gas Lock ads - Click above to watch the videos after the jump

Hyundai is piling on additional incentives to boost its Assurance program as the industry heads into the dog days of summer. The newest promotion, Gas Lock, fixes the price of regular unleaded at $1.49 per gallon for the next year. The program runs July 1 through August 31, and eligible vehicles include the Accent, Sonata, Tiburon, Elantra, Elantra Touring, Entourage, Azera, Santa Fe, Tucson and Veracruz. Customers choosing to utilize Gas Lock will forgo $1,000 in available rebates, making the incentive a gamble that gas prices will remain high.

Hyundai Assurance struck at cord with the American public when it offered payment protection in the event of job loss. Now Hyundai is looking to give consumers increased peace of mind over of the volatility of gas prices, which have swung from under $2 a gallon a few months ago to nearly $3 at the beginning of summer.

John Krafcik, CEO and president of Hyundai Motor America, says the company's research shows that "nearly 40% of potential new car buyers are staying out of the market specifically due to uncertainty around future gas prices."

You may remember that last year, Chrysler tried a similar promotion, offering the opportunity to lock in gas at $2.99 per gallon when a gallon of petrol was at an all-time high of about $4.50. The move didn't appear to be very successful for the Pentastar, as most opted to instead take the upfront cash on the hood. Hit the jump to pour over the particulars of Hyundai's Gas Lock promotion, watch the two commercials, and let us know in the comments section if you feel customers would be better off taking the $1,000 or one year of $1.49 gasoline.

[Source: Hyundai | Image: Justin Sullivan/Getty]

Continue reading New Hyundai Assurance provision locks gas at $1.49/gal for one year [w/VIDEO]

New Hyundai Assurance provision locks gas at $1.49/gal for one year [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>azerafuel pricesFuelPricesgasgas lockgas pricesGasLockgasoline pricesGasolinePricesGasPriceshyundaihyundai assuranceHyundaiAssuranceincentivesrebatessanta feSantaFesonatatucsonveracruzTue, 30 Jun 2009 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19082422/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/06/30/new-hyundai-assurance-provision-locks-gas-at-1-49-gal-for-one-y/19082422/article-detail.xml 19082422 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/06/gas-pumper-low-camera-getty-580_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/06/gas-pumper-low-camera-getty-580.jpg -1 2