New Taco Marine Lumber - 12" X 27" X ½" - Seafoam Starboard on 2040-parts.com

Ownership costs of traditional versus alternative fuel vehicles

As gas prices remain high, and an increasing number of automakers roll out plug-in hybrid cars and full-electric vehicles, it's becoming easier to be tantalized with the idea of driving right past the gas station and simply "plugging in." The debate ensues when it comes to cost: These alternative fuel vehicles mean a larger outlay of cash at the onset, but the long-term fuel savings could make the purchase worthwhile. To help straighten out this numbers game, we use the Department of Energy's Vehicle Cost Calculator to compare alternative fuel vehicles with their gasoline-only counterparts. For each scenario, we assumed that our hypothetical owner was able to get the full $7,500 federal tax credit and a $2,500 state tax credit, such as is available in California.

Hyundai to badge premium cars as ‘Genesis’?

Will Hyundai's premium cars - like the Equus (pictured) - get a Genesis badge? Reports from the US say that Hyundai is considering badging their premium cars as ‘Genesis’, although there will be no Genesis ‘Brand’. The rumours that Hyundai want to move in to Lexus and Infiniti territory by creating a luxury sub-brand – Genesis being the favoured moniker – have been doing the rounds for years.

Mazda Minagi (2011) at 2011 Geneva motor show

Mazda is preparing the ground to launch a new CX-5 – a junior crossover to slot beneath the CX-7. The Mazda Minagi concept car is being launched at this week’s 2011 Geneva motor show and previews the production car expected this autumn. But as well as heralding a new junior crossover in the Mazda fold, the Minagi also showcases the company’s new Skyactiv engineering philosophy and Kodo design mantra.