Toyota Sprinter Trueno 1995 Rear Left Combination Lamp [4615600] on 2040-parts.com

For new CAFE rules, automakers place high-stakes tech bets

Game-changing 2015 fuel economy rules are forcing vehicle development teams to make high-stakes bets on expensive technologies--bets that will separate the winners from the also-rans. Not only do federal rules target a 2015 fleet average of 35.5 mpg, up from the current 27.5 mpg for cars and 23.1 mpg for light trucks; they force automakers to bet on different technology packages for each vehicle segment. Companies that do best at mixing technologies while keeping down costs will have an advantage when buyers wince at higher stickers.

Gordon Murray T27 electric car unveiled

Gordon Murray T27 Electric Car unveiled We first learned that the Gordon Murray T27 Electric Car was heading for an iStream process somewhere in the world back in late 2009. An electric version of the Gordon Murray Design T25 it was designed to be, and has now become, exactly what an electric car should be; a simple to build, uncomplicated people mover for congested urban environments. The perfect way round congested cities – and for three people.

Honda loses case over Civic hybrid mileage

Honda was ordered to pay $9,867 in a Los Angeles Small Claims Court lawsuit to a woman who says her Civic hybrid didn't get the fuel mileage that was advertised, according to Bloomberg News. “I am absolutely thrilled at the reports that I won, even though I won't see the actual judgment until it comes in the mail,” Heather Peters said in an e-mailed statement on Wednesday to the wire service. “It's a victory for Civic hybrid owners everywhere.” Peters opted out of a class action and filed her own case in small-claims court, where plaintiffs and defendants represent themselves.