May

Two weeks ago, I reported that the new CAFE standard under consideration in Washington D.C. that would force carmakers to produce a fleet-wide average of 62 MPG is unsafe because cars would be smaller, lighter and underpowered.

Now, a new report was just released stating that the cost to consumers for this proposed MPG standard is absolutely staggering: $10,000. http://www.thedetroitbureau.com/2011/06/62-mpg-standard-could-add-10000-to-cost-of-new-car/

I am going on the record right now and saying that the government needs to understand the automotive industry a little better before devising such lofty goals for it. Career politicians who don't pay for their own gas, let alone for their own cars, are completely out of touch with what the consumer wants and can afford. They are also clueless when it comes to business and the effects of overregulation. For my full opinion on this subject, check out Friday's report:

http://www.laurenfix.com/?site=1&dt=84&d=27

In other news, there has been a spate of new vehicle recalls including Porsche, Chrysler and Mazda. Just another week in the auto industry, right

It seems to me that automotive recalls have become the norm, especially since the original Toyota debacle two years ago. But why weren't they the norm prior to that? Is NHTSA overreacting? Are newer cars that complicated and shoddily built?

Our parents' cars were never recalled. Sure, they were simpler vehicles with far fewer electronic components and safety features, but our technology in those days wasn't as advanced as it is today either.

What are your thoughts? Email me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .