Gas prices may drop in light of markets’ struggles

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Posted in General Auto News

The struggling economy has a lot of consumers worried, but there may be a silver lining for drivers. The New York Times reports that the falling price of crude oil will likely spell good news at the pump, and motorists could save significantly.

By the end of Monday, oil closed at around $81 a barrel, and analysts believe this could drop gas prices to a national average of about $3.25 per gallon – which is around 40 cents lower than it currently stands.

Though the lower prices are indicative of tough economic times, they will also certainly be a help to drivers who are looking to save money any way they can. The reduction will give consumers more money, which could help stimulate the economy.

"Everybody is helped when gasoline prices come down," Michael P. Niemira, chief economist for the International Council of Shopping Centers, told the Times.

While gas prices may be on their way down, that doesn't mean drivers shouldn't do their best to conserve fuel. One of the best ways to do so is for drivers to use cruise control whenever it's safe and turn off their car whenever idling. 

Ford to consumers: No delay of Focus Electric production

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Posted in Auto Brands News, Ford

Amid rumors that there was a delay in production of the battery-powered Ford Focus, the venerable manufacture announced that the process is going ahead as planned. USA Today reports that officials have said they will start shipping the innovative cars to dealers next spring.

The questions over the delay were sparked by Ford CEO Alan Mulally's recent comments on The Late Show with David Letterman. Mulally hinted that while the 2012 Focus Electric will be for sale later this year, it would not be available to the public until the spring. Ford was quick to clarify his comments.

"Ford remains on schedule to deliver the initial Focus Electrics by the end of the year. As previously communicated to dealers, the first few months of Focus Electric production will be concentrated on delivering vehicles to California and New York," the company said.

Ford would suffer greatly from a delay in production, as Chevrolet has been selling its electric-powered car, the Volt, since the middle of December 2010.

Drivers looking to get in a fuel-efficient car, whether it be a Ford Focus or Honda Accord, will want to check out New Jersey Auto Auction, which offers plenty of models at affordable prices.

Toyota debuts 2012 Yaris at Lollapalooza

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Posted in Auto Brands News, Toyota

Lollapalooza is typically thought of as one of the premiere summer music festivals, but this year's event had an unexpected guest. The 2012 Toyota Yaris made its debut at the Chicago-based event this past weekend, and it includes a bunch of new an exciting features.

Cars.com editor Joe Bruzek was on hand to check out the unveiling and gave a detailed description of the new Yaris. Among its updates is improved gas mileage – the automatic model will get around 35 miles per gallon on the highway, while the manual will get 38.

Additionally, Bruzek noted that the car includes a number of useful electronic features as well that will appeal to the young Lollapalooza crowd. For one, it comes complete with USB input and iPod capability.

Though it made its first public appearance this weekend, consumers will have to wait until late September or early October to get behind the wheel themselves.

Those looking to pick up a new Toyota, whether it be a Yaris or a Camry, can check out New Jersey Auction for used cars at an affordable price. 

Human the cause of Google’s self-driving car crash

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Posted in General Auto News

The innovative self-driving car launched by Google earlier this year was recently involved in a minor accident in California, and while that's certainly an interesting development, what's most compelling about the story is that at the time the car was being driven by a human being.

Business Insider reports that the specially-outfitted Prius struck another Prius from behind, which caused a chain reaction of three other cars. Nobody was injured in the crash, which might ironically serve as an endorsement of self-driven automobiles.

"Safety is our top priority," a Google spokesperson told the news source. "One of our goals is to prevent fender-benders like this one, which occurred while a person was manually driving the car."

According to NBC Bay Area, Google also pointed out that similar self-driven cars have clocked an impressive 160,000 miles already without an incident.

Though driverless cars are certainly a far way off, for now motorists can get behind of the innovative cars like the Toyota Prius or the Chevrolet Volt by checking out New Jersey Auto Auction.

U.S. car industry on the rise, Ford executive says

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Posted in Auto Brands News, Chevrolet, Ford

Often maligned as being unable to compete with Japaneses automakers when it comes to small cars, GM and Ford say they have caught up. According to the Detroit Free Press, both companies are enjoying positive reviews on their latest compact cars – something which has translated into better sales.

In particular, the Ford Fiesta has enjoyed a solid few months. Most recently, it saw a 58 percent jump in July. However, the Fiesta was not alone as the Chevrolet Cruze also experienced a bump and was the top-selling compact car in July.

"I think we've entered a new era in the U.S. where there is more equity in the brands and the products are really competing on equal ground," Ford executive Jim Farley told reporters recently.

Conversely to the success Ford and Chevy are seeing, Japanese manufacturers Honda and Toyota are suffering in the wake of the earthquake and tsunami that hit earlier this year.

Consumers looking to get behind the wheel of a used Ford or Chevy may want to check out New Jersey Auto Auction, which offers plenty of options at affordable prices.

Consumers buying fun-to-drive cars this summer

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Posted in Auto Brands News

Although the U.S. is still mired in economic uncertainty, consumers became more likely to buy a new or used car this summer, as several makes and models have enjoyed a good few months. USA Today reports that many fun-to-drive cars are flying off lots.

At the top of the list is the sporty Kia Soul. In July, sales of the care jumped an impressive 26 percent. Even more surprising is that, compared to units sold in January, its figures were up 90 percent. Experts believe the momentum will continue into next year as the manufacturers have worked on improving gas mileage and giving the car a sportier feel.

According to the news source, Volkwagen has also seen a summer sales surge. Specifically, the GTI version of the Golf is especially popular as the GTI model made up 40 percent of all Golf sales.

Also enjoying a resurgent season is the Jeep Wrangler, with a 43 percent jump in July sales compared to 2010.

Whether looking for a fuel-efficient Kia or an attractive Volkwagen GTI, New Jersey Auto Auction has plenty of makes and models at affordable prices.

Couple teams with Shell to shatter fuel-efficiency records

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Posted in General Auto News

Many drivers may fancy themselves especially talented when it comes to saving on gas, but one couple puts everyone else to shame. John and Helen Taylor, along with their sponsor Shell, recently began a cross-country drive to spread the word about fuel-efficiency.

The Taylors are certainly no strangers to saving on gas. They own two fuel companies and have reportedly set 88 records for their smart driving. According to Shell, they drove through 25 different countries (covering more than 18,000 miles) and only used 24 tanks of gas in the process.

Their most recent endeavor, in which they hope to drive through each of the 48 contiguous states, kicked off from Los Angeles, and just two days into the trip they were already in Texas.

"By setting out for another fuel economy record using practical tips, we're excited to show everyday motorists how they can become more fuel efficient drivers through the Shell Smarter Driving program," said Helen Taylor.

Drivers can get a good start on saving fuel by finding a car with excellent gas mileage at New Jersey Auto Auction.

Chrysler enjoys impressive July

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Posted in Auto Brands News

Despite an auto industry that is still feeling the effects of the recent economic downturn, one manufacturer in particular has enjoyed an especially good year. Chrysler recently announced that its sales were up 20 percent in July compared to last year, the 16th consecutive month of improvement.

Though overall sales were up for the company, USA Today reports it was Jeep that led the way. The brand was up 46 percent compared to last July, and the classic Wrangler saw a 43 percent gain.

Reid Bigland, head of U.S. sales, as well as CEO of the Dodge brand, attributes the boost in sales to the company's change in focus.

"I think that statistic is the ultimate testament to the progress we have made with our product in the areas of fuel economy, quality and design," Bigland said in a statement.

Whether looking to get behind the wheel of a Dodge Durango or a Jeep Grand Cherokee, drivers should turn to New Jersey Auto Auction, which offers many makes and models at affordable prices.

Vermont county hopes to set Cadillac parade record

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Posted in Auto Brands News

Orleans County, Vermont, includes the hometown of Henry Leland, who founded both Cadillac and Lincoln. So, it comes as no surprise that in an effort to create some publicity for the upcoming county fair, organizers hope to achieve the Guiness World Record for the largest parade of Cadillacs.

The New York Times reports that the idea was the brainchild of Lorie Seadale, who decided on giving the record a try after reading the the current record was just 102 cars. The idea also appealed to Leland's great, great nephew, David, who still lives in the area.

"Since there is a record, we feel it ought to be in Vermont," he told the Times over the phone. "It is a great opportunity to recognize some of his accomplishments."

The parade is set to hit Route 5 in Vermont on August 17, and by all accounts the record should fall. There are about 3,200 Cadillacs registered in Vermont, so attracting the number will likely not be a problem.

Cadillac itself has also gotten involved in the parade, as they have said they will put forward the $6,500 it takes to have a Guiness representative come and authorize the record.

Subaru tops Consumer Reports’ list of best small used cars

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Posted in Auto Brands News

Used cars are often the best choice for consumers looking to save some money, and with high gas prices prevalent across much of the country, downsizing is becoming especially important. Even still, there are some smaller models that are more fuel-efficient than others, and Consumer Reports recently unveiled its list of top deals on used small cars.

The vehicle that topped the list was the 2006 Subaru Impreza. Not only does this car offer strong fuel-efficiency, but it also is one of the most affordable automobiles out there. The organization reports that most dealers will sell it for around $11,300.

While having a car with high gas mileage is key, that doesn't mean that drivers have to sacrifice style. In fact, Consumer Reports listed the 2008 Honda Civic EX Coupe as one of the best deals as well. With an average price of $16,325, the ride is certainly an affordable way to drive in style.

Whether looking to get behind the wheel of a sensible Subaru or a speedy Honda Civic, drivers should check out New Jersey Auto Auction, which offers a wide variety of makes and models.