green living, smart spending
Young people committed to making a difference in the world can win educational grants and scholarships in the sixth annual Lexus Eco Challenge, which has a total of $500,000 to give away. The program already has inspired and empowered more than 22,000 middle and high school students to learn about the environment and take action
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These top ten 2012 cars are all priced under $20,000. They’ve been a great deal all year, and you can negotiate an even better deal now that dealers have to clear the showroom floor for the 2013 models. Every one of these ecoXplorer picks offers top fuel economy, roominess beyond their small size, sporty driving
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The world’s best athletes are making headlines in the 2012 Olympics in London, and they have company. Some of the world’s best, fastest and most unusual vehicles are joining them, in special displays. Jaguar and Land Rover are in a starring role in the ‘Make it in Great Britain’ exhibition at London’s Science Museum, which
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Normally, the automotive events I attend, which include test drives of the newest models, are just for us automotive writers. But Ford has a different idea. Their Go Further With Ford safety, environment and design trend conference at company headquarters in Dearborn this month included an interesting mix of writers and bloggers on fashion, technology,
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Chrysler has hit a bulls-eye with the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart, a fuel-efficient stylish compact sedan with sport performance handling and a starting price of $15,995 that’s sure to add to its appeal. So is the fact that it’s built in the USA, in Illinois. The Dodge Dart brings back a magical name from the
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There are several affordable electric cars you can drive now, which are not named Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Volt, eSmart, or eMini Cooper. These plug-in EV models have been driving under the radar and deserve a look. In alphabetical order, Coda, THINK and Wheego. Most of us drive less than 75 miles a day, so an
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Volkswagen is known for manufacturing fuel efficient cars, like the VW Passat, so it makes sense that VW builds them in an energy efficient factory. VW’s new $1 Billion manufacturing plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is the world’s first and only LEED certified green auto manufacturing plant. Volkswagen saves both money and the environment with this
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The North American International Auto Show — better known as the Detroit Auto Show — is underway now, with more new model introductions, including concept vehicles, than the public has seen in years. The auto industry is bouncing back, but even so, not everything is a hit. There are some misses. Here’s what the industry
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How much a vehicle costs when you buy it or lease it is just one part of the equasion. You also need to factor in how that vehicle rates for operating costs, maintenance costs and resale value. Since depreciation — or loss of value — is typically a car buyer’s biggest cost expense during ownership,
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The upcoming 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show is the biggest in years, with more than 50 North American and world debuts of new cars, SUVs and trucks. The intros show that the auto industry continues to be a surprise bright spot in the overall economy. Green cars, including electric cars, diesel cars and extended range
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