President Barack Obama said last month his administration would issue new fuel-efficiency requirements to cover 2011 model year vehicles. The rules would be the first step under a 2007 energy law that requires the auto industry to boost efficiency by 40 percent to at least 35 mpg by 2020.
Automakers at the Chicago Auto Show are showing they can think small. But their efforts may be thwarted by the consumer's shrinking budget.
Among the featured players at the 101st show, are the Chevy Volt, which uses a lithium-ion battery with a gas-powered engine, the third-generation Toyota Prius hybrid, and the wee, 8-foot-10-inch Smart car -- a two-seater that starts around $12,000. The Smart car is on display at the Auto Show for the first time.
Kia, a Korean company on the rise, introduced a sensible car, the Forte, adapted for the American market. It was the only truly new car introduced at a somber, lightly attended show. And yet, the launch of a new car was not the biggest news from Kia, or from the show.
Automakers at the Chicago Auto Show are showing they can think small. But their efforts may be thwarted by the consumer's shrinking budget.
Among the featured players at the 101st show, are the Chevy Volt, which uses a lithium-ion battery with a gas-powered engine, the third-generation Toyota Prius hybrid, and the wee, 8-foot-10-inch Smart car -- a two-seater that starts around $12,000. The Smart car is on display at the Auto Show for the first time.
Kia, a Korean company on the rise, introduced a sensible car, the Forte, adapted for the American market. It was the only truly new car introduced at a somber, lightly attended show. And yet, the launch of a new car was not the biggest news from Kia, or from the show.
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