Question:
I read several stories in August about the new regulations that will compel automakers to construct vehicles that will get an average of 54.5 mpg by 2025. But nowhere did they say how much that would wind up costing us. Can you find out?
Answer:
The government estimates the new regulations will increase the cost of a new car by $2,800 by 2025 (based on 2010 dollars), as achieving these better numbers will cost the industry $135 billion. The feds also say that despite the higher sticker price, there will be a net savings to consumers because of reduced fuel expenditures for these significantly more fuel-efficient vehicles.
Readers offer info:
A few readers responded when I asked in a recent column for any and all to share their knowledge of new cars that come with ashtrays and lighters beyond what I had listed in the column.
One gentleman said his 2012 Hyundai Genesis sedan has a front-seat lighter and ashtray. Another just bought a Nissan Murano, which has an “ash tray/lighter as an option that fits in the cup holder in the center console and retails for $46 (wiring for the lighter entails extra labor costs).”
Another shared this story: “I bought a new Honda Accord a few years back not knowing it had no lighter or ash tray. I took my wife with me when I took possession of the car and hardly got out of the lot when she started looking for the ash tray. She insisted we turn back and ask the sales manager where it was. When he said the car didn't come with one, my wife (a heavy smoker then) said, ‘That's ridiculous. You can have this car back. We don't want a brand new car with no ash tray.’ The manager assured us the service department could put one in for $50. They ended up installing ashtrays under the radio in the front and in the rear of the console for the rear passengers at no cost to us. Made for the car, they looked like they were installed at the factory.”
Thanks to all!
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E-mail sharon@ctwfeatures.com. Due to volume, not all questions may be answered.
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