Consumer Reports has long advocated that drivers check their car's tire pressure monthly to prevent uneven tire wear and tire failure. Now, a new study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reinforces that advice by determining that vehicles driving on tires underinflated by more than 25 percent are three times more likely to be involved in a crash related to tire problems than vehicles with proper inflation. And tires underinflated up to 25 percent run the risk of overheating, leading to failure, and at the very least adversely affecting handling and tread life.

The study looked at crash data from 2005-2007--before tire-pressure monitoring systems were required to be installed on all vehicles. The systems mandated for the 2008 model year alert drivers if any tire drops 25 percent or more below the recommended inflation level of your vehicle. Tire pressure monitoring systems are designed to alert a driver of a tire losing air pressure and are not intended to be used as a substitute for monthly tire pressure checks.

The study also found that five percent of all vehicles studied experienced tire problems immediately before a crash, with 66 percent of those representing passenger cars, 17 percent being SUVs, and the rest being pickups and vans. Half of the tire-related crashes involved a single vehicle, and just 31 percent of single vehicle crashes were not related to tires.

This shows that tire problems are evident in the pre-crash phase, which has a very small window for attempting a crash avoidance maneuver. Rollovers are more common among SUVs that experienced a tire problem before a crash--45 percent rolled over. On the other hand, passenger cars, pickups, and vans experiencing tire problems had fewer than a 25 percent incidence of rollover. Overall, the study concluded that tire problems in the pre-crash phase were more likely to lead in rollover in SUVs than other types of vehicles.

Tire problems combined with other factors, such as bad weather or an inexperienced driver, can increase the likelihood of a crash.

Aside from properly inflating your tires, it is very important to monitor your tire tread depth condition. This study showed that tire-related crashes were more likely as your tire's tread wears, with accident rates at just 2.4 percent when tires had near full tread depth to 26 percent when the tires were worn- out (0 - 2 /32" depth). We recommend consumers start shopping for new tires at 4/32" tread depth while some all-weather grip is still available. At this point tire-related crashes approached 8 percent.

A 2009 NHTSA analysis found that 57 percent of vehicles with tire-pressure monitoring systems had tires that were properly inflated.

The study reiterates the need for motorists to properly maintain their tires. Buying a tire pressure gauge and regularly checking your pressure can help avoid these tire problems and the increase risk of a related crash.

Related:
Tire buying advice and Ratings
Tire gauges help keep the pressure up to ensure your safety
Guide to car maintenance

To kick its addiction to oil, the United States needs a raft of alternatives; no single alternative is likely to replace such an entrenched market any time soon. But electric car advocates at the Electric Vehicle Symposium held recently in Los Angeles say battery-powered cars are the one alternative that can meet all needs. Electricity isn't a fuel per se, only an "energy carrier." To generate electricity, you have to produce power from some other fuel source, such as coal, oil, and nuclear, or harness energy from renewable source, such as wind, hydro, or solar. Interestingly, this flexibility answers some big concerns of alternative-fuel critics.

In covering the alternative fuel movement, we often encounter pushback from people who say they don't know how this or that fuel will ever make sense where they live. Some say ethanol won't work because there are no E85 pumps in much of the country, and the average price is often higher than gasoline once you factor in ethanol's lower energy content. Yet in the upper Midwest, there's no shortage of ethanol stations, and the fuel sells for significantly less than gasoline. (Learn more about ethanol.)

Others note that natural gas is not available in their region, and some report that electricity is produced from coal where they live.

Looked at holistically, it seems likely that such arguments may break down along regional lines: Ethanol may make sense close to where excess corn is grown. Electricity is cleanest in regions with abundant renewable supplies. Like electricity, hydrogen can be made from a variety of feed stocks, including fossil fuels and renewable resources, but costs are still high and vary dramatically by feedstock and region.

But it's hard to sell different cars running on different types of fuel across the country. Electric cars can bridge this gap, say supporters, because electricity is only an energy carrier. You could sell battery-electric cars across the country, then make electricity from different sources, depending on what makes the most economic sense in each location.

From where I sit, that seems a much more appealing solution for consumers than buying a car that effectively has regional ties due to the specialized refueling infrastructure. America is a mobile society, both traveling and relocating, and it requires a flexible automotive power source than can adapt to an ever-changing lifestyle. After being immersed in the electric car industry for a few days last week at EVS26, I came away with a renewed sense of the widespread benefits electric cars can provide, if only we can break through a few hurdles.

See our guide to fuel economy and guide to alternative fuels.

Related:
Electric car drivers left hanging in charger wars
California to boost mandate for electric cars
Purpose-built electric cars trump manufacturer-converted models
Wireless electric-car charging takes center stage
Plugless Power demonstrates cordless electric car recharging
Toyota introduces electric RAV4 SUV, starting at $49,800
Mercedes-Benz B-Class fuel-cell-powered car shows progress
Behind the wheel of the improved Coda electric car
We drive the first Chinese car expected in the U.S., the electric BYD e6
Do electric cars even need special chargers?

The safety of 2012 Hyundai Elantra sedans is being investigated after the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration received a report from an owner who had been severely cut from a piece of metal reportedly from the car's side air bag deployment during a collision.

According to photos of the victim's Elantra, the metal along with the side air bag protrudes from the left side headliner of the driver's seat. The driver's left ear was cut in half according to the complaint filed with NHTSA. Said the complaint "[that injury] could have been [to my] neck."

Neither Hyundai or NHTSA has yet examined the crashed 2012 Hyundai Elantra. However, as we noted in October, the 2012 sedan was one of 74 vehicle models to be crash tested by the NHTSA, which included a more comprehensive evaluation of front- and side-crash protection, and rollover resistance. And according to the NHTSA website, the four-door 2012 Hyundai Elantra received a 5-star rating for side protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash test of the Hyundai Elantra also resulted in a "Good" rating for side-impact. However, the IIHS also notes that Elantra drivers may still suffer from rib and pelvis fractures and internal organ injuries during a side impact.

Engineers at NHTSA's Office of Defect Investigation along with Hyundai will examine the suspect vehicle to determine if a broader safety recall of 2012 Elantra and 2012 Elantra Touring sedans are necessary.

If you have experienced a similar dangerous situation with the 2012 Huyndai Elantra or any vehicle you can file a safety complaint with the NHTSA on its website, www.SaferCar.gov.

Source:
Investigation: 2012 Hyundai Elantra / Elantra Touring - Side air bags   Action #: PE12012 [NHTSA ODI]
U.S. regulators investigate Hyundai Elantra on air bags [Reuters]
NHTSA investigating Hyundai Elantra air bags [The Detroit News]

Any consistent reader of the Consumer Reports blog knows that when buying test cars, we try to do nearly all of the research and interaction with the salesperson(s) online. And while most domestic and Asian brands work well this way, it's harder when buying German cars. Why is this?

What we've found is there are fewer German cars sitting on dealer lots from which to choose. Their purchase procedure often involves buyers spec'ing what they want, and then waiting anywhere from six weeks to multiple months for their car to arrive. Since we want to test cars quickly, we often end up choosing from cars that are on their way to the United States and negotiate the price from there. Given the voluminous options on some German cars (Porsche, in particular), it can be a trying process to find a car that is equipped similarly to its competitors we tested.

But it wasn't a tough process to buy our new Q5. This compact sporty SUV has been popular since it went on sale with the 3.2-liter V6 engine. In our tests, it jumped to the top of its Ratings category, and it has stayed there despite some strong competition.

When Audi dropped in the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, this version of the Q5 became the hot seller. Want a 3.2-liter V6 and its 19 mpg overall fuel economy? You can take your pick from a whole number of them at dealers all over. But if you want a less-expensive, more frugal 2.0T...Well, you have to either wait, wait some more, or get lucky. Which is what happened to us.

Our unclaimed Ibis White Q5 with Cardamom Beige leather was somewhere between the factory and a European port when I started shopping for our test car. Maybe it was the color; maybe it was because it didn't have navigation. But whatever the reason, it was available and I snapped it up. Only two options: Premium Plus package (including Xenon lights, heated front seats, panoramic sunroof, and a power tailgate, among other features), plus all-weather floor mats and trunk liner. So far, simple.

But the sticking point in car buying is always negotiating the price, right? Not here. I got $500 off the MSRP of $41,075 (with delivery)! That's it. These little SUVs are hot commodities and dealers can--and do--get what they want for it.

So, sporting the turbocharged engine that we've liked in the A3, A4, and A5 and the new eight-speed automatic transmission, the Q5 is back into our test program. It's proven popular among the staff so far, with its keys among the first chosen each afternoon for the evening commute home. There should be no problem with accumulating break-in miles on the Q5, and it will likely enter formal testing any day now.

Gas prices are mostly down except for the western part of the country compared to the week before. The national gasoline average is $.21 below the price this time last year. Diesel fuel is about six cents below this time last year. At $4.02, premium gasoline is down about three cents from last week.

Source: Energy Information Administration, 5/14/12. Figures rounded to the nearest cent.

See our guide to fuel economy for advice on saving gasoline, including reports on how to get the best gas mileage and where to find the cheapest gas. Learn about future technologies in our in our guide to alternative fuels.

With the summer driving season right around the corner, the arrival of spring makes a great time for a quick spare tire check up. A few minutes now could save you from kicking off vacation or a weekend road trip stuck by the side of the road with a useless spare, or one that can't be removed because the hardware securing it is rusted.

All tires lose pressure over time, which is why we recommend including your spare as part of a monthly tire pressure check. If it's been a while since you last had a look at your spare, chances are it is low or even flat. (See our tire pressure gauge buying advice and Ratings.)

• If you drive an SUV, minivan, or pickup with the spare stored under the vehicle, the mounting hardware is probably exposed to the elements, road debris, and corrosive salt from winter roads. Check to make sure any nuts, bolts, brackets, or chains holding it can be loosened, and that you can get the spare out. Penetrating oil can help with stubborn fasteners. Even if the spare is in the trunk, the related hardware used to secure it can be subject to corrosion. Check all fasteners, and pull the tire out to clean any debris or dampness underneath it.


• Once you have the tire out, give the tread and sidewall a quick inspection. Don't use a spare with tread worn beyond the wear bars, chunks taken out of the sidewall, or other damage. Ask your mechanic to inspect it if you have any doubts.


• Don't forget to check your jack to make sure it is functioning properly, and make sure you have all the pieces and parts you need to use it, along with a lug wrench.


• If you've never changed a tire on your present vehicle, consider a dry run in your driveway or other safe place to ensure you're comfortable doing it and have all the necessary components.


• Consult your vehicle owner's manual for tire care and instructions for safely changing a tire.


• Many new cars use run-flat tires and don't have a spare, or have only a compact or temporary spare. Some just carry a small air compressor or can of aerosol sealant for emergencies. Make sure you know what equipment is on your car, and how to use it. Also be aware of any safety limitations. Run-flats, compact spares, and temporary spares all have distance and speed restrictions. Check your owner's manual for details.


• If you have an older vehicle, know that tires effectively expire after a decade, as suggested by many tire manufacturers, even if the tires appear new. Those tires protected from the elements in the trunk, cargo area, or covered on the back will last longer than an exposed tire mounted under the vehicle. Should you plan to hold on to a car much longer, consider replacing the spare with a new tire.


• Flats can occur in inconvenient, and even dangerous, locations. Be sure to have an emergency kit when traveling that includes road flares and/or reflective triangles.


• The most import tool to have with you may be a charged cell phone, along with a number for roadside assistance, either through the automaker or membership club, like AAA.

Motorcyclists face a variety of dangers, but when it comes to the common practice of lane-splitting—the practice of riding between lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic—riders feel most threatened by drivers not looking in their mirrors and distracted drivers, according to a recent survey by the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS).

Both these concerns were reported by at least 30 percent of survey respondents. Other perceived threats rank far lower, such as cars changing lanes (10.1 percent), aggressive drivers (7.3 percent), and cars not signaling (2.3 percent).

The common theme is that motorcyclists fear inattentive drivers. Unstated, though implied, motorcycle visibility can improve safety in some scenarios. Having bright colors on the bike, riding gear, and helmet, along with running lights, can help drivers take notice and thereby be encouraged to share the road responsibly—something all travelers should do, especially during Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.

See our motorcycle and scooter buying advice to learn more about rider safety.

Related:
Tips to make the roads safer for cars and motorcycles
Survey reveals perceptions and dangers of motorcycle lane splitting
Guide to the 2012 motorcycles and scooters with ABS

With long charge times and charging stations few and far between, government agencies, Google, and others have gone to great lengths to maintain lists of every charging station in America and make it available via smart phones. But EV drivers have another story.

With different charging networks proliferating, some EV drivers we met this week at the 26th annual Electric Vehicle Symposium in Los Angeles (EVS26) say it's hard to know which ones they can use. Different plug standards for DC fast-charging and chargers owned by private businesses (such as CR) whose chargers are listed, but not readily available to the public, compound the problem.

Naturally, charging networks install electric car chargers in people's homes and in public places, such as parking lots and airports. For public chargers, they provide an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) key tag to customers to activate the charger and authenticate payment. Some charging network providers say it's important to them to collect authentication information even if they're providing free charging, because it helps them track where future chargers should go, what kind of electric car you have, and how to manage loads on the power grid.

Perhaps the most important reason for charging networks is to collect and aggregate payments. Unlike buying gas, when you charge up an electric car, the cost amounts to just a few dollars. Charging our Nissan Leaf test car at our test track in Connecticut, for example, cost less than $4.50. And that figure is a worst-case scenario. (Our area has among the highest electric rates in the continental United States, and that cost is based a completely drained battery, which ideally should never happen.)

At the modest energy costs for recharging, credit-card processing fees take a significant bite out of providers' profit margins. Companies are exploring more creative approaches to ensure profitability, such as aggregating payments from different tenants in an apartment garage. This business model may evolve over time.

Different charging networks take various approaches to collecting payment. Among the three largest:

• ChargePoint (run by Coulomb Technologies) allows the property owners on whose land the chargers sit to set the rates. It bills users $25 at a time, up front, then draws down from this amount as they use the chargers.


• eVgo, a division of electric utility NRG, recently settled a lawsuit with the state of California by agreeing to install 10,000 charging locations across the state, with 400 chargers initially, 200 of them "fast" chargers. The company, which also operates in Texas and elsewhere, has several payment plans: For $39 a month, drivers get unlimited use of public chargers (both 240-volt and so-called fast chargers). For $89 a month, they can get that plus a charger installed at their home, along with any electricity used. For $49 a month, a contracted plan can include a home charger and electricity, without public charging access. In addition, it charges extra fees for parking longer than an hour at its public chargers, but donates those proceeds to charity. As part of its settlement with the state, NRG agreed to include credit-card readers on its public chargers as well.


• Blink by Ecotality will start similar subscription plans this summer along with collecting revenue by selling targeted advertising and store coupons on their chargers, along with other ancillary activities.


• GoE3 is installing only public fast chargers that can recharge a typical car in about a half hour. It plans to charge a flat $12 for use.

In the meantime, tech-savvy EV drivers have developed their own crowd-sourced charger maps, which they say are more accurate and up to date. Further, most EV owners do almost all of their charging at home, begging the question how many charging networks are really needed. That's one of the biggest questions for the next few years for the electric vehicle infrastructure development to answer.

See our guide to fuel economy and guide to alternative fuels.

Related:
California to boost mandate for electric cars
Purpose-built electric cars trump manufacturer-converted models
Wireless electric-car charging takes center stage
Plugless Power demonstrates cordless electric car recharging
Toyota introduces electric RAV4 SUV, starting at $49,800
Mercedes-Benz B-Class fuel-cell-powered car shows progress
Behind the wheel of the improved Coda electric car
We drive the first Chinese car expected in the U.S., the electric BYD e6
Do electric cars even need special chargers?

The Waze app packs a lot of information in at an enticing price—free. It combines turn-by-turn navigation, traffic delay information (with causes and backup lengths), locations of radar traps, and the ability for users to socialize their location, mood, and on-the-road observations with other Wazeophiles. But that's the problem.

While turn-by-turn guidance and information about delays can save time and increase safety, Waze makes it all too easy for drivers to cross over to driver distraction—both literally and figuratively—by posting photos and looking for new friends, all while cruising along at highway speeds.

Yes, drivers do have the option of exercising restraint, and saving the more distracting elements of on-the-road socializing for times when they're safely at a stop. But given that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) attributed more than 3,000 deaths to distracted driving in 2010, why increase the danger and temptation by making such compelling features available while underway?

We found that if you steer clear of the extra features, the basic Waze menu provides a well-balanced diet of directional guidance and travel information. Just stay away from the all-you-can-eat buffet, which includes such things as sharing via Facebook and Twitter, pinging users to chat, and posting traffic jam photos. Waze locks out typing while in motion (unless the driver lies to the app and claims to be the passenger), but it does allow users to make various updates on the run by clicking icons on the screen.

Ultimately, Waze is best used by a co-pilot, who can assist with navigation and enjoy the myriad fun features safely in the passenger's seat.

What we like: Waze provided reliable turn-by-turn directions—including voice guidance—in our experience, with generally accurate estimates of travel time. The simple graphics are easy to decipher, though limited by screen size. In the greater New York City area, crowd-sourced traffic information was mostly accurate and current. But results may vary in less populated areas. Waze does accept limited voice commands, and some distracting functions can be turned off in settings. Because Waze is a free download, the price is right.

What we don't like: The ability to chat, post photos, and engage in other distracting behavior behind the wheel is dangerous. Encouraging users to be more involved in the Waze community by earning points for participation seems likely to make matters worse. Some font sizes are very small, making them hard to read on the road. We noticed a barrage of alerts whenever we stopped at traffic lights, many of which provided crash notification or other information on roadways nowhere near our route. Thankfully, those seemed to stop once we got moving.

What could be improved: Limiting access to some unnecessarily distracting functions—such as social media and en-route chatting—while underway would be a good idea.

Compatibility: Waze is a free download, and it is compatible with Android, Blackberry, and iPhone devices.

A recall for GLX 501C motorcycle helmets made by Galaxy Helmets in Irwindale, Calif., has been issued by the U.S. Highway Traffic Safety Administration. A small number of extra large sized Galaxy helmets failed to meet government impact standards and might not adequately protect motorcycle riders in the event of a crash.

NHTSA and safety advocates such as Consumer Reports remind two-wheeled riders of the importance of using proper-fitting motorcycle helmets. According to the safety agency, motorcyclists were five times more likely to be injured based on miles traveled in 2009. (And as warmer weather bring out more cyclists and riders, NHTSA's Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month campaign is emphasizing to all motorists the importance of sharing the road.)

In the Consumer Reports motorcycle buying guide, our safety experts recommend motorcycle riders should use a full-face designed helmet that's approved by the Department of Transportation. Motorcycle helmets should fit snugly and be replaced after two to four years because the material degrades.

According to NHTSA, Galaxy Helmets will notify helmet owners affected by today's safety recall and will bring the flawed GLX 501C helmets into safety compliance, free of charge. However, Galaxy has not provided when the notification to its customers or repair process to its helmets will begin.

Consumers can contact Galaxy Helmets at 626-359-0900 or the NHTSA website (www.SaferCar.gov) for more information.

Source:
Recall: Galaxy GLX 501C motorcycle helmets - Impact protection; Campaign ID#: 12E019000 [NHTSA]

We're heading into the busy summer travel season and if a road trip is in your getaway plans, a used SUV may be a good choice to fit the family and gear. As we have been reminded by our recent tests, new SUVs can be pricey. To make shopping easier, we have identified some of the best used deals on small and midsized SUVs.

Buying a used car has many benefits. Most important is that the original owner takes the initial depreciation hit, as new cars lose much more value in the first and second years than those that follow. And, if you look for a used vehicle from a recent model year, you can still find one that is safe and reliable with key safety features such as electronic stability control and curtain air bags, while also saving on the purchase price.

When shopping, look for vehicles that scored well in Consumer Reports' tests when new, have proven reliability, and perform well in government and insurance industry crash tests. Before handing over the cash, have the vehicle inspected by a trained and trusted mechanic to make sure there are no hidden problems.

Check out our top deals for recommended vehicles from the 2007-2008 model years in the chart below. We placed the vehicles in order of the cheapest price you might be able to get when buying from the dealer. As you'll see, the models listed below are between 21- and 41-percent less than the retail price when the vehicle was new. Plus, all of the models have at least average reliability according to our latest subscriber survey.

Full used car pricing information is available to Cars Best Deals Plus subscribers on the model overview pages. Consumer Reports also offers individual Used Car Price Reports on vehicles from the 2002 - 2011 model years. Pricing information can be adjusted for vehicle condition, mileage and optional equipment. For advice on buying a used car, see our guide and video.

See our complete list of used-car deals across a variety of vehicle categories.

Even with their low cost of ownership, some have speculated that the electric car movement is being driven more by regulations than by consumer demand. Specifically, they're referring to regulations in the state of California that demand major automakers sell a set number of "zero emissions" (i.e. electric or fuel-cell) cars in the state. Each of the biggest six automakers that sells cars in the state is subject to increasing quotas every year.

Now those mandates are being updated to require more automakers to sell more electric cars starting in 2018. The main change to the program is that almost all major automakers who sell cars in the state will be subject to minimum zero-emissions vehicle sales requirement.

The six companies currently subject to the mandate include the Detroit 3, plus the three largest Japanese automakers: Nissan, Honda, and Toyota. The current regulations are extremely complicated.

Governed by California's Air Resources Board (CARB), the regulations give partial credits for various emissions-reduction technologies on regular cars, additional credits for meeting targets ahead of the mandate's time frame, credits for certain zero-emissions technologies such as drive batteries and motors, and a more credit for longer electric vehicle range. Fuel-cell vehicles get more credits than battery electric cars, because of their longer range and shorter refueling time.

Starting in 2018, additional automakers, such as BMW, Hyundai and Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Volkswagen, and Volvo, will be required to sell zero-emissions vehicles in the state. Only automakers who sell fewer than 20,000 total vehicles in California would be exempt. In addition, the new standards will get simpler. Instead of credits for lots of different factors, the 2018 requirement gives credits only based on the length of the electric range.

Ten other states have also adopted California's zero-emissions vehicle regulation. Since credits are banked, and can be bought and sold, CARB says it's hard to know how many electric or fuel-cell cars will actually be sold. But one thing is certain: we'll be seeing more of them in California and beyond in the years ahead.

See our guide to fuel economy and guide to alternative fuels.

There are two kinds of electric cars at this year's electric vehicle symposium, fondly known as EVS26: Purpose-built electric cars, and those that have been built from standard gasoline cars. The difference could not be more stark.

Cars that have been built from gasoline models are full of compromises. Often the battery takes up much of the trunk space, as is the case with the Ford Focus electric. Or, as in the case of the Chevrolet Volt, it may even take up passenger space. (The Volt is based on the conventional Chevrolet Cruze.) Its inverted "T"-shaped battery runs through an extra-large tunnel in the car between the rear seats, eliminating the space for a center passenger, and limiting the car as a four-seater. The top of the "T" sits underneath the rear seats, but it still sticks out far enough to compromise foot access into the rear seats.

Purpose-built electric cars are much more space efficient, because they don't try to cram the battery into spaces that weren't designed for heavy powertrain components. Instead, most purpose-built electric cars use flat-format cells sandwiched under the whole floor of the car. This is the case with the Nissan Leaf, as well as several upcoming models at the public ride-and-drive session outside the Los Angeles Convention Center this week: the BYD e6 and the Tesla Model S.

Even the Mercedes-Benz B-Class fuel-cell, which is not strictly a battery-powered electric, as it runs on an electricity-producing fuel cell, houses most of its heavy drivetrain components in the floor. And it's very roomy and nice to drive.

Either way, flattening the drivetrain components under the floor also gives designers flexibility to maximize the shape for other uses. The sleek Tesla Model S has impressive space efficiency, with a flat interior floor that's wide open in front and gives generous legroom in the rear. It has a spacious hatchback big enough for a rear-facing third-row seat, and a trunk up front where the engine would go.

Of course, there are exceptions: For example, while the Coda electric sedan is based on a 2000-model-year Mitsubishi Lancer, the company found a way to sandwich most of the batteries under the floor.

Putting the batteries under the floor has dynamic advantages, as well. Since batteries are heavy, they lower the center of gravity and spread it out, aiding handling, braking, and even the ride. Carrying that much weight around in the trunk can't do much for handling.

We'll be looking for more purpose-built electric cars in the future. The primary reasons to base an electric on a gasoline platform is to save money and race to market--both fair business objectives. But that approach smacks of lower commitment by those automakers to building electric cars.

See our guide to fuel economy and guide to alternative fuels.

Related:
Toyota introduces electric RAV4 SUV, starting at $49,800
Mercedes-Benz B-Class fuel-cell-powered car shows progress
Behind the wheel of the improved Coda electric car
We drive the first Chinese car expected in the U.S., the electric BYD e6
Do electric cars even need special chargers?

How much do you hate going to a gas station? Would plugging your car in every night be even more of a pain? Or would it become a simple routine, much like plugging in your cell phone at night? Those are some of the main questions electric car advocates are asking this week at EVS26, the 26th annual Electric Vehicle Symposium in Los Angeles. The answers, of course, depend on what you're selling.

As we discussed yesterday, electric car charging consumes much of the conversation at this year's event. Traditional electric-car advocates like to point out that in surveys, owners much prefer plugging in to going to a gas station.

Now a counterpoint is springing up. Several companies, including Delphi, Siemens. and Qualcomm, have developed inductive charging mats that allow drivers to simply pull into their garage (or another so-equipped parking place) and charge. No plugging necessary. Both the car and the parking space would have to be equipped for such wireless charging. Siemens estimates the installation cost of both parts would run about $2,000, or twice what a corded home charger would cost at that time.

Qualcomm has developed a technology that would allow the car to charge if the driver got within 8 or 9 inches of the proper position over the charging pad. That's enough leeway that as long as the car is between the lines of the parking spot, charging should take place. A dashboard light indicates if the charger isn't engaged.

Inductive charging could be a huge potential benefit for fleet customers such as car-sharing and rental car services, because drivers wouldn't have to worry about whether the previous driver had remembered to plug in. Looking further out, if such inductive chargers were embedded along popular electric-car byways, they could periodically top up the battery, giving the cars additional range. Or, perhaps more importantly, it could allow automakers to install smaller, lighter, cheaper batteries.

As for those who plug in EVs in the meantime, there may be a disconnect between those who have a home charger with a cord installed, and those who don't. In the United States, charger standards specify the cord be permanently attached to the charger. This makes it simpler than filling with gas. You just drive up, open the charge port, and plug in. On a public charger, you may have to also swipe an activation card. But in Europe, and for drivers who use the 120-volt chargers supplied with the cars, the cords have to be unwrapped before and plugged in at both ends (and then, ideally, wrapped up again after they're unplugged). In our experience, this can be an inconvenience.

How about you? Would having to plug your car in along with your cell phone every night be annoying? Or would you prefer it to trips to the gas station? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Related:
Plugless Power demonstrates cordless electric car recharging
Toyota introduces electric RAV4 SUV, starting at $49,800
Mercedes-Benz B-Class fuel-cell-powered car shows progress
Behind the wheel of the improved Coda electric car
We drive the first Chinese car expected in the U.S., the electric BYD e6
Do electric cars even need special chargers?

Mother's Day is just around the corner and if a new car is on the wish list, there are many choices from which to select the perfect one. Whether she is a mother with young children or teens, has an outdoorsy or sporty personality, or an empty nester dreaming of retirement, we have test-based recommendations on good, safe, and reliable new cars.

New moms
All mothers naturally place a priority on safety, but new moms also need plenty of cargo room to fit all the baby gear. A small SUV can be the ideal choice for carting around your new bundle of joy. Their elevated height means easy-on-your-back installation of the baby seat. The Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, and Toyota RAV4 all score well in Consumer Reports tests and have excellent safety scores and reliability. Plus, they deliver relatively decent fuel economy.

Environmental moms
If you're looking for a fuel-efficient vehicle, it's hard to top the Toyota Prius. It has an average fuel economy of 44 mpg overall, roomy interior, and excellent reliability. However, if you need something a little larger, the Prius V wagon adds even more second-row and cargo space, while delivering a still-excellent 41 mpg overall.

Sporty moms
Moms who want a sporty ride, but still need a backseat to tote kids around, may want to look at the BMW X3, Volkswagen Tiguan; sporty wagons such as the Acura TSX or Audi A4; or a hot hatch like the Volkswagen GTI. All are relatively practical, deliver good acceleration, braking, and handling and are fun to drive.

Adventurous moms
With the warmer weather here and more opportunity for fun in the sun, moms who like to spend time outdoors will need a car that can fit items such as bikes, camping equipment, and beach gear. The Subaru Outback is a rugged wagon with generous cargo space, plus good fuel economy. If mom likes to hit the trails or tow recreational toys, the powerful-and-refined Jeep Grand Cherokee can handle some off-roading adventures, too.

Empty-nester moms
If the mom in your life now has time for herself, a sedan a good choice for everyday outings, vacations, and trips to see the grandkids. The Toyota Camry is comfortable and refined, with a nice interior. Fuel economy is excellent at 27 mpg for the four-cylinder. For more space, consider the roomy Toyota Avalon. If mom wants something sporty, look to the Ford Mustang, or the sporty and luxurious Infiniti G37. They all rate well within their respective categories.

Big family moms
Large families need a vehicle with plenty of room for seating, gear, and entertainment to keep kids occupied and mom sane while driving. The Toyota Sienna minivan offers generous cabin storage that includes large bins, pockets, and open trays. The optional in-vehicle entertainment system includes a large fold-down screen can show videos from two sources at the same time, including the DVD player up front. For a smaller vehicle with better fuel economy and seating for six, check out the Mazda5. It stands out in our testing by combining utility, sportiness, and affordability, making it a practical alternative to a larger minivan or a small SUV.

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there; we hope you enjoy your ride no matter what vehicle you choose.

See our model pages for road tests, Ratings, and pricing information.

If the Toyota Prius plug-in is not electric enough for you, soon you'll be able to have a pure-electric Toyota RAV4. Toyota has been developing an electric RAV4 for years, starting with the first-generation RAV4. And at the 2010 LA Auto Show, Toyota announced its intent to build a production version. On Monday, the production RAV4 EV was unveiled at EVS26 (26th-annual Electric Vehicle Symposium) in Los Angeles.

The sticker price before any EV incentives is $49,800. It will be available this summer in five California metropolitan areas.

The electric RAV4 was developed through a partnership between Toyota and Tesla, an electric-car company that has made a name for itself with battery drive technology. The RAV4's 470-pound Tesla battery packs a hefty 41.8 kWh and is stashed low enough that it actually lowers the SUV's center of gravity, Toyota says. Range is claimed to be 100 miles on a full charge.

In other respects, the RAV4 remains familiar, with seating for five and undiminished cargo volume. Drive wheels are front only; AWD will not be offered. Performance is said to be on par with the RAV4 V6, with a zero-to-60 mph sprint time of seven seconds. (Our 2007 RAV4 V6 AWD galloped up to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds.)

Toyota says charging time will be four hours using a 240-volt charger, which is quick compared with other EVs currently available. Toyota plans to sell 2,600 units over the next three years. It'll be built in Canada alongside regular RAV4s. Meanwhile, a redesigned RAV4 is expected this fall. The EV version will be based on the outgoing, current model and will be sold concurrently with the redesign.

The electric RAV's nearly $50,000 sticker price will provoke some sticker shock, so to speak, but it is somewhat mitigated by a $7,500 federal tax credit and a further $2,500 incentive from the state of California. That said, the RAV EV is the only electric SUV from a major manufacturer. Converted versions of the Mercedes ML and Jeep Grand Cherokee from Ohio-based AMP are also available but at a much higher price.

Price aside, it's good to see an electric utility vehicle that's not a glorified golf cart but a fully functional SUV.

See more pictures of the new RAV4 EV.

See our guide to fuel economy and guide to alternative fuels.

Related:
Mercedes-Benz B-Class fuel-cell-powered car shows progress
Behind the wheel of the improved Coda electric car
We drive the first Chinese car expected in the U.S., the electric BYD e6
Do electric cars even need special chargers?

With the exception of the upcoming, lease-only Smart EV, Mercedes-Benz has been almost absent from the electric-car movement. But that's not to say their advanced alternative fuel activities are dormant. Rather than field battery-powered cars, the automaker has been focusing on more forward-reaching technology: fuel cells. (A fuel-cell car is essentially an EV with an on-board electricity generating ability.)

At the 26th Electric Vehicle Symposium (EVS26) in Los Angeles this week, Mercedes had two hydrogen fuel-cell-powered B-Class hatchbacks, a small-yet-tall car not sold in the United States in its traditional form. The fuel-cell B-Class has been for lease in California for nearly two years, providing Mercedes real-world feedback from customers. (We tested a gasoline-powered B-Class in 2007.)

The fuel-cell B-Class lease payment is $849 a month, which includes hydrogen fill ups. The B has a claimed range of 200 miles and stores 3.5 kilograms of hydrogen at 10,000 psi. That works out to be about 57 miles per kilogram consumption.

Retail prices for a kg of hydrogen are not firmly established, so it's hard to make cost comparisons to gas or electricity. It takes 5-10 minutes to fill up the tank, according to Mercedes. A 1.4-kWh battery buffers the fuel cell and gets regenerated by coasting and braking. The B-Class drove much better than the fuel-cell A-Class, a previous Mercedes' research vehicle that I drove in 2007. This one felt solid and quiet, and it delivered an effortless surge of power.

The car and powertrain technology has clearly progressed, but the hydrogen infrastructure has not expanded much in the last five years, remaining a critical challenge to expanding the reach of fuel cells.

See our guide to fuel economy and guide to alternative fuels.

Related:
Behind the wheel of the improved Coda electric car
We drive the first Chinese car expected in the U.S., the electric BYD e6
Do electric cars even need special chargers?

At the 26th Electric Vehicle Symposium (EVS26) in Los Angeles this week, we had an opportunity to drive the Coda small electric sedan. It has been updated to be more affordable since we first piloted one in November 2011.

The Coda now has a 31-kWh battery, instead of the 36 kWh one, in an attempt to make the car less expensive and more competitive with the Nissan Leaf. It is priced at $37,250, and the company says in California, the combined available tax credits and rebates can lower the cost to $27,250.

The claimed range is 125 miles and charge times are said to be five and a half hours. With our latest drive, the production car seemed more finished than the previous example we sampled, without the suspension clunks and with a brake pedal that's easier to get used to. There is also a prominent gauge that displays the battery's charge state. However, viewing the remaining range requires an inconvenient, two touches of the low display screen.

The car is already on sale in California metro areas and several deliveries have taken place. Coda won't disclose exactly how many, however. The company says it intends to line up dealers outside California in the next six months. A plan to establish a plant that was supposed to produce batteries for Coda in Ohio has been put on hold for now.

See our guide to fuel economy and guide to alternative fuels.

Related:
We drive the first Chinese car expected in the U.S., the electric BYD e6
Do electric cars even need special chargers?

Updated: 5/10/12

Chrysler is recalling a small number of 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans equipped with powered rear liftgate doors. About 471 of the minivans have faulty sensors that may not prevent the door from closing on a finger or other appendage says the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

According to NHTSA, the pinch sensor, located on the right side of the minivan's power liftgate, may need to encounter more force or resistance before it stops the door from moving during its final closing stages. Due to the possibility of increased risk of consumer injury, Chrysler and NHTSA announced this recall of 2012 Chrysler Town & Country and 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan minivans.

Chrysler is expected to begin notifying owners affected by this safety recall this month. Owners with the recalled minivans will be advised to take their vehicle to a local dealership where mechanics will replace the faulty right side rear liftgate pinch sensor for free.

For more information, consumers can call Chrysler's toll-free customer support line (800-853-1403) and reference the company's internal recall number, M17, or visit the NHTSA website: www.SaferCar.gov.

Source:
Recall: 2012 Chrysler Town & Country/2012 Dodge Grand Caravan - Rear liftgate; Campaign ID #: 12V191000 [NHTSA]

The Kia Soul and Subaru Impreza hatchback are similar in some ways, such as engine size; use of simple controls; easy access to the noisy cabin; and comparable fuel economy, cargo room, and turning circles. Yet, there are big differences in styling and performance.

Subaru made a bold move with its redesigned Impreza, moving to electric steering and cutting horsepower way back to make a dramatic fuel-economy improvement. By moving from the previous 2.5-liter flat-four engine to the new 2.0-liter and swapping in a continuously variable transmission, Subaru was able to give its all-wheel-drive Impreza the fuel economy of a front-drive car.

The smaller, lighter Soul has the advantage as far as acceleration goes, with its164-hp engine—16 more than the Impreza. Its 2.0-liter engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, a combination that works well. But the Impreza's handling is more enjoyable.

Both cars offer ample interior space, with the Impreza all business and the Soul looking a bit funkier. Controls are straightforward and hard plastic are plentiful in both.

Ride quality is quite different, with the Impreza providing impressive suspension isolation, while the Soul telegraphs bumps into the cabin.

The Soul and Impreza each offer an appealing package for shoppers looking for a small, versatile package with good fuel economy and some personality. But, there are clear differences and trade-offs.

Watch the video below for further highlights of the Soul. And check out the Soul and Impreza model pages for a full detailed road test and complete Ratings.

Young people acknowledge that it's dangerous to use a cell phone behind the wheel, yet they knowingly engage in distracting behavior, according to a new survey by the Consumer Reports National Research Center.

The nationally representative survey asked young drivers between 16-21 years old about the driving behaviors of their peers, parents, and themselves. In the past 30 days, nearly half of the respondents had spoken on a handheld cell phone and about 30 percent had texted while behind the wheel.

When asked about what our respondents saw their friends doing, the numbers were even more startling. Eighty-four percent witnessed friends talking on handheld phones and over 70 percent saw them texting. When asked about what their parents do while driving, almost 50 percent report seeing them talk on a handheld phone and 26 percent saw them texting.

When it comes to what young people think is dangerous while driving, 63 percent said speaking on a handheld cell phone was very or somewhat dangerous. By a much greater margin, 97 percent consider texting, reading, and responding to e-mails to be very or somewhat dangerous when driving, and 98 percent feel the same for using apps or the Internet.

However, the good news is there is some action being taken. Nearly half say they have asked someone to stop using a phone because they feared for their safety, and 74 percent have reduced or stopped behaviors due to concern about distracted driving.

Young people are especially vulnerable to distracted driving dangers. Consider that car crashes are the number one cause of death for teens, combined with their inexperience behind the wheel and love for mobile technology, and it makes for a dangerous combination. In 2010, 11 percent of teens who died in crashes were distracted.

For more results from our survey, read our complete report "Distracted driving puts young drivers at risk".

See our special section on distracted driving for safety tips and more.

Gas prices are mostly down except for the western part of the country compared to the week before. The national gasoline average is $.18 below the price this time last year. Diesel fuel is about five cents below this time last year. At $4.05, premium gasoline is down about five cents from last week.

Source: Energy Information Administration, 5/7/12. Figures rounded to the nearest cent.

See our guide to fuel economy for advice on saving gasoline, including reports on how to get the best gas mileage and where to find the cheapest gas. Learn about future technologies in our in our guide to alternative fuels.

Reports of an imminent invasion of Chinese cars have proved exaggerated for more than a decade. Promised introductions have failed to materialize, and those from BYD, Geely, and others that we've seen displayed at auto shows looked unready for prime time. Now I've had a chance to actually drive one, the all-electric BYD e6, at the 26th Electric Vehicle Symposium taking place this week in Los Angeles. Truthfully, it made a better impression than we would have expected.

The e6 looks like a tall station wagon, and it features a 60-kWh lithium-ion battery with a claimed range of 180 miles. I couldn't verify that on my brief outing. When I drove it, the dashboard display indicated it had a remaining range of 105 miles with 55-percent charge left in the battery.

The front-wheel-drive BYD e6 rides pretty nicely, perhaps due to its over 5000-pound weight. Acceleration begins with a strong initial spurt but it tapers off rapidly and becomes somewhat sluggish. Handling is rather ungainly. The interior seemed fairly well put together.

Charge time is estimated to be 18 hours or six hours through a "fast" DC charger. The BYD is slated to be on sale for fleets only perhaps by the end of 2012 for a price of over $40,000.

See our guide to fuel economy and guide to alternative fuels.

Electric car advocates, gathering this week in Los Angeles for a forward-looking industry event, seem to be trying to solve two problems that may not exist. The main focus of this year's 26th annual Electric Vehicle Symposium (EVS26) is on charging and chargers—who needs them and where to put them.

The mantra surrounding electric cars for the past few years has been, "We've gotta get some infrastructure out there!" Well, yes and no.

The infrastructure people are referring to public electric-car charging stations. These take mainly two forms: Level 3 "fast-charge" stations, as we wrote about last month, and 240-volt Level 2 charging stations such as this one, available at Best Buy.

But the latest statistics show that 50 percent of electric car buyers don't buy Level 2 chargers, which can cut charging times in half (or less) compared with charging from a standard household 120-volt outlet (known as Level 1 charging).

As discussed at EVS26, when the first electric cars rolled out last year, they were essentially sold to order. While consumers were waiting for their cars, they were put in touch with an electrician and a company that sold Level 2 chargers. But now, most electric cars are sold off the lot from dealer inventory. So about half the buyers just drive it home, plug it in to a low-speed, overnight Level 1 outlet and never look back.

Further, says Daniel Sperling, director of the Institute for Transportation Studies at the University of California, Davis, research shows that many consumers insist public chargers be in place before they will commit to buying an electric car. But once they do, they always charge at home and never use the public chargers.

So, are companies, often backed by federal loans or tax incentives, wasting the money installing public infrastructure? Brian Wynne, president of the Electric Drive Transportation Institute, which organizes the symposium, doesn't think so. Federal programs incentivizing the installations in 26 cities were designed to gather data about how people use them. In other words, if the answer is "not at all, but they won't buy electric cars otherwise," at least that's worth knowing. "And I have no doubt that all the equipment will eventually be used," he says.

If that's the case, one thing is sure: We'll see all the new choices in charging, from wireless to giant fast-chargers at EVS26 this week. It's hard to believe groups such as EVS have been talking about developing electric cars for 26 years! Time flies, and progress charges ahead.

See our guide to fuel economy and guide to alternative fuels.

Chrysler is recalling nearly 120,000 2011-2012 Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 sedans in the U.S. The vehicles have electronic stability control (ESC) and anti-lock brake systems (ABS) which may overheat and cause loss of control, warns the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

According to company reports, Chrysler is unaware of any injuries, deaths or accidents due to the overheating ESC and ABS units in the sedans. The issue also affects about 8,725 Dodge Chargers and Chrysler 300s in Canada.

NHTSA says Chrysler will notify Dodge Charger and Chrylser 300 owners affected by this recall this month. Owners will be instructed to bring in their recalled Chrysler vehicles to dealerships where mechanics will relocate the systems' fuse boxes for free.

For more information, consumers can contact Chrysler toll-free at 800-853-1403 or visit the NHTSA website at: www.safercar.gov.

Source:
Recall: 2011-2012 Chrysler 300/Dodge Charger - Anti-lock brakes; Campaign ID #: 12V197000 [NHTSA]
Chrysler recalls 127,350 Dodge Chargers, Chrysler 300s [Reuters]