Fleet Vehicle Leasing February 2012 Newsletter
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Bumper To Bumper
February, 2012 
Oil & Gas Prices Up 
In a recent review of oil and related fuel prices, AAA said that prices are caught between geopolitical news pushing oil prices higher and the global economic situation holding down fuel prices. A recent U.S. Department of Energy report reveals gasoline demand was reported at a little more than 8 million barrels a day. Per AAA, this is a 400,000-barrel-per-day year-over-year drop and at the lowest level since 2003. Despite ample supply and low demand for gasoline, the national average for gas prices is still up as impending refinery shutdowns and high crude oil prices push prices up.
Ford Recalling 450,000
Ford Motor Co. is recalling 244,000 2001-2002 model-year Ford Escape vehicles because their brake master cylinder reservoir caps may leak brake fluid. Additionally, Ford is recalling 205,896 2004-2005 model-year Ford Freestar and 2004-2005 model-year Mercury Monterey vehicles because their torque converter output shafts may fail.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, brake fluid leaking from the cap has the potential to come in contact with the antilock brake system module wiring harness connector and can lead to corrosion with an eventual fire risk. The torque converter output shaft failure may lead to a sudden loss of power without warning, posing a safety risk. Ford can be reached at (866) 436-7332.
Short Notes
Chrysler announced that in late December, it conducted some fuel-economy testing on a pre-production version of its upcoming 2013-MY Dodge Dart. The compact sedan achieved 40 mpg in tests. Chrysler also announced plans for a diesel version of its Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Volvo Cars of North America, LLC announced its sales in 2011 were up 24.6% over its sales in 2010. Its Canadian sales are up 4% over its 2010 numbers. The automaker also noted its Safe + Secure Coverage Plan. The plan is complimentary and packages a number of warranty-related benefits.
Avoiding Glare 
Winter often sees an increase in the number of traffic accidents resulting from motorists being temporarily blinded by the sun—mainly due to glare from highly reflective snow and ice. Vision Council of America offers these tips for motorists to avoid dangers from glare.
-Drive defensively and leave proper following distance for reaction time.
-Lower visors to help block reflected light.
-Keep the windshield clean and washer fluid reservoir full.
-If possible, take an alternate route lined with trees and buildings.
-Use headlights to reduce the poor visibility of oncoming drivers.
-Wear sunglasses with polarized lenses for glare, and UV protection for sun damage.
Investigation Closed
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) concluded its investigation of the Chevrolet Volt. NHTSA found that GM’s planned updates to the vehicle reduce the potential for post-crash battery fires.
NHTSA said it remains unaware of any real-world crash involving the Volt which has resulted in a battery-related fire. The investigation was originally opened due to the “innovative nature of this emerging technology.”
Fungus Among Us 
About 30 pounds of foam are used throughout every vehicle in seat cushions, arm rests, head restraints, doors, and head liners. That equals roughly 3 billion pounds of foam produced in the U.S. each year and 9 billion pounds produced worldwide. Since most of these foams are produced with petroleum, some automakers are seeking more sustainable alternatives.
Bio-based foams have started emerging and one company, Ecovative Design, is developing a fungus-based biodegradable foam. Instead of petroleum, they use mushrooms and other organics in the form of agricultural waste. The company recently worked with Ford Motor Co. to develop fungus-based foam for use in doors, dash-boards, and bumpers.
Nissan Recalls
Nissan North America is recalling 14,718 2011-2012 model year vehicles because they may have faulty bolts that connect the engine oil cooler and the engine oil filter to the engine. Owners can reach Nissan at (800) 647-7261.
More Hand-held Bans
In the Illinois General Assembly, new legislation was introduced that would change the state’s vehicle code to restrict electronic device use to hands-free only while driving for all drivers. Currently, only texting while driving is illegal in Illinois.
Meanwhile, the grace period for Nevada’s driver handheld phone ban officially ended Jan. 1 and drivers caught texting or talking on a handheld phone can get a traffic ticket.
5-Stars for Sonic 
The 2012 model-year Chevrolet Sonic has received a 5-star overall vehicle safety score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The vehicle was tested under the agency’s revised New Car Assessment Program, implemented with the 2011 model year. The Sonic brings to 10 the number of General Motors 2012 models with the same rating. The overall rating is based on frontal and side crash tests in addition to rollover resistance testing.
Made in North America 
A report from the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association states that 68% of Japanese-branded vehicles sold in the U.S. are now manufactured in North America, and that trend is likely to continue.
In 2010, Japanese automakers had 29 manufacturing plants and 33 design centers in the U.S. In 2009, out of 4,209,768 vehicles sold, Japanese automakers built 2,764,228 vehicles in North American manufacturing facilities, or 66%. In 2010, that increased to 68%.