This Automotive Podcast is Getting Slightly Better MPG (Musings Per Gigabit)

We're feeling green, not because of summer, but because that's what car buyers are into these days.

One green car that is really catching on, perhaps more than Nissan is ready for, is the electric Leaf.

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Green is going up

If they can't get a Leaf, drivers might want to try a Ford hybrid or electric, because they are getting software and other updates to improve fuel economy.

Even those looking at regular power cars will find that fuel economy is slightly higher across the U.S. new-car fleet.

Even still, diesels are a better deal in almost every case, in terms of the total cost of ownership.

But, hydrogen and fuel cells may be the best deal for the long term, according to Hyundai.

Where Is the Car Czar to Convert This Podcast to a Plug-in Hybrid?

The vacant role of auto czar got axed by the federal government in last week's budget deal that kept the government running. That means the TARP administrators will be watching over tax payers' investment in GM and Chrysler.

But Chrysler is doing much better, so much so that Fiat raised its stake to 30% after several performance indicators were reached.

Not David, not Mathew, Not driving

Performance isn't a big part of the push to hybrids and plug-in electrics, but there are cost savings. One start-up -- ALTe Powertrain Technologies -- is developing a plug-in powertrain that can be used to replace gasoline and diesel motors in trucks.

One issue with electric vehicles is the need to have a special, more powerful source to charge them. Leviton has developed a new portable charger that can take a regular electrical socket and make it more powerful.

That might not help some Nissan Leaf owners who are complaining that their cars won't start -- or is it turn on?

Mercedes has always been a technological leader and Mathew was blown away by these five innovations from the German luxury car maker.

Hot Wheels has been ramping up its marketing machine lately and will attempt the world's longest jump at the Indy 500 in May.

Finally, check out Rookies to Racers, a reality show on Discovery and Science channels for some interesting racing.

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Plug In to This Reliable Podcast (Electric Cars, Bikes and Conversation)

We are back after a week off and looking to get more reliable, just as Consumer Reports sent out its annual reliability survey. Scion came out on top as did Porsche. But GM also did pretty well. Chrysler and Audi didn't.

Ford models also were reliable, as were the auto maker's third-quarter earnings of $1.7 billion. It was a great report with Ford gaining share, cutting debt and selling vehicles for more money.

Brammo's Enertia Plus

The reviews are rolling in for Nissan's Leaf and Chevrolet's Volt. We discuss our surprise at how normal these cars appear to be on the road. The NY Times has the most interesting comparison so far.

David is excited about the Brammo Enertia Plus electric motorcycle that goes further and costs less than the original version that came out last year.

Those improvements came thanks to battery refinement, but that might not continue. A great WSJ article looks at why battery prices won't come down over the next few year due to a host of reasons.

Finally, Kelley Blue Book was purchased by AutoTrader.com, perhaps the first move in a consolidation of the growing number of car buying and price information sites.

GetThisShowOnTheRoad Oct 27, 2010.mp3