new cars 2013
The automotive industry continues to
innovate, by bringing to the market new models that are stylish, fuel
efficient and loaded with the latest technological amenities. In a bid
to meet stiffer federal fuel economy mandates, car manufacturers are
making greater use of engineering to deliver vehicles that are lighter,
smaller and more efficient than ever before. Let's take a look at five
new car trends you'll see for the 2013 model year.
1. Turbochargers -- Until
recently, turbocharged cars were few and far between. That's because
such models are more expensive and turbochargers were not as resilient,
able to handle the day in and day out punishment that they take. The
engineering has certainly improved and today's turbo engines should hold
up for many years to come. That's what Ford, Hyundai, GM and others are
betting on and are rolling out dozens of new turbo models to deliver
smaller engines with more power.
2. Transmissions -- The standard
automatic transmission of the 1990s was a four-speed overdrive. By the
end of the 2000s, the six-speed became the de facto measurement for car
manufacturers. The six-speed is still used, but manufacturers are now
incorporating eight- and nine-speed transmission to deliver even better
highway fuel economy. Some manufacturers, such as Nissan, have
successfully innovated by using continuously variable transmissions,
matching or exceeding the fuel economy of other transmissions and
engines.
3. EVs -- Electrified vehicles
including hybrids have not sold as well as had been hoped. Currently,
just over 2 percent of all vehicles sold are EVs. For 2013, you'll see a
greater use of plug-in hybrids as both Toyota and Ford introduce new
models. A plug-in Prius and the Ford C-MAX Energi will deliver
exceptional fuel economy. Whether customers will be willing to pay a
premium price remains to be seen.
4. Carbon fiber -- Materials
such as carbon fiber are lightweight and durable. But, they are also
very expensive. Nonetheless, when used, such materials can cut the
weight of cars, helping to deliver improved fuel economy.
High-performance race cars use a monocoque chassis assembly consisting
of this material. The Lamborghini Aventador uses carbon fiber monocoque;
the Ford Motor Company in partnership with Dow Chemicals expects to put
carbon fiber into most of its vehicles by 2020.
5. Navigation -- If navigation
isn't standard, it is available in nearly every car made today. Today's
navigation systems are quite complex, but with voice activation can be
very useful. Some manufacturers such as Renault are integrating TomTom
with their systems, while others, such as Hyundai have developed
proprietary systems that include 911 assist and emergency notification.
Most systems include a rear view camera, bringing in yet one more safety
innovation in today's cars.
New Car Shopping
Consumers shopping for a new car
can expect to find new technologies included that weren't available 10
or even five years ago when they last purchased a new car. Today's cars
are better equipped, more fuel efficient and stylish. Prices have gone
up considerably too, which means consumers should be prepared to face
sticker shock and to negotiate the best deal possible.
