So, .... taxation on YOUR $2.33 example will be more like 39% !!!! A .10 cent bump would up that to 47%
If the Feds just added 6 cents to RUG/PUG to match the tax on diesel, that would be a good start for fixing our 3rd World roads and bridges. CA already has too much gas/D2 tax, for the little work they do on roads and bridges. Always in the top 3 states on taxes for everything.
The crush in natural gas prices is NOT being passed to consumers. The prices per therm charged this year (right now) are more EXPENSIVE than last year @ this SAME billing cycle when natural gas prices were WAY higher. I am also using LESS, as they encourage. I'm sure that will be true for the electricity bill also. With almost all conventional energy sources in price CRUSH Mode, how about a Cummins V8, 5.0 L TWIN TURBO 310 hp/ 555 # ft of torque diesel ??? !!!!! I am not sure why they didn't do the 8 speed A/T !!!!
I am sure that 6 cents would go more to executive perks than it would to actual infrastructure, gotta "retain talent" and similar lies. I too would embrace higher prices if the pain led to a reward, but I won't hold my breath.
I'm right with you on that one. On both federal and state levels no matter what "lockbox" they create someone always finds a way to move the spending to something they like better.
2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
I'm right with you on that one. On both federal and state levels no matter what "lockbox" they create someone always finds a way to move the spending to something they like better.
Yes the CA legislature and executive branches use HUGE fuel tax monies for "petty cash". Then they poor mouth it, pointing horrific roads !! :@
Slow news diesel DESCENT day to $ 2.99 per gal, ULSD. (local indy store)
PUG @ $2.77 MG @ $2.67 RUG @ $2.57
On second thought:
..."a Cummins V8, 5.0 L TWIN TURBO 310 hp/ 555 # ft of torque diesel ??? !!!!! I am not sure why they didn't do the 8 speed A/T !!!!"..
would make a monster touring motor in a 15/16 Corvette !!!
(I'd have a tough time deciding between the 8/9/10 speed A/T and the 7 speed M/T {Tremec}) !!!
Crazy to imagine 555 # ft of torque (465 # ft gasser already) in sub 3,100 # aluminium frame and plastic and carbon fiber body !! I am thinking 38 mpg might be conservative? All three items, are almost nutty !!!
Got to say that news of $1.55 RUG in Oklahoma got me FIRED UP !!!
(not that prices in OK will do a CA west coaster any good/vice versa.)
However, the price of RUG is a bit like talking about the weather (despite the various MACRO implications and consequences) ! ?
So, putting it in (15,000 miles high) AVERAGE yearly miles, PVF, @ (24.1) AVERAGE PVF: mpg (= 622 gals, yearly ), might be a more realistic context. So a $.50 cent savings = $311 year/12= $25.92 mo.
For diesels (30, 35, 40, 50 mpg ) (500 gals, 429 gals, 375 gal, 300 gals per year), it is a can do EASY to run the "interesting numbers" !
It would be nice to be around 2 bucks in April. Even at $4 or there about, diesel was less than 3 nights in a motel. Right now at $2.59 a gallon it is a bargain, compared to all other aspects of travel. If I traveled today at current diesel prices here and in Oregon the same trip I took in October would be about $200 in diesel. Cheapest airfare to Portland is $227 each. Then a cheap Ford Escape is around $800 for two weeks. Figure about ten times more to fly and rent a car over diesel cost. The worst part is dealing with the stinking government TSA agents. Life is getting better every day with a diesel SUV.
It would be nice to be around 2 bucks in April. Even at $4 or there about, diesel was less than 3 nights in a motel. Right now at $2.59 a gallon it is a bargain, compared to all other aspects of travel. If I traveled today at current diesel prices here and in Oregon the same trip I took in October would be about $200 in diesel. Cheapest airfare to Portland is $227 each. Then a cheap Ford Escape is around $800 for two weeks. Figure about ten times more to fly and rent a car over diesel cost. The worst part is dealing with the stinking government TSA agents. Life is getting better every day with a diesel SUV.
A lot of folks really don't know that both local spending AND local INVESTMENT each has app (separately) an 8 to 1 multiplier effect/affect. It can be seen most dramatically (reversed) when certain jobs are transferred to another location or EXPORTED.
So for example, CHINA would not have grown as fast and as furiously if (American) manufacturing jobs had not been transferred overseas. Ditto because they sell products BACK to us in the US.
So a .50 cent fuel SAVINGS can have a LOCAL ripple effect of app $4.00.
Looks to me like Audi is using the Touareg/Cayenne platform. I don't think I could stand to open the door into the garage and see that fish face every day. Lots of innovations. They did not mention if the NAV is Google based or not. From the side it sure looks like the Touareg to me. Lighter by several hundred pounds. And 41.3 MPG sounds almost unbelievable. It looks like they gave up a lot of the beef needed to bang around off road. I never could see anyone going off road with the Q7 anyway. I think I will stick with the poor man's version from VW. Give me Google maps with Gas Buddy and search features and I will be happy. I guess if I wasn't so cheap I could just get a Smartphone with all that stuff.
Yes. It does look like they tried a VERY aggressive platform STRUCTURAL (700# ) weight loss approach, aka MLB 2 platform. With app 442 # ft motor, one can pretty much set very wide parameters of goals, 41+ mpg PLUS being one. To offer a third row seating, covers that very narrow/small but logical platform niche.
Based on the (anecdotal) experiences with the 15 MB 250 BT (lower weight, etc.) AND the 12 VW Touareg (higher weight, etc) this combination almost can not help but be MILD to figurative and literal WILD, as FUN to drive as either these comparisons are !!!!
We of course get app 41 mpg with a 2.0 L TDI with 236 # ft !! So needless to say 41 mpg with a much heavier and powerful SUV/CUV is innovative !!! It sets VERY high bars !!!
I am sure they verified that very very few of both current and POTENTIAL demographics (buyers) take to the "Rubicon" OFF ROAD trail/s, so to speak.
I also am just fine WITHOUT the majority of the features they are describing.
As much time as you spend in your cars (not to mention on your computer), I'd thought you'd go for the Virtual Cockpit stuff.
Almost ALL the folks that I know like the MAX do dah's in vehicles, that consume a LOT of time. It can also induce up to FATAL distractions. Yet almost all are LOATHED to spend any time in the vehicles. Now, IF one has to work while in transit, it might be a necessary better time utilization.
I must be the outlier who likes to drive, yet really does not care much about the do day's. Go figure !!
TMI and probably off topic,
decided to get new tires AND alignment on the 09 VW Jetta TDI, one day after MLK. The oem (Bridgestone Turanza EL 400's, not well rated @ all & pricier ) tires are close to 88,000 miles ( consumption rate of 13,538 miles per 1/32nd in, SO .007227 cents per mile driven: tires is the number to beat , SO all I need (new, better, cheaper set) are 74,000 miles to B/E, retail prices) .
5,000 miles rotations are included (10,000 miles oem recommended) and I think that and 80 to 85% ( 40 to 43 psi) of max side wall pressures ( 51 psi) should contribute to higher miles. The tire guru sez the chosen new ones are a way better choice. But will let folks know the TMI in 6 or so years.
Careful what you wish for. If the feds get out of the highway business, some of the interstates in "poor" states could get interesting. Or the tolls could get onerous. I do like the contrarian thinking of making gas even cheaper. Except that the roads could really get crowded.
About diesel, and specifically about diesel trucks, the GAO notes that "The Highway Trust Fund is divided into two separate accounts—Highway and Mass Transit Accounts. The Highway Account receives the majority (approximately 89 percent in fiscal year 2013) of the tax receipts allocated to the Highway Trust fund, including the majority of the fuel taxes. All truck-related taxes are also deposited into the Highway Account." (pfd file)
Careful what you wish for. If the feds get out of the highway business, some of the interstates in "poor" states could get interesting. Or the tolls could get onerous. I do like the contrarian thinking of making gas even cheaper. Except that the roads could really get crowded.
About diesel, and specifically about diesel trucks, the GAO notes that "The Highway Trust Fund is divided into two separate accounts—Highway and Mass Transit Accounts. The Highway Account receives the majority (approximately 89 percent in fiscal year 2013) of the tax receipts allocated to the Highway Trust fund, including the majority of the fuel taxes. All truck-related taxes are also deposited into the Highway Account." (pfd file)
Do you really believe that 89% of gas tax is actually used to maintain roads and bridges? Why did they need the emergency bill last year to fund the states through May 2015? And if most of the Federal gas tax goes back to the state where it is generated, why not eliminate the Federal tax all together and let the states tax gas as their needs require?
Federal highway funds are divvied up and distributed under a complicated formula based in part on the amount and types of motor fuels consumed in each state. All states are assured of getting back at least 92 percent of the highway excise taxes paid into the trust fund by consumers and large oil companies, according to a Federal Highway Administration explanation.
Getting rid of Davis Bacon for funding highways could save money.
But I think Davis Bacon requires more audits than most state DOTs would. Do you trust the cronies in your state capital to not get in bed with the road builders? Maybe if you like bridges to nowhere....
Getting rid of Davis Bacon for funding highways could save money.
But I think Davis Bacon requires more audits than most state DOTs would. Do you trust the cronies in your state capital to not get in bed with the road builders? Maybe if you like bridges to nowhere....
What I am seeing around here is a circumvention of the D/B Act. Big Union contractor gets the bid based on using union labor. Then subs out to minority contractor that can hire anyone they like, mostly you know who. A recent state road was widened and had the big sign stating it was provided by the Stimulus fund. The workers were mostly Latino, the trucks beat up and some unmarked. No hard hats or safety vests. I am pretty sure all road jobs go through the CA DOT. Too many duplications of agencies. And the minority hire made it that much easier to screw workers and the tax payers. Something I just read about Davis Bacon from the website. It is an EO from Obama.
On February 12, 2014, President Obama signed Executive Order 13658, “Establishing a Minimum Wage for Contractors,” to raise the minimum wage to $10.10 for all workers on Federal construction and service contracts. The President took this executive action because raising wages will improve the quality and efficiency of services provided to the government. Boosting wages lowers turnover, increases morale, and will lead to higher productivity overall on Federal contracts. The Executive Order directed the Department of Labor to issue regulations to implement the new Federal contractor minimum wage.
Executive Order 13658 applies to four major categories of contractual agreements:
(1) procurement contracts for construction covered by the Davis-Bacon Act (DBA);
I think this made it easier for the big contractors to work around paying Union D-B wages.
The city here voted in $10.10 soon after we moved here. It's to be phased in though, over three years I think, and there's a lot of talk about dialing it back. Must be something "national" about that number - catchy enough.
The Albertson's checker my wife talked to yesterday said she'll probably be changing jobs - she got a promotion not long ago but thanks to the minimum wage increase, new hires will make as much as her. A bit different situation but I couldn't help but think of the UAW and the screwed up wage structure the automakers have right now.
Just did the upgrade potion of SOS/DD trek, starting with app with app little more than 1/2 tank @ 38 mpg,, 36 mpg with 2 folks, packed trunk, in MB 250 BT. Most of the way was clear sailing, pea soup fog @ the start. 80 to 85 mph (slow lanes) for most of the way up . Almost a magical space cushion for almost all the way.
Stever: The Albertson's checker my wife talked to yesterday said she'll probably be changing jobs - she got a promotion not long ago but thanks to the minimum wage increase, new hires will make as much as her. A bit different situation but I couldn't help but think of the UAW and the screwed up wage structure the automakers have right now.
Many are in that position now. In CA and OR the higher MW is for ALL workers including wait persons getting tips. So at the restaurant where my son is a chef the waitresses are making about double what the cooks are making. Makes for a tense situation. We should just end the whole tipping thing.
That's a good point. Tips are rather a contentious thing right now anyway.
In my mind, the point of a tip is to express appreciation for a job well done, and I base my tips on that mentality. We went to one restaurant a while back where our bill was appx $50. It was just our family, three meals, and some good service - we were there for probably 45 minutes and the waiter came around three or four times (total time investment? Maybe five minutes).
The guy did a great job when he checked on us, though, so I gave him a $5 tip! I thought that was a good show of support. Then, my family leaves, I used the restroom, and I come back out and hear him say, "I don't know why I even try! That family at six gave me a lousy 10% tip!"
I nearly LOL'd. I was maybe one of ten tables he waited. Wages + tips... he's looking at a pretty damn good night. Well, it was a good experience there up to that point; we'll not patronize that place again thanks to his entitlement attitude.
2018 Subaru Crosstrek, 2014 Audi Q7 TDI, 2013 Subaru Forester, 2013 Ford F250 Lariat D, 1976 Ford F250, 1969 Chevrolet C20, 1969 Ford Econoline 100
I usually tip 10-15% if things are decent. Like gagrice mentioned, the cooks don't get in on this, and they have work that is just as crappy. If the food is good and there's a tip jar for the cooks, I've been known to leave something.
In many real first world areas, tipping is much less of a thing, due to higher wages - albeit with higher taxes, but the taxes go to social goods rather than cronies and special interest industries. I've tipped a single Euro for a 10+ Euro meal, and always received a grateful surprise.
I usually tip 20% unless the service is awful. My wife has a friend with an Australian Fiancée. He's moving here in about 2 years so they can get married & be together. He told me they don't tip at all in Australia.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2023 Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD, 2025 Toyota Camry SE AWD
Me too, and a lot of places share their tips with the rest of the kitchen staff. I think the bussers especially get a cut, since they could make the server's life miserable (or so my nephews have said, long ago when they were bussing tables). The servers who get the short end are the ones stuck at the cheaper joints. 20% of a cheap tab isn't much. There's a move afoot to convince people to tip $8 at the cheap joints regardless of your bill.
“What is Toyota’s stance on diesel engines for the U.S. pickup truck market?” Rather than dodge the question or leave it vague so that Tacoma owners can continue to pine away for a diesel, Sweers said “The difficulty with the diesel is LEV III [emissions standards]. The difficulty is the cost-to-benefit relationship. Everybody loves diesel in trucks. The downside is the after-treatment systems can add $3,000 or more. It starts becoming cost prohibitive, especially in this segment, to pay a premium for both the engine and after-treatment system."
I think Toyota is living in the past. Still pushing the 5 speed automatic in the Tacoma. My 08 Nissan is a lot faster than a comparable Tacoma. And the cheapskates still use drum brakes in the rear. Looks like GM may be the first to the US market with a diesel midsized PU. Looks about like what I need as a replacement for the old gas guzzling Nissan PU.
I think Toyota is living in the past. And the cheapskates still use drum brakes in the rear.
Ah, another pet peeve of mine.
"Remember that both disc and drum brake design has been vastly improved in the last 20 years. In fact, the current rear drum brake systems on today's cars would provide better stopping performance then the front disc setups of the '70s. And today's front disc brakes are truly exceptional in terms of stopping power. Combined with the fact that between 60 and 90 percent of a vehicle's stopping power comes from the front wheels, it's clear that a well-designed, modern drum brake is all that's required for most rear wheel brake duty."(link)
In my experience rear drums rarely need attention, unlike rear discs. But it's your money (and Toyota's).
I know we had this discussion before. However truth be known it does make a difference in stopping.
The 2012 Toyota Tacoma features disc brakes up front, with rotor sizes ranging from 10.83-inches for the four-cylinder pickup all the way up to 12.56-inches for certain six-cylinder versions. Unfortunately, rear drum brakes are standard, which means that the Toyota’s stopping power is not quite as impressive as the Frontier’s, even despite the presence of ABS and brake force distribution.
Proof Toyota does not do well braking. Rear Drums the reason???
"Not quite as impressive" isn't the same as "perfectly adequate". TCO for the '13s comes out $500 cheaper on maintenance for the Tacoma. About the cost of a rear disc brake job, lol.
"Not quite as impressive" isn't the same as "perfectly adequate". TCO for the '13s comes out $500 cheaper on maintenance for the Tacoma. About the cost of a rear disc brake job, lol.
You know how I feel about the whole TCO thing. Very arbitrary, with little to do with reality. My Frontier is 7 years old and, cost me $264 to replace the windshield washer tank. That and oil changes are less than $1000. Still on the original cheap tires at 59k miles. No brake problems to fix. For what it is worth looking at the TCO for a 2009 Tacoma and Frontier, first year they list. The Taco is $1160 more to own. I am glad the Frontier gives me 20 more feet in an emergency stop.
That said I feel much better having the extended warranty on my vehicles. The Touareg warranty includes brake maintenance. My wife's grand daughter was thankful for the extended warranty on the Sequoia. The driver side mirror was defective and it saved her $1200. I got a new NAV that I am sure they would have gouged me at least $2 grand for.
That is a lot of coin to restore an old diesel vehicle. VW/Audi has proven diesel is capable of winning any type racing. From Le Mans to Dakar.
IF Mercedes can sell their diesel GLK for less than the V6 gasser, why would an automaker continue building gas vehicles? Just because the Japanese makers cannot figure out how to do emissions with diesels for less, should not slow down the industry. Will the US and German automakers continue to erode Japanese market share? Both BMW and MB outsell Lexus in the USA. Audi may soon pass Lexus. The other Japanese lux builders are on life support. I have to believe it is German diesel engineering that has been the difference. MB does not waste the buyers time with gas in the Sprinter Van any longer. Two diesel choices are there. Ford being Ford wants $5,995 for the diesel option in their Transit vans. Sad very sad.
"Not quite as impressive" isn't the same as "perfectly adequate". TCO for the '13s comes out $500 cheaper on maintenance for the Tacoma. About the cost of a rear disc brake job, lol.
I am conflicted about rear drum brakes. I do have rear drum brakes in the 2004 Civic. The front disc brake pads and rotors needed replacing @ app 115,000 miles (as I remember). The rears were estimate to need replacement INXS of 250,000 miles.
I am conflicted about extended warranties. Never believed in them. I think I see too many comments reading the boards here everyday where people use them, so I start to think they are an okay purchase.
Then I remind myself that 99% of people who never need them never post.
Interesting, but like a commenter mentioned, there was actually a diesel entrant in the 1931 Indy 500. Maybe the Hanomag is the first diesel record type car. Also amusing to see another commenter still pointing fingers about the war - ah Britainistan.
The first diesel production car was actually a Citroen, but it didn't sell in significant numbers. The second car, the MB 260D, was made in much larger quantity.
IF Mercedes can sell their diesel GLK for less than the V6 gasser, why would an automaker continue building gas vehicles? Just because the Japanese makers cannot figure out how to do emissions with diesels for less, should not slow down the industry. Will the US and German automakers continue to erode Japanese market share? Both BMW and MB outsell Lexus in the USA. Audi may soon pass Lexus. The other Japanese lux builders are on life support. I have to believe it is German diesel engineering that has been the difference. MB does not waste the buyers time with gas in the Sprinter Van any longer. Two diesel choices are there. Ford being Ford wants $5,995 for the diesel option in their Transit vans. Sad very sad.
For the MB's GLK's 250 BT vs 350 (gasser), it does beg the question: why CHOOSE 36 mpg, when one can get 23.3 mpg, all day long?
MINUS - $500 cheaper 250 BT ( diesel) makes B/E (over 350 PUG) IMMEDIATE. MB is leading in the fight to lessen the TDI premium. Even @ that, PUG models outsell B/T models not only in the GLK model line.
Another example, I just recently reviewed the maintenance schedule ( the local VW dealers' web site where the 12 Touareg was purchased) for the 12 VW Touareg TDI with a more critical eye (reading between the lines) (next VERY minor service due @ 60,000 miles).
It would appear that I may have SEVERELY underestimated ITS durability and reliability.
The truth might really be 160,000 miles rather than the 100,000 to 120,000 miles that this thread has seen me post. I really say "MAJOR TUNE" of/@ 160,000 miles, ONLY because of common attitudes and AVG US miles of 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year , aka 11 years- 14 years .(to reach 160,000 miles, With those normal consequences.
So for example, @ 80,000 AND 160,000 miles, aka "MAJOR TUNE" in addition to (normal stuff (Ad Blue, oil and filter change, VISUAL inspections,) 3 filters are due to be changed: cabin, air, fuel filter/s (totaling $90. US, fuel filter being the most expensive @ app $60. ). Talk about gems being hidden in plain sight. There is a gem hidden behind that gem, but TMI is there. Unscheduled maintenance remains that. Needless to say, NONE of those 3 additional items are really diesel related.
Not to beat a dead horse and anyone can do the mathematics: but would one rather get 31 mpg ULSD or 20 mpg PUG over 160,000 miles 5,161/ 8,000 gals or 55% more?????. (local ULSD $2.91 /PUG $2.41)
I just got a (local) VW dealership email with a 15 VW Touareg TDI @ 1.9 % for 60 months
The servers who get the short end are the ones stuck at the cheaper joints. 20% of a cheap tab isn't much. There's a move afoot to convince people to tip $8 at the cheap joints regardless of your bill.
Exactly. I tend to tip around $5 for good service regardless of the bill. If some hoity-toity dude gets miffed because my bill was $80, that's his problem and he deserves everything he doesn't get.
2018 Subaru Crosstrek, 2014 Audi Q7 TDI, 2013 Subaru Forester, 2013 Ford F250 Lariat D, 1976 Ford F250, 1969 Chevrolet C20, 1969 Ford Econoline 100
It would be nice to be around 2 bucks in April. Even at $4 or there about, diesel was less than 3 nights in a motel. Right now at $2.59 a gallon it is a bargain, compared to all other aspects of travel. If I traveled today at current diesel prices here and in Oregon the same trip I took in October would be about $200 in diesel. Cheapest airfare to Portland is $227 each. Then a cheap Ford Escape is around $800 for two weeks. Figure about ten times more to fly and rent a car over diesel cost. The worst part is dealing with the stinking government TSA agents. Life is getting better every day with a diesel SUV.
Well, it's even going down a little here in Fairbanks, so there seems to be hope after all!
Heating oil is hovering around $3 now ( a little under, actually), and road diesel is about $3.45 (with gasoline $0.50 cheaper).
2018 Subaru Crosstrek, 2014 Audi Q7 TDI, 2013 Subaru Forester, 2013 Ford F250 Lariat D, 1976 Ford F250, 1969 Chevrolet C20, 1969 Ford Econoline 100
"As part of its latest effort to crack down on harmful nitrogen dioxide (NO2) emissions, Labour-run Islington Council yesterday evening approved plans to place an annual surcharge on diesel vehicle parking permits, starting in April this year.
[L]eaked emails seen by BusinessGreen reveal the auto industry is deeply concerned about the plans and is now seeking to meet with councillors in an effort to amend the surcharge.
Councillor Claudia Webbe, executive member for the environment who proposed the motion, told BusinessGreen the surcharge was designed to tackle diesel emissions.
"We believe that the evidence on diesel vehicles is strong," Webbe said. "It damages people's health and we think it's right and proper that we try to stem the growth of diesel vehicles and that we surcharge those vehicles that are providing the most damaging pollution."
However, the auto industry was quick to criticise the new plans, accusing Islington Council of ignoring the technological advances it has made to reduce NOx from diesel vehicles." London Borough of Islington to penalise polluting diesel vehicles (businessgreen.com)
Yes, and I bet they cheered as they agreed with my LONE 2003 Jetta TDI domiciled in NOR CA causing ALL the diesel pollution in the WHOLE state of CA of 24 M PLUS vehicles, 95% PLUS being gassers i.e, no pollution from the HUGE majority of gassers !!!!
It's interesting that the automakers are working "behind the scenes" on the "neighborhood" level. Big neighborhood but it's clear that they are worried that other districts in London will follow suit, giving the Mayor more ammo to shut diesels out of the downtown.
It's interesting that the automakers are working "behind the scenes" on the "neighborhood" level. Big neighborhood but it's clear that they are worried that other districts in London will follow suit, giving the Mayor more ammo to shut diesels out of the downtown.
It is as simple as BOOSTING revenue @ many levels and %'s. IDLING more vehicles that get and will get less mpg is one tell. Boosting fees on app 50% PLUS vehicles another. Keep in mind fuel in the UK is already up around $8 us per gal.
I am sure Claudia there has the credentials and background to reliably make such a judgment. Probably just padding her already undeservedly thick bank account and pension promises. "Executive member for the environment", amusing. Title inflation in the hardworking sector. I always wonder if such people are in any linked to hybrid/electric car makers or suppliers.
No doubt it's a plan that charges the same for a 1985 diesel heavy truck as for a 2015 4cyl diesel car.
"As part of its latest effort to crack down on harmful nitrogen dioxide (NO2) emissions, Labour-run Islington Council yesterday evening approved plans to place an annual surcharge on diesel vehicle parking permits, starting in April this year. (businessgreen.com)
Comments
If the Feds just added 6 cents to RUG/PUG to match the tax on diesel, that would be a good start for fixing our 3rd World roads and bridges. CA already has too much gas/D2 tax, for the little work they do on roads and bridges. Always in the top 3 states on taxes for everything.
http://www.digitaltrends.com/cars/2016-nissan-titan-xd-official-pictures-and-specs/
PUG @ $2.77
MG @ $2.67
RUG @ $2.57
On second thought:
..."a Cummins V8, 5.0 L TWIN TURBO 310 hp/ 555 # ft of torque diesel ??? !!!!! I am not sure why they didn't do the 8 speed A/T !!!!"..
would make a monster touring motor in a 15/16 Corvette !!!
(I'd have a tough time deciding between the 8/9/10 speed A/T and the 7 speed M/T {Tremec}) !!!
Crazy to imagine 555 # ft of torque (465 # ft gasser already) in sub 3,100 # aluminium frame and plastic and carbon fiber body !! I am thinking 38 mpg might be conservative? All three items, are almost nutty !!!
"DeHaan expects diesel prices to continue to fall by 35 to 50 cents a gallon nationally in the next month or so."
Diesel is on the road to lower prices (houstonchronicle.com)
(not that prices in OK will do a CA west coaster any good/vice versa.)
However, the price of RUG is a bit like talking about the weather (despite the various MACRO implications and consequences) ! ?
So, putting it in (15,000 miles high) AVERAGE yearly miles, PVF, @ (24.1) AVERAGE PVF: mpg (= 622 gals, yearly ), might be a more realistic context. So a $.50 cent savings = $311 year/12= $25.92 mo.
For diesels (30, 35, 40, 50 mpg ) (500 gals, 429 gals, 375 gal, 300 gals per year), it is a can do EASY to run the "interesting numbers" !
It would be nice to be around 2 bucks in April. Even at $4 or there about, diesel was less than 3 nights in a motel. Right now at $2.59 a gallon it is a bargain, compared to all other aspects of travel. If I traveled today at current diesel prices here and in Oregon the same trip I took in October would be about $200 in diesel. Cheapest airfare to Portland is $227 each. Then a cheap Ford Escape is around $800 for two weeks. Figure about ten times more to fly and rent a car over diesel cost. The worst part is dealing with the stinking government TSA agents. Life is getting better every day with a diesel SUV.
So for example, CHINA would not have grown as fast and as furiously if (American) manufacturing jobs had not been transferred overseas. Ditto because they sell products BACK to us in the US.
So a .50 cent fuel SAVINGS can have a LOCAL ripple effect of app $4.00.
http://www.cnet.com/products/2016-audi-q7-tdi/
Based on the (anecdotal) experiences with the 15 MB 250 BT (lower weight, etc.) AND the 12 VW Touareg (higher weight, etc) this combination almost can not help but be MILD to figurative and literal WILD, as FUN to drive as either these comparisons are !!!!
We of course get app 41 mpg with a 2.0 L TDI with 236 # ft !! So needless to say 41 mpg with a much heavier and powerful SUV/CUV is innovative !!! It sets VERY high bars !!!
I am sure they verified that very very few of both current and POTENTIAL demographics (buyers) take to the "Rubicon" OFF ROAD trail/s, so to speak.
I also am just fine WITHOUT the majority of the features they are describing.
I must be the outlier who likes to drive, yet really does not care much about the do day's. Go figure !!
TMI and probably off topic,
decided to get new tires AND alignment on the 09 VW Jetta TDI, one day after MLK. The oem (Bridgestone Turanza EL 400's, not well rated @ all & pricier ) tires are close to 88,000 miles
5,000 miles rotations are included (10,000 miles oem recommended) and I think that and 80 to 85% ( 40 to 43 psi) of max side wall pressures ( 51 psi) should contribute to higher miles. The tire guru sez the chosen new ones are a way better choice. But will let folks know the TMI in 6 or so years.
In black and white, the Fed diesel tax portion is 32% PLUS higher than RUG/PUG !!!
http://www.wsj.com/articles/abolish-the-gas-tax-1421281241?cb=logged0.30087904422543943
About diesel, and specifically about diesel trucks, the GAO notes that "The Highway Trust Fund is divided into two separate accounts—Highway and Mass Transit Accounts. The Highway Account receives the majority (approximately 89 percent in fiscal year 2013) of the tax receipts allocated to the Highway Trust fund, including the majority of the fuel taxes. All truck-related taxes are also deposited into the Highway Account." (pfd file)
Federal highway funds are divvied up and distributed under a complicated formula based in part on the amount and types of motor fuels consumed in each state. All states are assured of getting back at least 92 percent of the highway excise taxes paid into the trust fund by consumers and large oil companies, according to a Federal Highway Administration explanation.
http://www.thefiscaltimes.com/Articles/2014/07/29/Why-Senate-Will-Pass-House-s-Highway-Bill
Getting rid of Davis Bacon for funding highways could save money.
But I think Davis Bacon requires more audits than most state DOTs would. Do you trust the cronies in your state capital to not get in bed with the road builders? Maybe if you like bridges to nowhere....
What I am seeing around here is a circumvention of the D/B Act. Big Union contractor gets the bid based on using union labor. Then subs out to minority contractor that can hire anyone they like, mostly you know who. A recent state road was widened and had the big sign stating it was provided by the Stimulus fund. The workers were mostly Latino, the trucks beat up and some unmarked. No hard hats or safety vests. I am pretty sure all road jobs go through the CA DOT. Too many duplications of agencies. And the minority hire made it that much easier to screw workers and the tax payers. Something I just read about Davis Bacon from the website. It is an EO from Obama.
On February 12, 2014, President Obama signed Executive Order 13658, “Establishing a Minimum Wage for Contractors,” to raise the minimum wage to $10.10 for all workers on Federal construction and service contracts. The President took this executive action because raising wages will improve the quality and efficiency of services provided to the government. Boosting wages lowers turnover, increases morale, and will lead to higher productivity overall on Federal contracts. The Executive Order directed the Department of Labor to issue regulations to implement the new Federal contractor minimum wage.
Executive Order 13658 applies to four major categories of contractual agreements:
(1) procurement contracts for construction covered by the Davis-Bacon Act (DBA);
I think this made it easier for the big contractors to work around paying Union D-B wages.
The Albertson's checker my wife talked to yesterday said she'll probably be changing jobs - she got a promotion not long ago but thanks to the minimum wage increase, new hires will make as much as her. A bit different situation but I couldn't help but think of the UAW and the screwed up wage structure the automakers have right now.
In other news:
2015 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel HFE Arrives at Dealerships in March
Many are in that position now. In CA and OR the higher MW is for ALL workers including wait persons getting tips. So at the restaurant where my son is a chef the waitresses are making about double what the cooks are making. Makes for a tense situation. We should just end the whole tipping thing.
In my mind, the point of a tip is to express appreciation for a job well done, and I base my tips on that mentality. We went to one restaurant a while back where our bill was appx $50. It was just our family, three meals, and some good service - we were there for probably 45 minutes and the waiter came around three or four times (total time investment? Maybe five minutes).
The guy did a great job when he checked on us, though, so I gave him a $5 tip! I thought that was a good show of support. Then, my family leaves, I used the restroom, and I come back out and hear him say, "I don't know why I even try! That family at six gave me a lousy 10% tip!"
I nearly LOL'd. I was maybe one of ten tables he waited. Wages + tips... he's looking at a pretty damn good night. Well, it was a good experience there up to that point; we'll not patronize that place again thanks to his entitlement attitude.
In many real first world areas, tipping is much less of a thing, due to higher wages - albeit with higher taxes, but the taxes go to social goods rather than cronies and special interest industries. I've tipped a single Euro for a 10+ Euro meal, and always received a grateful surprise.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2023 Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD, 2025 Toyota Camry SE AWD
“What is Toyota’s stance on diesel engines for the U.S. pickup truck market?” Rather than dodge the question or leave it vague so that Tacoma owners can continue to pine away for a diesel, Sweers said “The difficulty with the diesel is LEV III [emissions standards]. The difficulty is the cost-to-benefit relationship. Everybody loves diesel in trucks. The downside is the after-treatment systems can add $3,000 or more. It starts becoming cost prohibitive, especially in this segment, to pay a premium for both the engine and after-treatment system."
No 2016 diesel Tacoma coming - Toyota explains why (torquenews.com)
http://www.greencarreports.com/news/1095567_2016-chevy-colorado-diesel-specs-and-zr2-off-road-concept-from-2014-la-auto-show
"Remember that both disc and drum brake design has been vastly improved in the last 20 years. In fact, the current rear drum brake systems on today's cars would provide better stopping performance then the front disc setups of the '70s. And today's front disc brakes are truly exceptional in terms of stopping power. Combined with the fact that between 60 and 90 percent of a vehicle's stopping power comes from the front wheels, it's clear that a well-designed, modern drum brake is all that's required for most rear wheel brake duty."(link)
In my experience rear drums rarely need attention, unlike rear discs. But it's your money (and Toyota's).
The 2012 Toyota Tacoma features disc brakes up front, with rotor sizes ranging from 10.83-inches for the four-cylinder pickup all the way up to 12.56-inches for certain six-cylinder versions. Unfortunately, rear drum brakes are standard, which means that the Toyota’s stopping power is not quite as impressive as the Frontier’s, even despite the presence of ABS and brake force distribution.
Proof Toyota does not do well braking. Rear Drums the reason???
http://special-reports.pickuptrucks.com/2013/06/2013-light-duty-challenge-braking.html
Here's one that @fintail may enjoy:
World's first diesel racing car rebuilt in Germany (bt.com)
That said I feel much better having the extended warranty on my vehicles. The Touareg warranty includes brake maintenance. My wife's grand daughter was thankful for the extended warranty on the Sequoia. The driver side mirror was defective and it saved her $1200. I got a new NAV that I am sure they would have gouged me at least $2 grand for.
That is a lot of coin to restore an old diesel vehicle. VW/Audi has proven diesel is capable of winning any type racing. From Le Mans to Dakar.
http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/alternative-fuel/diesel/le-mans-diesel-winners
http://www.enginelabs.com/news/audi-reflects-on-15-years-of-le-mans-engine-development/
Then I remind myself that 99% of people who never need them never post.
The first diesel production car was actually a Citroen, but it didn't sell in significant numbers. The second car, the MB 260D, was made in much larger quantity.
MINUS - $500 cheaper 250 BT ( diesel) makes B/E (over 350 PUG) IMMEDIATE. MB is leading in the fight to lessen the TDI premium. Even @ that, PUG models outsell B/T models not only in the GLK model line.
Another example, I just recently reviewed the maintenance schedule ( the local VW dealers' web site where the 12 Touareg was purchased) for the 12 VW Touareg TDI with a more critical eye (reading between the lines) (next VERY minor service due @ 60,000 miles).
It would appear that I may have SEVERELY underestimated ITS durability and reliability.
The truth might really be 160,000 miles rather than the 100,000 to 120,000 miles that this thread has seen me post. I really say "MAJOR TUNE" of/@ 160,000 miles, ONLY because of common attitudes and AVG US miles of 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year , aka 11 years- 14 years .(to reach 160,000 miles, With those normal consequences.
So for example, @ 80,000 AND 160,000 miles, aka "MAJOR TUNE" in addition to (normal stuff (Ad Blue, oil and filter change, VISUAL inspections,) 3 filters are due to be changed: cabin, air, fuel filter/s (totaling $90. US, fuel filter being the most expensive @ app $60. ). Talk about gems being hidden in plain sight. There is a gem hidden behind that gem, but TMI is there. Unscheduled maintenance remains that. Needless to say, NONE of those 3 additional items are really diesel related.
Not to beat a dead horse and anyone can do the mathematics: but would one rather get 31 mpg ULSD or 20 mpg PUG over 160,000 miles 5,161/ 8,000 gals or 55% more?????. (local ULSD $2.91 /PUG $2.41)
I just got a (local) VW dealership email with a 15 VW Touareg TDI @ 1.9 % for 60 months
Heating oil is hovering around $3 now ( a little under, actually), and road diesel is about $3.45 (with gasoline $0.50 cheaper).
[L]eaked emails seen by BusinessGreen reveal the auto industry is deeply concerned about the plans and is now seeking to meet with councillors in an effort to amend the surcharge.
Councillor Claudia Webbe, executive member for the environment who proposed the motion, told BusinessGreen the surcharge was designed to tackle diesel emissions.
"We believe that the evidence on diesel vehicles is strong," Webbe said. "It damages people's health and we think it's right and proper that we try to stem the growth of diesel vehicles and that we surcharge those vehicles that are providing the most damaging pollution."
However, the auto industry was quick to criticise the new plans, accusing Islington Council of ignoring the technological advances it has made to reduce NOx from diesel vehicles."
London Borough of Islington to penalise polluting diesel vehicles (businessgreen.com)
Must be s lot of area 51 sightings going on !!!
Does the Toureg TDI require new spark plugs at 50K? I know my Mom's former gasser Cayenne did and it was quite an expensive service at the dealer.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2023 Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD, 2025 Toyota Camry SE AWD
No doubt it's a plan that charges the same for a 1985 diesel heavy truck as for a 2015 4cyl diesel car.
Toureg TDI, the TDI is a diesel engine, which sort of by definition do not use spark plugs. Part of what makes a diesel a diesel, right?
Perhaps you meant glow plugs or ???
Wow. You are right. I had a long day at work today. Wasn't thinking clearly.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2023 Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD, 2025 Toyota Camry SE AWD