I was taken aback when I heard the news that all of a sudden, U.S. car manufacturers are willing to go for higher mileage in future cars per the President's suggestion. 

Normally, raising fuel standards causes a raucous back and forth between Washington and Detroit.

Oh, yeah, I forgot.  Washington basically owns Detroit these days.

However, there may be another reason why Detroit is re-considering starting to play ball with the empty suits in DC.  

The car makers have found one way to lighten up the cars they're building. 

Lighter cars help increase gas mileage while increasing manufacturers' profits.

Unfortunately, as always, the consumer takes it in the ear!

If you're in the market for a new car or have recently purchased one, don't assume that your new car has a spare tire.

Open your trunk and check!

Yep.  Many new cars, including luxury ones, are arriving on the dealers' lots without a spare tire! 

It's estimated that as few as 37% of new cars come equipped with a spare tire these days.  Those most likely to still have a spare tire are trucks and SUVs.

So, before you drive that new baby off the lot, ask about a spare and then check the trunk yourself.

We'd hate for you to get a flat miles from home and not even be able to put a "donut" on long enough to drive to a gas station!

Another strike against the consumer.

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