Union of Concerned Scientists Releases 2011 Hybrid Scorecard: Prius = Good, Touareg Hybrid = Bad

The Union of Concerned Scientist, a non-profit science advocacy group in the U.S., has released its second annual Hybrid Scorecard. The organisation criticised hybrid car manufacturers for not delivering on the technology’s promise, for placing performance above fuel efficiency and environmental benefit and burdening hybrids with features that put them out of the price range of average Americans.

A total of 34 hybrid vehicles from the 2011 to 2012 model year were tested for their fuel efficiency, environmental impact, value-for-money and their so-called “forced-feature premium”. The latter is features that don’t improve fuel efficiency but probably make the cars more appealing to money-conscious consumers.

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Hofele-Design Rocks the New Volkswagen Touareg II with Royal GT 470

And the train of Volkswagen Touareg tuners continues to grow. The latest to join the German SUV’s tuning fan club is Hofele-Design with its new Royal GT 470. The upgrade package is comprehensive and includes modifications to the exterior, interior as well as the chassis and the available V6 diesel.

The tuning shop’s aero kit comprises of a new front apron with integrated LEDs on both corners, matching wheel arch extensions, side skirts and a rear apron housing a diffuser and a choice of two different sets of exhaust tail pipe designs. A hood scoop, Hofele-Design’s bespoke front grille and 20- or 22-inch alloy wheels complete the changes.

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