Whatever the outcome of pending energy legislation, the call for an industry-wide fuel economy average of 35 mpg by 2020 seems certain. It's worth taking a look at some of the technology available today that will help carmakers achieve that goal.
"Consumers are open to any technology that will save them money and have a positive impact on the environment," said Edmunds.com Senior Analyst Jesse Toprak. "Hybrids will still be the main high-economy technology, but perhaps 10 or 15 years from now, fuel cells could pass hybrids. Diesels will be big, at least in the short term."

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French automaker Renault just shifted its cheap-car strategy into overdrive. On Dec. 7, Chief Executive Carlos Ghosn inked a preliminary agreement to become the strategic partner of Russia's No. 1 automaker, Avtovaz, which produces the down-market Lada. Under the terms of the proposed agreement, Renault (RENA.PA) will take a 25% stake in Avtovaz and help modernize its outdated cars and manufacturing with technology and know-how. "The development of the Lada brand will be a priority," Ghosn said during the signing ceremony.

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