Gasoline Prices Heading for New September Record!

Posted on 24 September 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Gasoline Prices Heading for New September Record!

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The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline continues to climb, according to the latest data from AAA and the Energy Information Agency (EIA). [Gasoline is up ~5 cents from last week as the Trump mis-administration policies continue to, well, bomb – AutoCrat.]

“At $4.48 per gallon, this is the highest the national average has ever been for this time of year. Typically, the start of autumn brings lower gas prices, but lingering volatility in the Strait of Hormuz and the high cost of crude oil are driving up pump prices. This month is on track to set a new September record. So far, the average for this month is $4.30, higher than the previous September record of $3.83 set in 2023,” AAA said in a release today.** Continue reading →

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ACEA – Hybrids Top August EU Car Registrations

Posted on 24 September 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on ACEA – Hybrids Top August EU Car Registrations

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Hybrid-electric vehicles again ranked as the most popular powertrain choice amongst buyers during August 2026. Battery-electric cars accounted for 21.7% of new EU car registrations.* Plug-in hybrids captured 10% of the EU market, according to preliminary data released today by The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association. [ACEA at AutoInformed after its original French name- AutoCrat.] The death of the diesel trend continued.

“New EU car registrations increased by 5.3% year-to-date, against a backdrop of rising energy prices and persistent geopolitical uncertainty. Demand for a range of electrified vehicles remained strong, driven by market support measures and a broader model offerings,” ACEA said.** Continue reading →

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Volkswagen Debuts In-Vehicle Gaming on Some 2027 Models

Posted on 23 September 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Volkswagen Debuts In-Vehicle Gaming on Some 2027 Models

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Volkswagen of America* said today that it is introducing N-Dream’s AirConsole in-car gaming platform on some model-year 2027 vehicles. At the moment this is the first mass market automotive brand in the United States to offer this type of in-vehicle entertainment. AirConsole allows vehicle occupants to play multiplayer games directly through the vehicle’s infotainment display using their compatible smartphones as game controllers while the vehicle is parked. [Let the distracted driving debates ensue- AutoCrat.]**

“Volkswagen is committed to creating experiences that bring people together and make every interaction with our brand more meaningful,” said Rachael Zaluzec, Chief Marketing Officer, Volkswagen of America. “In-vehicle gaming helps turn everyday moments into shared experiences, giving families and friends a new way to connect, laugh, and spend time together while enjoying their Volkswagen.” Continue reading →

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By the Seat of Their Pants – Premium Seats Lag in Quality?

Posted on 23 September 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on By the Seat of Their Pants – Premium Seats Lag in Quality?

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Vehicle seat quality in premium brands continues to lag that of mass market vehicles for the fifth consecutive year, according to the JD Power (aka J.D. Power) 2026 U.S. Seat Quality and Satisfaction StudySM, just released today.* Overall seat quality improves by 0.9 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) to 10.0 PP100 in 2026. The gap in problems between premium and mass market narrows to 0.7 PP100, down from 1.3 PP100 in 2025, as overall satisfaction improves. [This is part of a larger industry trend that sees people moving down-market for a variety of reasons. Here it’s simply quality, and perhaps how seat controls are displayed and accessed – AutoCrat.]**

“This year’s data demonstrates that better seat quality translates directly into a better ownership experience for both premium and mass market owners,” said Lisa Boor, director of customer success, OEM solutions at JD Power. Continue reading →

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September 2026 Light Vehicle Production Forecast So-So

Posted on 22 September 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on September 2026 Light Vehicle Production Forecast So-So

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As the Iran war continues with limited options for the Trump mis-administration, Mobility Global [Formerly GlobalData and a frequent associate with J.D. Power – AutoCrat.] notes that global auto industry is still surviving the fallout from the ongoing and expanding Iran War, with higher oil prices adding inflation pressure, disrupting supply chains. This, of course, increases the risk of extensive negative economic consequences for many countries, and people.*

“Overall, the latest production update is a mix of smaller upward tweaks in several regions, partly offset by meaningful cuts in Greater China,” said Mike Wall, Executive Director, Automotive Analysis, Mobility Global.  Continue reading →

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California Keeps Growing as It Cuts Climate Emissions Again

Posted on 21 September 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on California Keeps Growing as It Cuts Climate Emissions Again

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New data released today by the California Air Resources Board (CARB)* shows that the state continued its long-term decline in greenhouse gas emissions, even as the economy continues to expand. [The science behind climate change is unassailable. California has tracked the impacts of climate change on the state for more than two decades finding rapidly accelerating effects. With the increasing severity and frequency of drought, wildfire, extreme heat, and other impacts, I personally observed during decades or working and traveling there and elsewhere nationally or internationally that climate change is real and precipitously worsening. – AutoCrat.]

“California is once again proving that economic growth and environmental protection go hand in hand.” said CARB Chair Lauren Sanchez. “Twenty years ago, we bet that tackling climate change would make California stronger. The results speak for themselves — emissions falling, our economy growing, and our air getting cleaner.” Continue reading →

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Chrysler Recalls 97,349 Jeeps for Flying Roof Racks

Posted on 21 September 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Chrysler Recalls 97,349 Jeeps for Flying Roof Racks

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Chrysler [FCA US, part of the Stellantis mega-merger – AutoCrat]* is recalling more than 97,000 model year 2022-2025 Jeep Wagoneer, 2022-2026 Jeep Grand Wagoner, 2023-2025 Jeep Wagoneer L, and 2023-2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer L vehicles. The pivot bolts for the roof rack crossbars may not have been tightened properly, allowing them to detach.*

“The suspect population began on February 24, 2021, when the first 2022 MY vehicle with suspect roof crossbars was produced, and ended on October 30, 2025, when vehicles were no longer equipped with suspect roof crossbars. The suspect population was determined using supplier and vehicle production records. Similar vehicles not included in this recall were built after the suspect period or were not equipped with roof crossbars,” Chrysler told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the mandatory safety defect recall documents made public by NHTSA this morning. Continue reading →

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November Michigan Ballot Proposals – UAW Con and Pro

Posted on 19 September 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on November Michigan Ballot Proposals - UAW Con and Pro

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The politically active UAW* is focusing on two proposals with its member-led political program across the state of Michigan. This is on top of a slate of endorsed candidates up and down the ticket. The UAW is encouraging members and union households to vote No on Proposal 1 to protect the state’s constitution from “billionaire and corporate influence that could undermine hard fought victories in recent years like voting rights, fair redistricting, and reproductive freedom.” The UAW is also encouraging union voters to vote Yes on Proposal 2, the initiative that would “ban monopoly utility companies like DTE Energy and other corporations from flooding money into Michigan politics.”

“Nothing has shaped the current corrupt state of our government like the rise of corporate money and influence,” said UAW President Shawn Fain on the Union’s endorsement of Proposal 2. “Billionaires and corporations are pouring billions of dollars into our elections in America this year alone. They do it to rig the system in their favor, and working-class families pay the price.” Continue reading →

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Vehicle Affordability Still Worrying Despite Wage Increases

Posted on 17 September 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Vehicle Affordability Still Worrying Despite Wage Increases

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The estimable Anderson Economic Group (AEG) consultancy has a new analysis on vehicle affordability in the United States. It finds that household earnings have improved relative to new vehicle prices. However, new-vehicle affordability remains a concern for consumers. Dr. Cristina Benton director of market and industry analysis with AEG, and Dieter Roeser an analyst in AEG’s market and industry analysis area conducted the study, which analyzed US Bureau of Labor Statistics data on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), a measure of how much prices change over time for everyday goods and services, to compare the cost of new vehicles with average weekly earnings for private jobs.*

“While wage growth is good news for consumers impacted by inflation and high gas prices, vehicle affordability continues to be a strong concern,” said AEG senior consultant Cristina Benton, Ph.D. “Consumers are increasingly gravitating toward more affordable vehicle models, pressured by average new vehicle transaction prices holding at or near $50,000 since late 2022. This trend is exacerbated by household budgets that remain squeezed by rising costs for housing, health care, insurance, groceries, and gas.”** Continue reading →

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TRUMPED! AAA – Pump Prices Continue Rising

Posted on 17 September 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on TRUMPED! AAA – Pump Prices Continue Rising

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The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline is up 16 cents from last week at $4.43 and more than one dollar higher than it was a year ago, AAA said today.

[Crude oil remains high, averaging $100 per barrel amid continued volatility in the Strait of Hormuz and other areas or President Trump’s losing war against Iran, as well as other  policy failures Gas prices are now they were during spring 2026. The trend is clear; the national average is about to reach this year’s record high of $4.56 set on 21 May 21. The all-time high for the national average is $5.01 set on 14 June 2022. Passing it appears certain. – AutoCrat.]* Continue reading →

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Michigan Governor Whitmer Against Trump Tariffs in WSJ

Posted on 16 September 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Michigan Governor Whitmer Against Trump Tariffs in WSJ

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Governor Gretchen Whitmer today penned an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal, advocating for Michigan families and businesses in light of costly tariff policies imposed by Republicans in Washington.

“A strong economy requires a trade policy that works with our partners, brings supply chains home and makes life affordable,” wrote Governor Whitmer. “That’s why I recently called the president to relay how the ever-changing tariff policy is hurting Michigan businesses and families. We need to be smart and strategic about trade policy, and lower costs so we can bring back American manufacturing.” Continue reading →

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Annals of Marketing – New User Interface on GM Pickups

Posted on 16 September 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Annals of Marketing – New User Interface on GM Pickups

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General Motors is introducing a new user interface “to bring state-of-the-art graphics, intuitive layouts, and integrated intelligence directly to the cabin.” It debuts first on GM’s light-duty pickup trucks – the 2027 Chevrolet Silverado and 2027 GMC Sierra – bringing high-tech digital sophistication to GM’s highest-volume vehicles before expanding across the broader portfolio. [This is not without risk as connectivity apps cause widespread customer dissatisfaction issues. See AutoInformed on: ICE Vehicle Mobile Apps – Wide Satisfaction Differences, which is just one of many surveys on this industry problem. Marketing babble alert for what follows  – AutoCrat>

“Built as a single scalable foundation that can extend across electric, gas and diesel-powered vehicles, it transforms time spent behind the wheel into an effortless, personalized journey,” GM claimed. “Infotainment is a top priority for drivers,* but complex menus shouldn’t get in the way. Built directly around real customer feedback, GM’s new interface unifies software, hardware, and design to deliver fast access, clear information, and effortless control on every drive,” GM said. Continue reading →

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AAA – Annual New Vehicle Ownership Cost at $12,863 Up ~11%

Posted on 15 September 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on AAA - Annual New Vehicle Ownership Cost at $12,863 Up ~11%

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AAA said today that the average annual full cost of vehicle ownership in 2026 is $12,863, up ~11% compared to 2025. It’s at $1071.92 per month compared to $964.78 per month in 2025.* This reflects continued increases from fuel prices, depreciation, and finance charges However, methodology updates make this year’s results not directly comparable with last year’s estimate. This year’s Your Driving Costs (YDC) analysis integrates select electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids into standard vehicle categories that used to be exclusively traditional gas-powered models, reflecting their growing share in the new-car market.

“By looking at EVs, hybrids and traditional gas-powered vehicles within the same categories, consumers can better understand how total ownership costs vary by powertrain,” said Greg Brannon, AAA’s director of automotive engineering. “Looking at the full ownership picture, including depreciation and other expense, can help consumers better understand the total cost of each option.”** Continue reading →

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Indy 500 Winner Rosenqvist to Be Honored in Värnamo

Posted on 15 September 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Indy 500 Winner Rosenqvist to Be Honored in Värnamo

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The 2026 Indianapolis 500* presented by Gainbridge winner Felix Rosenqvist will be honored Saturday 5 Dec. 2026 by his hometown, Värnamo, during a public celebration in the Swedish city. The free  event will likely be without Hoosier milk. 

“Celebrating an Indy 500 victory in my hometown will be an unforgettable way to conclude the best year of my life,” Rosenqvist said. “Sharing an occasion like this with everyone in Värnamo, where the dream began, will feel completely surreal. It will truly be one of those pinch-me moments. It is truly amazing to think that we will all be able to experience and share this together. I am really looking forward to seeing friends, family, and everyone else in Värnamo in December,” said Rosenqvist. Continue reading →

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F-Series Fuel Tanks Falling Out – Ford Recalls 223,472 Pickups

Posted on 14 September 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on F-Series Fuel Tanks Falling Out - Ford Recalls 223,472 Pickups

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Ford Motor (NYSE: F) is recalling  2023-2027 model-year F-Series pickups because the fuel tank may be incorrectly secured and leak fuel, or detach from the vehicle while driving. About 223,472 F-Series pickups are affected by Ford’s latest quality control failure. A detached tank can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, a fuel leak can cause an engine stall or increase the risk of a fire. No driver warning occurs.

“In some instances, front fuel tank strap T-slots were not properly inserted into the vehicle’s frame rail at the time of vehicle assembly,” Ford said in the mandatory safety defect recall filing made public by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) this morning. Continue reading →

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