When it comes to fuel economy, the little things matter, sometimes quite a lot, as some of the industry experts I gathered together for a "green car" forum yesterday made clear.

The occasion was the public debut of NextCruise, an event for which I am serving as volunteer chairman - TheCarConnection.com, in full disclosure, is not in any way involved in the event. Three senior industry leaders, one from each of Detroit's Big Three, were on hand and asked what it will take to transform the auto industry into one more environmentally friendly.

"There's no silver bullet," emphasized Micky Bly, a senior powertrain executive at General Motors and a key player in the development of GM's Chevy Volt plug-in hybrid-electric vehicle. Instead, we need to expect a whole range of alternatives to today's conventional gasoline engine.

The likely list ranges from hybrids and plug-ins, like Volt, to clean diesels and hydrogen power. Some of these are ready for the road already, while others, like hydrogen-powered fuel cells, are a decade or more away from production.

Surprisingly, all of the experts on the panel agreed that, as Bly suggested, "the gasoline engine isn't going away" anytime soon. But that doesn't mean technical business-as-usual.

Ford's new EcoBoost engine is an example of big changes in a relatively familiar package. This turbocharged direct-injection engine, which will debut in an upcoming Lincoln product, can deliver V-8 performance with V-6 mileage.

That package is complex, and it isn't cheap. But in some cases, surprisingly simple, low-cost technology will yield significant improvements in efficiency (read: mileage). Like something automotive engineers alternatively call Autostart, or Start-Stop.

If you've driven a full hybrid, like the Toyota Prius or Ford Escape Hybrid, you've undoubtedly experienced the concept. Come to a light, step on the brake and you may notice a subtle shudder, as the gasoline engine is shut off automatically. The light changes, you lift your foot, and before you even reach the accelerator pedal, the engine is running again.

Idling is a hidden thief, capable of robbing a gallon or more an hour, whether you're sitting in heavy freeway traffic, or waiting on line for a coffee to go. Recent studies show that you can save fuel shutting an engine off for as little as 15 seconds rather than idling. Few of us want to keep switching on-and-off as we creep forward in line, or in traffic, so it's great to have the car do it for you automatically.

"In 10 years, you'll be looked at as low-tech if your car runs at idle," said another speaker at the NextCruise forum, Chrysler's senior manager of hybrid system integration Jay Iyengar. And it won't be just hybrids offering the feature, but just about every vehicle on the road.

What other features might we see? While BMW wasn't on hand for the Wednesday panel, the company will be participating in the actual NextCruise next month, and we imagine it'll be talking about some of the mileage-minded features on the new 1-Series, such as its electric power steering. BMW isn't alone there, of course. On the I-4 version of the Saturn Vue, electric v hydraulic power steering saves about a mile a gallon. But the BMW 1-er uses a new, rack-mounted motor that restores the sort of handling and road feel earlier electric steering systems lost.

Look for that technology to spread, as, I believe, will the new 1-Series system that automatically decouples the car's alternator when the battery is charged up. Spinning power steering pumps and alternators can suck several miles a gallon off your mileage numbers. This new system is available only in Europe - for now - but look for it to propagate fast, as automakers race to meet tough new mileage standards.

Yes, it's possible to yield big savings through major efforts, like adopting lightweight body panels and switching to advanced powertrain technologies. But manufacturers have yet to pluck all the low-hanging fruit. So relatively simple systems, like Autostart, will play an important role in the greening of the automobile.

Oh, and for those interested in the upcoming NextCruise, here's the formal press release:
2008 Inaugural NextCruise^TM Brings Environmentally Friendly and Future-Looking Dimension to Woodward Dream Cruise
Nine Auto Manufacturers - And Two "Green' Motorsport Series - To Display Technologies And Provide Public Ride And Drives
Pleasant Ridge, Mich., July 23 - The 2008 Inaugural NextCruise^TM, to take place on August 15-16, is a new event - new in both concept and content. Staged in the City of Pleasant Ridge, NextCruise^TM introduces an environmentally friendly and future-looking dimension to the Woodward Dream Cruise, widely viewed as the world's largest automotive spectator and participation event.

Nine of the world's largest automakers are supporting NextCruise^TM, by providing the public with multiple opportunities to check out - and drive - the latest in "Green Machines" (including hybrids, clean diesels and those with other, new super-high-mileage and ultra-low-emission technologies).

"NextCruise^TM marks a number of important firsts," said Paul Eisenstein, Event Chairman. " It's the first-ever public event that brings together such a large array of leading automakers, specifically to display environmental vehicles and technologies; the first-ever event where the public has the chance to drive such a wide assortment of clean, high-economy cars, trucks and crossovers; and it's the first-ever official Woodward Dream Cruise event that is specifically future-focused.

"NextCruise^TM helps expand the relevance of the Woodward Dream Cruise from what is primarily a retrospective into a celebration of the automobile, past, present and future," Eisenstein added.

NextCruise^TM will also feature displays of even more advanced green concepts and technologies, such as fuel cells and hydrogen-powered internal combustion engines, together with experts to provide insight into how those developments can reach production in the not-too-distant future.

"As Pleasant Ridge has the longest stretch of green space on the entire Woodward Corridor, it's highly fitting that the City should be the host of this "Green" event as part of the Woodward Dream Cruise," said George Lenko, Pleasant Ridge Commissioner and NextCruise^TM organizer. NextCruise^TM will be based in Memorial Park, immediately adjacent to Pleasant Ridge City Hall.

"Today's and tomorrow's Green Machines challenge the stereotype that environmentally-friendly automobiles require customers to make significant sacrifices: in size, features, comfort and, especially, performance," said Eisenstein. "NextCruise^TM provides a venue for manufacturers to display current and future Green technologies and engage the public in understanding that the newest Green Machines are roomy, well-equipped and, in keeping with the spirit of the Dream Cruise, able to deliver surprising performance and fun."

NextCruise^TM also will include a look at the next generation of "green" motorsports, including the ethanol-fueled IndyCar Series, and the American Le Mans Series (ALMS), which features a unique Green Racing Challenge this season. The Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix - which takes place on Labor Day weekend - includes both IndyCar and ALMS races. The motorsport display will include race cars and appearances by key IndyCar and ALMS drivers.

"Because of the press of competition, motorsport has traditionally developed technologies that have found their way to production cars," Eisenstein stated. "Motorsport can be exciting, competitive and environmentally friendly, all at the same time.

"NextCruise^TM, put simply, is lean, mean ... and green."

NextCruise^TM will be held in Pleasant Ridge's Memorial Park along Woodward Avenue, north of Nine Mile Road. There will be a public preview on the evening of August 15. NextCruise^TM itself takes place concurrent with the Woodward Dream Cruise on August 16. Major auto manufacturers supporting include General Motors, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Nissan, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi and Volkswagen. Other sponsors and exhibitors include Bridgestone, Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix, IndyCar Series, American Le Mans Series, PR Newswire, G-2 Communications and ESI. For information go to www.nextcruise2008.com or email nextcruise2008@aol.com.

Pleasant Ridge is known for its historic homes, tree-lined streets and active citizens who dedicate their time for the betterment of the community. A long tradition of community pride is reflected in the City's beautiful parks along Woodward Avenue and its pristine neighborhoods. Many of the houses in Pleasant Ridge are part of a nationally-recognized historic district and all the homes reflect the care and attention which assures that Pleasant Ridge will remain a beautiful community for generations to come. A strong sense of community, dedication to historic preservation and ideal location makes Pleasant Ridge the perfect city for all ages, interests and lifestyles. Go to www.cityofpleasantridge.org.

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Blink your eyes and you might not even notice when you pass through Pleasant Ridge, Michigan. The sign on Woodward Avenue says both "hello" and "goodbye." But next month, it will serve as ground zero in the green car revolution, helping transform the annual Woodward Dream Cruise from a past-tense retrospective into a glimpse of the future.

Tomorrow morning, I'll be serving as master of ceremonies at a news conference announcing the first annual NextCruise. The event itself will take place on August 15 and 16, in Pleasant Ridge, one of the cities that lines the route of the Woodward Dream Cruise, the largest automotive spectator event in the world.

Each year, the Dream Cruise brings out tens of thousands of muscle cars, hot rods, and other classics. NextCruise adds a new dimension, bringing together nine of the world's largest automakers: GM, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Nissan, Audi, VW, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW (next year, Honda?), each of whom will display up to three of their greenest vehicles for a static display of high-mileage and environmentally friendly automotive technology. That includes hybrids, plug-ins, diesels, fuel cell and hydrogen power, and other green machines.

That alone makes NextCruise a first-of-its-kind event. But even more compelling, each of the makers will be providing up to two vehicles for a public ride-and-drive. Getting "butts in seats" is always a challenge for automakers, and no more so than with today's new green machines. Sure, lots of folks talk about environmentally friendly automobiles, but most folks still think this means small stone ponies that cost a lot and don't offer much in the way of creature comfort.

Think again. The newest models are proving to be lean, mean, and green. The Toyota Prius is surprisingly roomy and affordable. The Lexus GS 450h is quick. Cadillac's Escalade Hybrid has plenty of towing power and even more bling. And Mercedes' new BlueTec diesels deliver performance and mileage in a single package.

Along with the nine automakers, NextCruise will feature the latest in green motor sports technology, sponsored by the Detroit Grand Prix. Participants include the ethanol-powered IndyCar Series and American Le Mans Series, which will launch the new Green Car Challenge this year. A two-seat Indy car will be on-site, along with several Indy driving simulators.

NextCruise will be open to the public, starting at 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., on Friday, August 15, and then all day during the Woodward Dream Cruise, on Saturday, August 16. There's no charge, though licensed motorists will have to sign up for a ride in one of the green machines.

(Full disclosure: I serve as chairman of the volunteer NextCruise Committee. The project is not in any way supported by or connected to TheCarConnection.com.)

When the first Baby Boomer started collecting Social Security a few months back, it signaled a demographic transformation that could pose serious problems on the nation's highways in the years to come. By 2023, warns the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, those over 65 will account for a quarter of the country's licensed drivers. But whether it's the auto industry or state licensing systems, there's been a serious lack of preparation for the graying of the nation's drivers.

"When you hear the thunder, it's too late to build the ark, yet states are not doing enough to prepare for the flood of older drivers that will be behind the wheel in the coming years," AAA Foundation president and CEO Peter Kissinger said. "Nobody should have their car keys taken away simply because they reach a certain age. Instead, states should screen all drivers applying for new or renewed licenses to ensure they are medically and functionally fit to drive through procedures like eye exams and in-person renewal - but that is not happening. If remedies aren't put in place today, we can expect a significant rise in highway safety deaths in the years ahead. That should concern all of us, young and old alike."

To begin addressing the issue, the Foundation brought together an array of experts - including government and health officials, as well as those in the auto and broader transportation industries.

Among the suggestions raised at the Washington, D.C. conference:

• Base licensing not on age, but functional performance and medical fitness; and


• Hold regular screening to assess the condition of individual drivers;


• Set up standardized education and establish consistent training for those who will have to evaluate older drivers.

How old is too old to drive? Do you expect to drive into your old age?

It's back...or at least it may be soon.

Lawmakers across the country are starting to reconsider the "double nickel" speed limit, which was implemented back in the mid-1970s, following the first Mideast oil shock. (Actually, the figure was originally a snail's pace 50, until Congress caved in to the trucking lobby and raised the speed limit to a speedier turtle's 55.)

Back then, lawmakers were worried about finding sufficient supplies to fuel American cars. These days, though tight, there's enough to go around, but the more fuel used, the more the demand, and the more likely prices will keep rising. And from an environmentalist standpoint, the more fuel you use, the more CO2, a key greenhouse gas, you'll pump into the atmosphere.

There's a case to be made. A car averaging 32.4 miles per gallon at a steady highway speed of 55 will only get 26.8 mpg at 70, according to Department of Energy statistics, and a mere 24.8 mpg at 75. (See a separate story on saving money by slowing down.)

Of course, there's a counterargument. Drive from San Diego to San Francisco, or Boston to Richmond, Virginia, both about 500-mile runs, and you'll spend an extra 2.4 hours on the road. That adds up not only to lost time, but additional highway fatigue and frustration, which can translate into accidents and road rage.

Nonetheless, you shouldn't be surprised to see the debate heat up. After one state lawmaker proposed a resolution calling on Congress to reinstate the double-nickel limit, Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm said, "I think it's something we might want to take a look at." Bills, meanwhile, have been introduced in both Minnesota and Vermont to lower speed limits to 55. The political pressures are mounting on government officials to do something - anything.

What's your take on driving 55?

I can't see much through the visor of John Heinricy's full-face helmet. Nor can I move much once I'm all strapped into the molded Recarro seat of a near production-ready, 2009 Cadillac CTSv. But the crinkles in the corner of General Motors' top test driver's mouth tell me we're about to have a good time out on the high-speed test circuit at GM's Proving Grounds, in Milford, Michigan.

"Ready?" Heinricy asks, and he accurately reads the smile on my own, helmeted head as a yes. Slipping the sedan into gear, he strokes the throttle and releases the clutch. We might as well have been shot out of a cannon. The new CTSv shoots out of the gate and into the first corner, which Heinricy takes at speeds I wouldn't have even considered and certainly not dared. We charge through a short straight and into a highly banked oval that makes you feel like you've been caught onto one of those carney whirligigs. I can feel the blood in the back of my eyeballs, but Heinricy isn't even breathing hard--just calmly navigating every move he's making--and how the car is responding.

To sum it all up in two words: amazingly well. The first-generation CTSv was a solid performance car, pumping out an even 400 horsepower and 395 lb-feet of torque. It did a reasonable job up against many of its import competitors, though it also had a couple dismaying problems, like the tendency of the rear wheels to crow hop under a hard launch.

Not so the new v. It's solidly planted and absolutely impressive, as we discovered during an afternoon at the Proving Grounds. Give us some more time and we're bound to find something to complain about--nothing is perfect. But for now, the '09 Caddy CTSv has clearly landed a spot on our wish list.

The supercharged LSA 6.2-liter V-8, a cousin of the Blue Devil Corvette's LS9, makes a jaw-dropping 556 horsepower and 551 lb-feet of torque. You do the math. Both the automatic and stick pull the same acceleration numbers, GM officials claim, which means 3.9 seconds, 0-60, and 12 seconds in the quarter-mile. Top speeds are rated at 191 mph for the stick, 175 for the automatic.

But here's the number that the competition should really take seriously: 7:59.32. That's how long it took Heinricy to make it 'round the grueling Nurburgring, arguably the most challenging endurance course in the world, and certainly a benchmark track. While there may be some debate, this appears to be the fastest-ever time clocked by a production car riding on street tires. Oh, and intriguingly, Heinricy did it with the CTv automatic.

Getting there required a variety of edge-of-the-envelope enhancements to the engine, many of which GM engineers are keeping under their hat until the formal CTSv preview, later this year. But some of the most compelling changes occur further down the drivetrain. The prop shaft and rear differential have, as you might imagine, been beefed up to handle all that added torque. But the solution to that take-off hop problem proved surprisingly simple: an uneven pair of rear driveshafts. We'll spare you the engineer speak, but the new approach now delivers all the power the engine can make right to the ground.

The v's Magnetic Ride Control has also been enhanced, and in Sport Mode, even a pair of railroad tracks couldn't jounce the sedan off-line at 90 mph.

The original CTSv was shepherded in by GM's car czar, Bob Lutz, and designed to help reposition Cadillac as a truly global competitor. Despite the flaws in the first-generation car, it did an admiral job of emphasizing the automaker's engineering prowess. The '09 CTSv should do an even better job. Of course, the question is whether anyone will care.

Regular readers will note that Lutz spends a lot of time, these days, showering praise on more green-minded models, such as the upcoming Chevrolet Volt. But don't think that GM is ready to walk away from performance. No more than Mercedes-Benz will abandon AMG, or BMW its M-series. The '09 Caddy won't generate the sort of numbers likely to shift the sales charts, but it will nonetheless play an important role in the ongoing revival of General Motors' flagship brand.

If the production CTSv matches our initial experience, the competition--and their customers--will be taking notice.