The Future of Sport Utility Vehicles (SUV’s) Justin Cote The University of Utah

Pros of SUV’s Look appealing Off-Road capabilities Powerful engines Ability to tow Large interior space Better sense of security

Cons of SUV’s Poor Fuel Efficiency (~15 mpg) High Fuel Consumption (6.0L V8 engines) Pollute too much (high CO2 emissions) Only 5% of people actually use the vehicle for its purpose (off-roading) Some consider dangerous/unsafe (high center of gravity-tendency to roll)

Problem According to Fortune 500, GM (General Motors) is suffering a steep decline (41%) in SUV sales ($39 billion loss) due to rising prices of gas and political demands for more fuel efficient/”clean” cars Solution Adapt to political/economic demands or face extinction!

Increasing Political Demand U.S. highest contributor of greenhouse gases United States primarily dependent on fuel from overseas which poses a national security threat/SUV’s aggravate this Government pushing for hybrid/diesel/hydrogen cars through CAFE standards SUV CAFE standards set in 1979 by the Secretary of Transportation mpg) Link: 5zaM&feature= http:// 5zaM&feature=

Auto Manufacturers Alternatives New “crossover” SUV’s (or CUV’s) Unibody Engineering Lighter vehicles (V8 toV6) lower fuel consumption Semi-hybrid Lower price & 20% more fuel efficient Diesel SUV’s

First SUV: 1964 Jeep Wagoneer Weight: 4,514 lb (2,048 kg) Fuel Efficiency:18 mpg city 25 mpg highway Engine: 6.6 Liter V8 270 HP Not Aerodynamic 2010 Porsche-Cayenne Hybrid Weight: 3,762 lb (1,504 kg) Fuel Efficiency: 27 mpg city 35 mpg highway Engine: 3.0 Liter V6 320/60 HP 20% less CO2 emissions than 2010 petrol car

Conclusion Although unnecessarily big, SUV’s are desirable cars in the U.S. Purchasing will continue in many decades to come as long as changes are made

Website Sources Research _commentary/lynch-cafe-standard insanity.htm+SUV+CAFE+standards&cd=1&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=us Images info-released/ cr1+re0+ar1/2010-porsche-cayenne-s-hybrid-front-pass-3-4.jpg Videos