As drivers look to increase the fuel efficiency of their vehicles, sales of diesel and hybrids are on the rise, according to a report by Baum and Associates and HybridCars.com.
Sales data for the first quarter of 2012 shows a sharp increase in sales of diesel and hybrid vehicles, which also saw a spike in sales last year, reports Autoblog. Following a 27 percent jump in sales in 2011, diesel cars are up 35 percent in the first quarter of 2012, including a 39.6 percent jump in March.
Meanwhile, hybrid sales are on the rise as well, with a 37.2 percent increase in sales. Hybrids were also up 39.6 percent last month, with a whopping 55.4 percent increase in February to boot.
"With higher fuel prices, Americans are seeking more fuel efficient cars so it's understandable that diesel and hybrid cars are showing such impressive sales increases," said Allen Schaeffer, executive director of the Diesel Technology Forum. "In addition, the new federal fuel efficiency standards that will require a 54.5 mpg average by 2025 will also boost clean diesel auto sales, as diesel cars are 20 to 40 more fuel efficient than gasoline versions."
Drivers looking to improve the fuel economy of their own vehicles should consider a car tune up or fuel injection cleaning, as these services can help improve a vehicle's MPGs.