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In the fast lane

News of note from the auto industry.

By TIMES STAFF
Published March 5, 2007

Growth rate in hybrid sales decelerating

U.S. sales of gas-electric hybrid vehicles rose 28 percent from 2005 to 2006, but the rate of growth is starting to slow, says a company that analyzes automotive industry data. Consumers bought 254,545 hybrids last year as gasoline prices hit $3 per gallon or more for much of the year, up from 199,148 in 2005, according to nationwide auto registration data compiled by R.L. Polk & Co. The rate of growth was the second-slowest since 2000, in large part because car buyers have more environmentally friendly options, plus expiration of some tax credits on Toyota hybrids, said Lonnie Miller, director of industry analysis for R.L. Polk. Miller expects the growth to continue, though, because demand is still strong and three new hybrid models are in the works this year.

Volkswagen recalls for light switch

Volkswagen of America Inc. will recall 790,000 vehicles because of problems with the brake light switch. The recall involves several vehicles: 1999-2006 model years of the Golf and GTI, 2001-2005 Jettas, 2001-2007 New Beetles and the 2004 R32. It expands upon a recall announced last year of some Jettas and New Beetles because of the same defect. VW dealers will install a newly designed brake light switch for free. The recall is expected to begin in late April and owners may contact VW with questions toll-free at 1-800-822-8987.

You may have won only a headache

You may have received good news via e-mail from England: "The board of directors, staff and the International Awareness Promotion Department of BMW Automobile Co. congratulate you as the winner in this year's BMW Automobile International Awareness Promotion." The prize is a new BMW 5-Series car plus 450,000 British pounds, or about $900,000. "We don't headquarter it in England because there is no such department - anywhere," Rob Mitchell of BMW said. "It's a scam. It started a couple years ago and is back again. Don't make room for the car, and don't spend the $900,000."

[Last modified March 5, 2007, 06:23:55]