To regad to Electric cars, they may not be really greener due to both the pollution of making electricity and more important the pollution form making batteries and disposing of the batteries. I still have not seen any response to those problems.

I saw your post that mentioned Safeway. Safeway stopped that gas promotion in September here in the S.F. Bay area. I wish they hadn't.

I make sure I use a low viscosity engine oil in winter, I use a block heater when the temperature drops below -25C, I let the car warm up 30-60 seconds before I drive, and I drive slowly for the first couple of blocks and gradually increase operating speed over 5 minutes or so. When I fire up the car, I make sure it's for at least 15 minutes of operation - no 5 minute drives. I don't let the car idle while I shop or go into the library. I group my errands so that I make using the car worthwhile. My 98 Taurus has served me well when I use it this way.

I'd appreciate it if you'd contribute to my forum in the Fuel Economy Category. The Topic: Cold Weather Starting & Operating Procedures (i.e. below freezing) The southerners don't get it, but in my experience, cold weather affects the way seasoned operators care for their vehicles. What's your experience?