Gas Mileage of the Future

The race is on to reach the gas mileage standard of 55 mpg by the year 2025. In this NPR article, we are taken to the labs at the Automotive Research Center at the University of Michigan to learn just how this will be accomplished, and the results are surprising. Much is being learned from rapidly developing new technologies such as electric battery power and computer regulated engines, but it turns out that fuel efficient cars have been around for years, and while there are still innovations being made to the traditional internal combustion engine, much of our mileage is reduced by the extra features of our cars, such as power windows, air conditioning, and power outlets for G.P.S. and music players. The question is, until the tinkering on engines is done, are people willing to give up their extra amenities to save money?