By Lena Babaeva Coradini

First, a bit about China. Most Chinese prefer alternative-energy vehicles, with 60 percent noting they would buy a plug-in vehicle. Chinese brands are in the spotlight at the Beijing auto show, with this year’s exhibition themed as “Imagining the Green Future” and focused on alternative-energy vehicles.  The highlight of the show according to some?  Geely, a Chinese company, unveiled five alternative-fuel vehicles at the opening of the show. 

Second, in America – Ford has committed to feature fuel-efficient powertrains for all 2011-model fleet vehicles, including hybrids, electric, diesel, natural gas, propane and small-displacement gasoline engines.

Third, on the downside of driving, writer Zachary Shahan offers his commentary on how long commutes lead to unhappiness, as the “commuter paradox” is still prevalent and means that people underestimate the inconvenience of the long commute and end up less happy for it.