Mar 9th, 2010 · Toyota says it doesn't think the problem of sudden acceleration in some of its vehicles is rooted in its electronic systems. Ken Bensinger, business reporter for The New York Times, says many are skeptical of Toyota's testing, as electrical problems are notoriously time-consuming and difficult to troubleshoot. .
Mar 8th, 2010 · China is criticized for being the world's largest carbon dioxide producer, but a new report shows that a quarter of that is emitted in order to make things for Western consumers. Researchers say that climate policy must account for emissions resulting from trade.
Mar 8th, 2010 · Only 41 percent of Americans know what their home Internet download speeds are. But it's good to know: Speeds typically register 10 percent to 20 percent below the limit consumers pay for. There are easy ways to tell if the connection is slow — and Web sites that can help analyze Internet connections.
Mar 5th, 2010 · Energy Star labels and miles-per-gallon vehicle ratings aren't enticing enough consumers toward energy-saving options, according to economist Hunt Allcott. Allcott explains how new research in behavioral economics might help lead consumers to more energy-efficient choices.
Mar 4th, 2010 · A variety of merchants, from luxury retailers to discount chains, reported the strongest gains in retail sales since November 2007. The upbeat news helped soothe fears among some economists that weak consumer spending might make the economic recovery short-lived.
Mar 3rd, 2010 · Unintended acceleration problems that put Toyota in headlines have cut across the auto industry, according to complaints consumers have filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. An NPR News investigation finds that companies such as Volkswagen, Volvo and Honda have had high rates of complaints in some model years.
Feb 28th, 2010 · It's been a tough winter for Florida's tomato crop. A devastating freeze last month wiped out production by 70 percent. The state provides almost all of the tomatoes consumed in the U.S. during this time of year. Farmers are struggling and soon consumers will notice it too. Luis Hernandez of member station WGCU reports.
Feb 24th, 2010 · Automaker Toyota's president told lawmakers Wednesday he was "deeply sorry" for the problems that has led to the mass recalls of the company's vehicles. Akio Toyoda also pledged his company would change the way it handles consumer complaints.