With the debut of the Volkswagen Jetta TDI in 2008 and subsequent releases from Mercedes, BMW and Audi, diesel's fortunes in the United States are beginning to change.
The volume of announcements regarding hybrids, electric cars and other green offerings at the Los Angeles Auto Show expands every year. However, this year’s media days held few surprises for car fans following the green scene. Carmakers mostly confirmed and reiterated commitments to bring previously announced alternative vehicles to market.
Audi believes it can sell 20 to 25 percent of its vehicles in the United States with diesel powertrains. The company is pushing a political message—reducing foreign oil dependency by driving diesel—with ad and marketing dollars, but its executives aren't sure if it will pay off.
