Auto show features more fuel-efficient cars

The 2006 Minneapolis and St. Paul International Auto Show wraps March 22 at the Minneapolis Convention center. With average area gas prices hovering around two-fifty per gallon, there are several fuel-saving options at the show. But by and large the giant convention center showroom is still dominated by large pickup trucks, SUV's on rotating stages, and sleek, decked-out sports cars that tout speed and power over fuel efficiency.

Still, hidden amongst those intimidating long-bed trucks and wide chassis sport cars are a growing number of increasingly "green" cars, like the Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid and some new models from these Japanese auto makers.

Across the convention hall, American manufacturers also make a big pitch to attract fuel-conscious. But in contrast to its Asian competitors, at least one U.S. company says the answer to fuel price spikes isn't to use less fuel, but to use *better* fuel.

Minnesota Public Radio's Steven John talks with auto visitors and auto company spokespeople about how gas prices has affected what they do at the auto show.