This Just In: New on the Net

It’s official. Everyone at CarDomain HQ has decided that it’s time for winter to be over. And please, don’t remind us that it’s technically spring. In our book, if it’s 39 degrees and raining, it’s still winter. Anyway, here’s the news:

• The bean-counters at the US Department of energy are predicting that high fuel prices will lead to a drop in demand during the summer driving months. That’s the first decline in almost 20 years, and since gas isn’t getting any cheaper, it probably won’t be the last one. Automotive News
• Chinese car company Brilliance, which made waves with its less-than-brilliant performance in a German crash test, is releasing a wagon for the Chinese domestic market. And while it might not be safe, Pininfarina did the design, so at least it looks pretty good. Winding Road
• In an effort to combat falling vehicle sales in its native Japan, Toyota is thinking outside the box. Or rather, outside the dealership. The company has just built a mall where the central areas will double as a sales floor. Will it work? Sure it will. The Japanese are nuts, remember? Auto Express
• Three time F1 champ Jackie Stewart has joined the chorus of people calling for Max Mosley—AKA: Nazi-orgy dude—to step down. How much longer is he going to try to keep his post? Seriously man, it’s over. BBC News