Committed to improving automotive fuel economy

Your next new car may not have a spare tire.  As cited by a WKOW television report:

Manufacturers are beginning to phase out spare tires from their new models. Some General Motors cars come instead with a tire repair kit that can patch small holes.

Automakers say roadside assistance plans will cover major tire punctures and spare tires aren't needed much anymore. According to car website www.edmunds.com, 14 percent of new cars are coming without spares. This can cut down the car's weight, making it easier for manufacturers to stick to tighter fuel economy standards.

See?  It's not about cutting costs - it's about improving fuel economy.