2010 Mileage Report…8 mpg sound OK to you?

This year’s new cars have some surprising mileage numbers.  8, 9, 10 and 11 miles to the gallon!

The EPA has released their annual fuel economy guide.  There are lots of autos with greatly improved mileage.  Alas, there are still a few that don’t seem to get the message or cannot improve their mileage number without compromising their goal?

A Chevy van that gets 13 mpg IS NOT the worst by any measure.  Not surprisingly most of the cars with bad numbers seem to be aimed at an audience of Marie Antoniette’s …. Those with a sort of  “Let ’em eat  cake” attitude.

When discussing the 2010 mileage report EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson said: “Every year, consumers use the Fuel Economy Guide to find clean, efficient, cost-effective vehicles that meets their needs and their budgets.  It’s an easy, accessible resource for everyone, and helps us cut harmful pollution from the air, and save money for American drivers.” 

 

Fuel-efficient models come in all types and sizes, so consumers can save thousands of dollars over a vehicle’s lifetime without sacrificing performance. Model year 2010 fuel economy leaders include a wide range of hybrid models, from compact cars to sport-utility vehicles. “Fuel economy is about both saving energy and saving money,” said Energy Secretary Steven Chu. “Buying fuel efficient vehicles – like the many hybrid technologies featured in this year’s Fuel Economy Guide – helps limit carbon pollution, lessen our dependence on foreign oil, and reduce driving costs for American families.”

Each vehicle listing in the Fuel Economy Guide provides an estimated annual fuel cost. The estimate is calculated based on the vehicle’s miles per gallon (mpg) rating and national estimates for annual mileage and fuel prices. The online version of the guide allows consumers to input their local gasoline prices and typical driving habits to receive a personalized fuel cost estimate. 

Fuel efficiency is important for reducing carbon dioxide (CO₂) and other greenhouse gases that contribute to global climate change. One of the most important things consumers can do to reduce their contribution to climate change is to buy a vehicle with better fuel economy. 

The Fuel Economy Guide continues to be available to mobile users (fueleconomy.gov/m), and is readily accessible from a mobile device, smart phone, or personal digital assistant (or PDA). 

Joint DOE/EPA Fuel Economy website for detailed information on fuel economy, including a complete version of the Fuel Economy Guide: http://www.fueleconomy.gov 

The 2010 fuel economy leaders within each class as well as the lowest fuel economy models: http://www.epa.gov/fueleconomy/basicinformation.htm