MPG Figures to be Revised

STAFF
Published: March 22, 2008

(MS) - Apart from sticker price and cost of accessories, many car shoppers are interested in another number: the miles-per-gallon estimate advertised on the vehicle. After all, in a world with continually rising fuel costs and environmental impact from fossil and diesel fuels, drivers are very interested in the ways they can curb costs in an eco-friendly way.

Up until now, the MPG estimates were based on old driving habits first identified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1970. Obviously things have changed since then, most notably the speed limits and the amount of stop-and-go traffic drivers face on a daily basis - both of which decrease fuel economy. This means that current estimates are inaccurate for today’s driving situations, and much higher than what’s really occurring.

Beginning this fall, the EPA will incorporate modern driving conditions into their tests for MPG averages. The new estimates will be included on all 2008 model cars. Some notable changes to the testing will include aggressive driving, use of air conditioning and, because weather can affect fuel economy, some tests will be conducted in cold weather situations.  Across the board, estimates will be lower than previously advertised. Keep in mind that the MPG numbers are just estimates and will vary depending upon individual driving habits.

Also included in 2008 model changes will be a revised window sticker provided by the EPA. It will include the new city and highway MPG estimates as well as the estimated annual fuel cost. Drivers will also be able to compare the MPG estimate of the vehicle to the average of all vehicles in the same class.

Improve Gas Mileage

In addition to choosing a vehicle with good fuel economy, there are driving techniques to follow to further conserve fuel.

• Avoid aggressive driving: Not only is aggressive driving dangerous, it can eat up fuel. Frequent acceleration and sharp stops can reduce fuel economy by 33 percent.
• Observe the speed limit: Fuel economy declines over speeds of 60 miles per hour.
• Avoid excessive idling: Turn the car off when you’re idling for extended periods of time.
• Set the cruise control: Let the car do the work for you and maintain a constant speed - helping to save on fuel and money.