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What Makes Hybrids Go?
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| Real MPG ratings |
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The EPA's laboratory fuel mileage tests were initiated more than 25 years ago to provide a means for consumers to make valid fuel-mileage comparisons between vehicles. Posting of mileage numbers on the window sticker is required by law. Auto industry practice has consistently been to use the EPA-provided numbers to assure a level playing field.
However, many things have changed over the past 20 years - speed limits have increased, congestion has increased, and vehicles have more power-hungry accessory equipment, such as automatic climate control. The EPA tests are conducted in controlled laboratory conditions, at average speeds of no more than 48 mph, without air conditioning and at moderate temperatures. Test values are then adjusted down using adjustment factors developed by the EPA in the mid-80s. While this provides consistent comparison data, it is widely accepted that many drivers of all types of vehicles experience lower results than the labels. For example, during Autobytel testing, the Toyota Prius consistently logged a miles-per-gallon rating in the mid-to-upper-40s, and other hybrids, such as the Ford Escape Hybrid, rated real world in the mid-to-upper 20s. It's important to take the EPA ratings, realize that you will get less than what is reported, and factor your driving habits and most common routes.
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| ADDITIONAL RESOURCES |
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