After 40 Years EPA Finally Wants Automakers To Actually Test Vehicles For Accuracy Of Mileage Claims

The Environmental Protection Agency wants to put automakers’ mileage claims to the test.

An EPA proposal would require automakers to road test vehicles to verify mileage claims posted on window sticker prices, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing EPA officials.

The move follows the recent restatement of EPA ratings on several cars and light trucks by Hyundai, Kia and Ford.

It's part of a broader effort by the agency to more carefully scrutinize mpg figures published by automakers.
 

MattDarringer - 7/15/2014 1:53:26 PM

+1 Boost

Why can't we just have steady state MPG numbers at 35mph 55mph and 70mph instead of the convoluted tests they run now?

MorePower - 7/15/2014 2:14:28 PM

+2 Boost

Because no one drives at a steady state at any speed. Their tests also do not account for elevation, air density, or other facts like road surface friction, incline, wind, etc.

MattDarringer - 7/15/2014 3:46:44 PM

-1 Boost

Steady state would give a MUCH better way of comparing vehicles is the obvious answer. Literally no one drives the way the EPA test is designed so your implicit agreement with the status quo has no merit.

MorePower - 7/15/2014 2:31:16 PM

+1 Boost

The EPA, a group of scientists and another independent party should each design one test that approximates an average trip between 30 minutes to 1 hour. The lowest(least mpg) average of all three tests should be used to determine the rated value.

MrEE - 7/15/2014 7:35:04 PM

+2 Boost

Problem isn't the test as much as some manufacturers fudging their results. EPA needs to verify and impose big fines when cheating is found.

MorePower - 7/16/2014 5:27:48 PM

+1 Boost

You can include Toyota and Honda in that group as well. Honda has already been sued for dubious mileage claims and Toyota has been forced to remove advertising because of mileage claims for the Prius in the UK.