Article about "gaming the EPA tests"

[hybridbear]

http://www.greencarreports.com/news/1084565_gaming-the-epa-gas-mileage-tests-how-it-really-works

 

There is no doubt in my mind that Ford did exactly this. The Road & Track article they reference can be read here and is a good read

Edited June 4, 2013 by hybridbear

[hybridbear]

From the last paragraph of the Road & Track article

The cars you buy today use less energy than those from 5 to 10 years ago. Those we buy five years from now will use less energy than those we buy today. We just need to shop carefully and be aware that we live in the real world, not a dynamometer lab.

I wish all those complaining about their fuel economy would read this sentence and shut up!

Edited June 4, 2013 by hybridbear

[terryb]

I think you're being a bit harsh there Bear. I haven't been griping about my 37mpg as loud as some I could mention, but spending $36k to get 15% lower mileage than my '10 is a tad irritating to me.

[acdii]

You beat me to it. Just read it myself. Tend to agree with it 100%. I also agree with what terryb said. I can deal with a lower than EPA number, within reason, at some point it will get to EPA and exceed it as the car gets more miles on it. My 2010 did just that, but when its 30% below? I was a wee bit more than irritated. The new one is hitting the mark I expected, so very pleased with it!

[dalesky]

Car and Driver had a good one recently--

http://www.caranddriver.com/search/all/EPA%20testing

Or just search for "EPA tests" on their site.

I don't feel cheated, because I realize that a car of this size, with the ride quality and features, is not like some other hybrids, and I bought it as much for those things as for mileage. That being said, I am averaging 40 mpg consistently in town, and have hit stretches of over 50mpg. I am now fully committed to driving a hybrid when I replace the FFH.

[hybridbear]

I am now fully committed to driving a hybrid when I replace the FFH.

AWESOME!! I hope others feel the same :)