Environmental News
EPA and DOE Announce Fuel Economy Leaders for 2003 Model Year
Cars
OCTOBER 29, 2002 - Environmental Protection Agency
Administrator Christie Whitman and Secretary of Energy Spencer
Abraham today announced the 28th annual mpg estimates for 2003
passenger vehicles. For the third year in a row, the Honda Insight
and Toyota Prius hybrid electric vehicles continue to be the
fuel economy leaders. In addition to being fuel-efficient, these
vehicles are also among the cleanest vehicles available.
"The fuel economy guide allows consumers to make informed
purchasing decisions about what kind of gas mileage a new vehicle
gets during normal usage," said Whitman. "By choosing
more efficient models, people will not only save themselves
money at the pump, they will help improve the quality of our
environment. I believe that when people are provided the information
this guide contains, they will make smart decisions that benefit
both their checkbook and the air we all breathe."
"The DOE and EPA have joined forces to provide clear,
unbiased information to help car-buyers choose the most fuel-efficient
vehicle that meets their needs," Secretary Abraham said.
By driving a more fuel-efficient vehicle, a vehicle powered
by alternative fuels, or even by driving our current vehicles
more efficiently, we can all do our part to reduce our nation's
reliance on imported oil and strengthen our energy security."
A joint EPA and Department of Energy web site, www.fueleconomy.gov,
provides detailed information on vehicle fuel economy, including
a complete version of the Fuel Economy Guide. The site includes
fuel economy information going back to 1985, which can be helpful
for buying used cars. The website also includes emissions and
safety data for model year 2003 vehicles as well as fuel-saving
tips for drivers. The printed version of the "2003 Fuel
Economy Guide" will be available at car dealerships, public
libraries and credit unions later this fall.
Fuel economy estimates are determined by averaging numbers
gathered through tests conducted by manufacturers and verified
by EPA. Vehicles are tested in a controlled setting and the
results are adjusted to reflect actual driving conditions. All
vehicles are tested in the same way so consumers can compare
the results when choosing a vehicle type or class. The miles-per-gallon
ratings appear on window stickers on all new cars and light
trucks prior to sale. Consumers can use this information to
identify the most fuel-efficient vehicles to purchase.
EPA has also posted the 2003 models on the Green Vehicle Guide
website to give consumers a full picture of fuel economy and
automobile emissions. Consumers can use this guide to locate
the cleanest and most fuel-efficient vehicle that meets their
needs. To access this guide, visit: www.epa.gov/greenvehicles.
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