As other readers mention, the EPA testing methods were developed in the '60s and '70s and are grossly outdated. The numbers, developed for conventional internal combustion engine vehicles (especially among hybrid vehicles where the manufacturers take advantage of the testing methods thus skewing fuel economy data to their advantage) don't provide consumers with an objective measurement of fuel economy in real-life driving situations. For example, while the speed limit is 70 miles per hour on most interstates the EPA highway figures reflect an average highway speed of only 60 miles per hour -- also they don't compensate for aggressive acceleration while merging onto highways, etc. For an objective comparison, the EPA testing methods need to be updated to compensate for new hybrids, SUVs and the like.
I drive an ozone depleting, terrorism supporting, 2004 Z71 Chevrolet Tahoe. The EPA figures on the tag in the window claim 14 City and 18 Highway (MPG), however I get about 12 in the city and 13 on the highway at 70 MPH (15 with a tail wind) and only about 10 MPG at 90 MPH. Boo!
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As other readers mention, the EPA testing methods were developed in the '60s and '70s and are grossly outdated. The numbers, developed for conventional internal combustion engine vehicles (especially among hybrid vehicles where the manufacturers take advantage of the testing methods thus skewing fuel economy data to their advantage) don't provide consumers with an objective measurement of fuel economy in real-life driving situations. For example, while the speed limit is 70 miles per hour on most interstates the EPA highway figures reflect an average highway speed of only 60 miles per hour -- also they don't compensate for aggressive acceleration while merging onto highways, etc. For an objective comparison, the EPA testing methods need to be updated to compensate for new hybrids, SUVs and the like.
I drive an ozone depleting, terrorism supporting, 2004 Z71 Chevrolet Tahoe. The EPA figures on the tag in the window claim 14 City and 18 Highway (MPG), however I get about 12 in the city and 13 on the highway at 70 MPH (15 with a tail wind) and only about 10 MPG at 90 MPH. Boo!
Anyone remember the Data Discman?