Understanding the environmental impact of a car could be about to get easier for US consumers as the State’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) puts forward proposals to introduce fuel economy labels which would rate the environmental performance of each car.
As a new generation of fuel efficient vehicles hits the showrooms in the US over the coming years, the association along with the Department of Transportation (DOT) is proposing a school grade A to D rating label on every car in dealer showrooms.
The goal of the new fuel economy labels is to provide consumers with simple, straightforward energy and environmental comparisons across all types of vehicles; including electric vehicles (EV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV), and conventional gasoline-powered vehicles.
The association is now seeking public opinion on the proposed ratings while the system is also being considered by the Obama administration.
“We are asking the American people to tell us what they need to make the best economic and environmental decisions when buying a new car,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “New fuel economy labels will keep pace with the new generation of fuel efficient cars and trucks rolling off the line, and provide simple, straightforward updates to inform consumers about their choices in a rapidly changing market. We want to help buyers find vehicles that meet their needs, keep the air clean and save them money at the pump.”
“New technologies such as battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids are entering the American market in greater numbers,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “We need to provide consumers with labels that include fuel economy and environmental information so that buyers can make better informed decisions when purchasing new vehicles.”
United States citizens can view the proposed rule and labels at: http://www.epa.gov/fueleconomy/ and submit comments as part of the rulemaking process via email to: newlabels@epa.gov. They can also review the proposed rule at http://www.nhtsa.gov/fuel-economy.
