US Average Fuel Economy Reaches Record High: EPA
The U.S. has reached an all-time high in average fuel economy with Mazda claiming the highest number among major automakers.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a report revealing that 2013 model year vehicles have an adjusted fuel economy of 24.1 mpg, up 0.5 mpg compared to 2012. The average model year 2013 adjusted fuel economy for cars is 27.6 mpg while trucks came in at 19.8 mpg – both are all-time highs. In addition, CO2 emissions have been reduced for all light-duty gasoline and diesel-fueled vehicles to 369 grams per mile, a seven gram per mile decrease compared to model year 2012.
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In terms of automakers, Mazda ranked highest with an adjusted fuel economy of 28.1 mpg for 2013 model year while Honda was second with 27.4 mpg. Subaru (26.7 mpg), Nissan (26.2 mpg) and Volkswagen (25.7 mpg) rounded out the top five. Nissan was also lauded for being the most improved.
Fuel economy improvements have been attributed to new technologies such as stop-start systems, CVTs, variable valve timing, gasoline direct injection and the use of turbochargers.
Preliminary estimates also show that fuel economy is expected to improve for 2014 model year to 24.2 mpg.
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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