Fuel Economy Figures Too Optimistic

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Fuel Economy Figures Too Optimistic

May 2, 2012

What Car? have proved that Government figures regarding fuel economy are too optimistic, thanks to a series of tests.

The UK motoring magazine, What Car?, ran a test of more than 60 cars on a variety of roads - including built-up areas and motorways, rather than in the laboratory.

According to the test results each of the 60 cases failed to achieve the Government's fuel economy figures.

Chas Hallett, What Car?'s editor-in-chief, stated that "the cars were run heavier than they are in the lab."

Mr Hallett added:

"What your car really does to the gallon is top of the agenda of every motorist, or indeed every car buyer. With ever-rising fuel prices, this situation is not going to get any better."

In spite of this the Government have disputed What Car?'s claim that they have overstated their figures.

Norman Baker, the local transport minister commented:

"The official test provides an indication of the relative fuel economy of different cars, but is not the whole picture."

Mr Baker went on to add:

"Naturally, fuel consumption varies greatly depending on driving conditions, as well as the way the car is driven. No single test can represent the fuel consumption individual drivers will experience on the road."

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-17867045