Fuel economy hits record high in 2013, but growth rate is slowing

Fuel economy hits record high in 2013, but growth rate is slowing

New vehicles hit an all-time high fuel economy of 24.1 mpg in 2013, the Environmental Protection Agency announced. Thatês a 0.5 mpg increase over 2012 and an increase of nearly 5 mpg since 2004. Average carbon dioxide emissions hit a record low.

To put the numbers in perspective, EPA requires the average fuel economy to double to 54.5 mpg by 2025. NADA called for relaxed standards, saying the requirements are –overly ambitious given moderating and falling fuel prices.” The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers said in a statement that the EPA report is –a vivid reminder that the ultimate success of the national program is not predicated on what we produce, but on what consumers choose to buy, especially with todayês lower gas prices.”

As dealers are well aware, consumer preference for utility vehicles and trucks is a big factor in recent high sales.

Advanced technologies– including direct injection engines, turbochargers and advanced transmissions– helped automakers achieve the higher fuel economy, the EPA said. Mazda, Honda and Subaru had the highest fuel economy.

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