The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) periodically updates its methodology for calculating fuel economy estimates to keep pace with evolving vehicle technologies. One such significant update occurred in 2017, with potential implications for your vehicle’s MPG values.
The 2017 EPA updates brought changes to how manufacturers determine the fuel economy label values displayed on new vehicles. These changes were rooted in the latest data and scientific advancements, aiming to provide more accurate estimates of a vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
What Changed?
Unlike the 2008 overhaul, where fuel economy estimates were lowered across the board, the 2017 update is more nuanced. Some fuel economy estimates might decrease by 1 mile per gallon (MPG), while a smaller number of vehicles could experience a 2 MPG reduction. These adjustments are based on refined calculations that consider the evolving composition of the vehicle fleet and the way new technologies respond to fuel economy testing.
Why the Update?
The EPA’s goal is to provide consumers with accurate information about a vehicle’s fuel efficiency, reflecting the latest advancements in vehicle technology. The changes are grounded in data from 2011-2016 model year vehicles, ensuring that the calculations align with the current state of the automotive industry.
What to Consider
It’s important to note that while the 2017 updates contribute to MPG value changes, other factors can also influence fuel economy estimates. Manufacturers might implement various changes from one model year to the next that impact fuel efficiency, such as altering tire types or transmission shift logic.
In Conclusion
The 2017 EPA updates to fuel economy test methods and calculations mark a step forward in providing consumers with more accurate information about the vehicles they’re considering. While some MPG values might decrease slightly due to the refined calculations, it’s essential to recognize that various factors contribute to fuel economy estimates.
Stay informed, and remember that these updates reflect the continuous evolution of vehicle technologies and the EPA’s commitment to providing the most reliable data possible. Your journey toward better fuel efficiency begins with being well-informed about these changes. Photo by Nadi Lindsay