EPA is going to propose new regulations for testing vehicle fuel economy by the end of this year and wants the new tests in place by the 2008 model year. The update will be the first major change to the EPA's fuel economy tests since 1985. The EPA tests vehicles to get the estimated city and highway fuel economy displayed on vehicle's window stickers.
EPA administrator Steve Johnson said he hasn't decided what the final proposal will look like but it will take into account more factors than the current test. People drive faster than they did in the 1980s, and road congestion has increased. Vehicles have more accessories like air conditioning, which use up vehicle power, and the EPA still conducts tests at 75 degrees, which doesn't take into account the effect of hot or cold weather on fuel economy.
We certainly need new and better mileage information to help us make an educated decision on what car to buy. EPA does not establish CAFE standards, but this is where we really need new standards. Legislation has been introduced to change these. We will have to wait and see whether new CAFE standards can make it through congress now that the price of gasoline has become of more concern. It will require some votes from republicans if it is to get through. Its another time where letting your opinion be known could make a difference.
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