EPA Unveils New Fuel Economy Labels

On June 1, 2011 new fuel economy labels were unveiled by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency which will simplify car and van shopping for those with disabilities – and everyone else. The new window stickers will help shoppers of 2013 vehicles to know which will save them money on fuel costs and leave the smallest footprint on the environment, according to an EPA spokesperson.

Some automakers may adopt the new labels for model year 2012 vehicles, but all model year 2013 passenger vehicles are required to feature the improved fuel economy labels.

Even better news:

• For the first time, fuel economy labels will compare energy use and cost between new-technology cars that use electricity and conventional cars that are gasoline-powered, including estimates on how much consumers will save or spend on fuel over the next five years.
• The labels will also contain easy-to-read ratings of how a model compares to all other models for smog emissions and emissions of pollution that contribute to climate change. For electric-powered cars, the labels will indicate how much electricity it takes to drive 100 miles, as well as information on the driving range and recharging time frame.
• Also new, a QR code will be on the label to allow smartphone users to scan the label and get even more information with model comparison and vehicle specific energy use. The smartphone application will allow consumers to calculate specific information tailored to their own driving distances and behaviors to get more precise estimates of their own expected fuel costs and savings.

Consumers can get more information on the new label at: https://fueleconomy.gov/label, https://www.epa.gov/carlabel and https://www.nhtsa.gov/fuel-economy. At the same site, find the most efficient new and used vehicles with Find and Compare Cars. Find out how much you can save by improving your fuel economy using the annual fuel cost calculator.

This mobility safety update has been brought to you by NMEDA – the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association. Need some information on how to make your vehicle wheelchair accessible or upgraded with the latest and most convenient features? Contact a NMEDA dealer in your local area. Your local NMEDA member is an expert in mobility equipment and accessibility!