The Number of Models Achieving 40 MPG or More is Increasing Rapidly
January 13, 2014
For the 2009 model year, there were only two models that achieved a combined EPA rating of 40 MPG or higher. By the 2013 model year, that number rose to 30 models. In 2009, the only two models with a combined rating of 40 MPG or higher were conventional hybrids with a top fuel economy of 46 MPG. In 2013, the models that met or exceeded 40 MPG include conventional hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and all electric vehicles, seven of which exceed 100 MPGe*. It is also noteworthy that by the 2013 model year, the vehicles that achieved a combined average of 40 MPG or more represent a wide variety of size classes including midsize and large sedans as well as station wagons and an SUV.
Models Offered with EPA Combined Rating of 40 MPG or More for Model Years, 2009, 2011, and 2013
* MPGe – Miles per Gallon equivalent, is a unit used by the EPA for electric vehicles to make their efficiency ratings directly comparable to gasoline-powered vehicles. The conversion rate used by the EPA is 33.705 kW-hrs of electricity equals the energy contained in one gallon of gasoline.
Note
** For plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, the EPA's blended gasoline and electric combined average is used.
Source
U.S. Department of Energy and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Fueleconomy.gov, accessed November 13, 2013.