EPA revises fuel economy tests

WASHINGTON, Dec. 11 (UPI) -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is changing the way it determines the miles per gallon estimates appearing on new vehicle window stickers.

The standards will take effect for model year 2008 vehicles, which may be available as soon as next month.

"EPA's new fuel economy sticker ensures American motorists won't be stuck with higher than anticipated charges at the pump," EPA Administrator Stephen Johnson said. "Consumers can get more bang for their buck by considering fuel use while shopping for cars and trucks -- saving money on refueling costs, while helping protect our environment."

The EPA says the new method will bring fuel consumption estimates closer to consumers' actual fuel use by including factors such as high speeds, aggressive accelerations, air conditioning use and driving in cold conditions.

Currently, EPA relies on data from two laboratory tests to determine city and highway fuel economy estimates. Those test methods were last revised in 1984.

The EPA said it is also enhancing the design and content of the window sticker.

Beginning in 2011, the EPA will require fuel estimates for medium-duty vehicles, which include large sport-utility vehicles and vans.