egmCarTech

Americans are slowly but surely warming up to fuel-efficient vehicles. According to the EPA, new U.S. vehicles sold in 2008 averaged 21 mpg, up from 20.6 mpg in 2007, and they estimate that 2009 should average 21.1 mpg.

“Gas prices have risen each year from 2002 to 2008; industry has failed to keep pace by improving mileage,” said Dan Becker, director of the Safe Climate campaign. He also cautioned that “the Obama administration must repeatedly ratchet up mileage and tailpipe standards.”

In 2008 Honda Motor Co. led the industry with its line averaging 23.9 mpg. Chrysler Group LLC came in last among the major manufacturers, averaging 19.3 mpg across its line, and the EPA estimates they could fall to 18.7 for their 2009 models.

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Free Press

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