What is EPA Gas Efficiency?

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How is EPA Fuel Economy Determined In Cars & Trucks?

Are you searching for how EPA fuel economy is determined in cars and trucks?

While the luxury, speed, and overall power of any car are very important in the buying process, the vehicle’s miles per gallon are key over its lifetime. While the fuel mileage numbers are given by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency, there is a list of contributing factors to figure out the official gas mileage and they vary. Beginning with the car’s weight and the capability of the motor. Just because a vehicle is on the heavier side, the engine tech could lower the amount of fuel being used. Fuel economy ratings are usually higher in small cars because of their aerodynamics and weight. In general, these small vehicles don’t take as much gasoline to keep them on the road. Something else to consider is vehicle maintenance, making sure the tires have the correct pressure. As we know, gas mileage is very important for any car and it takes many of the parts working together to build a fuel-efficient vehicle.

Gas Efficiency Explained

How far a vehicle is able to travel with a tank of fuel is figured out by the MPGs it gets. ​Vehicle size, drivetrain (4MATIC® All-Wheel-Drive or RWD), and engine technology all play an essential part in determining the fuel mileage for the vehicle. The statistics favor smaller sedans with hybrid capabilities and a low overall weight that just barely tips the scales. While fuel mileage can dip over time, scheduled maintenance and regular drives are the best ways to prevent a drop in MPGs.

Highway vs City Gas Mileage

Looking at MPGs, there are 2 numbers that wrap up the gas mileage, the miles per gallon in the city and highway. Driving conditions in the real world are much different when compared to the environment in testing facilities and the results show it. Noting the two unique gas mileage ratings shows how your driving habits will absolutely change a vehicle’s MPGs. How you drive will absolutely affect the gas mileage, ​so measuring both gas mileage ratings provides a true expectation for your vehicle’s gas mileage. When you consider all the starting and stopping caused by city driving compared to the constant movement of highway driving, clearly, driving on the highway gets higher MPGs versus city driving.

Gas Economy & Drive Modes

Many vehicles that have been made for the past few years have equipped drive modes to fit your habits and save gas when desired. A sporty-type driving mode will give drivers a performance-based experience while “Eco” mode will save fuel. Between cylinder deactivation and driving modes, cars offer better miles per gallon than ever before.