Hybrid and electric vehicles are now a part of almost every automaker’s lineup.
And sales are growing despite many naysayers.
But, there’s been a lot of controversy over how good the mileage actually is.
In fact, in the wake of a tough story in Consumer Reports about the new Ford C-Max and Fusion hybrids, two lawsuits have been filed in California over what are described as misleading mileage claims.
Ford’s defense is, they just went with what the Environmental Protection Agency said when it tested the cars.
But now, the agency is re-examining the tests themselves to find more accurate ways to rate hybrids.
Part of the problem is that the original test cycle is designed for standard, internal combustion vehicles.
Gas-electric hybrids have different strengths and weaknesses, often getting better mileage in town than on the highway.
We asked the EPA for an interview…and all we got was this statement.
“To provide the public with the best possible information on fuel economy, EPA regularly evaluates new vehicles and new vehicle technologies.  EPA is currently evaluating whether it needs to update its testing methods for advanced hybrid technologies.”