Understanding EPA Ratings Part 2

One of the most frustrating parts to buying any new or used car is seeing the EPA rating and then getting home and coming up with completely different, less than expected fuel averages.  When gas prices are low, you may not think about the actual performance your car, truck, SUV or minivan is getting, but as those prices rise you probably start to pay closer attention to the details.  The reality is the EPA tests cars and provides the most accurate results they can given the testing materials they use.  Every driver has different habits and that means that each driver will get different mpg results.  To get the best mpg in new and used Toyota cars St. Louis, you can take a minute to educate yourself on the ins and out of EPA ratings so you don’t have any surprises.  In our previous article we discussed the discrepancies in city and highway driving.  Here, we will talk specifically about hybrids and EVs.

Traditionally, cars get better gas mileage on the highway.  This is not the case with hybrids and EVs.  Essentially the way a hybrid works is the engine automatically “shuts off” when the car is idling.  So, when you are stopping and going in the city, you are actually saving on fuel.  Many experts even say if you want to get better fuel economy in your traditional fuel powered car you should shut your engine off when you are idling.  An electric or EV car runs off electricity and the miles you can drive on one charge varies by car model.  There are also many factors that go into this configuration, such as air conditioner/heater use and driving conditions.  If you’re a city driver, a hybrid or EV may be the best choice for you.