MPG estimates controversies

Many hybrid drivers have difficulty achieving the miles per gallon (MPG) estimates established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). While the EPA estimates are generally off for all cars, they are particularly unrealistic for hybrids. This is because the fuel efficiency for a hybrid car is dependent on driving behavior, and the agency’s test does not take into real-world tendencies.

A hybrid runs on a combination of a gasoline engine and electric motor. Generally, the first power source used is the battery. At lower speeds, under 15 to 20 mph, and when accessories, such as air conditioning, aren’t being used, it’s possible to run just off the battery. At higher speeds, the gasoline engine starts to contribute and take on more of the work. The percentage you rely on the gasoline engine will affect overall MPG. If you drive a lot in the city with start and stop driving, you’re likely to have better fuel economy compared to highway driving. The EPA estimate does not take factor in this mix of driving behaviors.

The EPA inaccuracies make it difficult for the hybrid shopper to get a real sense of mileage. Outside sources, such as GreenHybrid.com [1], post real-world mileage data.