subject: Can't Wait To See The New Fuel Economy Window Sticker? [print this page] In the past, we have mentioned new federal legislation passed under the Obama Administration thoat raises the bar on minimum fuel economy standards. To go along with the higher requirements, new fuel economy window stickers are being implemented too. With the rise in number of plug in and hybrid vehicles, the current fuel economy label is out of date.
New Fuel Economy Window Sticker
Some automobile manufacturers are using the new fuel economy labels on their 2012 models but all car makers are required to do so beginning with 2013 model year cars. Take a look below at the design in use now through 2012 and compare it to what you will see in the next version.
4 Features Of New Fuel Economy Window Sticker
1) Estimated Annual Fuel Cost
This figure assumes you will drive 15,000 miles per year and pay an average of $3.70 per gallon of gas. Divide the number by 12 and it can help you figure a monthly dollar amount to budget for fuel.
2) Five Year Estimate Of Fuel Saved Or Spent
The average new vehicle gets 22 miles per gallon which costs $12,600 in gas over five years. This section of the sticker estimates that car model's five year costs and compares it to the $12,600 average. For example, if the model you are looking at will cost $11,500 in fuel over five years, the sticker will say that you can save $1,100 in fuel costs over five years.
3) Gallons Per 100 Miles
Looking at examples of the old and new sticker and a side by side comparision is quite interesting. In the new sticker, right under the combined city and highway mpg figure, the number of gallons of gas you will burn to drive 100 miles is disclosed.
4) Emissions Ratings
The new fuel economy window stickers use a 10 point scale on two charts rating that vehicle's greenhouse gas and smog emissions. A rating of 10 is the best. If you are an environmentally conscious car shopper you will want to pay attention to these new and very informative two charts.
Government Implements Use Of QR Codes
The new fuel economy labels also include QR codes. Not sure what those are? You see them all over these days. They are the box shaped symbols that can be read by smartphones. Taking a snapshot of the QR code box using a smartphone will link you to a website where more details are available about the car and its' fuel efficiency.
