EPA Debating New Efficiency Ratings for Electric Vehicles

Confused by ridiculously huge efficiency claims like the 367 mpg of the Nissan Leaf or the 230 of the Chevy Volt? You’re not the only one. According to an article in USA Today, the EPA is currently working on new efficiency rating standards for electric vehicles, which would take into account the fact that electricity, not gas, is their primary source of fuel. An Israeli firm has suggested that the new standard provide three criteria: electricity used when fully charged, electricity used to charge the batteries and the amount of gas used when the gasoline engine kicks in. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory has also mentioned requiring information on both electric and gas efficiency. The EPA expects to draft the new standards by the end of the year or beginning of next year. [USA Today via AutoBlog]

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