US Auto Grades Fail to Win Automakers

The U.S. government has issued a proposal to make the most significant change to fuel economy window stickers that appear on new cars since the labels were introduced over thirty years ago.

Under the proposal, the new labels would compare a vehicle to the entire U.S. fleet, not just vehicles in its class. In addition, the new labels would "grade" vehicles from A+ to D, based on their fuel economy and greenhouse gases.

EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson said "We want to help buyers find vehicles that meet their needs, keep the air clean and save them money at the pump."

The EPA anticipates the grading system would demonstrate that electric and hybrid vehicles have better fuel economy and less pollutants.

Under the scheme, an electric vehicle would get an A+, a plug-in hybrid would get an A, and best-in-class gas/electric hybrids, such as the Toyota Prius, Honda Civic and Ford Fusion, would get an A-. High performance all-gas vehicles such as a Ferrari 612 would receive a D or D+.

While many environmental groups supported the new labeling, the proposal was promptly opposed by automakers.

Dave McCurdy, CEO of the Auto Alliance, commented, "Automakers support providing our customers with meaningful information for decision-making on vehicles that meet their particular needs, but the proposed letter grade falls short because it is imbued with school-yard memories of passing and failing."

The Obama administration is seeking public comment for sixty days before the Environmental Protection Administration implements any ruling. The EPA and U.S. Department of Transportation would like to have the new labels available for "as many 2012 model cars and trucks as possible."