Consumers Need Accurate Fuel Efficiency Data

WASHINGTON (November 3, 2014)—Korean automakers Hyundai and Kia today agreed to pay a record $100 million in fines to settle charges by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that they cheated consumers by overstating the fuel economy of some of their most popular cars sold in the United States.

Luke Tonachel, senior vehicles analyst at the Natural Resources Defense Council, made the following comment:

“Consumers are demanding cleaner, more fuel-efficient vehicles, as shown by the record high mileage figures for new cars sold.  Consumers deserve accurate information on emissions and fuel economy when they go to the showroom.

“This strong action by EPA and the Department of Justice should deter other automaker from cheating and will help ensure that consumers get the accurate information they need to make informed choices. Fortunately, thanks to the 54.5 mpg clean car and fuel economy standards, car shoppers have more choices of fuel-saving vehicles than ever before.”