Faster, more powerful and less fuel efficient cars

The average fuel economy of the USA’s cars and trucks fell to its lowest level in 22 years in the 2002 model year, the Environmental Protection Agency reported today. It successfully managed to reach as low as 10,6 litres per 100 km but today the level has soared to 11,5 litres. It is the worst since 1980 with 12,2 litres per 100 km.

The technological and engineering leaps of the last two decades have been poured into everything but fuel economy, according to the agency's statistics. Since 1981, the average vehicle has 93 percent more horsepower and is 29 percent faster in going from 0 to 100 km an hour. It also consumes 24 percent more fuel, reflecting surging sales of sport utility vehicles.

The cars, the 4x4 and the minivans account for about 40% of the country’s oil consumption. They are responsible for one fifth of the carbon dioxide emissions nationwide. According to scientists, this gas is one of the major causes of global warming. The publication of these results will anger environmentalists. They prove that the car sector will not move towards fuel economy in its products unless it is submitted to a strict legislation. When pointed out, industrialists reply defensively that clients choose for pick-up-like cars with high fuel consumption. This has made economical cars the least popular choice.

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