Results in on testing fuel consumption in the real world

The first results of testing to give better information on how much fuel a car may use when it leaves the showroom and goes onto the road have been released.

The Albanese Government is providing $14 million to the Australian Automobile Association over the next four years to test the real-world fuel usage of a range of popular cars, SUVs and utes sold in Australia.

The testing gives consumers information they haven’t previously had about how a car may perform. It is intended to help buyers looking for more efficient and cheaper-to-run cars.

It also helps provide policymakers in Australia and overseas with insights to help develop more accurate laboratory tests for the future.

The first test round of nine vehicles found three vehicles outperforming their lab test results, using less fuel in the real world tests, and five vehicles that used 8 to 13 per cent more than in the laboratory tests.

Three of the vehicles tested produced higher noxious emissions on the road than would be permitted in the applicable laboratory tests for Australian regulated pollutants.

These first tests were conducted in August using strict protocols developed in consultation with the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts and industry.

Vehicle manufacturers have been consulted prior to the publication of results.

The cars – the first of 200 to be tested – were the Hyundai Kona, Mitsubishi ASX, Toyota RAV4 (petrol) and the Toyota RAV4 (Hybrid), Ford Puma, MG ZS, Hyundai Tucson (diesel), Nissan X-Trail and the GWM Haval Jolion.

The results are available online here.

Quote attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

“Our investment in on-road testing will better inform consumers about the true cost of running a range of vehicles.

“Vehicles form a critical part of our way of life, particularly in regional Australia – they help keep us connected to friends and family, work or school, shops and services. It’s important for Australians to have the best information available to choose the right vehicle for them.

“By shining a light on the real-world emissions and fuel use of popular car models, this testing will continue to help Australians make more informed decisions about their next vehicle purchase, one that suits their budget and environmental needs. I look forward to seeing even more results get published as this program continues.”