EPA: Hyundai Leads On Efficiency, Emissions

[Hyundai NEWS]

Like many of today’s automakers, Hyundai is putting much of its current focus on vehicles that combine high EPA ratings with low levels of CO2 emissions—but Hyundai does more than just talk the talk: According to the EPA’s most recent study of the country’s greenest auto manufacturers, Hyundai led the entire industry in terms of both highest combined fuel economy (27 mpg) and lowest CO2 emissions (329 grams per mile, or g/mi).
These figures, based on the 2010 model year, represent increases of 1.9 mpg and 26 g/mi over last year’s evaluations, with data coming from this year’s EPA 2011 Light-Duty Automotive Technology and Fuel Economy Trends Report. (Due to the EPA’s publication cycle, the 2012 Report, covering the 2011 model year, will be released in 2013.)
A particularly fuel-efficient foursome continues to lead the way for the company this year, too, with the Hyundai Accent, Hyundai Elantra, Hyundai Veloster and Hyundai Sonata Hybrid all capable of reaching 40 mpg on the highway while emitting fewer than 280 g/mi of CO2. Also notable: The first three of those vehicles are available from Hyundai dealers for under $17,500, which means customers can save money at both the dealership and the fuel pump.
“The 2011 EPA data demonstrates Hyundai’s commitment to fuel economy leadership and validates the effectiveness of our Blue Drive strategy,” said John Krafcik, Hyundai Motor America president and CEO. “Through innovations such as light-weight steel, direct injection technology, turbocharging and advanced transmissions we are able to improve the efficiency and performance of all our vehicles, allowing us to achieve best-in-class fuel economy and emissions levels for the Hyundai brand.”