Clean Diesels Receive Top Ranking in Government's Annual Guide to Most Fuel Efficient Vehicles

EPA/DOE Report Touts Diesel's Improved Environmental Performance

WASHINGTON, Oct. 13 -- American consumers looking to reduce energy consumption and save themselves money at the pump should consider purchasing a diesel vehicle, according to a new government report. Advanced technology diesel cars captured four of the top ten spots for most fuel- efficient vehicles on the market based on the 2006 Fuel Economy Guide just released by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The TDI versions of the Volkwagen New Beetle, Golf and Jetta (both manual and automatic transmission) are the three models cited in the rankings. Gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles captured five of the other top ten spots, with one gasoline-powered vehicle making the list.

"This annual report highlights the near-term energy saving benefits of more clean diesel cars, pick-ups and SUVs in the U.S.," said Allen Schaeffer, executive director of the Diesel Technology Forum. "In this time of incredibly tight energy supplies and sky-high gas prices, these rankings underscore the role advanced diesel technology plays in saving energy and preserving our environment."

Diesel-powered passenger vehicles range from 20 to 40 percent more fuel efficient than similar sized gas-powered vehicles. In addition to touting their superior fuel efficiency, the Fuel Economy Guide highlights that today's diesels are much cleaner and quieter, thanks to tremendous advances in exhaust controls and after-treatment technology that result in reduced emissions. The report also notes that "today's diesel vehicles must meet the same emission requirements as gasoline vehicles." The nationwide rollout of ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel in October 2006 will pave the way for even greater technology advances that will allow diesel engines to meet increasingly stringent EPA regulations that begin taking effect in 2007.

There is already evidence of a growing market for diesels. In June, J.D. Power and Associates reported that diesel and hybrid vehicles are expected to garner 11 percent of U.S. auto sales by 2012 -- with the diesel market increasing from 3 percent market share in 2004 to 7.5 percent by that date. According to R.L. Polk data compiled by DTF, diesels have already seen 56 percent market growth over the past five years with the introduction of four new models in 2004 alone (Jeep Liberty CRD, Mercedes E-320 CDI, and Volkswagen Touareg and Passat). This is in addition to the continuing popularity of diesel engine options in medium- and heavy-duty pickups.

Although initial costs are higher, diesel engines are more durable, cost less to operate and hold more of their residual value compared to comparable gasoline vehicles. Diesels also offer performance benefits such as towing capacity, torque and driving range. These reasons help account for the popularity of diesel engines in Europe, where nearly half of all new cars are diesel powered.

Visit Diesel Forum for a link to the full version of the 2006 Annual Fuel Economy Guide.

The Diesel Technology Forum represents manufacturers of engines, fuel and emissions control systems.