Feds: More fuel efficient cars available in 2015

The federal government said its official fuel economy ratings for model-year 2015 show that more efficient vehicles are available than the previous year.

The ratings, published by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Energy Department, show that efficient and low-emission models are more widely available across a variety of vehicle classes.

{mosads}“Automakers’ innovation is thriving, and Americans are benefiting from new consumer choices that limit carbon emissions and slow the effects of climate change,” EPA chief Gina McCarthy said in a statement.

“This year’s guide is not just about how the latest models compare with one another; it’s about providing people with an excellent tool so that they can make informed decisions affecting their pocketbooks and the planet,” she said.

In addition to the ratings, the guide provides “best in class” listings to highlight the most efficient vehicles in every market segment.

It also includes ratings for greenhouse gas emissions and estimates of owners’ fuel costs for each car or truck based on local prices.

Automakers and dealers are obligated to prominently disclose vehicles’ efficiency ratings when selling cars.