EPA Technology Could Vastly Improve Fuel Economy

Washington DC December 19, 2005; The AIADA newsletter reported that researchers at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency have patented a “hydraulic hybrid system” that may provide big help to U.S. Manufacturers with fuel-efficient car consumers. According to The Detroit News, “The system uses hydraulic pressure to recapture energy lost through braking, then releases the pressure during acceleration.” The EPA estimates this technology could improve fuel economy up to 55 percent, about 15-20 percent higher than a gas-electric hybrid. On top of the superior fuel efficiency, the EPA says vehicles which include this technology will cost less than gas-electric hybrids.