Statement by Robert L. Darbelnet, President and CEO, AAA

WASHINGTON--AAA welcomes the changes to the fuel economy labeling process that EPA is unveiling today. This is first and foremost a Truth in Advertising issue. Consumers deserve the government’s best efforts when it comes to compiling the information they see on the label of new vehicles. That has not been the case, and EPA is moving to correct the situation.

Purchasing a new vehicle is an expensive investment that consumers take very personally and make with great care. As fuel prices fluctuate either inching or leaping upward, fuel economy becomes an increasing important determinant in consumer decision-making. That’s why it is so important to get this new program up and running, and I’m pleased that the new labels will begin appearing on new vehicles with Model Year 2008.

We’ve known for a long time that existing EPA tests which produce the fuel economy numbers seen on the window stickers of new vehicles do not always reflect the performance of vehicles under real-world driving conditions. Using data from the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center, AAA confirmed what everyone knew: testing procedures needed to be revised and a more consumer-friendly label should be designed.

Armed with better information, consumers can make informed choices. AAA intends to monitor developments in EPA testing and the government’s progress in implementing this much needed change.

As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 49 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at www.AAA.com.