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Fuel-efficient cars are hitting the roads in greater numbers. In 2009, average fuel efficiency was 12.27 kilometers per liter for new passenger cars with no more than 10 seats sold on the domestic market. This represents a 7 percent increase from the corresponding figure for 2008, which was 11.47 kilometers per liter. By contrast, between 2006 and 2008 average fuel efficiency improved only 2.4 percent. The change is expected to save nearly 60,000 tonnes of oil equivalent and prevent 160,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.
This improvement in fuel efficiency is attributable mainly to increased sales of small vehicles, advances in engine and transmission technologies, and the trend toward lighter cars. The Ministry of Knowledge Economy will continue to encourage automakers to become greener and raise fuel efficiency levels. In particular, the Ministry plans to issue regular public announcements to recognize the most fuel-efficient vehicle on the market.
*Government press release (May 7)
