New cars could display efficiency customised labels

The U.S. government has proposed that cars should have customised labels to display the energy efficiency of each model.

According to The Associated Press, the Transportation Department and Environmental Protection Agency said they were considering two options to improve the energy and environmental information displayed on new cars. The options include customised labels to illustrate the values in a grading system, or comparing fuel economy and tailpipe emissions.

"From electric to plug-in hybrid vehicles, we think a new label is absolutely necessary to help consumers make the right decision for their wallet and for the environment," said Gina McCarthy, a top air pollution official.

The news is important because it could be adopted by the UK, which might see cars labelled in a similar way to electrical appliances.

The customised labels would give consumers a clearer idea of how much money fuel-efficient cars could save them over a five-year period.

"Consumers shopping for a clean car need to be able to compare a Prius with an electric vehicle," explained Dan Becker, director of the Safe Climate Campaign for the Centre for Auto Safety. "Not knowing how much coal-burning power plants emit to recharge the electric vehicle obscures the choice."

Ms McCarthy said this is important because it will help people make fair comparisons between models when car shopping, and expects the customised labels would be a success with motorists.

Find out further information about customised labels.