Hybrids Tested One Million Miles

07/21/2004

The U.S. Department of Energy has completed one million miles of hybrid electric vehicle testing through its Advanced Vehicle Testing Activity program. The ongoing testing includes measuring energy efficiency in miles-per-gallon and vehicle maintenance and repair data. When the testing concludes, the vehicles will be sold and the total lifecycle costs - including depreciation, fuel, operating, maintenance, and repair costs - will be calculated and reported.

So far, four Honda Civic Hybrids have averaged 38.0 mpg over a collective 284,000 miles, while six Honda Insights have averaged 46.0 mpg over 347,000 miles. Six first-generation Toyota Prius sedans from the 2002 and 2003 model years have covered 380,000 miles and returned 41.1 mpg. The 2004 Toyota Prius has been driven 16,000 miles to date, averaging 44.6 mpg.

The Advanced Vehicle Testing Activity program is managed by the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory. Its aim is to establish industry benchmarks and buyer's information for advanced technology vehicles.

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