US DOE: news update

Fuel Economy Guide

The US EPA and the US DOE have released the 2015 Fuel Economy Guide, providing consumers with a valuable resource to help them choose the most fuel efficient and low greenhouse gas emitting vehicles that meet their needs. In comparison to previous years, the 2015 models include a greater number of fuel efficient and low emission vehicles in a broader variety of classes and sizes.

The guide provides best in class lists to help consumers find the most fuel efficient advanced technology vehicles as well as the most efficient gasoline and diesel powered vehicles. The best in class lists include multiple market segments, from two seaters to large pickup trucks. Consumers will find a broad range of information that can be helpful while shopping for a new vehicle, including an estimated annual fuel cost for each vehicle. The estimate is based on the vehicle’s miles per gallon rating and national estimates for fuel prices. The online version of the guide is available at www.fueleconomy.gov, and gives consumers a personalised fuel cost estimate based on local gasoline prices and their personal driving habits. The guide includes a greenhouse gas rating for each model, giving consumers a quick way to identify vehicles with low greenhouse gas emissions.

Gina McCarthy, EPA Administrator said, ‘automakers’ innovation is thriving, and Americans are benefitting from new consumer choices that limit carbon emissions and slow the effects of climate change. This year’s guide is not just about how the latest models compare with one another; it’s about providing people with an excellent tool so that they can make informed decisions affecting their pocketbooks and the planet.’

Gasification research

As part of the Administration’s all of the above energy approach, the DOE has selected four projects to receive funding for next generation gasification systems that also reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions. Awardees will receive approximately US$ 16 million to advance the gasification process, which converts carbon based materials like coal into syngas for use as power, chemicals, hydrogen and transportation fuels.

Ernest Moniz, Energy Secretary said, ‘by partnering with industry on promising pathways for high efficiency, low pollution power generation and syngas production, the Department is demonstrating its commitment to innovative solutions for growing the economy and using coal while protecting the environment. Advances in the gasification process will allow industry to develop technologies that may open pathways to carbon use in beneficial new ways while also advancing an important method for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.’

Edited from press releases by Claira Lloyd

Read the article online at: https://www.hydrocarbonengineering.com/the-environment/07112014/us-doe-news-update/