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The Advertiser
4 days ago
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Government-funded fuel economy and EV range tests cause confusion, says automaker body
The peak body for car brands in Australia has criticised a government-funded program that tests the fuel economy, emissions and range claims of automakers, arguing it causes "unnecessary confusion". The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) recently expanded its Commonwealth-funded Real-World Testing Program, which commenced in 2023, to include testing of the range and efficiency of electric vehicles (EVs). However, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has questioned the merit of the AAA's testing. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. "All vehicles, including EVs, sold in Australia are tested under strict laboratory conditions set out in Australian Design Rule 81/02," said FCAI chief executive Tony Weber in a statement. "This consistent methodology ensures vehicles can be reliably compared, regardless of brand or model. "Tests conducted outside the ADR process are influenced by many variables, including traffic, terrain, weather and driving style. No two drivers or journeys are the same. "We support transparent, evidence-based information for consumers, but it must be consistent. When conflicting figures are published, it undermines confidence and causes unnecessary confusion." The FCAI argues ADR 81/02 laboratory testing is already mandated by the federal government, so the funding of a real-world test program results in inconsistencies. The peak auto industry body and the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) appear to have found some common ground. "All cars, including petrol and diesel cars, often present different results in the lab compared to real-world conditions. Laboratory testing occurs in controlled conditions while real-world driving throws in all sorts of variables such as traffic flows, hills, rough roads, weather, extra passenger or luggage weight, and the unique driving styles of motorists," said the EVC's head of legal, policy and advocacy, Aman Gaur, in a statement. "Given the unpredictable nature of driving needs, it's inherently challenging for manufacturers to provide real-world estimates. That's why electric vehicle manufacturers are following the rules and advertising the test results that are required by law." The EVC also noted hat most EV manufacturers use more realistic WLTP electric range figures, instead of the NEDC standard that was phased out in Europe several years ago but still underpins the local ADR 81/02 figures. In AAA testing, various models were found to return results well adrift of their lab-tested claims. In its inaugural testing of EVs, the results of which were released this week, the BYD Atto 3 electric SUV was found to have 23 per cent less range than claimed and 21 per cent higher energy consumption. In previous testing, a raft of petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles were also found to exceed their advertised fuel economy and CO2 emissions claims. The previous-generation BMW X3, for example, was found to use 20 per cent more fuel and produce 23 per cent more CO2 than claimed, while the Chery Omoda 5 used 32 per cent more fuel and produced 26.8 per cent more CO2. Other disappointing results included previous generations of the MG 3 (+19 and +13 per cent, respectively) and Suzuki Swift (+31 and +31). The latter was also found to produce more than double the mandated lab limit for carbon monoxide. Some hybrids have also fallen short in the AAA testing program, with the GWM Haval Jolion Hybrid found to use 32 per cent more fuel and produce 31.5 per cent more CO2 than its claims. The AAA has said the need for real-world testing was first demonstrated by the Volkswagen emissions scandal (commonly referred to as Dieselgate), in which Volkswagen vehicles were found to use software to trick lab tests, and it claims real-world data is important during the cost-of-living crisis for households and fleets alike. It subsequently received $14 million in government funding for the Real-World Testing Program, which is conducted from a facility in Geelong and on public roads in and around the city. The aim remains to examine up to 200 cars, utes and vans over a four-year period. "Australian car buyers have for too long been misled regarding their vehicle's fuel consumption and environmental performance," said AAA managing director Michael Bradley in 2023. "This Program will deliver Australians truth-in-advertising and drive down demand for cars that over-promise and under-deliver. Better information will enable families and fleet buyers to buy vehicles that will meet their budget and environmental requirements. While the FCAI represents most auto brands (notable exceptions include EVC members Tesla and Polestar), the AAA is the peak organisation for Australia's motoring clubs and their 9.5 million members, representing the likes of the NRMA, RACV, RACQ and others. MORE: EV range claims from BYD, Tesla, others scrutinised in new real-world testing MORE: Real-world testing shows Ford Ranger among emissions-breaching models MORE: Real-world testing shows not all hybrids are created equal at saving fuel MORE: Popular Australian models found to use up to 35 per cent more fuel than claimed MORE: New data shows even more new cars are thirstier and dirtier than claimed MORE: Real-world tests reveal the cars that are thirstier than they claim MORE: The popular cars, SUVs and utes that can't match their fuel economy claims MORE: Real-world fuel use shows popular Australian new cars drastically exceed claims MORE: Which SUVs don't match their fuel economy stickers in the real world? Content originally sourced from: The peak body for car brands in Australia has criticised a government-funded program that tests the fuel economy, emissions and range claims of automakers, arguing it causes "unnecessary confusion". The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) recently expanded its Commonwealth-funded Real-World Testing Program, which commenced in 2023, to include testing of the range and efficiency of electric vehicles (EVs). However, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has questioned the merit of the AAA's testing. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. "All vehicles, including EVs, sold in Australia are tested under strict laboratory conditions set out in Australian Design Rule 81/02," said FCAI chief executive Tony Weber in a statement. "This consistent methodology ensures vehicles can be reliably compared, regardless of brand or model. "Tests conducted outside the ADR process are influenced by many variables, including traffic, terrain, weather and driving style. No two drivers or journeys are the same. "We support transparent, evidence-based information for consumers, but it must be consistent. When conflicting figures are published, it undermines confidence and causes unnecessary confusion." The FCAI argues ADR 81/02 laboratory testing is already mandated by the federal government, so the funding of a real-world test program results in inconsistencies. The peak auto industry body and the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) appear to have found some common ground. "All cars, including petrol and diesel cars, often present different results in the lab compared to real-world conditions. Laboratory testing occurs in controlled conditions while real-world driving throws in all sorts of variables such as traffic flows, hills, rough roads, weather, extra passenger or luggage weight, and the unique driving styles of motorists," said the EVC's head of legal, policy and advocacy, Aman Gaur, in a statement. "Given the unpredictable nature of driving needs, it's inherently challenging for manufacturers to provide real-world estimates. That's why electric vehicle manufacturers are following the rules and advertising the test results that are required by law." The EVC also noted hat most EV manufacturers use more realistic WLTP electric range figures, instead of the NEDC standard that was phased out in Europe several years ago but still underpins the local ADR 81/02 figures. In AAA testing, various models were found to return results well adrift of their lab-tested claims. In its inaugural testing of EVs, the results of which were released this week, the BYD Atto 3 electric SUV was found to have 23 per cent less range than claimed and 21 per cent higher energy consumption. In previous testing, a raft of petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles were also found to exceed their advertised fuel economy and CO2 emissions claims. The previous-generation BMW X3, for example, was found to use 20 per cent more fuel and produce 23 per cent more CO2 than claimed, while the Chery Omoda 5 used 32 per cent more fuel and produced 26.8 per cent more CO2. Other disappointing results included previous generations of the MG 3 (+19 and +13 per cent, respectively) and Suzuki Swift (+31 and +31). The latter was also found to produce more than double the mandated lab limit for carbon monoxide. Some hybrids have also fallen short in the AAA testing program, with the GWM Haval Jolion Hybrid found to use 32 per cent more fuel and produce 31.5 per cent more CO2 than its claims. The AAA has said the need for real-world testing was first demonstrated by the Volkswagen emissions scandal (commonly referred to as Dieselgate), in which Volkswagen vehicles were found to use software to trick lab tests, and it claims real-world data is important during the cost-of-living crisis for households and fleets alike. It subsequently received $14 million in government funding for the Real-World Testing Program, which is conducted from a facility in Geelong and on public roads in and around the city. The aim remains to examine up to 200 cars, utes and vans over a four-year period. "Australian car buyers have for too long been misled regarding their vehicle's fuel consumption and environmental performance," said AAA managing director Michael Bradley in 2023. "This Program will deliver Australians truth-in-advertising and drive down demand for cars that over-promise and under-deliver. Better information will enable families and fleet buyers to buy vehicles that will meet their budget and environmental requirements. While the FCAI represents most auto brands (notable exceptions include EVC members Tesla and Polestar), the AAA is the peak organisation for Australia's motoring clubs and their 9.5 million members, representing the likes of the NRMA, RACV, RACQ and others. MORE: EV range claims from BYD, Tesla, others scrutinised in new real-world testing MORE: Real-world testing shows Ford Ranger among emissions-breaching models MORE: Real-world testing shows not all hybrids are created equal at saving fuel MORE: Popular Australian models found to use up to 35 per cent more fuel than claimed MORE: New data shows even more new cars are thirstier and dirtier than claimed MORE: Real-world tests reveal the cars that are thirstier than they claim MORE: The popular cars, SUVs and utes that can't match their fuel economy claims MORE: Real-world fuel use shows popular Australian new cars drastically exceed claims MORE: Which SUVs don't match their fuel economy stickers in the real world? Content originally sourced from: The peak body for car brands in Australia has criticised a government-funded program that tests the fuel economy, emissions and range claims of automakers, arguing it causes "unnecessary confusion". The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) recently expanded its Commonwealth-funded Real-World Testing Program, which commenced in 2023, to include testing of the range and efficiency of electric vehicles (EVs). However, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has questioned the merit of the AAA's testing. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. "All vehicles, including EVs, sold in Australia are tested under strict laboratory conditions set out in Australian Design Rule 81/02," said FCAI chief executive Tony Weber in a statement. "This consistent methodology ensures vehicles can be reliably compared, regardless of brand or model. "Tests conducted outside the ADR process are influenced by many variables, including traffic, terrain, weather and driving style. No two drivers or journeys are the same. "We support transparent, evidence-based information for consumers, but it must be consistent. When conflicting figures are published, it undermines confidence and causes unnecessary confusion." The FCAI argues ADR 81/02 laboratory testing is already mandated by the federal government, so the funding of a real-world test program results in inconsistencies. The peak auto industry body and the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) appear to have found some common ground. "All cars, including petrol and diesel cars, often present different results in the lab compared to real-world conditions. Laboratory testing occurs in controlled conditions while real-world driving throws in all sorts of variables such as traffic flows, hills, rough roads, weather, extra passenger or luggage weight, and the unique driving styles of motorists," said the EVC's head of legal, policy and advocacy, Aman Gaur, in a statement. "Given the unpredictable nature of driving needs, it's inherently challenging for manufacturers to provide real-world estimates. That's why electric vehicle manufacturers are following the rules and advertising the test results that are required by law." The EVC also noted hat most EV manufacturers use more realistic WLTP electric range figures, instead of the NEDC standard that was phased out in Europe several years ago but still underpins the local ADR 81/02 figures. In AAA testing, various models were found to return results well adrift of their lab-tested claims. In its inaugural testing of EVs, the results of which were released this week, the BYD Atto 3 electric SUV was found to have 23 per cent less range than claimed and 21 per cent higher energy consumption. In previous testing, a raft of petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles were also found to exceed their advertised fuel economy and CO2 emissions claims. The previous-generation BMW X3, for example, was found to use 20 per cent more fuel and produce 23 per cent more CO2 than claimed, while the Chery Omoda 5 used 32 per cent more fuel and produced 26.8 per cent more CO2. Other disappointing results included previous generations of the MG 3 (+19 and +13 per cent, respectively) and Suzuki Swift (+31 and +31). The latter was also found to produce more than double the mandated lab limit for carbon monoxide. Some hybrids have also fallen short in the AAA testing program, with the GWM Haval Jolion Hybrid found to use 32 per cent more fuel and produce 31.5 per cent more CO2 than its claims. The AAA has said the need for real-world testing was first demonstrated by the Volkswagen emissions scandal (commonly referred to as Dieselgate), in which Volkswagen vehicles were found to use software to trick lab tests, and it claims real-world data is important during the cost-of-living crisis for households and fleets alike. It subsequently received $14 million in government funding for the Real-World Testing Program, which is conducted from a facility in Geelong and on public roads in and around the city. The aim remains to examine up to 200 cars, utes and vans over a four-year period. "Australian car buyers have for too long been misled regarding their vehicle's fuel consumption and environmental performance," said AAA managing director Michael Bradley in 2023. "This Program will deliver Australians truth-in-advertising and drive down demand for cars that over-promise and under-deliver. Better information will enable families and fleet buyers to buy vehicles that will meet their budget and environmental requirements. While the FCAI represents most auto brands (notable exceptions include EVC members Tesla and Polestar), the AAA is the peak organisation for Australia's motoring clubs and their 9.5 million members, representing the likes of the NRMA, RACV, RACQ and others. MORE: EV range claims from BYD, Tesla, others scrutinised in new real-world testing MORE: Real-world testing shows Ford Ranger among emissions-breaching models MORE: Real-world testing shows not all hybrids are created equal at saving fuel MORE: Popular Australian models found to use up to 35 per cent more fuel than claimed MORE: New data shows even more new cars are thirstier and dirtier than claimed MORE: Real-world tests reveal the cars that are thirstier than they claim MORE: The popular cars, SUVs and utes that can't match their fuel economy claims MORE: Real-world fuel use shows popular Australian new cars drastically exceed claims MORE: Which SUVs don't match their fuel economy stickers in the real world? Content originally sourced from: The peak body for car brands in Australia has criticised a government-funded program that tests the fuel economy, emissions and range claims of automakers, arguing it causes "unnecessary confusion". The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) recently expanded its Commonwealth-funded Real-World Testing Program, which commenced in 2023, to include testing of the range and efficiency of electric vehicles (EVs). However, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has questioned the merit of the AAA's testing. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. "All vehicles, including EVs, sold in Australia are tested under strict laboratory conditions set out in Australian Design Rule 81/02," said FCAI chief executive Tony Weber in a statement. "This consistent methodology ensures vehicles can be reliably compared, regardless of brand or model. "Tests conducted outside the ADR process are influenced by many variables, including traffic, terrain, weather and driving style. No two drivers or journeys are the same. "We support transparent, evidence-based information for consumers, but it must be consistent. When conflicting figures are published, it undermines confidence and causes unnecessary confusion." The FCAI argues ADR 81/02 laboratory testing is already mandated by the federal government, so the funding of a real-world test program results in inconsistencies. The peak auto industry body and the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) appear to have found some common ground. "All cars, including petrol and diesel cars, often present different results in the lab compared to real-world conditions. Laboratory testing occurs in controlled conditions while real-world driving throws in all sorts of variables such as traffic flows, hills, rough roads, weather, extra passenger or luggage weight, and the unique driving styles of motorists," said the EVC's head of legal, policy and advocacy, Aman Gaur, in a statement. "Given the unpredictable nature of driving needs, it's inherently challenging for manufacturers to provide real-world estimates. That's why electric vehicle manufacturers are following the rules and advertising the test results that are required by law." The EVC also noted hat most EV manufacturers use more realistic WLTP electric range figures, instead of the NEDC standard that was phased out in Europe several years ago but still underpins the local ADR 81/02 figures. In AAA testing, various models were found to return results well adrift of their lab-tested claims. In its inaugural testing of EVs, the results of which were released this week, the BYD Atto 3 electric SUV was found to have 23 per cent less range than claimed and 21 per cent higher energy consumption. In previous testing, a raft of petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles were also found to exceed their advertised fuel economy and CO2 emissions claims. The previous-generation BMW X3, for example, was found to use 20 per cent more fuel and produce 23 per cent more CO2 than claimed, while the Chery Omoda 5 used 32 per cent more fuel and produced 26.8 per cent more CO2. Other disappointing results included previous generations of the MG 3 (+19 and +13 per cent, respectively) and Suzuki Swift (+31 and +31). The latter was also found to produce more than double the mandated lab limit for carbon monoxide. Some hybrids have also fallen short in the AAA testing program, with the GWM Haval Jolion Hybrid found to use 32 per cent more fuel and produce 31.5 per cent more CO2 than its claims. The AAA has said the need for real-world testing was first demonstrated by the Volkswagen emissions scandal (commonly referred to as Dieselgate), in which Volkswagen vehicles were found to use software to trick lab tests, and it claims real-world data is important during the cost-of-living crisis for households and fleets alike. It subsequently received $14 million in government funding for the Real-World Testing Program, which is conducted from a facility in Geelong and on public roads in and around the city. The aim remains to examine up to 200 cars, utes and vans over a four-year period. "Australian car buyers have for too long been misled regarding their vehicle's fuel consumption and environmental performance," said AAA managing director Michael Bradley in 2023. "This Program will deliver Australians truth-in-advertising and drive down demand for cars that over-promise and under-deliver. Better information will enable families and fleet buyers to buy vehicles that will meet their budget and environmental requirements. While the FCAI represents most auto brands (notable exceptions include EVC members Tesla and Polestar), the AAA is the peak organisation for Australia's motoring clubs and their 9.5 million members, representing the likes of the NRMA, RACV, RACQ and others. MORE: EV range claims from BYD, Tesla, others scrutinised in new real-world testing MORE: Real-world testing shows Ford Ranger among emissions-breaching models MORE: Real-world testing shows not all hybrids are created equal at saving fuel MORE: Popular Australian models found to use up to 35 per cent more fuel than claimed MORE: New data shows even more new cars are thirstier and dirtier than claimed MORE: Real-world tests reveal the cars that are thirstier than they claim MORE: The popular cars, SUVs and utes that can't match their fuel economy claims MORE: Real-world fuel use shows popular Australian new cars drastically exceed claims MORE: Which SUVs don't match their fuel economy stickers in the real world? Content originally sourced from:
7NEWS
4 days ago
- Automotive
- 7NEWS
Government-funded fuel economy and EV range tests cause confusion, says automaker body
The peak body for car brands in Australia has criticised a government-funded program that tests the fuel economy, emissions and range claims of automakers, arguing it causes 'unnecessary confusion'. The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) recently expanded its Commonwealth-funded Real-World Testing Program, which commenced in 2023, to include testing of the range and efficiency of electric vehicles (EVs). However, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has questioned the merit of the AAA's testing. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. 'All vehicles, including EVs, sold in Australia are tested under strict laboratory conditions set out in Australian Design Rule 81/02,' said FCAI chief executive Tony Weber in a statement. 'This consistent methodology ensures vehicles can be reliably compared, regardless of brand or model. 'Tests conducted outside the ADR process are influenced by many variables, including traffic, terrain, weather and driving style. No two drivers or journeys are the same. 'We support transparent, evidence-based information for consumers, but it must be consistent. When conflicting figures are published, it undermines confidence and causes unnecessary confusion.' The FCAI argues ADR 81/02 laboratory testing is already mandated by the federal government, so the funding of a real-world test program results in inconsistencies. The peak auto industry body and the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) appear to have found some common ground. 'All cars, including petrol and diesel cars, often present different results in the lab compared to real-world conditions. Laboratory testing occurs in controlled conditions while real-world driving throws in all sorts of variables such as traffic flows, hills, rough roads, weather, extra passenger or luggage weight, and the unique driving styles of motorists,' said the EVC's head of legal, policy and advocacy, Aman Gaur, in a statement. 'Given the unpredictable nature of driving needs, it's inherently challenging for manufacturers to provide real-world estimates. That's why electric vehicle manufacturers are following the rules and advertising the test results that are required by law.' The EVC also noted hat most EV manufacturers use more realistic WLTP electric range figures, instead of the NEDC standard that was phased out in Europe several years ago but still underpins the local ADR 81/02 figures. In AAA testing, various models were found to return results well adrift of their lab-tested claims. In its inaugural testing of EVs, the results of which were released this week, the BYD Atto 3 electric SUV was found to have 23 per cent less range than claimed and 21 per cent higher energy consumption. In previous testing, a raft of petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles were also found to exceed their advertised fuel economy and CO2 emissions claims. The previous-generation BMW X3, for example, was found to use 20 per cent more fuel and produce 23 per cent more CO2 than claimed, while the Chery Omoda 5 used 32 per cent more fuel and produced 26.8 per cent more CO2. Other disappointing results included previous generations of the MG 3 (+19 and +13 per cent, respectively) and Suzuki Swift (+31 and +31). The latter was also found to produce more than double the mandated lab limit for carbon monoxide. Some hybrids have also fallen short in the AAA testing program, with the GWM Haval Jolion Hybrid found to use 32 per cent more fuel and produce 31.5 per cent more CO2 than its claims. The AAA has said the need for real-world testing was first demonstrated by the Volkswagen emissions scandal (commonly referred to as Dieselgate), in which Volkswagen vehicles were found to use software to trick lab tests, and it claims real-world data is important during the cost-of-living crisis for households and fleets alike. It subsequently received $14 million in government funding for the Real-World Testing Program, which is conducted from a facility in Geelong and on public roads in and around the city. The aim remains to examine up to 200 cars, utes and vans over a four-year period. 'Australian car buyers have for too long been misled regarding their vehicle's fuel consumption and environmental performance,' said AAA managing director Michael Bradley in 2023. 'This Program will deliver Australians truth-in-advertising and drive down demand for cars that over-promise and under-deliver. Better information will enable families and fleet buyers to buy vehicles that will meet their budget and environmental requirements. While the FCAI represents most auto brands (notable exceptions include EVC members Tesla and Polestar), the AAA is the peak organisation for Australia's motoring clubs and their 9.5 million members, representing the likes of the NRMA, RACV, RACQ and others.
Perth Now
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Perth Now
Government-funded fuel economy and EV range tests cause confusion, says automaker body
The peak body for car brands in Australia has criticised a government-funded program that tests the fuel economy, emissions and range claims of automakers, arguing it causes 'unnecessary confusion'. The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) recently expanded its Commonwealth-funded Real-World Testing Program, which commenced in 2023, to include testing of the range and efficiency of electric vehicles (EVs). However, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has questioned the merit of the AAA's testing. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. Supplied Credit: CarExpert 'All vehicles, including EVs, sold in Australia are tested under strict laboratory conditions set out in Australian Design Rule 81/02,' said FCAI chief executive Tony Weber in a statement. 'This consistent methodology ensures vehicles can be reliably compared, regardless of brand or model. 'Tests conducted outside the ADR process are influenced by many variables, including traffic, terrain, weather and driving style. No two drivers or journeys are the same. 'We support transparent, evidence-based information for consumers, but it must be consistent. When conflicting figures are published, it undermines confidence and causes unnecessary confusion.' Supplied Credit: CarExpert The FCAI argues ADR 81/02 laboratory testing is already mandated by the federal government, so the funding of a real-world test program results in inconsistencies. The peak auto industry body and the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) appear to have found some common ground. 'All cars, including petrol and diesel cars, often present different results in the lab compared to real-world conditions. Laboratory testing occurs in controlled conditions while real-world driving throws in all sorts of variables such as traffic flows, hills, rough roads, weather, extra passenger or luggage weight, and the unique driving styles of motorists,' said the EVC's head of legal, policy and advocacy, Aman Gaur, in a statement. 'Given the unpredictable nature of driving needs, it's inherently challenging for manufacturers to provide real-world estimates. That's why electric vehicle manufacturers are following the rules and advertising the test results that are required by law.' Supplied Credit: CarExpert The EVC also noted hat most EV manufacturers use more realistic WLTP electric range figures, instead of the NEDC standard that was phased out in Europe several years ago but still underpins the local ADR 81/02 figures. In AAA testing, various models were found to return results well adrift of their lab-tested claims. In its inaugural testing of EVs, the results of which were released this week, the BYD Atto 3 electric SUV was found to have 23 per cent less range than claimed and 21 per cent higher energy consumption. In previous testing, a raft of petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles were also found to exceed their advertised fuel economy and CO2 emissions claims. Supplied Credit: CarExpert The previous-generation BMW X3, for example, was found to use 20 per cent more fuel and produce 23 per cent more CO2 than claimed, while the Chery Omoda 5 used 32 per cent more fuel and produced 26.8 per cent more CO2. Other disappointing results included previous generations of the MG 3 (+19 and +13 per cent, respectively) and Suzuki Swift (+31 and +31). The latter was also found to produce more than double the mandated lab limit for carbon monoxide. Some hybrids have also fallen short in the AAA testing program, with the GWM Haval Jolion Hybrid found to use 32 per cent more fuel and produce 31.5 per cent more CO2 than its claims. The AAA has said the need for real-world testing was first demonstrated by the Volkswagen emissions scandal (commonly referred to as Dieselgate), in which Volkswagen vehicles were found to use software to trick lab tests, and it claims real-world data is important during the cost-of-living crisis for households and fleets alike. Supplied Credit: CarExpert It subsequently received $14 million in government funding for the Real-World Testing Program, which is conducted from a facility in Geelong and on public roads in and around the city. The aim remains to examine up to 200 cars, utes and vans over a four-year period. 'Australian car buyers have for too long been misled regarding their vehicle's fuel consumption and environmental performance,' said AAA managing director Michael Bradley in 2023. 'This Program will deliver Australians truth-in-advertising and drive down demand for cars that over-promise and under-deliver. Better information will enable families and fleet buyers to buy vehicles that will meet their budget and environmental requirements. While the FCAI represents most auto brands (notable exceptions include EVC members Tesla and Polestar), the AAA is the peak organisation for Australia's motoring clubs and their 9.5 million members, representing the likes of the NRMA, RACV, RACQ and others. Supplied Credit: CarExpert MORE: EV range claims from BYD, Tesla, others scrutinised in new real-world testing MORE: Real-world testing shows Ford Ranger among emissions-breaching models MORE: Real-world testing shows not all hybrids are created equal at saving fuel MORE: Popular Australian models found to use up to 35 per cent more fuel than claimed MORE: New data shows even more new cars are thirstier and dirtier than claimed MORE: Real-world tests reveal the cars that are thirstier than they claim MORE: The popular cars, SUVs and utes that can't match their fuel economy claims MORE: Real-world fuel use shows popular Australian new cars drastically exceed claims MORE: Which SUVs don't match their fuel economy stickers in the real world?
The Australian
6 days ago
- Automotive
- The Australian
The new car Aussies can't get enough of
Aussies are increasingly favouring one particular type of vehicle as the new car market undergoes significant change According to the latest VFACTS data, 103,097 new vehicles were delivered last month – the strongest July result on record ever. And a new type of car has exploded in popularity on our roads as a result of the record figures. Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries chief executive Tony Weber said the result highlights strong demand and a positive outlook among new car buyers. 'We are now seeing confidence return to the market, supported by a recent interest rate reduction and anticipation of further easing,' Mr Weber said. 'Consumers are responding with interest across most segments, particularly utes and SUVs.' While utes and SUVs continue to dominate the market, plug-in hybrids experienced a surge in growth. Total Vehicle Sales this year. Source: Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries MORE: Car giant's brutal truth: 'We're terrible' CAR THAT AUSSIE CAN'T GET ENOUGH OF According to the latest figures, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles or PHEVs have exploded in popularity in 2025, with sales skyrocketing by 183 per cent year-to-date when compared to last year. In July along that growth was 81.1 per cent on June. There are currently more than 50 PHEV models available on the market, and plug-in hybrids are emerging as a significant option for drivers who are limited by EV infrastructure. As Mr Weber explains, PHEVs provide 'the ability to drive short distances on electric power while retaining the flexibility and range of a conventional engine'. 2025 Ford Ranger Wildtrak PHEV. Picture: Supplied MORE: Musk threat to leave Tesla, gets $42 billion Range anxiety and concerns about charging infrastructure still linger for many potential EV owners, particularly in regional Australia, where charging facilities are limited. CHINA ON THE RISE China-made vehicles continued their rapid rise, with 18,850 units sold in July, resulting in a massive 53 per cent increase compared to July 2024. So far this year, 121,788 new Chinese vehicles have been on Australian roads, marking an impressive 11.4 per cent increase. BYD is making a big impression. Picture: Mark Bean Interestingly, the BYD Shark did not make it into the top 10 list, while the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro secured seventh place with 2,065 new sales in Australia. Despite this, BYD continues to lead the charge with impressive growth figures. The company reported 4,607 units sold, resulting in a remarkable 158 per cent increase from July 2024 (1,786 units). Other Chinese brands, such as Chery, GWM, and Geely, are also gaining significant traction as Aussies seek affordable alternatives to Japanese and European car brands. AUSSIES STILL LOVE THEIR SUVS AND UTES SUVs and utes continue to dominate the Australian new car market. SUVs accounted for 63,079 units of the 103,097 new vehicles sold in Australia last month. Or a whopping 62 per cent of all vehicles sold. The long-term trend for SUVs over the passenger vehicle segment continues, with the passenger sales down 27 per cent year to date. A major shake-up in the sales leaderboard saw Toyota reclaim dominance, with the HiLux and RAV4 outperforming the Ford Ranger, which dropped to third place. Toyota was the market leader with sales of 21,722. 'For every two passenger vehicles sold so far in 2025, about nine SUVs have been sold. In July, there was only one sedan in the top 20 models, the Toyota Corolla,' Mr Weber said. Toyota was the market leader with sales of 21,722 during July, followed by Mazda (7,452), Kia (7,402), Ford (7,279) and Hyundai (6,687). James Chung Digital Content Creator James is a Digital Content Creator at and is part of the News Corp Australia's digital real estate team. His previous experience includes working for Sky News Australia.
News.com.au
6 days ago
- Automotive
- News.com.au
New car sales data reveals dramatic shift in Aussie market
Aussies are increasingly favouring one particular type of vehicle as the new car market undergoes significant change According to the latest VFACTS data, 103,097 new vehicles were delivered – the strongest July result on record. Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries chief executive Tony Weber said the result highlights robust underlying demand and a positive outlook among new vehicle buyers. 'We are now seeing confidence return to the market, supported by a recent interest rate reduction and anticipation of further easing,' Mr Weber said. 'Consumers are responding with interest across most segments, particularly utes and SUVs.' While utes and SUVs continue to dominate the market, plug-in hybrids experienced a surge in growth. According to the latest figures, PHEVs have rocketed in popularity, with sales increasing by 183 per cent year-to-date. This represents an 81.1 per cent increase month-on-month. There are currently more than 50 PHEV models available on the market, and plug-in hybrids are emerging as a significant option for drivers who are limited by EV infrastructure. As Mr Weber explains, PHEVs provide 'the ability to drive short distances on electric power while retaining the flexibility and range of a conventional engine'. Range anxiety and concerns about charging infrastructure still linger for many potential EV owners, particularly in regional Australia, where charging facilities are limited. China-made vehicles continued their rapid rise, with 18,850 units sold in July, resulting in a massive 53 per cent increase compared to July 2024. So far this year, 121,788 Chinese vehicles have been on Australian roads, marking an impressive 11.4 per cent increase. Interestingly, the BYD Shark did not make it into the top 10 list, while the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro secured seventh place with 2,065 new sales in Australia. Despite this, BYD continues to lead the charge with impressive growth figures. The company reported 4,607 units sold, resulting in a remarkable 158 per cent increase from July 2024 (1,786 units). Other Chinese brands, such as Chery, GWM, and Geely, are also gaining significant traction as Aussies seek affordable alternatives to Japanese and European car brands. SUVs and utes continue to dominate the market. SUVs accounted for 63,079 units of the 103,097 new vehicles sold in Australia last month. The long-term trend for SUVs over the passenger vehicle segment continues, with the passenger sales down 27 per cent year to date. A major shake-up in the sales leaderboard saw Toyota reclaim dominance, with the HiLux and RAV4 outperforming the Ford Ranger, which dropped to third place. 'For every two passenger vehicles sold so far in 2025, about nine SUVs have been sold. In July, there was only one sedan in the top 20 models, the Toyota Corolla,' Mr Weber said.
