Chevy Volt 230 MPG? Could This be True?

[HVAC Instructor]

When the EPA does "real world" testing, generally speaking, do they turn on AC and other features that would draw power in their tests? If so, then the 100 mile range would include those features being turned on...which would be nice.

Good question. An air conditioning compressor is a heavy power draw, and I would think extremely draining on a 12 or 24 or 36 or whatever volt DC battery electrical system.

[Luke]

Good question. An air conditioning compressor is a heavy power draw, and I would think extremely draining on a 12 or 24 or 36 or whatever volt DC battery electrical system.

Do you know if EPA's "real world" testing includes the use of radio and AC in their gas mileage estimates?

[HVAC Instructor]

Do you know if EPA's "real world" testing includes the use of radio and AC in their gas mileage estimates?

Dunno. I'm looking now, but from memory (which is not always reliable) I recall reading an article that said they do not.

[HVAC Instructor]

I found this web site. Looks like they do, but can't make much of the details so far: Fuel Economy Test Schedules

[Luke]

If that's the case, then that's a good sign the, for the Leaf. 100 miles rated by the EPA with extra in-car features turned on... not bad for no gas.

[HVAC Instructor]

If that's the case, then that's a good sign the, for the Leaf. 100 miles rated by the EPA with extra in-car features turned on... not bad for no gas.

Don't get too happy yet. Who knows how they interpret the data and publish the data to the public. The only way we will find out is when they hit the roads in varying conditions. The Prius didn't get near the estimated economy when it was released to the driving public.....we shall see in time.

[kevinpate]

Somebody go buy one, give me a call, hand over the keys. I'll bring in back in 6 months with enough records to keep you reviewing the data for a spell