RAM 1500 EcoDiesel sets new record for MPG

kmbelt wrote:
all of you that actually go by EPA ratings to be valid information are crazy. I have NEVER seen or heard of any vehicle actually hitting those numbers. I always feel that they are inflated by about 2+mpg.

kmbelt, I share your sentiments to a point. However, I wouldn't classify one who uses them for general comparison purposes as crazy. Bottom line, without the EPA MPG ratings, consumers would be completely at the mercy of hearsay on the internet and/or hyper-biased data from the manufacturer. I'll take the EPA MPG ratings over that kind of insanity anytime.

If you want to know how frustrating it can be to try and make an informed purchase without EPA MPG ratings, try shopping for a new 3/4 or 1 ton diesel. The manufacturer gives you absolutely nothing. "Tom" says he gets 24 MPG easy. Dick says he's lucky to get 12 MPG. Harry says his Chevy will run farther on a gallon of diesel than any POS Ford. So, Tom, were you going downhill? Dick, were you towing anything? Harry, can I believe you--it sounds like you're kinda biased--lol!! Who wants this insanity :)

wilber1 wrote:
Diesels actually have a reputation of meeting or exceeding those numbers. Check it out.

wilber1, I agree. It's much easier to access torque on a diesel engine than a gas engine. Easier access means more efficient operation. Efficient operation means higher fuel economy for a given task. The vast majority of torque on most consumer diesel engines is available from just above idle (1,000 RPM) to almost 3,000 RPM. Compare this to a typical 1/2 ton V8 where substantial torque is not available until 2,000-3,000 RPM. During normal, day-to-day operation (shifting, stop and go, etc.) a diesel will usually spend much more time running in the most efficient part of it's power band than a gas engine.