Introduction
Ford Motor Company has announced that it is hiring a third-party firm to investigate its fuel-economy testing and certification processes. This decision comes in response to concerns raised by employees regarding the accuracy of road-load measurements, particularly for the 2019 Ford Ranger pickup truck. While no immediate changes to fuel-economy labels or emissions certifications have been announced, the investigation could have significant implications for Ford’s reputation and consumer trust.
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What is Road Load and Why Does It Matter?
Road load refers to the resistance forces that a vehicle encounters while driving, including factors like aerodynamics, tire friction, and drivetrain losses. These measurements are critical for determining fuel economy in laboratory tests, as they simulate real-world driving conditions. Inconsistent road-load measurements have historically led to significant issues for automakers. For instance, Hyundai-Kia and Ford both faced scandals in 2012 and 2014, respectively, resulting in restated mileage figures and substantial payouts to vehicle owners.
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- 2012 Hyundai-Kia Scandal: The automakers overstated fuel economy for nearly 1 million vehicles, leading to a $395 million settlement.
- 2014 Ford Scandal: Ford restated mileage for six models, paying owners up to $1,050 each.
Ford’s current investigation focuses on the 2019 Ranger but may extend to other vehicles as well.
Ford’s Response and Regulatory Involvement
Kim Pittel, Ford’s Vice President of Sustainability, Environment, and Safety Engineering, stated that the company is “evaluating potential changes to our road-load modeling process.” Ford has also shared information with regulatory bodies, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
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“CARB takes seriously violations of our regulations, especially given the recent high-profile cases such as Volkswagen,” said Steve Cliff, CARB’s Executive Director.
While the EPA has not yet commented, its audit process remains a critical component of fuel-economy certification. In 2012, only 15% of new-car variants were audited, but the agency has since increased its staffing to improve oversight.
2019 Ford Ranger: A Closer Look
The 2019 Ford Ranger, equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission, currently boasts EPA-rated fuel economy of 22-23 mpg combined, depending on the drivetrain. These figures place it ahead of non-diesel competitors in the mid-size pickup truck segment. However, the investigation could lead to revised ratings if inconsistencies are found.
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| Model | Drivetrain | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 Ford Ranger | 2WD | 23 mpg |
| 2019 Ford Ranger | 4WD | 22 mpg |
Implications for Consumers and the Industry
If the investigation reveals discrepancies, Ford may face financial penalties, reputational damage, and the need to compensate affected customers. Additionally, the findings could prompt stricter regulations and increased scrutiny across the automotive industry.
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For consumers, accurate fuel-economy ratings are essential for making informed purchasing decisions. Misleading figures can lead to higher-than-expected fuel costs and environmental impacts.
How to Stay Informed
MotorVero will continue to monitor this developing story and provide updates as new information becomes available. In the meantime, consumers can explore our related content to learn more about fuel efficiency and vehicle comparisons:
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Conclusion
Ford’s decision to launch a third-party investigation underscores the importance of transparency and accuracy in fuel-economy testing. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, maintaining consumer trust and adhering to regulatory standards will remain paramount. Stay tuned to MotorVero for the latest updates on this story and other industry news.
