Ford Lowers the C-Max Hybrid's Fuel Economy Rating

After being hit with class-action lawsuits that claim the C-Max was not getting close to the original EPA-rated 47 miles per gallon fuel economy rating, Ford has decided to drop the combined fuel economy rating to 43 miles per gallon.

This moves comes after a hybrid system update to Ford hybrids in an attempt to increase real-world fuel economy.

In addition, Ford will be sending owners of the 2013 C-Max money to compensate for the misleading mileage figures. Current owners will get $550, while lessees will receive $325. No specifics were released on how to obtain the money, but current owners will be sent letters with instructors on the matter.

The mileage discrepancy comes from old EPA "general label rules." Under these rules, a vehicle can carryover another vehicle's fuel economy ratings if the drivetrain and weight are shared. In this case, the C-Max carried over the Fusion Hybrid's ratings.

The 2014 C-Max will be tweaked mechanically and aerodynamically to achieve better fuel economy than the 2013. No EPA numbers have been put out yet.

Meanwhile, the EPA is working on some revisions on how the agency will rate hybrids for fuel economy. Details will be announced this Friday.

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