Three-quarters of Australia’s new cars use more fuel than advertised lab rating, testing shows
The Guardian World
by Luca IttimaniFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Three-quarters of new cars in Australia consume more fuel than advertised under real-world conditions, according to recent testing. This discrepancy between lab ratings and actual performance raises concerns about the country's ability to meet its emissions reduction targets. The Australian Automobile Association found that 76% of petrol, diesel, and hybrid vehicles exceed their stated fuel efficiency when driven on roads rather than in controlled lab settings.
The disparity arises because real-world driving conditions often differ from the standardized tests used for certification. Factors such as traffic, weather, and driving habits can lead to higher fuel consumption than what's measured in labs. This issue not only impacts individual consumers' wallets but also contributes to increased greenhouse gas emissions, complicating efforts to reduce transport-related pollution.
This problem extends beyond Australia, highlighting broader challenges in global climate policy. Accurate fuel efficiency standards are crucial for meeting international emission reduction goals. Policymakers face the challenge of ensuring that vehicle testing reflects real-world usage to effectively address environmental concerns and promote sustainable transportation solutions.
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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/25/2026