Here's more info... http://blog.seattlepi.nwsource.com/greenhuman/archives/162499.asp

The writer uses the word "clean" so often, the bias toward diesel is quite obvious, without even having to read this greenwashing: "FOR THE FIRST TIME - MEETS OR EXCEED ULEV STANDARDS IN ALL 50 STATES. This clean burning technology is now squarely on par with Hybrids and provides A REAL ALTERNATIVE for consumers to consider."

Since some hybrids are only ULEV rated, that is true. But omitting the fact that the one the Portland run is competing against is much cleaner is definitely misleading.

Of course, a mostly-highway comparison against the older model Prius is misleading anyway.
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Hi All,

I wonder what these guys are going to say when they have to sell the Hybrid Golf ?

That you can hit the ball straighter and longer with it?

Of course it is a staged VW event and if "the numbers" were in their favor they'd be posted. IMO it doesn't really matter if they are going against a 2009 or a 2005 Prius as they have the same mechanics. They can't run against a 2010 Prius because they don't yet exist. Three preproduction cars sitting in a building don't count. 50mpg is 50mpg regardless of how it is achieved and the more options, the better. If you want to experience a serious butt-kicking find an experienced driver in an Insight. Beware, the butt that's kicked will be your own.

Well said.

The competition hates that reality. They've been selectively pushing either city or highway rating, whatever is to their favor.

Along comes Toyota, which sticks to the combined value for the reveal of the 2010 Prius.
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Well they could use the "Top Gear" approach:

• max accelerate Prius to speed limit +5 mph
• ABS brake Prius to speed limit -5 mph (averages speed limit)
• Repeat until sufficiently low mileage is achieved

Then there is the dealer preparation:

• 10-40 engine oil
• over fill, well above the "F"
• 28 psi tires
• nice, new big, fat, wide tires

Don't forget to follow the Motor Trend driving tips:

• Use "B", not "D"
• Maximum defrost at all times

Piece of cake.

Bob Wilson

Well they are using a Google based blog and it it seems Wayne has already posted his notice. I just added mine:

So the EPA is lying when their testing:

City/Hwy (combined) - vehicle
30/41 (34) - 2009 Jetta diesel, manual
40/45 (42) - 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid, automatic
48/45 (46) - 2009 Prius, automatic

Fuel Economy

Perhaps we should use "Top Gear" who recently got 17 MPG with Prius?

I suppose we could just follow the example of "no matter what anyone says" and choose whatever "truth" one wants to claim.

Bob Wilson - Engineer

The URL:
News on the Portland to Portland Green Test Drive: What are we doing here?

Enjoy!

Bob Wilson

read touareg hybrid review on 4car... aperrantly, hybrids are much better than diesels when in german vehicle ;-)

At the risk of seeming like someone tossing a load of chum into a school of sharks, their commenting web interface is working and they've asked:

I've taken a brief stab at #1, without mentioning the cost of diesel. But I think #2, the battery, and #5, the CNW Marketing nonsense, Sudbury, and others, need some facts and data. As for #3, I'm an engineer and the only fun thing I enjoy is having someone tailgate me into a tight turn (sometimes a mean engineer!) As for "creature comfort," XM radio, 14 hour drives, and an effective heater and AC, I'm good to go. But you know someone might quote from "The Prius That Shook The World" what their first design decision was. <grins>

Have fun and take a bite on them for me.

Bob Wilson