Last week, General Motors issued a stop sale on the 2016 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia due to the window stickers having overstated fuel economy numbers by one to two mpg. All-wheel drive models had an incorrect label showing ratings of 17 City/24 Highway/19 Combined. The correct label has ratings of 15 City/22 Highway/17 Combined.
But what about the folks who bought one of GM's large crossovers with the incorrect ratings? How did this happen in the first place? We have answers.
In a statement to Automotive News, GM explained the 2016 models were equipped with new “emissions-related hardware,” which meant new tests needed to be done.
“The fuel economy data from these tests were not captured in calculations made for EPA fuel economy labels ... causing 2016 model year fuel economy numbers to be overstated,” said GM.
The error was found when engineers were working on the labels for the 2017 models. This issue was immediately reported to EPA. At the moment, GM is working with the EPA on this issue.
As for what will happen to the nearly 170,000 owners of affected crossovers, GM is working on a compensation plan. Sources tell Reuters that GM is working out a program to compensate owners for the difference in fuel economy figures. Out of the 170,000 owners, more than 130,000 will qualify for the program (the remainder of vehicles belong to fleets). The plan will be announced in the coming week.
Not surprisingly, an owner of one of the affected models has filed a class-action lawsuit against GM, alleging that the company concealed the actual fuel economy figures.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Reuters
Pic Credit: William Maley for Cheers & Gears
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