Gas mileage refers to the number of miles your car will run per each gallon of gas. Fuel economy has improved over the years as a result of federal requirements, with the average now more than 28 miles per gallon. Federal law also requires that an Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA (E-P-A), label be placed on the window of every new car, listing average fuel economy for both city and highway driving according to EPA tests. The label lists projected fuel economy for city and highway driving, average fuel economy for similar cars, annual fuel costs based on driving 15,000 (fifteen thousand) miles a year and paying $1.20 (a dollar twenty) per gallon for regular or $1.40 (a dollar forty) a gallon for premium, and. The EPA ratings are only estimates intended to be a comparison between models. Depending on how and where you drive, your actual mileage may not match the estimates. Your exact gas mileage will depend on your driving habits and upkeep. In some states, such as California, all gasoline sold for use in motor vehicles must meet pollution requirements established by the state's Air Resources Board. These regulations, which have been in effect since the spring of 1996, also require motor vehicles to meet increasingly cleaner emission standards, which may reduce gas mileage. Before you buy a car, especially if it's purchased in another state, make sure the car meets your state's requirements for emission controls and consider how these can affect the car's gas mileage.
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