The fuel economy label was launched by the Government today, and must be displayed on all cars sold by motor vehicle traders and trading websites from 7 April 2008. In addition to a fuel economy star rating out of six, the labels provide an indication of how much is likely to be spent in fuel over a year.

Stella Stocks, AA General Manager of Technical Services says "the fuel economy of a vehicle is a critical piece of information. As a result of the ever-increasing cost of fuel and greater environmental awareness, motorists are keen to reduce their fuel bill as much as possible. The labels launched today will certainly help them to make an informed decision when purchasing vehicles."

"The labels are easy to create and simple to understand. The fuelsaver website www.fuelsaver.govt.nz is an excellent resource for motorists wanting additional information on the ratings."

"The AA congratulates online traders for making the lives of motorists easier by automatically displaying the relevant fuel economy information when a vehicle is listed for sale."

"While the fuel economy labels are not compulsory for private sellers, the AA encourages private owners to still provide this information to prospective purchasers," says Ms Stocks.

For more information contact

Stella Stocks
General Manager - Technical
New Zealand Automobile Association
T. +64 9 966 8908
M. +64 21 772 242

The New Zealand Automobile Association is an incorporated society with over one million members. It represents the interests of road users who collectively pay over $2 billion in taxes each year through fuels excise, road user charges and GST.