Natural Resources Canada
2004/1
February 11, 2004

GOVERNMENT OF CANADA PRESENTS AWARDS FOR MOST FUEL-EFFICIENT VEHICLES

TORONTO - Canadian automakers who are leading the way in energy efficiency have been recognized for their efforts. Today, the Honourable R. John Efford, Minister of Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), presented the 2004 EnerGuide Awards to the manufacturers of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in nine categories at the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto.

"The manufacturers here today have made great strides in vehicle efficiency, and I would like to congratulate them on their efforts," said Minister Efford. "Their commitment to energy efficiency helps consumers save money, improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions."

The EnerGuide Awards, presented by NRCan's Office of Energy Efficiency, show that manufacturers are committed to helping cut fuel consumption in response to the global challenge of climate change.

The winning manufacturers and vehicles are as follows:

• General Motors of Canada - Station wagon (Pontiac Vibe); Full-size (Chevrolet Impala); Van (Chevrolet Venture/Pontiac Montana/Oldsmobile Silhouette);
• Toyota Canada - Subcompact (Toyota Echo); Mid-size (Toyota Prius); Station wagon (Toyota Corolla Matrix);
• Honda Canada - Two-seater (Honda Insight); Compact (Honda Civic Hybrid);
• Volkswagen Canada - Subcompact, diesel (Volkswagen New Beetle TDI Diesel); Station wagon, diesel (Volkswagen Jetta TDI Diesel Wagon);
• DaimlerChrysler Canada - Special purpose (Chrysler PT Cruiser);
• Ford Motor Company of Canada - Pickup truck (Ford Ranger);
• Mazda Canada - Pickup truck (Mazda B2300)

The awards are based on estimated annual fuel consumption, which is determined by calculating how much fuel each vehicle consumes after driving 20,000 kilometres - 55 percent in the city and 45 percent on the highway.

There are approximately 17 million light-duty cars and trucks on the road today, and they produce about 12 percent of Canada's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The EnerGuide Awards can help Canadians compare the new vehicles on their shopping lists with these winners to see the energy-saving opportunities. A mere 10-percent increase in fuel efficiency can put hundreds of dollars into consumers' pockets and reduce GHG emissions and their impact on climate change.

More information on fuel consumption ratings for new and used vehicles is available in the 2004 Fuel Consumption Guide and on NRCan's Web site at http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/vehicles.

The EnerGuide Awards initiative enhances our quality of life through the sustainable development of natural resources - supporting the Government of Canada's agenda of strong social foundations, a strong economy for the 21^st century and ensuring Canada's role of pride and influence in the world. The natural resources sectors and allied industries are a vital part of Canada's economy and society.

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The following media backgrounder and photo are also available:

1. Most Fuel-efficient Vehicles for the 2004 Model Year