Since April 2008, cars for sale have had to display information about the vehicle’s fuel economy. This helps buyers choose a vehicle that uses less fuel.  A vehicle with lower fuel consumption can be expected to go further on a full tank and save money, while at the same time reducing emissions of carbon dioxide and other gases that cause pollution and contribute to climate change.

Fuel economy information must be displayed for light vehicles – i.e. cars, utes and vans under 3.5 tonnes – whenever it is available. The information should be available for most new and late model used cars (manufactured since 2000 and imported from Japan since 2005). It is not required for motorcycles or vehicles over 3.5 tonnes.

Some of the economic benefits from this program are the reduced import costs of oil ($486 million per annum), reduced running costs such as electricity and maintenance, and improved international economic position.

The fuel economy labeling programme is being administered by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) in consultation with the New Zealand Transport Agency.