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This is a story idea from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory. To arrange for an interview with a researcher, please contact the Communications and External Relations staff member identified at the end of the tip.

Transportation - Gone hybrid

Fuel economy ratings for the new 2010 model year automobiles are now posted at the www.fueleconomy.gov web site, which Oak Ridge National Laboratory developed and maintains for the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Nine of the top 10 vehicles on the best fuel economy list are hybrid electrics, led by the Toyota Prius (51 MPG city; 48 highway). "This list proves that hybrids have gone mainstream," said project leader Bo Saulsbury of ORNL's Environmental Sciences Division. "There's now a hybrid for everyone. The 32 hybrid models available in 2010 offer car buyers the choice of an SUV, passenger car, economy or luxury model, from almost every major automobile maker." The site also now contains its first Spanish-language pages, including the "Find and Compare Cars" and "Gas Mileage Tips" pages which can be found at the main address or at www.ahorremosgasolina.com. Saulsbury said ORNL plans to post an entire Spanish-language site by the end of 2010. Many of the new models qualify for federal tax credit. Users can check out the new 2010 hybrids, clean diesels, alternative fuel vehicles and more energy efficient gasoline-powered vehicles at www.fueleconomy.gov or at the abbreviated "mobile" site at www.fueleconomy.gov/m.

Contact: Mike Bradley; ;