Impressive fuel economy results were demonstrated once again at this year’s AJAC EcoRun, held in June in New Brunswick. The Automobile Journalists Association of Canada’s annual driving event showcases a variety of eco-friendly vehicles, including pure electrics, plug-in and conventional hybrids, hydrogen fuel cells, diesel-fuelled powertrains and highly-efficient gasoline options.
Over the course of two days, AJAC journalists piloted 19 eco-friendly vehicles that vary in size and engine to an average of 1.59 L/100 km better than the official Natural Resources Canada combined fuel economy rating.
“Each year it’s astonishing to see how well most vehicles perform when driven in a calm, fuel-efficient manner,” said David Miller, co-chair, AJAC EcoRun.
Results are “a testament to the automakers for advancing not only alternative powertrains, but also the internal combustion engine, providing consumers ample environmentally friendly choices when deciding on their next vehicle,” Miller added.
Aside from the two EVs that managed the lowest fuel economy average at 1.8 L/100 km, the Honda Clarity plug-in achieved an impressive 2.5 L/100 km, followed by the Toyota Prius Prime at 2.9 and the Hyundai Ioniq plug-in at 3.0.
The total drive covered 570 kilometres and took journalists throughout southern New Brunswick, including Sussex, Snider Mountain, Saint John, New River Beach and Saint Andrews, eventually ending the journey in Fredericton on Friday, June 22. All of the 19 vehicle results can be found on the EcoRun website at:
“We are very proud to spearhead the very first EcoRun in Atlantic Canada,” said Gaëtan Thomas, president and CEO at NB Power.
A network of fast chargers throughout out the province gives electric vehicle owners peace of mind when travelling, Thomas added.
Partners for the 2018 AJAC EcoRun include Natural Resources Canada, Canadian Fuels Association, CAA Atlantic Club, Michelin North America (Canada) Inc., NB Power and Tourism New Brunswick.
