Exploring the Relationship between Vehicle Safety and Fuel Efficiency
Journal
Transportation Research-Part D
Journal Issue
15
Pages
112-116
Date Issued
2010
Author(s)
Abstract
Panel data analysis is used within a fixed effect model to examine the relationship between vehicle safety ratings and fuel efficiency of 45 new vehicle models sold in the US between 2002 and 2007. While conventional wisdom and most early literature suggest that lighter, more fuel efficient vehicles are less safe to their occupants, the tests show a positive relationship between vehicle safety ratings and fuel efficiencies not only within and across most size classes but also for vehicles produced by both the US and Asian automakers. We also explore the design initiatives by manufacturers to compensate for the reductions in weight/size of fuel-efficient vehicles. © 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
SDGs
Type
journal article