Goodyear-shod VW sets US fuel economy record

It’s ‘Guinness Time’ again: Last month Honda set a new Guinness World Records title for ‘lowest fuel consumption – all 24 contiguous EU countries (all cars)’, recording an average 100.31 miles per gallon over 8,387 miles during a 25 day drive across all 24 EU contiguous countries, and now Volkswagen of America has set a new Guinness World Records achievement for the ‘lowest fuel consumption – 48 US contiguous States for a non-hybrid car’. The record-setting VW Golf TDI achieved an average fuel consumption of 81.17 mpg during its trip, beating the previous record by more than 3 mpg. Goodyear supported Volkswagen of America in its attempt, supplying the Golf TDI with Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max tyres.

“Working with an industry leader like Volkswagen to set this record was a great opportunity for us to showcase the superior performance of our low rolling resistance Assurance Fuel Max tyres,” said Paul Raymondo, Goodyear brand manager. “Many consumers want their tyres to offer confident handling in changing weather conditions, but also want to save money at the pump. This record drive has proven that our Fuel Max tyres excel at both.”

Drivers Wayne Gerdes and Bob Winger hit the road from Volkswagen of America’s headquarters in Herndon, Virginia on 22 June and returned after visiting all 48 contiguous states on 7 July, having covered 8,233.5 miles on just 101.43 gallons of fuel. During their cross-country drive, the duo encountered a wide range of terrain and changing weather conditions – including extreme heat and heavy rains. “In my experience, the Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max has some of the best wet weather traction of any fuel efficient tyre,” said Gerdes, who is founder of the cleanmpg.com website. “It’s why I’ve chosen them for all my personal vehicles.”