FTC Amends Alternative Fuels Rule to Make Compliance Easier

The Federal Trade Commission has issued final amendments to the Alternative Fuels Rule, consolidating the labels required on alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) with those required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), eliminating the need for two different labels and reducing the burden of complying with the Rule. This action is part of the FTC’s systematic review of all current FTC rules and guides.

Created in 1995 under the Energy Policy Act of 1992, the Rule requires labels that provide information, such as driving range and fuel type, to help consumers comparison shop. In June 2011, the FTC began its review of the Rule. In June 2012, the agency proposed changes to the Rule and sought public comment. After weighing the comments it received, the FTC approved the changes announced today, to consolidate FTC labels with EPA fuel economy labels for all AFVs and eliminate FTC labeling requirements for used AFVs.

Since 1992, the FTC has reviewed all its rules and guides on a rotating basis to ensure they are up-to-date, effective, and not overly burdensome. The agency relies on input from the public, including consumers, businesses, advocates, industry experts and others, to help it decide whether rules and guides should be updated, left as is, or rescinded.

The Commission vote approving the Federal Register notice announcing the final amendments was 4-0. The notice can be found on the FTC’s website and as a link to this press release. The final Rule will become effective May 31, 2013. (FTC File Number R311002; the staff contact is Hampton Newsome, Bureau of Consumer Protection, 202-326-2889)

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