Lars,

Only two conditions matter: the distance driven, and the energy used. The Prius could *FLY* during part of the EPA, for all it matters. The data would not be false.

I think you are arguing that the Prius is OPTIMIZED for the EPA route; and that the EPA test is a poor model for (your?) driving experience. That indeed may be true -- for you. My experience suggests otherwise. I accelerate modestly, time red lights, tend to drive below 40 mph on city streets, and glide when I can. What you seem to be calling other-worldly conditions, I call safe and reasonable city driving.

R2-E2, 2G Prius.
Highway/City/Husband/Wife MPG: 56.5, as of 12/2005, 26K miles

Jac Nasser, Ford President: "We are planning to launch a hybrid version of
this car [P2000] within this year [1998]. We will also make FCEV available in
2004."