The VW Jetta TDI sets a new Guinness world record in fuel consumption!

A well known couple in the world of energy efficiency, Australians John and Helen Taylor have set yet another world record, this time in fuel consumption, behind the wheel of a Volkswagen Jetta TDI powered by Shell low sulphur diesel. They crossed 48 American states in a 20-day trek that ended in West Virginia on September 25.


The Taylors averaged 4 litres per 100 kilometres, a 14% increase over the previous record of 4.56 litres per 100 kilometres. They travelled over 15,000 km, sometimes exceeding 100 km/h, and spent slightly more than 4.3 cents per kilometre, for a grand total of $653.

Interestingly, this performance was achieved in normal driving conditions behind the wheel of a production vehicle that ordinary people can buy in any Volkswagen dealership. What's more, Mother Nature wasn't at her most benevolent during this adventure.