Warning to Consumers: Rising Pump Prices May Fuel Gas Saving Device Claims

OTTAWA, ONTARIO, Jun 19 (MARKET WIRE) --
As the summer driving season gets underway, the Competition Bureau is
warning consumers to beware of false claims from marketers of so-called
fuel saving devices.

Many of these products claim to improve fuel efficiency, reduce harmful
emissions and reduce engine wear and tear. These devices typically attach
to the engine or gas line, or they may be fuel additives.

Consumers should know the Bureau has yet to find any fuel saving device
that improves fuel savings as claimed. Similarly, the United States
Environmental Protection Agency evaluated over a hundred alleged gas
saving devices and found that none significantly improved gas mileage.
Some even damaged car engines or caused substantial increases in exhaust
emissions.

The Bureau has taken enforcement action in recent years to protect
consumers against false or misleading claims relating to fuel saving
devices. This includes proceedings against the Econopro, the Fuel Saver
Pro and the Platinum Vapour Injector. The Bureau challenged the ability
of these devices to reduce fuel consumption and harmful emissions,
resulting in the companies concerned ceasing to make such claims.

Consumers should be sceptical of devices when:

- Significant fuel savings are claimed

- Over enthusiastic testimonials are used in support of claims

- Claims are difficult for consumers to evaluate

- Claims of government approval are made

Consumers who suspect they have been the victim of deceptive business
practices or who want information on the application of the Competition
Act should contact the Bureau's Information Centre at 1-800-348-5358, or
visit the Web site at www.competitionbureau.gc.ca.

The Competition Bureau is an independent agency that contributes to the
prosperity of Canadians by protecting and promoting competitive markets
and enabling informed consumer choice.

Contacts:
For media enquiries, please contact:
External Relations and Public Affairs Branch
Pamela Wong
Communications Advisor
819-953-7734

For general enquiries, please contact:
Competition Bureau
Information Centre
819-997-4282 / Toll free: 1-800-348-5358
TDD (hearing impaired): 1-800-642-3844
compbureau@cb-bc.gc.ca

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