Cars could earn letter grade for fuel economy

WASHINGTON, D.C. - We're used to letter grades in school, but the grading system may be rolled out for cars and every model won't make the grade.

Car dealers are trying to get rid of 2010 cars this Labor Day to make way for new inventory.

Next fall, when 2012 model year cars start rolling into showrooms, expect to see a letter grade assigned to the car.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the EPA want to grade cars "A" through "D," depending on their fuel economy.The letter grade would be posted on a sticker in the car’s window.

If the rule were in effect today, the Ferrari would get a "D."

To earn the highest mark, the car must be electric or a hybrid, but a hybrid doesn’t necessarily guarantee a car an “A.” Several 2010 hybrids fall into the "B" letter grade.

This is still a proposed rule, and public comments are currently being sought.