Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group Inc. announced that it expects a significant improvement in the fuel efficiency of its fleet in 2010, based on its previously announced fleet diversification efforts.

Over 40 percent of Dollar Thrifty's 2010 model year purchases have mile-per-gallon ratings (mpg) of over 30 mpg (highway), compared to about 10 percent of its 2009 model year purchases. Additionally, Dollar Thrifty expects to realize over a 10 percent improvement in the fleet's average mileage, resulting in its customers consuming approximately 13.5 million fewer gallons of gasoline on an annual basis and saving our customers over $35 million in fuel costs.

"As we provide our customers with vehicles that fully meet their needs, we are very pleased to also provide them lower fuel costs from our fleet's improved fuel efficiency," said Scott L. Thompson, president and chief executive officer.

"Our customers are value focused, and the Dollar and Thrifty brands continually strive to provide them with the best value for their dollar. This is just great news for our customers and it is certainly the right direction for our environment," he added.

In October 2009, Dollar Thrifty announced that it had substantially diversified its fleet mix for 2010 model year vehicles across a wider range of vehicles and suppliers. Currently, its 2010 fleet purchases are 34 percent Ford; 30 percent Chrysler; 20 percent General Motors; 6 percent Nissan; and 10 percent Hyundai and other manufacturers. This fleet diversification will mitigate the risks associated with a concentration of inventory from any single supplier, provide customers with a wider array of products to meet their individual needs, and improve the overall fuel efficiency of Dollar Thrifty’s fleet.

Among the eco-friendly vehicles new to Dollar Thrifty's fleet is the Ford Fusion, Motor Trend's "Car of the Year." The four-cylinder Fusion is the No.1-selling domestic car and America's most fuel-efficient midsize sedan with best-in-class highway fuel economy at 34 mpg.

Other vehicles prominent in the company's fleet with high fuel economy (over 30 mpg) are the Chevy Malibu and Aveo, Nissan Versa and Hyundai Sonata.

Based on customer demand, Dollar Thrifty also maintains a full fleet of full-size cars, SUVs and vans.