WASHINGTON (Aug. 22. 2006) – In a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), International Research and Development Corp. and its principal, Anthony Renda, the manufacturer of magnetic “fuel-saving” and emissions-reduction devices known as FuelMAX and SuperFuelMAX – will pay $4.2 million intended for consumer redress. The company also will submit to a lifetime ban on the sale or manufacture of these types of devices.
The FTC has established a consumer hotline. Consumers who believe they are entitled to a refund should call 877-382-2020 for more information about obtaining a refund.
The FTC alleged that the magnetic devices do not save fuel, increase gas mileage or reduce emissions. The Agency had charged that the false claims violate the FTC Act and alleged that by providing promotional materials with false claims to affiliates, the defendants provided them with the means to violate the FTC Act.
“Consumers are looking for ways to increase fuel efficiency and save money at the pump,” says Lydia Parnes, director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “There are some practical ways to do that, like following the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual, combining errands and avoiding jack-rabbit starts. The fact is that many products that claim to save fuel don’t work, and worse yet, may damage your car and end up costing you more.”
