The fuel economy standards set by former President Joe Biden are facing a significant rollback proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump aims to ease the path for automakers to sell gasoline cars by reducing the fuel efficiency requirements introduced by Biden. He emphasized the demand for gasoline cars, stating that people prefer them.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is suggesting a notable decrease in fuel economy standards from 2022 to 2031. The proposal includes aiming for an average of 34.5 miles per gallon by 2031, down from the previously mandated 50.4 miles per gallon. Under Biden’s administration, NHTSA had planned to increase fuel efficiency annually by 8% for model years 2024-2025 and by 10% for 2026.
The new rules put forward by Trump seek to provide automakers with cost savings of up to $35 billion through 2031, including significant benefits for companies like GM, Ford, and Stellantis. Additionally, the proposal suggests eliminating credit trading among automakers by 2028 and ending certain credits for fuel-saving features.
Critics, including California Governor Gavin Newsom, have expressed concerns regarding the potential negative impact of these changes on both consumers and the environment. The proposal could lead to increased fuel consumption by about 100 billion gallons through 2050 and raise carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 5%.
The plan to abolish credit trading and make adjustments to fuel economy standards has drawn mixed reactions. While supporters, like the CEOs of Stellantis and Ford, praised the proposal for its affordability and common-sense approach, opponents, such as environmental groups, warn of the consequences of higher costs for consumers at the pump and increased emissions.
In conclusion, the proposed revisions to the fuel economy standards represent a significant shift from the previous administration’s efforts to promote electric vehicles. Trump’s focus on gasoline-powered cars and the potential impacts of these changes on the auto industry and the environment have sparked debates among stakeholders.