The Biden administration recently announced a new set of vehicle emission rules that were less strict than initially proposed. The fuel economy standards will now increase by 2 percent per year for model years 2027-2031 for passenger cars, with light trucks following suit with a 2 percent per year increase for model years 2029-2031. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that these changes will raise the average light-duty vehicle fuel economy to approximately 50.4 miles per gallon by the year 2031.
Initially, President Biden had ambitious goals for vehicle emissions, with a target of achieving an average of 55 miles per gallon for passenger vehicles by 2026. However, the proposed rules for 2023 have scaled back these requirements significantly, indicating a shift in policy direction. The new standards align more closely with the auto industry’s push towards electrification, allowing for a slower transition to more environmentally friendly vehicles.
The auto industry has responded positively to the new Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards, deeming them “good and appreciated.” However, there are concerns about the relevance of these standards in an industry that is rapidly moving towards electric vehicles. Some environmental groups have expressed disappointment in the less stringent rules, but acknowledge that they will still lead to a reduction in pollution and cleaner cars on the road.
Katherine García, the director of the Sierra Club’s Clean Transportation for All Campaign, believes that the new fuel economy standards will not only improve gas mileage but also help reduce the burden of high gas prices for American families. With these new rules in place, auto manufacturers will be compelled to produce cleaner and more efficient vehicles. Despite advancements in fuel economy over the years, the US is still not meeting the necessary targets to address the imminent environmental challenges.
Overall, the Biden administration’s decision to revise the vehicle emission rules reflects a balancing act between environmental goals and the auto industry’s transition towards electrification. While the standards may not be as stringent as initially proposed, they represent a step towards reducing pollution and promoting cleaner transportation options for the future.