Lawmakers Challenge Fuel Economy Rollback Plan

Eighty Democratic lawmakers urge a reversal of the proposed reduction in fuel economy standards, warning it could increase air pollution and rely more on foreign oil. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration suggests the cutbacks would go against Biden's push for stronger efficiency, raising concerns over vehicle costs and environmental impacts.

Eighty Democratic lawmakers in Congress have urged the Trump administration to rescind its proposal to lower fuel economy standards, previously finalized under former President Joe Biden in 2024.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration proposed significant rollbacks for fuel economy requirements for model years 2022 through 2031. The plan would lower the average fuel efficiency to 34.5 miles per gallon by 2031 from the original target of 50.4 mpg. The lawmakers contend that this could lead to increased fuel consumption, heightened air pollution, and a shift towards more profitable but less efficient vehicles.

While the NHTSA argues this would enable consumer choice in vehicle purchases, critics assert it undermines efforts to promote electric vehicle production. Strong fuel economy standards, they argue, are instrumental for innovation and reducing reliance on foreign oil. The proposed changes could increase overall fuel consumption by 100 billion gallons through 2050 and impose significant economic and environmental costs.

(With inputs from agencies.)