Auto Industry Weighs In: Push for Change in Fuel Economy Standards

Major automakers urge changes to Trump's fuel economy reform proposal, supporting reduced efficiency requirements. They oppose eliminating credit trading and vehicle reclassification. NHTSA plans to revise 2022 standards, projecting reduced vehicle costs but higher fuel consumption and emissions through 2050, costing Americans up to $185 billion more in fuel.

In a decisive move on Wednesday, major automakers urged changes to the Trump administration's proposition to reform fuel economy standards, showing support for reduced efficiency stipulations. The Alliance for Automotive Innovation, representing industry giants like General Motors, Toyota, and Ford, rallied behind a decrease in stringency suggested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

While backing the relaxed standards, automakers voiced opposition to the elimination of credit trading necessary for meeting regulatory requirements and cautioned against plans to reclassify more vehicles as cars rather than trucks, as cars traditionally face more stringent standards.

Despite NHTSA's proposal estimating a $930 reduction in vehicle costs, the plan forecasts increased fuel consumption and emissions leading to an additional $185 billion fuel cost burden for Americans by 2050. The debate highlights the need for balanced policies amid fluctuating EV sales and evolving government support.

(With inputs from agencies.)