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USA targets fuel economy standards of 35 mpg |
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After months of political negotiations, President Bush has signed the first increase in U.S. fuel efficiency standards in 32 years. The 35 mpg standard by 2020 will spur fuel-efficient technologies and could save Americans up to $1,000 of fuel costs every year.
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2007-12-20
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"Today we make a major step toward reducing our dependence on oil, confronting global climate change, … and giving future generations of our country a nation that is stronger, cleaner and more secure," President Bush said before signing an energy package on 12 December that contained the first increase in mileage standards since 1975. Flanked by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi – who had been closely involved in crafting the legislation -, Bush thanked them for their "wisdom" in requiring new mileage targets.
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The adopted Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards require automakers to increase their industry-wide fuel efficiency by 40% to an average of 35 miles per gallon (15 km per litre) by 2020, compared to today’s 25 mpg. They are part of the "Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007" (H.R. 6), a larger energy package that also sets energy efficiency targets for buildings, appliances, and lighting. At the signing ceremony at the Department of Transportation, President Bush especially stressed the importance of new technologies to achieve ambitious fuel reduction targets: "New technologies will bring about a new era of energy. So I appreciate the fact that Congress, in the omnibus spending bill that I'm going to sign later on, recognizes that new technologies will help usher in a better quality of life for our citizens."
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The energy bill was passed by the House of Representatives this Tuesday, after the Senate had already approved it last week. After months of resistance, carmakers had finally agreed to the proposal that included a few concessions. If the new standards are widely implemented, they will save car drivers between $700 and $1,000 a year in fuel costs.
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More information:
› White House Press Release 19 Dec 2007: "President Bush signs H.R. 6"
› White House: Fact Sheet H.R. 6
› White House: Fact Sheet Fuel Economy Standards - evolution 2007
› Read our feature: "U.S. car industry & climate policies – Are you confused?"
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