WASHINGTON--August 28, 2012: The Association of Global Automakers' (Global Automakers) members are working hard and will continue to take the steps needed to meet the Administration's tough new fuel economy standard of 54.5 mpg by 2025.
“The new standard is aggressive and sets a high bar for automakers”
"The new standard is aggressive and sets a high bar for automakers," said Mike Stanton, president and CEO of Global Automakers. "This program is important to our country and our members have accepted the challenge."
In 2010, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) issued federal harmonized GHG emissions and fuel economy standards for motor vehicles for model years 2012 through 2016. Today, the agencies extended the program for model years 2017 through 2025. Global Automakers' members worked diligently with the EPA, DOT, California, and other stakeholders throughout the rulemaking process.
"The new rule extends very far into the future," said Stanton. "No one knows exactly where the industry or marketplace will be by 2025. Consequently, we are pleased that the final rule includes a mid-term review process to evaluate how the program is working and to more closely examine the reality of reaching the 54.5 mpg goal."
Global Automakers' members are aggressively pursuing innovative ways to reduce CO2 emissions and lessen the nation's reliance on fossil fuels. Member companies are investing in advanced technology vehicles powered by hydrogen fuel cells, clean diesel, electricity, sustainable biofuels, and natural gas.
"The one national fuel economy program streamlines the regulatory processes and allows automakers to efficiently work toward meeting the nation's environmental and energy objectives," said Stanton. "The program also provides our members with the needed flexibility and lead-time to design and build a full range of advanced technology vehicles that consumers will want to buy."
Stay tuned to the Association's DrivingFuelEconomy.com blog in the coming days and weeks for continued analysis of the new rulemaking. Stay in touch by tweeting Global Automakers your reactions and thoughts at @GloblAutomkrs by using the hash tag #CAFE2025. Follow the conversation on Facebook.
The Association of Global Automakers represents international motor vehicle manufacturers, original equipment suppliers, and other automotive-related trade associations. We work with industry leaders, legislators, and regulators to create the kind of public policy that improves vehicle safety, encourages technological innovation, and protects our planet. Our goal is to foster a competitive environment in which more vehicles are designed and built to enhance Americans' quality of life. For more information, visit Global Automakers.