WASHINGTON, DC – The Obama Administration today finalized groundbreaking standards that will increase fuel economy to the equivalent of 54.5 mpg for cars and light-duty trucks by Model Year 2025.
Game-Changing Fuel Standards Will Transform American Driving
The Big Win We’ve All Been Waiting For
I’m thrilled about these historic fuel economy standards! They’re absolutely transformative for our environment and economy. Furthermore, they represent the biggest leap forward in reducing our dependence on foreign oil.
Double the Efficiency, Half the Consumption
These new standards will boost vehicles to nearly 55 miles per gallon by mid-decade. Moreover, that’s almost double what cars get today! Additionally, when combined with previous standards, we’ll see unprecedented efficiency improvements compared to vehicles currently on our roads.
Your Wallet Will Thank You
American consumers will save more than $1.7 trillion at the gas pump. Meanwhile, we’ll reduce U.S. oil consumption by 12 billion barrels. Consequently, this means more money stays in your pocket while reducing our environmental impact.
Presidential Leadership in Action
President Obama couldn’t have said it better: “These fuel standards represent the single most important step we’ve ever taken to reduce our dependence on foreign oil.”
The President added, “This historic agreement builds on the progress we’ve already made to save families money at the pump and cut our oil consumption.”
Building on Success
The DOT and EPA are building on what works. In fact, the previous standards for 2011-2016 models already raised efficiency to 35.5 mpg by 2016. As a result, families are currently saving at pumps nationwide.
What This Means for You
I’m personally excited about these changes! Hence, I’ll be watching closely as manufacturers innovate to meet these standards. Therefore, if you’re planning to buy a new car in coming years, you’ll reap significant benefits. Undoubtedly, this is a win for your wallet, our national security, and our beautiful planet.
Fuel Efficiency Standards: Powering America’s Future
Innovation Drives Our Economy Forward
I’m thrilled about these new fuel standards! Therefore, they’ll boost innovation and strengthen our economic competitiveness. Meanwhile, they support high-quality auto industry jobs right here at home. Furthermore, these standards emerged from extensive collaboration with automakers, labor unions, and environmental experts. As a result, 13 major automakers representing 90% of U.S. vehicles sold have backed this initiative. Consequently, manufacturers now have the certainty they need to invest in cleaner technologies.
Benefits Beyond the Gas Pump
Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood puts it perfectly. Hence, these changes create vehicles that use less gas and travel farther than ever before. Additionally, they protect our air quality. Moreover, automakers are already seeing fuel-efficient models climb in sales. Thus, this announcement becomes a victory for everyone involved!
Environmental Protection Meets Economic Growth
EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson highlights the dual benefits. First, these standards protect our environment. Second, they simultaneously strengthen our economy. Furthermore, innovation is already revitalizing the auto industry. Meanwhile, thousands of supply businesses benefit from producing efficient vehicles. Subsequently, drivers save money with every fill-up.
Historic Savings for American Families
This represents the first meaningful fuel efficiency update in decades! Therefore, American families will save over $1.7 trillion in fuel costs. Additionally, the average savings exceeds $8,000 per vehicle by 2025. For families buying a 2025 model, moreover, it’s like lowering gas prices by $1 per gallon. Furthermore, we’ll reduce foreign oil dependence by 12 billion barrels. Consequently, we’ll cut daily oil consumption by 2 million barrels by 2025.
Tackling Climate Change Head-On
I’m particularly excited about the environmental impact! Hence, these standards will cut greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles in half by 2025. Additionally, they’ll reduce emissions by 6 billion metric tons over the program’s life. To put this in perspective, that’s more than all U.S. carbon dioxide emissions in 2010!
Unprecedented Industry Support
President Obama announced this standard in July 2011. Subsequently, major automakers from Ford to Toyota joined the initiative. Meanwhile, the United Auto Workers, California, and other key stakeholders provided crucial support. Furthermore, the standards include a mid-term evaluation to ensure effectiveness.
Technology Drives the Change
Automakers are developing advanced technologies right now! Therefore, they can meet and exceed these standards. Moreover, many technologies are already available: advanced engines, lighter vehicles, better aerodynamics, and improved air conditioning systems. Additionally, the program offers targeted incentives for early adoption of groundbreaking technologies.
What excites me most is how these standards bring together environmental protection and economic growth! Have you noticed more fuel-efficient options in showrooms lately? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Source: THE WHITE HOUSE, Office of the Press Secretary, R143 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
