If the NHTSA gets its way, automakers will need to hit an average of 58 mpg among all their cars and light trucks by 2032. The agency says that the new standards would improve people’s financial situation and their physical health. The plan also has effects on the medium-duty vehicle industry including commercial pickups and work vans.
Putting it simply, a vehicle that burns less fuel to get from A to B should, in theory, cost less to own and use, says the NHTSA. It could also reduce air pollution in the process and make the planet a better place to live. That’s why the agency is proposing new rules that could result in an average fleet fuel economy of 58 miles per gallon by 2032.
“Better vehicle fuel efficiency means more money in Americans’ pockets and stronger energy security for the entire nation,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. The plan would take effect beginning in 2027 and continue on through 2035. The NHTSA believes it would save the American public in excess of $18 billion.
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If finalized, the proposal requires a 2% per year improvement in fuel efficiency for passenger cars and a 4% improvement for light trucks starting in 2027. That’s where the NHTSA gets its 58 mpg by 2032 estimate. The rules also target medium-duty vehicles to the point that they need to improve by a whopping 10% each year starting in 2030 through 2035.
“CAFE standards have driven the auto industry to innovate in improving fuel economy in ways that benefit our nation and all Americans,” NHTSA Acting Administrator Ann Carlson said.
“The new standards we’re proposing today would advance our energy security, reduce harmful emissions, and save families and business owners money at the pump. That’s good news for everyone,” she continued.
In truth, CAFE standards are also partly to blame for the proliferation of the physical and market share growth of gigantic trucks and SUVs too. Larger models face less stringent standards and so automakers have increased the size of their vehicles and managed to sidestep regulation. The NHTSA is seeking comment for 60 days on the proposal.
