"American drivers will keep more money in their pockets, put less pollution into the air, and help reduce a dependence on oil that sends billions of dollars out of our economy every year," Lisa P. Jackson, EPA administrator said in a joint release.
The proposed program is aimed at light-duty vehicles model year 2012 through 2016. By then, all American manufacturers should create a national fleet which will comply with federal standards. The mileage requirements will be compliant with NHTSA's Corporate Average Fuel Economy Standards (CAFE) and the first-ever national emissions standards under EPA's greenhouse gas program.
To make things clearer, the new program calls for a five percent improvement in fuel economy, 950 million metric tons reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and the preservation of some 1.8 billion barrels of oil. Of course, the EPA and DOT also hope to save the average buyer more than $3,000 in fuel costs.
The light-duty vehicle fleet must reach 35.5 miles per gallon by 2016, making it easier for the industry to meet the already approved government plan (35 mpg by 2020). Harmful emissions are estimated to be reduced by about 21 percent in 2030, the equivalent of taking 42 million cars off the roads.
"These proposed standards would help consumers save money at the gas pump, help the environment, and decrease our dependence on oil – all while ensuring that consumers still have a full range of vehicle choices," Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood concluded.
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