In an effort to make vehicles more affordable and streamline manufacturing, Secretary Duffy has criticized the Biden-era rules, which stipulated that the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) must achieve a fleet-wide 49 mpg standard by 2031. These increases were to occur:
- Passenger Cars: 2% annual increments starting in 2027
- Light Trucks and SUVs: 2% annual increments starting in 2029
The automotive industry sees this as a potentially positive change. The Alliance for Automotive Innovation has expressed approval, acknowledging it as a "positive development" and criticizing the previous standards for being overly reliant on alternative fuel vehicles.
Secretary Duffy's bold declaration highlights the use of electric vehicles (EVs) in setting these standards, which he claims violated "statutory requirements." The currently unchanged standards could soon be revised by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), influenced by Secretary Duffy's leadership.
With Secretary Duffy keen on reversing these rules, the timeline remains uncertain due to necessary public comment periods and procedural steps:
- NHTSA Role: Ensures compliance and potential revisions
- Public Comment: Vital part of the regulatory process
By branding the rules as "illegal," Duffy might expedite the process of their reversal, though potential legal challenges may arise.
The outcome of this sweeping assertion by Transportation Secretary Duffy could reshape the landscape of automotive regulations in the U.S. The next steps will determine whether these revisions stand or face legal hurdles.
Summary: Secretary Duffy criticizes existing fuel economy standards as "illegal," aiming for revisions to foster affordability and ease U.S. vehicle manufacturing. The industry welcomes clarity, although legal challenges may loom as the NHTSA considers adjusting the standards.
