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U.S. cars and vehicles to become more fuel efficient
The American government has managed to reach an agreement with the largest car manufacturers in the country. The U.S. is set to considerably tighten its fuel consumption norms for all vehicles.
The new treaty, however, won't be effective immediately. The parties agreed to gradually decrease the average fleet's fuel consumption to 54.5 miles per gallon between 2017 and 2025, This would equate to 1 in 23.
Not everyone in the automotive business is happy with the new fuel consumption norm though. Quite the contrary. The measure has been received under strong criticism.
Fuel consumption norms to benefit American consumers
Taking into account the U.S. government’s plans and taking into account current car prices, consumers would be able to save up to $ 8,200 per car on fuel. Oil consumption will eventually decrease with 2.2 million barrels per day.
Critics, however, say that it will take at least 25 years before the positive effects of reducing fuel consumption of cars and vehicles will be visible, because the effects are calculated based on the entire life cycle of a vehicle, and the measures only take effect in 2025.
Consequences of the fuel-efficiency norm for car makers
A direct result of the agreement, all vehicles would have to become much more fuel efficient. That way new and used cars on American roads will become more environmentally friendly.
This off course also has a direct effect on all car manufacturers. They will have to build cars that meet the new standards. However, green initiatives are being taken all over the world. So they would not have to make an exception for the U.S. market.
Doubts and criticism from congress and from manufacturers
The U.S. Congress has expressed its concerns on the new fuel consumption agreement. It has been rumored that the agreement was made by the government and certain car manufacturers in back rooms. This would obviously be against U.S. law.
As a result, a formal investigation is currently running. The House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, are looking into the realization of the agreement and continue to oversee procedures.
But criticism can also be heard on the side of the car manufacturers. Volkswagen, for example, is firmly opposed to the new rules because they are mostly strict for regular passenger cars.
The German car brand feels the agreement is far too easy on SUV and pick-ups because these vehicles fall under the so-called trucks regime, which allows them to emit much higher quantities of CO2.
We'll have to wait for the result of the investigation to see whether or not the measure is going to be revoked.
