Opinion - New fuel efficiency standards

New Federal standards announced last week call for an increase in the fuel efficiency of vehicles.

The new standards require an average of 35.5 miles per gallon for new vehicles by 2016.

Many new vehicles reach that standard now. The kicker is that fleet averages, not just selected models, will have to achieve that mark.

The new standards also will control greenhouse gas emissions.

The ruling calls for the development of new vehicles with new technology. Many of these are close to reaching the roads anyway. Even the new cars on the market now generally reflect industry-wide efforts to achieve dramatically greater fuel efficiency and emission control.

The new fuel efficiency standards will cost the consumer more. Estimates are that by 2012 an additional $434 will be added to the cost of a new vehicle. By the deadline, new cars may cost nearly $1,000 more.

These costs will be offset, says the Transportation Department, by increased savings in fuel costs because of the better gas mileage. Additionally, less greenhouse gases will be generated, and the country may see a lessening dependence on imported fuels.

It has been a long time coming. Ever since the 1970’s, attempts have been made to increase the efficiency of vehicles and reduce the use of foreign oil. These efforts were prompted by oil shortages and an awakening of environmental awareness. Smaller cars were seen as the answer, but consumers were slow to respond. Lower speeds were mandated, especially on interstates and freeways. That experiment was eventually rejected.

Based on the technologies available today, the increase in fuel efficiency does not seem much of a stretch. Many vehicles are at or above the new standards. The difficulty comes from achieving an average that meets the 35.5 mpg standard.

The mandate is clear, and so, in fact, are the benefits. This effort, unlike the others, is bound to take.

Gordon Forgey

Publisher