Biden administration establishes 50 miles per gallon fuel economy goal for 2031

The Biden administration announced on Friday that it has implemented new fuel economy standards for cars and SUVs, with the goal of achieving an average efficiency of over 50 miles per gallon by 2031. The rules, issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, will require improvements to be made on vehicles starting with 2027 models, and are expected to reduce fuel consumption by 70 billion gallons of gasoline by 2050. This will result in about $600 in savings on gas costs over the lifespan of a new vehicle.

While the final version of the standards is seen as less stringent than the initial proposal, automakers are expected to comply by enhancing the fuel efficiency of their gas-powered vehicles and increasing the production of electric models. The new standards are designed to work alongside emissions rules set by the Environmental Protection Agency and efforts led by California to promote electric vehicles.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg highlighted the benefits of the new rules, stating that they will save Americans money at the pump, reduce harmful pollution, and decrease reliance on foreign oil. Environmental advocates have offered mixed reactions to the new standards, with some praising them as a step in the right direction and others feeling that they do not go far enough.

Despite challenges from the auto industry and opposition from Republicans, the Biden administration continues to push for the adoption of electric vehicles through tax credits and investments in charging infrastructure. While progress has been made, sales growth of electric vehicles has slowed in recent months, highlighting the need for further action to support their widespread adoption.