Phyllis Cuttino, director of Pew's Clean Energy Program, issued the following statement today in reaction to the joint Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Transportation final rule increasing fuel economy standards for cars, SUVs, and pickups to 54.5 mpg by 2025.
“We commend the Obama administration, the auto industry, and environmental organizations for working together to bring about this historic leap in fuel efficiency. The new standard of 54.5 mpg by 2025 for cars and light trucks will effectively double fuel efficiency and provide many benefits to drivers and the country.
“Under the standards for model years 2017 to 2025, drivers could save as much as $6,600 at the pump, and the country will reduce oil consumption by 4 billion barrels of oil and avoid 2 billion metric tons in greenhouse gas emissions. Our nation will be more secure, our environment will be cleaner, and consumers will have more money in their pockets as a result of the new rule.
“The auto industry will also benefit from this action, because up to 570,000 jobs could be created, innovation will be enhanced, and more fuel-efficiency technology choices will be available to consumers.
A poll conducted for the Pew Clean Energy Program by the bipartisan polling team of the Mellman Group Inc. and Public Opinion Strategies from July 8 to 12, 2011, found that an overwhelming majority of respondents supported strong fuel efficiency standards. Eighty-two percent of respondents supported an increased fuel efficiency standard of 56 mpg by 2025, with 68 percent of respondents saying they “favor strongly.”