General Motors is up to the challenge of new federal regulations governing pollution and greenhouse gases (read: CAFE standards). While acknowledging the challenge, The General is confident that GM’s lineup will meet the new targets:
GM welcomes the release today of joint fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions standards for light duty vehicles. While these requirements are very challenging, we feel confident that GM will be able to achieve the mandated fleet fuel economy targets. GM is fully focusing its resources and product plans around great cars and trucks that will deliver high fuel economy and meet American driving needs. Looking ahead, we urge the Administration to continue pursuing a national approach for setting vehicle fuel economy requirements beyond the 2016 model year as well.
Although the limit of 250 grams per mile of Carbon Dioxide is difficult (and expensive) for automakers to achieve, it also comes as a relief – since manufacturers will no longer need to develop and produce vehicles to meet the regulations of specific states. The 250 grams figure is a combined average for passenger cars, light trucks, and medium-duty passenger vehicles and will apply to model years 2012-2016.
If automakers achieve this only through fuel economy increases, it will equate to approximately 35 miles per gallon. Expected cost to consumers is about $1000 for each new vehicle, but should save $3000 over that vehicle’s life.
[Sources: GM EPA]
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