EPA to keep strict gas mileage standards in place

DETROIT (AP) — The Obama administration has decided not to change government fuel economy requirements for cars and light trucks despite protests from automakers.

The decision means that automakers, at least for now, will still have to meet strict fuel economy requirements and that companies likely will continue building small cars and electric vehicles still even though people are buying more SUVs and trucks.

The standards had required the fleet of new cars to average 54.5 miles per gallon by 2025. But there was a built-in reduction if buying habits changed, dropping the number to 50.8. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Gina McCarthy said in a statement that based on the agency`s technical analysis, automakers can meet emissions standards and mileage requirements through 2025.

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Ken Notes: Again we have to promote this from a business perspective. New design, new markets, new technology, new product mean JOBS, wealth, and longevity. Also if the US manufacturers do not lead the production from the foreign markets will and China is banking on this literally.