Feds Tighten Standards, Speed Schedule for Light Trucks

With automakers struggling to stay afloat, fuel prices rising again and a federal directive looming to clean up greenhouse-gas emissions, President Obama unveiled a plan to increase average fuel-efficiency standards for passenger cars and light trucks by up to 41% by 2016. Starting in model-year 2012, the vehicles will need to meet increased mile-per-gallon ratings, eventually reaching 39 mpg for cars and 30 mpg for trucks. Current regulations require an average 35 mpg by 2020. The rule, which aims to reduce imports of foreign oil, cut costs for motorists and reduce tailpipe exhaust under one national standard, is a landmark deal struck by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, major automakers and 14 states. Vehicle price tags could rise by $1,500, but the administration say over the life of a vehicle, the typical driver would save about $2,800 through better gas mileage.