By Danielle Smith, Keystone State News Connection
Americans continue to see improving fuel economy as the most significant change they want from vehicle manufacturers when they offer new products. A new Consumer Reports survey shows strong support in Pennsylvania and beyond for regulations that lower fuel costs and emissions.
Chris Harto, senior policy analyst for transportation and energy with Consumer Reports, says the survey reveals consumers don’t trust automakers to actually deliver those fuel savings without regulations.
“Only 27% of Americans said that automakers care about lowering fuel costs for their customers. On the other hand, almost two-thirds of Americans, 64%, agree that the U.S. government should continue to increase fuel economy standards,” Harto explained.
President Donald Trump’s recent executive order ended the EV mandate, and Harto worries says the new administration may weaken standards, putting future consumer savings at risk. He added that if left in place, these standards could save drivers an additional $6,000 in fuel costs over the next five years.
Harto said automakers can improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions by enhancing aerodynamics, reducing vehicle weight, and leveraging hybrid technology, and added that their analysis of the top 10 best-selling conventional hybrid cars and trucks can offer substantial long-term savings.
“Increase in price is only about $1,500 but they deliver thousands and thousands of dollars in fuel savings the life of the vehicle,” he added. “It comes out to about $5 in fuel savings for every $1 in increased vehicle price.”
Improvements in fuel economy and emission standards have translated to “massive” savings, according to Consumer Reports, including fuel savings of more than $9,000 for the average new car today, compared with cars produced in 2001.
The post Survey: PA Drivers Want Carmakers to Keep Improving Fuel Efficiency appeared first on BCTV.
Source: bctv
Be First to Comment