Big SUVs May Soon Face Fuel Economy Standards

Washington DC March 22, 2006: The AIADA newsletter reported that the Bush administration may decide to impose fuel economy standards on large vans and SUVs for the first time.

According to The Wall Street Journal, "The biggest SUVs, vans and pickup trucks -- those weighing between 8,500 and 10,000 pounds -- have been exempt from fuel-economy rules since they were established in the 1970s. Now the administration is considering including them beginning in 2011, according to people in the auto industry and environmental groups who are closely watching the administration's course."

Requiring such vehicles to improve their mileage would save one-half billion gallons of fuel in 2011 and cost manufacturers between $900 and $2,800 per vehicle, according to an estimate from the administration.

The regulation is currently being reviewed by the White House Office of Management and Budget and is expected to be issued as early as next week. Alliance of Auto Manufacturers spokesman Charles Territo said, "Automakers are working to integrate fuel savings into all vehicle classes including larger trucks."