The Trump administration has slashed the projected 2031 US fuel-economy fleet average for new cars and light trucks from 50.4 miles per gallon to 34.9 mpg, a move officials say will make vehicles cheaper even as petrol prices climb during the war with Iran.
The final rule, announced on Monday by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), is presented by the government as a boost to affordability. The administration says the change will cut the average cost of a new vehicle by about $1,300, while environmental groups argue it will mean higher fuel consumption and increased pollution.
