The word yesterday was that new Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards were on their way down from Capitol Hill, and late last night House leaders finally agreed to a deal that would increase fuel economy standards to 35 mpg by 2020 – a 40-percent increase over the current decades-old legislation. By leaders, we mean a compromise was reached between Democratic top dog and Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and Rep. John Dingell (D-Mich.). Despite playing for the same team, Dingell also has an obligation to protect the interests of his home state.
The new requirements are similar to measures proposed in the Senate energy bill passed in June, but the House rules keep standards for cars and trucks separate, something preferred by the automakers. It also assures that credits will be extended to automakers that produce E85-capable vehicles, something that was fought for hard by politicians and auto manufacturers alike despite the limited impact this alternative fuel has on either the environment or reducing this country's dependancy on foreign oil.
A House vote will take place on Wednesday to enact the 1,000-page bill.
[Sources: Detroit News, Wall Street Journal, Associated Press]
The new requirements are similar to measures proposed in the Senate energy bill passed in June, but the House rules keep standards for cars and trucks separate, something preferred by the automakers. It also assures that credits will be extended to automakers that produce E85-capable vehicles, something that was fought for hard by politicians and auto manufacturers alike despite the limited impact this alternative fuel has on either the environment or reducing this country's dependancy on foreign oil.
A House vote will take place on Wednesday to enact the 1,000-page bill.
[Sources: Detroit News, Wall Street Journal, Associated Press]
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