NEED TO KNOW
- New rules drop the target from 50 mpg to 34.5 mpg because freedom needs fumes.
- Trump said efficient cars show weakness and possibly European influence.
- Automakers thanked the White House for letting them build trucks that fear no gas station.
The White House rolled back Biden era fuel economy rules on Thursday after President Donald Trump announced that 50 miles per gallon “sounds communist.” He made the claim during a briefing about vehicle standards and insisted that real American cars should burn fuel with the power and noise of a nation that refuses to read instruction manuals.
The new rule lowers the fleet requirement to 34.5 mpg. Officials said the change will save consumers around one thousand dollars per new vehicle. Critics said the real cost will arrive later in the form of pollution. Supporters said the savings help families right now and they can deal with air at a later date. The administration also celebrated a new ten thousand dollar loan interest deduction for car buyers.
Trump Frames Gas Use as National Identity
During the announcement, Trump said Americans must take pride in vehicles that guzzle fuel. He added that every time a hybrid goes down a highway a bald eagle loses its job. Auto executives clapped loudly. They stressed that the older standards created pressure to develop new technology. They said innovation is stressful and they prefer making trucks that look strong and drink fuel with confidence.
Transportation officials highlighted another change. The administration approved quick entry for low cost imports like the Toyota Hilux Champ. They said this gives buyers more choice. Analysts noted that the Champ gets better mileage than many domestic trucks. An official responded by saying choice is patriotic even when it contradicts the theme of the event.
Critics Warn of Long Term Costs
California Governor Gavin Newsom said the rule puts the country behind global standards. He warned that relaxing efficiency today means higher emissions later. The White House countered by saying lower car prices help families make it to work. They added that work is important because people need money to buy gas.
Environmental groups said the shift favors short term political wins. They argued that the United States could lead the world in clean transportation. They also said the administration confused freedom with tailpipe output. Meanwhile, shoppers celebrated early reports of cheaper vehicles. One buyer said he wanted a truck with the personality of a chain smoker. He said the new rules make that dream possible.
If freedom is measured in fumes, America just hit record highs
Shelby Horton, Highway Policy Institute
