EPA finalizes greenhouse gas standards for passenger vehicles

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On Monday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it is finalizing the federal greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions standards for passenger cars and light trucks.

The final standards, the agency said, would be applicable to model years 2023 through 2026 and would leverage advances in clear car technology. The new standards would unlock $190 billion in net benefits to Americans, the agency said, including reduced pollution, improved public health and savings for drivers at the gas pump. The final rule also showcases how zero-emission vehicles are more affordable and more efficient for consumers, the agency said.

“The final rule for light duty vehicles reflect core principles of this Administration: We followed the science, we listened to stakeholders, and we are setting robust and rigorous standards that will aggressively reduce the pollution that is harming people and our planet – and save families money at the same time,” said EPA Administrator Michael Regan. “At EPA, our priority is to protect public health, especially in overburdened communities, while responding to the President’s ambitious climate agenda. Today we take a giant step forward in delivering on those goals, while paving the way toward an all-electric, zero-emissions transportation future.”

The standards also set the light-duty vehicle GHG program on track to providing a strong launching point for the next phase of standards for 2027 and beyond.

The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association said that while it was still reviewing the new final rule, it was encouraged by the new standards.

“The rule’s framework encourages a wide range of electrification technologies, while also requiring further technology advances and innovation to the internal combustion engine (ICE). EPA’s standards are supported by necessary flexibilities, such as the off-cycle technology and the A/C efficiency credit programs,” MEMA said in a statement. “Vehicle suppliers, the largest sector of manufacturing jobs in the nation, take on substantial risk by leading the automotive and commercial vehicle industry’s research, development, and deployment of advanced technologies. Consequently, a program that incentivizes a broad spectrum of advanced technologies is critical to the health, longevity, and competitiveness of vehicle suppliers.”

The association said it looked forward to working with the EPA on standards post-2026.

“As the nation transitions toward a cleaner future, diverse advanced technologies will help maintain the appropriate balance among industry competitiveness, consumer choice, and vehicle affordability, while also strengthening the American workforce and the vehicle supplier industry,” the association said.