Energy

CFA Statement Regarding Automakers’ Attempt to Reduce Vehicle Fuel Efficiency

Automakers’ Letter Misleads President on Process and Benefits of Fuel-Economy Standards

Washington, D.C. – Jack Gillis, of the Consumer Federation of America, has issued the following response to a February 10, 2017 letter from automakers to President Trump, which misrepresented the highly vetted decision to stay the course on the common sense, money-saving fuel-efficiency standards for new cars and trucks:

“These standards protect struggling Americans who would benefit most by spending less at the pump. President Trump made a commitment to better the lives of these hard working families and because we all know gas prices will go up again, it’s in everyone’s best interest to stay the course on vehicle fuel efficiency. In fact, all car buyers want more fuel efficient vehicles, as evidenced last year by consumers buying record numbers of the most fuel-efficient new cars ever offered.

Staying the course with achievable fuel-economy standards not only puts money back into consumer pocketbooks but it will ensure that U.S. car companies stay competitive. We’ve already bailed out the car companies once, when they were saddled with millions of unsold, inefficient vehicles. We don’t want to have to do that again. These consumer protections against volatile gas prices are fair, effective and respect both consumer choice and the vastly different types of vehicles automakers offer.”

Contact: Jack Gillis, 202-737-0766


The Consumer Federation of America is an association of more than 250 non-profit consumer groups that, since 1968, has sought to advance the consumer interest through research, education, and advocacy.