Trump administration rolls back US fuel economy standards

The Trump administration has completed its reversal of tighter fuel economy standards that had been implemented under previous administrations. Under the new regulatory framework, automakers will be required to achieve a fleet average fuel economy of 6.74 litres per 100 kilometres by model year 2031.

The revised standards represent a significant departure from the direction taken in recent years, when regulations had been tightened to encourage greater vehicle efficiency and lower emissions. The new benchmarks apply to all manufacturers selling vehicles in the United States market.

The rollback is part of a broader policy agenda to ease regulatory burdens on the automotive industry. Proponents argue the standards provide manufacturers with greater flexibility in production planning and cost management, while critics contend the move may slow progress toward reducing fuel consumption and vehicle emissions.

The final regulations will take effect as planned, shaping automotive industry strategy and consumer vehicle options over the coming decade. The standards will apply across the U.S. automotive market, affecting both domestic manufacturers and foreign producers selling vehicles domestically.