Trump administration cuts 2031 fuel‑economy target to about 34.9 mpg
The Transportation Department released a new set of fuel‑economy regulations that lower the projected 2031 average mileage for new gasoline‑powered cars and light trucks to roughly 34.9 miles per gallon, down from the 50.4 mpg benchmark set by the prior administration. Secretary Sean Duffy said the change fulfills President Trump’s pledge to roll back what the administration called an unlawful requirement and will make vehicles more affordable.
NHTSA Administrator Jonathan Morrison said the rule improves the program’s integrity by aligning vehicle affordability with energy‑saving goals. Industry representatives have praised the move, while environmental groups have criticized it for reducing future emissions reductions.
Why it matters
The lower mileage target could reduce vehicle prices for consumers but also slows progress toward U.S. emissions and climate goals.
How the sides frame it
MODERATE AGREEMENTLeft-leaning coverage stresses the environmental and long-term cost harms of the rollback, while right-leaning coverage highlights consumer-price benefits, job creation and the removal of an "illegal" EV mandate; Centrist coverage presents both the claimed savings and the projected fuel-use increase.
LEFT
Frames the rule change as a dangerous step that will raise fuel expenses, increase pollution and set U.S. manufacturers back on climate and EV adoption.
CENTER
Describes the rule as a reduction in standards that could lower vehicle prices and generate savings, but also notes likely higher fuel consumption and emissions.
RIGHT
Frames the rollback as a corrective, consumer-friendly move that ends an unlawful EV mandate, lowers car prices and supports domestic auto jobs.
The left emphasises
- the weaker standards could raise future fuel expenses and pollution levels
- environmental groups warn the rule will enable heavier, gas-guzzling cars
- critics say the rollback will hinder EV adoption and increase lifetime fuel costs
The right emphasises
- the rollback ends an "illegal" EV mandate and makes cars cheaper for families
- industry groups praise the move as a win for auto workers and domestic manufacturing
- Trump and allies claim the change will restore investment to traditional auto hubs
How this story developed
- Sep 2 Diesel hits $5.68 per gallon, highest since 2022, as Trump urges price cuts
- Sep 18 The Sejm voted to pass the extraordinary‑profits tax on fuel companies.
- Sep 18 The Trump administration finalized a partnership to develop 17 oil fields in Venezuela.
- Sep 19 Diesel prices reached $5.68 per gallon, the highest figure since 2022.
- Sep 22 Trump told reporters he wants to stop sending diesel abroad, citing the surge in diesel costs driven by conflicts in Iran and Ukraine. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the administration is reviewing whether a full or partial ban is feasible. Republican Senate hopefuls, including Ashley Hinson, have urged the government to adopt the ban to ease price pressures on Americans.
- Sep 23 Rural GOP lawmakers have publicly demanded action on diesel exports ahead of the November election.
- Sep 24 President Trump announced support for a diesel export ban.
- Sep 24 Gas storage levels are now reported at about 69% of capacity, below the usual seasonal target.
- Sep 25 Refinery output shifts and refinery strikes have created a measurable shortfall in bunker‑fuel supply for the third quarter.
- Sep 26 The European Union has asked the administration to keep U.S. diesel exports flowing amid the price surge.
- Sep 26 President Donald Trump announced new fuel-economy rules that scrap the electric-vehicle mandate introduced under Joe Biden.
- Sep 27 The yen rose about 0.8% to 157.65 per dollar after Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama highlighted possible coordinated intervention.
- Sep 28 The 2031 fuel‑economy target was lowered to roughly 34.9 mpg.
- Sep 29 Trump said he will look into limiting diesel exports.
Related stories
29 in this thread