According to multiple sources, the Trump administration’s plan would dial back fuel economy requirements that were set last year. These rules required automakers to achieve an average of around 50 mpg across their light-duty vehicle lineups by nudging them towards more hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs).

The proposal argues that stringent standards have led to higher costs for car manufacturers, pushing the price of new cars over $50,000. This has made it difficult for many consumers to purchase a vehicle.

Industry leaders from Detroit’s big players are reportedly set to back this move at the White House announcement, signaling their eagerness for more regulatory breathing room as they navigate investments in internal combustion engines (ICE), hybrids, and electric vehicles.

The impact of these relaxed standards won’t be immediate. Powertrains take years to engineer and certify, so most cars sold later this decade will already have been planned out from a hardware standpoint. Automakers also need to consider global markets where regulations might still push them towards cleaner technology.

This proposal aims to ease some of the regulatory pressures on car manufacturers while trying not to completely derail efforts toward cleaner vehicles. It’s a delicate balancing act that will likely be closely watched by both environmental advocates and car enthusiasts alike.

The post White House Plans to Ease Fuel Economy Rules, Aiming for More Affordable Cars appeared first on Auto Global News – Global Car News & Reviews.