FACT FOCUS: Experts doubt Trump's claim that weaker gas mileage rules will lead to cheaper cars

DETROIT President Donald Trump has revealed plans to roll back fuel efficiency requirements for new vehicles, reversing standards established during President Joe Biden's administration. The Trump administration argues that the current rules, known as Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards, are driving up vehicle costs and that easing them will make cars more affordable while improving road safety.

The proposed changes would reduce the fleetwide average for light-duty vehicles to approximately 34.5 miles per gallon (55.5 kpg) by the 2031 model year, compared to Biden-era targets of roughly 50.4 mpg (81.1 kpg).

Vehicle Affordability

Trump: Policies supporting electric vehicles forced automakers to adopt costly technologies, raising prices and worsening cars.

Reality: Fuel economy rules have contributed to rising vehicle prices, but multiple other factors have also played major roles. Pandemic-related inventory shortages, supply chain disruptions, tariffs, trade issues, and automakers investments in larger, high-end vehicles have all pushed prices upward. In October, the average price of a new car reached $49,105, according to Edmunds. Research spanning 20032021 shows that while fuel economy improved by 30%, inflation-adjusted vehicle prices were not significantly affected by the regulations. Instead, larger, more expensive vehicles have driven sticker prices higher, though fuel savings have averaged $7,000 per vehicle over their lifetime.

Experts note that relaxing fuel efficiency standards is unlikely to quickly reduce vehicle costs. Any potential savings from cheaper cars could be offset by higher fuel expenses due to lower mileage.

Gasoline Cars and EVs

Trump: Biden aimed to eliminate gasoline-powered vehicles.

Reality: Bidens policies encouraged electric vehicle adoption, targeting EVs for 50% of new U.S. car sales by 2030, including tax credits of up to $7,500. These measures aimed to expand EV infrastructure, but gasoline-powered cars still dominate the market.

EV Charging Availability

Trump: Electric cars were forced upon consumers without charging options.

Reality: Public charging has grown significantly, with over 232,000 Level 2 and fast charging ports nationwide. Fast chargers are now roughly one per mile of National Highway System roads, though they are unevenly distributed. Most EV charging occurs at home, easing infrastructure concerns.

Road Safety Claims

Trump Administration: Lowering standards will improve safety because more drivers will buy new vehicles with advanced technology.

Reality: Modern vehicles, gas or electric, already feature advanced safety systems like automatic braking, lane-keeping assistance, and collision warnings. Experts caution that lower fuel economy standards may not significantly increase new-vehicle purchases, and adding advanced safety tech often raises costs. Public health concerns remain as well; reduced efficiency could increase pollution, impacting millions of Americans health.

Katherine Garca of the Sierra Club warns that rolling back fuel economy rules will prolong the presence of polluting vehicles and undermine clean air protections.

Author: Zoe Harrison