The Biden administration announced on Wednesday the most ambitious automobile emissions standards ever proposed to reduce carbon emissions from passenger vehicles. The new rules, while relaxing initial tailpipe limits, will eventually approach the strict standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency. The auto industry had objected to the EPA's preferred standards last year, citing lower sales growth and the need for more time to meet the ambitious targets. Under the final rule, the industry must ensure that 56% of new vehicle sales are electric by 2032, along with at least 13% plug-in hybrids or other partially electric cars, as well as more efficient gasoline-powered cars. The EPA estimates that the new standards will avoid over 7 billion tons of carbon emissions over the next three decades and provide nearly $100 billion in annual net benefits, including lower health care costs and reduced fuel expenses.
The rule, which applies to model years 2027 to 2032, will significantly reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and other air pollutants from new passenger cars, light trucks, and pickups. EPA Administrator Michael Regan emphasized that the final standards will also reduce air pollution that contributes to various health issues such as heart attacks and respiratory illnesses. The standards are designed to be technology-neutral and performance-based, allowing manufacturers to choose pollution-control technologies that best suit their customers while meeting environmental and public health goals.
Environmental groups have generally been optimistic about the new EPA plan, with some calling it a significant step in the right direction to combat climate change. However, there are concerns from groups like the Center for Biological Diversity that loopholes in the rules may allow the industry to continue selling gas-powered vehicles and delay progress on electric vehicles. Despite these concerns, the Biden administration remains committed to its climate goals and sees the new standards as a crucial step towards a healthier future for the planet.
