The Department of Transportation is set to finalize new fuel economy standards on Monday, according to Secretary Sean Duffy. The rule would lower the 2031 target average fuel economy from 50.4 mpg to 34.5 mpg, a change that would require more gasoline to cover the same distance. The agency's own analysis suggests average fuel costs could rise by at least 45%, not accounting for additional price increases from higher demand.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates the rollback would add $185 billion in fuel costs and increase carbon emissions by 5%. A separate Department of Energy analysis, signed by Secretary Chris Wright, projects gas prices could climb by 76 cents per gallon. These figures contradict claims that the change would lower prices, as the administration has stated.
Public opposition was widespread: of the 68,294 comments submitted during the rulemaking period, the vast majority opposed the plan. Enforcement of existing CAFE standards is already moot, as Congress set fines to $0, effectively removing penalties for noncompliance. The move comes as global energy prices are already elevated, and legal challenges are expected.