The new president Obama has set new fuel consumption targets for all new cars sold in the USA. The initial target is somewhere around 35.5 miles per gallon which for motorists here in the UK seems an easy task especially as they have to 2016 to do it. With large cars including SUV’s pretty much unpopular now, it should fall into most car manufacturer’s business plan anyway. Most drivers not see fuel economy as a major factor in buying their day to day transport.
What isn’t clear is weekend vehicles such as supercars used for leisure purposes. Does this mean the end of large engine cars used only now and again for pleasure? This target is inline with a target to reduce carbon emissions by 2030 by 50%, something the USA has been criticised for in the past as not being forward enough. The economic situation has given the leverage to pass these targets without too much criticism.
In the meantime another $4bn has been loaned to GM Motors with a statement that all USA car manufacturers should come out of this recession leaner and more efficient delivering more fuel efficient cars. There is no doubt the benefit a new face can have to the car industry and whilst Obama’s honeymoon with the world continues, be able to make difficult decisions with only the minimum of backlash.