Trump Admin Moves to Undo Biden’s Fuel Rules as Environmentalists Criticize Decision

The Trump administration is making big changes to Biden-era fuel economy standards. On his first day as Transportation Secretary, Sean Duffy ordered the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to re-examine the fuel efficiency targets set for the next several years.

Under Biden’s rules, passenger cars had to hit 65 miles per gallon by 2031, while light trucks and SUVs needed to reach 45 miles per gallon. These regulations aimed to push automakers toward producing more fuel-efficient and electric vehicles. But Duffy argues they come with high costs for manufacturers and consumers.

In a memo to the NHTSA, Duffy raised concerns about the need for such strict regulations, pointing out that the US has plenty of domestic oil and biofuels. He questioned whether aggressive fuel efficiency targets make sense when gas and diesel are still widely available. He also criticized electric vehicle mandates, saying they force automakers to shift away from traditional gas-powered cars, limiting options for buyers.

Duffy’s approach fits with Trump’s goal of rolling back industry regulations. In his memo, he made it clear that fuel economy rules should focus on realistic targets, not forcing automakers to prioritize electric vehicles.

‘The purpose of the CAFE program is not to force the electrification of the nation’s auto fleets,’ he wrote. Instead, he believes the standards should be set at a level that allows carmakers to keep producing gas and diesel-powered vehicles that Americans actually want.

Not all automakers are on the same page. Some support Biden’s push for cleaner cars, but others say the costs of meeting these standards make new vehicles more expensive. Duffy argued that if prices go too high, many people will hold on to their older cars longer. That could create safety risks, since older models lack modern crash protection and advanced technology.

Supporters of tougher rules say they save drivers money in the long run. A Consumer Reports study found that fuel-efficient cars have already saved Americans $9,000 in gas costs compared to older models. If Biden’s rules stay in place, the study estimates drivers could save another $6,000 on fuel for cars made in 2029.

This move is already drawing political backlash. Many Republicans and industry leaders support the rollback, arguing that car companies need fewer restrictions.

But environmental groups and Democratic lawmakers say weakening fuel rules could hurt the fight against climate change. They warn that if the new standards are dropped, gas consumption will stay high, making it harder to cut emissions.

The debate is just getting started, and the decision could have big consequences for the auto industry and consumers. Whether the rollback goes through or not, it’s clear that Trump and Duffy are determined to change the direction of US fuel policy.

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