US Tightens Exhaust Emission Standards: 7 Billion Tons of Carbon Dioxide Reduction by 2055

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a historic tightening of exhaust emission standards, reducing more than 7 billion tons of carbon dioxide emissions by 2055. This is seen as a major step towards reducing the environmental impact of the transportation sector. But the decision has provoked mixed reactions from the oil and automobile industries and environmentalists.

According to the EPA, the new standards are set at an average of 85 grams per mile. This standard, which was originally planned to come into effect in 2030, was postponed to 2032 as a result of lobbying. While this change gave automakers more time to adapt, it was deemed insufficient by some environmental groups.

The new standards prompted organizations such as the American Petroleum Institute (API) and the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) to take action. These groups warned that the new regulations could force gasoline and diesel-powered light vehicles off the market in less than 10 years. Industry representatives argued that this change could upend the American automobile market and have negative consequences for consumers.

However, the EPA and environmental groups emphasize the long-term benefits of the new standards. They cite cleaner air, improvements in public health, and the expansion of manufacturing jobs with increased production of electric vehicles. In addition, encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles is important in reducing dependence on fossil fuels and combating climate change.

However, as API and AFPM point out, electric vehicles (EVs) still account for a relatively small share of the American car market. According to figures released by Cox Automotive, even though EV sales set a record last year, they only accounted for less than 8% of total car sales. This suggests that EVs have yet to become a mainstream option.
This slow progress in EV adoption raises questions about the feasibility and effectiveness of the EPA’s tightened emissions standards. In particular, automakers have been forced to revise their plans and production targets as they feel they are not receiving enough support from the public and government-level policy. This increases the industry’s hesitancy to increase its investments in electric vehicle production.

Still, the EPA and its supporters argue that the revised standards have the potential to transform the auto market. By accelerating and expanding EV production, the new regulations are believed to accelerate the transition to sustainable transportation solutions. This could have long-term benefits for both the environment and consumers.

While it is true that lower prices will encourage EV adoption, it is also true that consumers will not find it difficult to switch to cheaper EVs.