US Automakers Push to Delay Biden Emissions Rules

Major automakers operating in the US market have backed the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) proposal to postpone stricter vehicle emissions rules by two years, while calling on authorities to draw up new, more realistic standards as soon as possible.

The Alliance for Automotive Innovation, which represents manufacturers including General Motors, Ford, Toyota, Volkswagen, Stellantis and Hyundai, argues that the original rules adopted under President Joe Biden's administration do not reflect current market conditions. The carmakers contend that slowing electric vehicle sales in the US are making it harder to meet ambitious emissions targets and threatening billions of dollars of investment.

The EPA estimates that a two-year delay would save the auto industry around $1.7bn. Rules passed by the Biden administration in 2024 were designed to cut emissions of major pollutants from passenger vehicles by 50% and from medium-duty vehicles by 58% by 2032.

Environmental groups have sharply criticized the proposal, arguing that the delay would lead to more cases of heart and lung disease, higher health costs and more premature deaths. They also contend that stricter emissions standards deliver health and economic benefits worth around $13bn annually.

(reuters, max)