Latest news with #fuelefficiency
CBS News
02-08-2025
- Automotive
- CBS News
Repealing rule to curb greenhouse gas emissions will increase gas prices, Trump administration's own analysis finds
When the Environmental Protection Agency announced it would roll back regulations aimed at curbing greenhouse gas emissions — especially from motor vehicles — it touted annual savings for Americans of $54 billion. The EPA said eliminating Biden-era policies, which encouraged higher fuel efficiency standards for cars and electric vehicle adoption to limit tailpipe emissions, would enable consumers to "have affordable choices when deciding to buy a car." But a CBS News review of the agency's own regulatory impact analysis of the proposal found that gasoline prices would increase, and nearly a half million jobs would be lost by 2035, according to data from the U.S. Energy Information Agency, which was cited in the EPA's report. In the EPA's July analysis, the U.S. Energy Information Administration, which collects and analyzes energy data, showed Biden-era policies that were adopted by the end of 2024 would dramatically bring down the future cost of gasoline because more consumers would be driving electric vehicles, hybrids and fuel-efficient cars that require less gas. It is challenging to predict the future gas prices because they're subject to high uncertainty and market volatility, but under a future scenario where Biden-era policies have been revoked under the Trump administration, the EIA projects gasoline prices will continue to increase because of a higher demand for gas-powered cars and fuel. The former administrator of the EIA, Joseph DeCarolis, explained in an email that if the government "disincentivizes electric vehicle purchases, more consumers will purchase gasoline vehicles resulting in higher gasoline consumption and high gasoline prices for everyone." "There's a clear causal connection between rescinding measures promoting electric vehicles, such as EPA tailpipe standards, and the projection of higher gasoline prices," he said. When asked in an interview with CBS News' "The Takeout with Major Garrett" about how this plan could raise gas prices, Zeldin did not directly address the question. Instead, he argued that previous policies like an electric vehicle mandate were costing trillions of dollars to regulate climate pollution, saying the policies were "seeking to strangulate out of existence, entire sectors of our economy, and specifically our energy economy. 'It's important that we are applying common sense," Zeldin said, "that we are cognizant of these economic demands and that, wherever possible, when we can protect the environment and grow the economy that we will choose both." Neither the Biden nor Obama administrations implemented EV mandates, though both encouraged EV adoptions by Americans and businesses. Zeldin reiterated the Trump administration's stance that the EPA does not have the power to regulate greenhouse gas emissions under the Clean Air Act unless an act of Congress changes that. "Here's my message: If Congress wants the EPA to be regulating the heck out of carbon dioxide, well, they could put it inside of law," Zeldin said. Along with rolling back greenhouse gas emissions standards to limit tailpipe emissions, the EPA would also rescind fuel efficiency measures. Under Biden-era fuel efficiency policies, a new standard gas-powered car was expected to get 47.1 miles per gallon by 2027, and by 2035, cars were expected to achieve 61.2 mpg, according to EIA data. Without the Biden policies, model 2027 cars are supposed to meet a 43.6 mpg standard and gradually increase to 50.5 mpg by 2035. Light trucks and SUVs, beginning in model year 2027, under a scenario where Biden policies are revoked by the Trump administration, are set to reach fuel efficiency of 27.2 mpg and increase to 28.6 mpg by 2035. Had the Biden policies remained in place, SUVs and light trucks were expected to meet a 28.4 mpg standard in 2027 and increase to 46.2 mpg by 2035, according to EIA data. The EIA's own data estimates that a future scenario — where Biden-Obama emissions standards are revoked — would lead to a loss of 450,000 jobs by 2035. Jobs would begin to rebound by 2045, but not enough to overcome the significant losses suffered in previous decades. Peter Huether, senior transportation research associate at the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, said in a statement, "Drivers would pay thousands of dollars more in fuel and maintenance costs over the life of a vehicle, and businesses could lose billions annually from higher trucking costs" as a result of the Trump administration's deregulation. "These costs would ripple through the economy, raising prices for everyday goods and undercutting job growth," Huether said.
Japan Times
31-07-2025
- Automotive
- Japan Times
Number of gas stations in Japan fell for the 30th consecutive year, data shows
The number of gas stations across Japan as of the end of fiscal 2024 fell 1.5% from a year earlier to 27,009, according to the industry ministry. The total fell for the 30th consecutive year, the ministry said Wednesday. It decreased to less than half of its peak of 60,421, which was marked at the end of fiscal 1994, due to vehicle electrification and improved fuel efficiency. By prefecture, Tottori had the fewest gas stations, with 191, followed by Nara, with 240, and Fukui, with 248. The number declined the most in Niigata, by 29, and Hokkaido and Osaka followed, by 27 and 21, respectively. The number of gas station operators decreased 2.4% to 12,113 — less than 40% of the total number of 30 years ago, as many operators in underpopulated areas have closed down due to poor business performance.
UAE Moments
27-07-2025
- Automotive
- UAE Moments
Living with the Camry 2025: A Week Behind the Wheel
Camry 2025: A Comfortable, Practical Daily Drive… and One Thing I Wished It Had I've always seen the Camry as a reliable daily commuter. But after driving the 2025 Camry for a long stretch between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, I realized it's not just a mode of transport—it's a daily companion that offers comfort and peace of mind you truly appreciate over time. The first thing I noticed when I started the car was the quiet engine and its smooth responsiveness. The 2.5L, 4-cylinder engine delivers 201 horsepower, which is more than enough to merge confidently on Sheikh Zayed Road, while the 240 Nm of torque makes overtaking easy without needing to push the accelerator aggressively. The 8-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly, whether I'm moving through city traffic or cruising at highway speeds. But what impressed me most was the fuel efficiency. At 17.1 km/L, I could drive daily without worrying about refueling every couple of days, and with a 60-liter fuel tank, I never felt anxious even on longer commutes or busy days around the city. The cabin is very comfortable. The back seats provide good legroom, even for taller passengers, and the dual-zone climate control with rear vents kept the cabin cool during the intense June heat. The leather seats in the model I tested were comfortable for long distances, with lumbar support for the driver's seat that helped ease back strain after a packed day of meetings. I loved the simplicity of the infotainment system, which ranges from 8 to 12.3 inches depending on the trim, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto making navigation and handling calls seamless. The wireless charger kept my phone charged without cable mess, and the rear power sunshade was a practical feature during midday drives, protecting rear passengers from the harsh sun. During daily driving, I felt that the Camry didn't drain my mental energy behind the wheel, which is crucial with heavy morning traffic. The Dynamic Radar Cruise Control was a lifesaver on long stretches, and with Lane Tracing Assist, I could drive longer distances with full comfort and less stress. Toyota hasn't forgotten about safety, with front, side, and curtain airbags, a Pre-Collision System, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Lane Departure Alert. These systems gave me peace of mind, especially when driving with the family. From a practicality perspective, the 493-liter cargo space was more than sufficient for work items, weekly groceries, or a travel suitcase when needed. The rear seats fold in a 60:40 split, making it easier to expand the trunk for larger items. Yet, despite all these positives, there are two things I wished it had: First: A hybrid option. The fuel economy is great, but with fuel prices rising and my personal interest in reducing my carbon footprint, I genuinely wished the hybrid version was available in the UAE, as it is in other markets. It would offer even better fuel economy and align well with my long daily drives and the UAE's sustainability goals. Second: A sportier driving character. The Camry is tuned for comfort, which is excellent, but sometimes I crave a sportier feel, with tighter handling in corners and a sport mode that sharpens the throttle and steering response. Especially when driving in the mountains or on open roads, it would add a touch of excitement for drivers like me who appreciate a bit of fun alongside practicality. At the end of the day, the Camry remains a solid, practical car. After this daily driving experience, I now see the Camry as more than just a car. It gives you peace of mind throughout the day, keeps your family safe, saves you on fuel costs, and offers a calm, quiet ride even during peak traffic. While I wish for a hybrid option and a sportier driving mode, if you're looking for a reliable, comfortable, fuel-efficient daily driver for UAE roads, the 2025 Camry deserves to be at the top of your shortlist.
