AIAM urges Congress to establish stringent fuel economy standards

In a recent letter sent to House and Senate leadership, the Association of International Automobile Manufacturers (AIAM) has called on Congress to act this year to pass federal legislation establishing more stringent fuel economy standards. Given the length of product development cycles typical of the industry, legislation that quickly and clearly defines new regulatory goals will create the least disruption for consumers as new generation, higher efficiency vehicles are designed, engineered and brought to market. Finalizing legislation this year will also help address climate change concerns and lessen U.S. reliance on petroleum.

"AIAM member companies are technology leaders and are committed to producing cleaner, more fuel efficient vehicles. We will continue to work closely with Members of Congress in the weeks ahead on legislation that provides auto manufacturers with sufficient lead-time to meet new, tougher standards," says Michael Stanton, AIAM president and CEO. "Our members lead the industry in building and selling fuel-efficient vehicles and we believe Congress should make clear that now is the time to set our sights on a more energy-efficient future."

AIAM has encouraged House and Senate leaders to move energy legislation forward before the end of this year, noting that such action will provide critically needed certainty for automakers that must design and build the next generation of vehicles. AIAM has also noted that flexibility will be an extremely important part of any new fuel economy program, given both the aggressive standards currently contemplated and the possibility of unforeseen economic changes.

For more information on this issue, visit the Association of International Automobile Manufacturers' Web site.