Eric Peters at the American Spectator takes on the Senate bill that would mandate higher fuel efficency in automobiles and trucks - despite the evidence that suggests it to be counterproductive and expensive. Increasing fuel effiency generally means lighter materials, which are more expensive, and these vehicles are less safe for drivers when there is a collision. He also points out theat there are many small and efficent vehicles in the market, but many drivers actually prefer more larger and more powerful ones. In addition, as fuel standards have gone up, Americans also have ended up driving more miles. The real interesting point in the article comes at the end with Peters suggesting that a House version of the bill would be a far better alternative. The surprising item is the bill's sponsors.
"A House version of the CAFE legislation (HR 2927) sponsored by Reps. Barron Hill (D) of Indiana and Lee Terry (R) of Nebraska acknowledges economic, engineering, and practical realities, representing a more balanced approach that looks beyond just CAFE mandates and recognizes the importance of encouraging efficiency while moving forward in developing alternative energy vehicles.
HR 2927 would continue the current practice of separating CAFE standards for passenger cars and light trucks, based on sound reasoning that 35 mpg passenger cars is one thing but producing a 35 mpg truck or SUV without incurring massive expense or crippling capability is something else entirely.
HR 2927 recognizes that 35 mpg vehicles won't do us much good if they're too expensive to buy -- and if they’re still being filled with just foreign oil."
Lee Terry!
The man's beginning to make a name for himself. Who'd a thunk?
Thursday, August 23, 2007
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I saw that American Spectator article - I think they made a few very good points about CAFE standards in regards to the concerns it raises. Consumers in my opinions should be able to choose whether they want vehicles that they see as safer or that have higher fuel efficiency without government getting in the way - I do some work with Drive Congress which also has some great info on this issue and this really concerns me.
I like you am also glad to see the bipartisan support for that this compromise is getting. Passing the cost to the auto manufacturers who will end up passing it onto consumers isn't the way to go and I'm glad someone is taking that into account.
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