The Senate has begun debate of a comprehensive energy bill, H.R. 6. Included in the bill are unrealistic and unachievable increases in Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) for cars and light trucks as well as, for the first time, CAFE standards for medium- and heavy-duty trucks.
The bill calls for increases of 40% for cars and light trucks to a combined average of 35 mpg by MY 2020. It also calls for 4% annual improvements thereafter until MY 2030. Proposed standards for medium- and heavy-duty trucks would begin in MY 2011 and require 4% annual improvements every year until 2020.
Latest Action
A bipartisan group of Senators including Kit Bond (R-Mo.), Carl Levin (D-Mich.), Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), Mark Pryor (D-Ark.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) and George Voinovich (R-Ohio), have developed a credible alternative - called the Pryor-Bond-Levin-Voinovich CAFE Compromise - which takes into account more realistic time frames while leveraging consumer demand, technological feasibility, affordability, vehicle safety and energy efficiency objectives at a time when the auto industry is undergoing dramatic changes. The amendment calls for:
This bipartisan compromise will result in meaningful fuel savings without posing a threat to the auto industry. The Pryor-Bond-Levin-Voinovich compromise carefully balances environmental policy and energy security with the interests of the auto industry and most importantly, consumers.
Dealer Action Needed!
Dealers should call AND fax their Senators IMMEDIATELY to urge them to support the Pryor-Bond-Levin-Voinovich compromise to H.R. 6.
Senate Switchboard: (202) 224-3121
Senate Website: www.senate.gov
A sample letter urging Senators to support the Pryor-Bond-Levin-Voinovich (formerly Levin-Bond) compromise to H.R. 6. (Word document)
Talking points in support of the Pryor-Bond-Levin-Voinovich compromise to H.R. 6 (Word document)
News and Information on Senate CAFE Reform Legislation
June 19 - NADA Resolution In Support of Reasonable and Achievable CAFE Reform Legislation (Word document)
June 18 - Dealers to Fly in to Support Bipartisan Compromise to Senate Energy Bill
June 11 - Senate, House Moving Energy/CAFE Bills on Parallel Tracks
June 4 - Michigan Senators Float Fuel Economy Alternative
May 29 - CAFE/Energy, Total-Loss Disclosure Top Agenda Items With Lawmakers Home for Memorial Day Recess
May 14 - Latest on CAFE
May 7 - Senate Commerce Committee Considers Fuel Economy Bill; Hearing lays Groundwork