Statement from CALSTART’s CEO John Boesel on the U.S. Government’s Announcement Rolling Back Fuel Economy and Pollution Standards
March 31, 2020
PASADENA — The following is a statement from CALSTART’s CEO John Boesel on the U.S. government’s announcement today rolling back light-duty vehicle fuel economy and pollution standards:
“Industry hates uncertainty, and today’s ruling does little but create more uncertainty. At a time when we should be embracing innovation and change, this ruling is looking to the past.”
“The results of CALSTART’s 2018 biennial survey of automotive suppliers found strong support for high standards. Looking beyond the coronavirus, we are in a period of rapid technological advancement. Innovation is the key to our success and future job creation for an industry that supports higher than average-wage jobs. If U.S. manufacturers and suppliers slow down to meet these weakened U.S. standards, they will most surely lose global market share. The world is moving to low and zero emission vehicles. The sooner we make that full commitment in the United States the better we will be financially and environmentally.
“In 2018, our survey of automotive suppliers found:
- 82% agreed that companies seen as leaders in vehicle efficiency technology will be more successful over the next 10-15 years.
- 84% agreed that existing 2025 standards tend to encourage job growth at their companies—a 25% percent jump from 2016.
- 95% agree that more ambitious fuel economy standards encourage more innovation and investment in the U.S.
“We are at a critical juncture. California and other states are leading. The question is, does the federal government want to join the team or not?”