Trump Says He’ll Weaken GHG Standards for Cars, Light Trucks

President Trump has announced intentions to reinstate weaker automobile emissions standards, claiming that the more stringent rules established by President Biden are overly burdensome for automakers. During a March 31 meeting with John Elkann, chairman of Stellantis NV, Trump stated that they discussed environmental challenges and indicated plans to revert to the 2020 emissions standards, which he perceives as adequate while allowing for car production. This proposed shift would restore previous greenhouse gas emissions limits of 204 grams per mile for cars and 284 grams per mile for light trucks, which were set during Trump’s first term. The Obama-era standards, later strengthened by Biden to require reductions to 170 grams per mile by 2027 and 85 grams by 2032, have faced criticism from Trump as essentially an electric vehicle mandate. Environmental advocates contend that significant cuts in emissions are critical for curbing climate change, as the transport sector remains the leading source of pollution in the U.S. Experts indicate that reversing tougher emissions standards could hinder progress toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions crucial for meeting international climate goals. Maintaining stricter regulations is vital not only for mitigating climate change but also for fostering innovation in the automotive industry, which increasingly needs to pivot toward sustainable practices. The debate reflects a larger tension between economic interests in automaking and the urgent need for environmental responsibility, a point that can significantly influence future transportation policies.