President Barack Obama shakes hands with guests May 21, 2010, after delivering remarks and signing a Presidential Memorandum outlining the next steps in his vision for cleaner, more efficient vehicles UPI/Roger L. Wollenberg |
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WASHINGTON, May 21 (UPI) -- U.S. President Obama Friday directed two federal agencies to increase fuel efficiency by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from medium- and heavy-duty trucks.
"I believe that it's possible, in the next 20 years, for vehicles to use half the fuel and produce half the pollution that they do today," Obama said as he signed a memorandum directing the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Transportation to develop new standards for model years 2014-2018.
Obama's directive also supports development of advanced vehicle infrastructure, particularly electronic vehicles, and directs the EPA to reduce non-greenhouse gas pollutants from motor vehicles.
The announcement lays the foundation for a secure energy future by reducing the country's dependence on foreign oil, enhances U.S. competitiveness with a new generation of advanced electric vehicles and protects the environment by reducing greenhouse emissions and other air pollutants, the president said.
Obama said the program also is good for the economy because it promotes innovation in advanced vehicle technology, saves fuel and operating expenditures and preserves consumer choice by not being limited to one type or size of vehicle.
"I'm proposing we start developing right now a new and higher standard to take effect beginning 2017, so that we can make more and more progress in the years to come," Obama said.
Obama praised automakers for working with the administration to improve fuel efficiency to cut U.S. dependence on foreign oil.
"Today, we're supporting the development of advanced battery technologies," Obama said. "We're doubling the capacity to generate renewable electricity. We're building a stronger, smarter electric grid, which will be essential to powering the millions of plug-in hybrids -- cars and trucks that we hope to see on the roads."
Obama said improving fuel efficiency will save or create 700,000 jobs, save the typical driver $3,000 over the life of a vehicle, reduce the cost of transporting goods and services, cut greenhouse gases and reduce oil imports by 1.8 billion barrels.
"As a result, everybody wins," he said.
