Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has criticized the Trump administration's rollback of fuel-economy standards, warning it could raise costs for drivers and weaken the global competitiveness of U.
S. automakers.
Buttigieg challenged claims that the rollback would make vehicles more affordable.
He noted that while the Transportation Department estimates a $1,300 reduction in new vehicle prices, drivers may face $1,600 more in fuel costs over a vehicle's lifetime.
He argued this estimate does not fully account for rising gas prices or tariffs affecting the auto industry.
The Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards set fuel-efficiency benchmarks for automakers across their fleets.
While U. S.
automakers have supported the rollback, saying previous standards misaligned with consumer demand, Buttigieg pointed out the industry's history of resisting tougher rules before adapting to them.
He further warned that weakening these standards could slow innovation in the U. S.
auto sector, especially as China expands its electric vehicle industry and seeks a larger share of the global market.
"Anything that means less innovation is going to help hand that advantage to China," Buttigieg said.
