Biden scales back final fuel economy standards
Washington — In a move that tries to balance the fight against climate change with difficult business and political realities, President Joe Biden’s administration on Friday scaled back fuel economy standards set for new vehicle sales into the next decade. The administration released its final regulation Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards, commonly known as CAFE. The new rules represent a final piece in Biden’s vision — put into practice by a series of regulations — for how big a role the auto industry should play in curbing U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. The standards come as the president faces a tough reelection battle this fall with former President Donald Trump, a persistent critic of electric vehicles and high fuel economy standards. Trump has vowed on this year’s campaign trail to do away with policies he frequently labels as electric vehicle mandates. Such comments have helped turn zero-emission electric vehicles — so far a rocky, unprofitable business for most domestic...