World Economy

Buttigieg Says Trump Fuel Standards Rollback Will Increase Driver Costs

The Trump administration's decision to weaken fuel-economy standards will ultimately cost drivers more money, according to former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. While the Transportation Department estimates new vehicles could be $1,300 cheaper under the relaxed Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards, drivers face approximately $1,600 in additional fuel expenses over a vehicle's lifetime, Buttigieg said. He argued the administration's analysis fails to account for rising gas prices and auto industry tariffs. American automakers have supported the rollback, contending previous standards misaligned with consumer preferences. Buttigieg countered that the industry historically opposed stricter fuel-economy requirements before successfully implementing them. He warned weakened standards could hamper U.S. auto innovation as China expands its electric vehicle sector and competes for global market share.