Regulators at NHTSA Set Higher Fuel-Economy Standards

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has set higher fuel-economy standards for new passenger cars and light trucks.

Starting with the 2026 model, the government has set a  new mileage of 49 miles per gallon as the new mileage standard for US light trucks and passenger cars. This means that the overall fuel economy of the fleet will improve by an average of 10%  compared to the 2021 model. The current mileage standard for the entire fleet of the 2021 model is 40 miles per gallon.

Drivers purchasing new vehicles in 2026 will get 33% more miles per gallon as compared to 2021 vehicles, under the new standards announced this Friday.

The announcement comes as Americans are paying higher gasoline prices due to post-pandemic production shortages and a ban on Russian imports of crude oil due to its invasion of Ukraine.

The standards set by the Transport Authority are similar to those set by the Environmental Protection Agency in December, with an average of 55 mpg for the entire fleet of cars and light trucks up to the model year 2026.

These standards apply to passenger cars, light-duty trucks, minivans and SUVs. Automakers who will not comply with the standards risk fines. Environmental and public health groups also appreciated the decision as it will lead to cleaner air and less emission of planet-warming gas.