US President Barack Obama moves quickly on lowering Tailpipe Emissions
California’s regulations are tougher than present U.S federal rules and will force automakers to produce cars that are far more efficient and emit less greenhouse gas.
The previous administration under President Bush had refused to grant California the power to force car manufacturers to reduce tailpipe emissions below the weaker federal standards. President Obama is expected to announce that he will reverse that decision. He has also directed the U.S. Department of Transportation to act swiftly to establish higher fuel-economy standards, starting with model year 2011.
Obama has furthermore called for significant investment in energy and efficiency measures, and reaffirmed his desire for the United States to take charge on an international climate change treaty.
In Canada—where emissions standards for auto makers remain voluntary despite Ottawa’s promise made more than a year ago to set legislation of its own—the Obama announcement is expected to increase pressure on Ottawa to also adopt the stricter California standards in order to ensure continued access for Canadian carmakers to key segments of the vital US market.
Now is the time to visit The Good Life and do your part to help urge Canada’s adoption of the California Clean Car Standard!