For Immediate Release: July 28, 2011
Contact: MK Campbell, 626/744-5602 mkcampbell@calstart.org

Proposed Passenger Car Vehicle Efficiency Standards Will Drive Innovation and Investment in United States

Pasadena, CA – A potential agreement between the Obama Administration and five leading car makers would result in increased innovation, investment, and manufacturing jobs in the United States, said the President and CEO of CALSTART, a national clean transportation technology consortium.  

John Boesel, President and CEO of CALSTART issued the following statement in response to news stories this morning indicating the President and the car companies had reached an agreement that would establish a MPG standard of 54.5 for vehicles sold in the United States.  The President is expected to make a formal announcement about the deal tomorrow.

“This proposed deal on light-duty vehicle efficiency standards will drive innovation and encourage investment in US start-ups-ups and established automotive suppliers. This is a landmark announcement that will result in significant growth in U.S. vehicle assembly and component manufacturing jobs over the next decade.  

The president and car companies should be applauded for their ability to work together and agree on a long-range target.  This is the type of public-private cooperation that is helping other countries grow their manufacturing sectors.  US companies offer a wide array of vehicle efficiency technologies, from lightweight materials to new engine designs to batteries that will allow this standard to be met and give consumers cars that are fun and safe.

This agreement will do more to reduce dependence on oil, and keep our energy dollars at home than any other actions taken to date. However, this new policy will not be enough to get us to the finish line. It is now time to put greater focus on both the fuel and demand side of the equation. With this agreement, the automobile industry will be making a strong contribution to the nation’s energy and economic future.  We need policies that accelerate the development of domestically produced low carbon fuels, and a greater investment in our nation’s transit system.”

About CALSTART
CALSTART is North America’s leading clean transportation technologies and solutions consortium. CALSTART is the only organization working nationally to foster the rapid growth of the entire clean transportation technology industry. CALSTART serves as a catalyst for the comprehensive clean transportation industry as a way to create more jobs, clean the air, make the country more secure, and reduce the threat of global warming. CALSTART manages leading-edge technology programs while providing value-added services to its 130 member companies and consulting clients. For more information visit: www.calstart.org
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