EEMS
  Industry News

Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers to appeal Vermont emissions legislation verdict

9th October 2007

The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers representing the U.S. ‘Big Three’ issued a release on 5th October giving notice of their appeal seeking to overturn a judge’s decision that the U.S. state of Vermont is legally entitled to set its own fuel economy.

“This case,” said the release, “centres on the critical issue of whether states can regulate a matter - fuel economy - that the law clearly identifies as a federal, national issue. Evidence provided during the trial demonstrates that the federal law is very explicit: states are pre-empted from adopting fuel economy laws; and complex issues such as greenhouse gas emissions must be dealt with comprehensively on the national level.

"Our evidence clearly demonstrated that Vermont's regulation, which is based on California's regulation, is tantamount to a fuel economy standard. At trial, it was undisputed that improving fuel economy is the only way to meet these requirements.

"Automakers are eager to continue fulfilling their role in reducing emissions and increasing energy security, however this appeal is urgent as this legislation applies to model year 2009 vehicles, which consumers will start seeing in early 2008 - just a few months from now."

<< Previous    
Whole Day's News
   
Next >>