EPA study backs calls to stay the course on US fuel economy targets

Washington

A HIGHLY anticipated report by US regulators buttresses calls for staying the course on fuel economy targets that carmakers say are unworkable and want eased.

Based on current trends, the average car would get between 50 and 52.6 miles per gallon by 2025, falling short of the original projection of 54.5, according to the draft technical assessment released on Monday by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the California Air Resources Board.

However, the report said carmakers can draw on an array of technologies to satisfy the target and it will cost less than expected. "The draft report supports that the administration's fuel economy programme can continue to incentivise innovation and reduce fuel c…