Fuel Economy

Senate rejects tough new auto fuel economy measure; approves industry-supported alternative

H. JOSEF HEBERT, Associated Press Writer
Tuesday, July 29, 2003

The Senate rejected a proposal to require a sharp increase in automobile fuel economy Tuesday after concerns were raised that it would lead to a loss of auto industry jobs and limit consumer's ability to buy larger cars and SUVs.

By a 65-32 vote, the Senate turned back a proposal offered by Sen. Richard Durbin, D-Ill., that would have required automakers to produce a fleet average of 40 miles per gallon by 2015, a dramatic increase from the current 27.5 mpg now required.