On March 31, the Trump Administration finalized its Safer Affordable Fuel Efficient (SAFE) Vehicles final rule. This final rule reflects the administration’s updates for corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standards for model years 2021 through 2026. The SAFE Vehicles rule had been in the works for several years and governs the fuel economy and tailpipe emissions of light duty vehicles. This includes alternative fuel vehicles, like natural gas vehicles.
The SAFE Vehicles rule contains a number of provisions that impact natural gas vehicles (NGVs). The two-x sales multiplier for NGVs was extended, doubling value or credits generated by each NGV in a fleet. Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are factored at the tailpipe and not discounted, meaning that NGVs get more credit for GHG reductions than in the past. Additionally, the final SAFE Vehicles rule will better capture the benefits of NGV use across the light duty sector. It also removes a two-to-one driving range restriction and drive to empty provision.
APGA joined NGVAmerica and other industry partners in issuing the following statement:
“Throughout this process, NGVAmerica and its members and partners have respectfully shared a transparent case for federal support for increased domestic natural gas use in light-duty transportation. We champion the preservation of choice and the restoration of parity for clean transportation technologies. Regulatory action that supports the expansion of natural gas vehicles (NGVs) advances efforts to clear our Nation’s urban air and decarbonize its vast transportation footprint. Natural gas technology increasingly fueled by renewable natural gas (RNG) allows for the continued use of affordable light-duty work trucks, vans, and SUVs that meet the very real needs of American workers and families. NGVAmerica is appreciative this rule recognizes, in part, that NGVs are key to a solution for a cleaner, safer, more efficient mobility future for all.”
For questions on this article, please contact Doug MacGillivray of APGA staff by phone at 202-464-2742 or by email at
dmacgillivray@apga.org.