Fact #50: December 22, 1997
Light Trucks Enjoy a Substantial Regulatory Advantage Over Cars: A Comparison of Regulations for Cars and Light Trucks

	Cars	Light Trucks
Gas Mileage (Minimum average mpg)	27.5	20.7 (larger models are exempt from standards altogether)
Emissions (maximum per mile)
Nitrogen oxides (grams)	0.4	0.4-1.1
Carbon dioxide (pounds)	0.72	0.95
Taxes
Gas-guzzler	Covered	Exempt
Luxury vehicle tax	Covered	Exempt (larger models)
Note: Carbon dioxide emissions are regulated indirectly through fuel economy regulations. Source: Bradsher, Keith, "Trucks, Darlings of Drivers, are Favored by the Law, Too," N.Y. Times, p. A1, November 30, 1997.

Return to Favorite Facts of the Week