U.S. Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Vehicle Technologies Program
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.