New fuel efficiency standards are important for national security

A very rare thing happened this week: Barack Obama did something I agree with. The administration raised fuel efficiency standards on automobiles and SUV’s to an average of 35.5 miles per gallon. I know that many fellow conservatives are up in arms about this decision, but I think it’s a good decision which is long overdue.

There are already complaints about the new regulation relating to the increased cost of new automobiles and the reluctance to do anything to improve global warming, since many find the science inconclusive. As for the cost, it could be substantial. New car prices may rise up to $1,000. That’s certainly nothing to sneeze at, but this extra cost will certainly pay for itself in reduced fuel costs. Besides, once the car companies begin making more fuel efficient cars on a large scale, the economies of scale will likely kick in and bring this upfront increase down. » read more