The Obama administration officially unveiled the government's new fuel economy standards, which require that every automaker raise their fleetwide average to 54.5 miles per gallon by 2025.
The Christian Science Monitor reports that the new standards have been officially announced after having been agreed upon back in July. The new rules are expected to prompt automakers to further research electric and alternative energy models, which can help them raise the average of their overall fleet. No gas-powered model currently meets the standard, although automakers are hopeful that continued technological advancement could change that by 2025 - if gas cars are still around.
"The proposed regulations present aggressive targets, and the administration must consider that technology break-throughs will be required and consumers will need to buy our most energy-efficient technologies in very large numbers to meet the goals," said Mitch Bainwol, president of the Alliance of Automotive Manufacturers.
Buying a car with good fuel economy can save you money over time as you'll spend less at the pump. Auto maintenance also saves drivers over time - not only does it help avoid major car repairs, but things like buying new tires or getting oil changes can help increase your fuel economy.