Cleaner vehicles benefit consumers, the environment and the economy, according to a report recently published by the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS). It concludes that clean car standards have led to more fuel-efficient vehicles that produce lower amounts of pollution. The report also finds that, in addition to helping the environment, fuel-efficient cars save consumers money by enabling them to spend less on gasoline.
Besides benefitting their owners, greener cars are also shown to be good for the overall economy. Based on an analysis by Synapse Energy Economics, Inc., clean vehicle standards are predicted to create significant job growth in the United States. The study estimates more than 100,000 jobs will be added in 2025 with that number increasing to more than 250,000 in 2035. In addition to job growth, clean vehicle standards benefit the US gross domestic product, increasing it by more than $13 billion in 2025 and more than $16 billion in 2035.
According to the report, these clean vehicle benefits are at risk of being weakened as they undergo federal review. The UCS says that keeping these standards in place is critical for driving innovation in the US auto industry and reducing costs for consumers across the nation. A Fact sheet that provides additional information on the economic benefits of clean vehicles can be downloaded by clicking here.