Study finds Trump is wrong about fuel consumption

A new study by the Consumer Federation of America has found that more stringent fuel consumption standards have made driving more affordable for low-income households.

Trump and his administration argues the opposite is true, saying that for car makers to meet tougher fuel consumption goals, it means cars have become more expensive, with less safety features. By reducing the target fuel consumption for manufacturers, Trump argues the freed-up resources can go into making cars not only less expensive but also safer.

However, the study came to a different conclusion. The pressure put on manufacturers to make their cars greener has meant used cars are now more fuel efficient, and easier on the wallet for those who use their cars the most.

In fact, the study says that low-income consumers can save $US900 over the six years of average vehicle ownership thanks to reduced outgoings on fuel.

The brunt of the costs of new vehicle technologies is mainly worn by new-car buyers, and is greatly reduced when it comes to the second-hand market. Better fuel efficiency and safety technologies add an average of $US40 to the price of a used car, yet they save more than $US12 every month the consumer keeps the car. The savings can provide up to six times the benefit in low-income households than they do in middle-income households.