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Originally Posted by cRiPpLe_rOoStEr
OK, but I would still be not surprised if some automakers start a hybrids-only approach to California. Toyota is already taking a similar approach with Lexus in most of the Europe, plus in some countries such as Spain and Portugal even mainstream models such as the Yaris are only available with either a manual transmission or the hybrid e-CVT instead of the traditional automatic. Well, since the market share for manuals in the U.S.A. is almost negligible, it seems like an easy move. Well, once Toyota finally gets some hybrid versions for the Tacoma, Tundra, 4Runner and Sequoia, I'll be convinced there will be no way back.
Anyway, even if Trump effectively makes EPA to pull the plug on Obama's standards, I'm sure fleet managers and private entrepreneurs would still demand fuel-efficiency improvements not just in order to cut their fuel expenses but also to trade carbon credits whenever possible.
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My point was that the manufacturers should be able to create a mix that meets the Federal 2025 mandates across the entire continent and not just in a singe State Market. States like California with their unique combination of geography and intense population need extreme measures to keep their air clean. If that means EVs and strong hybrids, make it so. Those vehicles should be credited and places such as the windswept reaches of New Mexico should have choices that reflect their needs. If that means lean burning direct injected engines, make that so. The entire mix of a Name Plate can then meet that 54.5 MPG target. But, if all the states follow California and New York, THAT is really quite a feat to accomplish by 2025.