Apr 20 2009
Dave McCurdy, president and CEO, Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, released this statement in response to EPA's announcement today to seek comments on its proposed endangerment finding:
"Today, the EPA made an endangerment finding on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions that will affect all industries in some way. Automakers are ahead of the curve and have already been taking action because we understand that being a successful industry means being part of the low-carbon economy.
"Autos account for 20 percent of man-made CO2 emissions in the U.S. As automakers, we know that our job is to get cleaner, more fuel-efficient technologies on the road quickly. We already offer customers over 130 models that get more than 30 MPG. There are now over 35 models that are hybrids or clean diesel. This is progress, but we are not stopping with today's accomplishments. We're working on new innovations for the future, including vehicles that don't run on petroleum at all.
"The transition to a new way of using energy and new energy sources requires that we collaborate with government and other industries like never before. For new power trains to be successful, a diverse set of high-quality fuels must be available, whether it is biofuels, clean diesel or the electricity grid. Drivers of electric vehicles, for example, will need someplace to recharge while at work or shopping, and our communities will need an adequate supply of low carbon electricity to power all those vehicles. We all need to be planning for the future today.
"In the end, we all share the same goal. Today's administration has the opportunity to reset the debate to address the environment and today's economic realities.
"We are hopeful that the Obama Administration can find ways to bridge state and federal concerns, and move all stakeholders toward an aggressive, national, fuel economy/greenhouse gas emissions program administered by the federal government."