Fuelishness: A break for GM and Ford

A break for GM and Ford

Oh, what a difference a decade makes. In an attempt to cut U.S. energy consumption after the shocking 400% increase in the price of imported oil in 1973, Congress in 1975 passed a law that required auto companies to improve the average fuel economy of their new cars gradually to 27.5 m.p.g. by 1985. Now, three Administrations and a glut of cheaper oil later, gasoline-saving passions do not run quite so high. Last week the Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which enforces the fuel-efficiency requirements, agreed to lower the standard to 26 m.p.g. for 1987 and 1988...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!