"White House Considers Big Boost To Fuel Economy"

"The Obama administration is telling American automakers that it would like cars and light trucks to average 56.2 miles per gallon by 2025 — a boost to fuel economy that would save consumers money at the pump and help with global warming but drive up the cost of automobiles.

Administration officials floated the number at separate meetings last week with the Detroit Three — General Motors, Ford and Chrysler — according to people in government and industry familiar with the discussions. They spoke on condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to talk publicly about them.

While it is just a starting point, the figure is the first hint of where the government may be headed as it works to set a 2017-2025 fuel economy standard. Last fall, the Transportation Department and the Environmental Protection Agency said they would consider a federal standard somewhere between 47 and 62 mpg."

Dina Cappiello reports for the Associated Press June 27, 2011.

SEE ALSO:

"Group of Moderate Republicans Backs Tough Fuel Efficiency Targets" (Washington Post)

"GOP Heavyweights Urge US To Adopt Tougher Fuel-Mileage Standard" (McClatchy)

"Auto Dealers Group Calls 56 M.P.G. Goal Too Ambitious" (Detroit Free Press)