Trump Administration Rolls Back Fuel Economy Rules, Ditching “Universally Despised” Start-Stop Tech
The Trump administration has officially eliminated a fuel economy credit for automakers who install automatic start-stop engine systems, a move officials are framing as a win for consumers. The decision, announced February 13, 2026, is part of a broader rollback of U.S. Fuel economy regulations, and signals a shift away from policies designed to increase vehicle efficiency.
What is Start-Stop Technology?
Start-stop systems temporarily shut off the engine when a vehicle is idling – for example, at a red light or in traffic. Originally used in the 1970s, the technology gained traction after 2012 as the EPA began offering incentives to automakers who implemented it. The goal was to improve fuel economy and reduce carbon emissions. Approximately two-thirds of cars currently feature this technology.
Why the Backlash?
Despite its environmental benefits, the start-stop feature has faced considerable criticism from drivers. Administration officials have labeled it “universally despised” and an “idiotic requirement.” President Trump stated that eliminating the feature would result in “a better car, a car that starts easier, a car that works better for a lot less money.” EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin echoed this sentiment, calling the removal of the credit an “added bonus” to the broader emission rule rollback.
The administration has linked the feature to rising automobile prices, with Zeldin stating the overhaul will save consumers an average of $2,400 on a new car purchase. There is no requirement for automakers to stop using the technology, but the financial incentive to do so has been removed.
Impact on Automakers and Emissions
The EPA data reveals varying levels of fuel efficiency among major automakers. Here’s a snapshot of recent performance:
- Toyota (2023): 27.5 mpg (7.8% change from 2018) – Best-selling U.S. Car: Toyota RAV4
- Honda (2023): 30 mpg (1% change from 2018) – Best-selling U.S. Car: Honda CR-V
- BMW (2023): 27.6 mpg (6% change from 2018) – Best-selling U.S. Car: BMW X5
- Ford (2023): 23.2 mpg (6% change from 2018) – Best-selling U.S. Car: Chevrolet Silverado
- Hyundai (2023): 29.8 mpg (4.1% change from 2018) – Best-selling U.S. Car: Hyundai Tucson
- Mercedes-Benz (2023): 27.5 mpg (17% change from 2018) – Best-selling U.S. Car: Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
- General Motors (2023): 23 mpg (2.6% change from 2018) – Best-selling U.S. Car: Chevrolet Silverado
- Volkswagen (2023): 27 mpg (9.7% change from 2018) – Best-selling U.S. Car: Volkswagen Tiguan
While the start-stop feature can improve fuel economy by 7% to 26% depending on driving conditions, the administration argues that the benefits do not outweigh the consumer frustration it causes.
Broader Rollback of Emission Rules
The elimination of the start-stop credit is part of a larger effort to repeal the “endangerment finding,” which provides the legal basis for regulating greenhouse gas emissions from cars, trucks, and power plants. This move effectively ends federal regulation of greenhouse gas emissions.
What Does This Mean for Car Buyers?
The immediate impact for car buyers is likely to be minimal, as automakers are not forced to remove the start-stop feature. However, the removal of the credit may lead to fewer vehicles equipped with the technology over time, potentially resulting in slightly lower vehicle prices. The long-term effects on fuel efficiency and emissions remain to be seen.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does start-stop technology do? It temporarily shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stopped to save fuel.
- Is start-stop technology being removed from all cars? No, automakers can still choose to include it, but there is no longer a financial incentive to do so.
- Will this change affect gas prices? This change is unlikely to have a direct impact on gas prices.
- What is the “endangerment finding”? It’s the legal basis for the EPA to regulate greenhouse gas emissions.
Pro Tip: Before purchasing a new vehicle, research whether it includes start-stop technology and consider if it aligns with your driving preferences.
What are your thoughts on the elimination of the start-stop credit? Share your opinion in the comments below!