Letter: Administration wrong on vehicle standards

Monday August 6, 2018

Policy bad for environment and economy.

Editor:
"Administration: Tougher fuel standards make driving riskier" (Reading Eagle, Aug. 1) demands a follow-up that I would title "Lousy fuel mileage will decrease exports and increase trade deficit."


The international automobile market demands fuel efficiency and will not purchase U.S. vehicles with poor mileage ratings. For economic reasons, U.S. auto manufacturers will have to build fuel-efficient versions for domestic and international sales. Exported vehicles made from tariffed steel and aluminum will be more costly and even less desirable overseas. Fewer overseas vehicle sales will contribute to a larger trade deficit.


Perhaps President Donald Trump should turn off the TV and do a little "what-ifing." For supposedly being a businessman, he certainly doesn't exhibit the skills necessary to achieve a desired outcome. Flying by the seat of one's pants is not the way to make decisions for an industry that has a significant impact on the U.S. gross domestic product.


Gary Coller
Spring Township


Administration wrong on vehicle standards