Five Car Makers Back White House's Tougher Fuel Economy Rules

Five of the largest auto makers in the U.S. have endorsed a proposal by the Obama administration to set tougher fuel economy regulations, after the White House lowered its miles-per-gallon target and built in allowances for the large trucks that drive profits at Detroit car companies, people familiar with the talks said Tuesday.

The administration is proposing auto makers increase corporate average fuel economy to 54.5 miles a gallon by 2025, down from its initial target of 56.2 mpg, people familiar with the matter said. The goal would roughly double requirements from existing levels.