Congress is wrestling with a major energy bill.  One of the key components of that bill is an increase in the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards, which is the way the federal government regulates how many miles per gallon the car/truck companies have to get from their fleet of cars and light-trucks.

This is a significant issue for the RV industry because it affects the type and availability of tow vehicles.  CAFE also impacts engine size, low end torque, towing capacity and, of course, price.   It is essential that automobile manufacturers continue to produce appropriate tow vehicles in sufficient numbers to address the needs of RVers (not to mention other towable products that require trailers such as boats, horses, ATVs, snowmobiles, jet skis and motorcycles.)

While most everyone now agrees that CAFE standards need to be increased, the Senate and House have not agreed on any specific language.  In fact, the House is significantly divided.  Speaker Pelosi wants to adopt the Senate passed H.R. 6 which would require 35 mpg by model year 2020 and would not maintain the separate fuel standards for cars and trucks.  But there is significant support for a bi-partisan bill (H.R. 2927) sponsored by Representatives Baron Hill (R-IN) and Lee Terry (D-NE) which would require cars to get 35 mpg and light trucks 32 mpg by model year 2022.  The Hill-Terry bill is supported by RVIA, RVDA, American Recreation Coalition (ARC) and many more associations and coalitions, including the automobile industry.

The RV industry's message in all of this has been consistent: we want language in the bill, or at least the Committee report that requires the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to take "towing capability" into consideration when they develop future CAFE standards.  Additionally, it is very important to maintain the distinction between cars and light trucks.  This distinction will help allow car manufacturers to produce a greater number of tow vehicles.

Members of Congress need to hear from their constituents that the Senate bill is too aggressive and removes the car/light truck distinction.  The Hill-Terry bill, on the other hand, proposes aggressive but manageable CAFE standards. 

We ask that you contact you elected officials and ask:

1.) that the distinction between fuel economy standards for passenger cars and light-trucks be maintained based on the fact that trucks generally perform different functions like towing and hauling. Therefore, trucks require heavier-duty and more complex components such as tires, brakes, axles and frames to safely perform the functions required of them (i.e., low end torque, acceleration and stopping power); and,

2.) for their support in recognizing that "towing capability" should be taken into consideration when fuels standards re-adjusted.

The easiest way to contact your representatives in Congress is to visit the website:

http://www.rvact.com

There you will find an editable letter that you can alter to your comfort level.  Please send this information to your membership asking them to do the same.

The time to contact your elected officials is NOW!