Millbrae Supports Clean Cars

Millbrae will join the Sierra Club and other cities and organizations in pushing legislation to strengthen fuel efficiency standards in all new passenger vehicles beyond 2016.

The California Air Resources Board, along with other federal agencies, submitted a report on Oct. 1 to President Barack Obama analyzing the effects of tougher green house gas emission goals for passenger vehicles from 2017 to 2025. The report is the result of a May 21, 2010 presidential memorandum requesting an assessment of CO2 reduction beyond 2016.

"We must, and we will, keep the momentum going to make sure that all motor vehicles sold in America are realizing the best fuel economy and greenhouse gas reductions possible," U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said in an Oct. 1 statement.

CARB analyzed different scenarios for GHG reduction as well as additional costs to manufacturers and consumers, and suggested an additional 3 to 6 percent annual improvement in emissions from 2017 to 2025.

"The purpose behind this is to reduce pollutants and to promote the development and deployment of zero emissions vehicle technologies," said Director of Public Works Ron Popp. "It fits with Millbrae's goal for a healthier community and environment."

Popp was uncertain of the potential increased costs to the city, but CARB calculates a net savings of about $5,000 for the vehicle's lifetime if the 3-6 percent reduction is implemented.

Although Millbrae pledged to support stricter fuel standards, it does not plan on purchasing new vehicles in the near future.

"If we have an opportunity somewhere down the line when budgetary times are better, we will take advantage of the advancements that this legislation will encourage," said council member Gina Papan.

The federal agencies and CARB plan to release documents on Nov. 30 examining potential future fuel standards. Current federal legislation calls for consumption of 35.5 miles per gallon by 2016.