The federal government has decided to include passenger vehicles (SUVs) over 8,500 pounds
to fuel-economy standards set last year for lighter vehicles. The change takes effect in
2011. Currently, manufacturers must meet fleet corporate average fuel economy (CAFE). The
new rules set mileage standards based on size, not weight, of the vehicle. This means
smaller vehicles will be required to have the highest fuel mileage. Also, the new rules add
heavy passenger vehicles, which were exempt before.
