Discussion Series

Overview

Cars and light-duty trucks are a major contributor to the climate problem in the United States, but what role will they play in a solution? Come learn and share your thoughts on what the new fuel economy (CAFE) standards, incentive programs for alternative fuels, and a potential U.S. national climate policy could mean for the carbon footprint of personal vehicle transport. We'll review the latest developments and compare policy options, then open the floor for a lively discussion.

A light dinner will be served.  

Please prepare for the event by reading the articles linked below.  

Key Questions

 

How do cap-and-trade or other so-called "technology neutral" policies compare to more technology-focused policies in terms of their ability to achieve emissions reductions? How do analysts generally go about comparing these policies?

What do we know so far about consumer willingness to adopt alternative fuel vehicles, based on early experiences? What are some of the major barriers? What evidence do we have that current policies will be effective?

What role do non-technological (i.e. behavioral) solutions have to play in reducing GHG emissions from vehicles?

To what extent, if any, is government policy on vehicles and fuelscoordinated across different branches of government?

 

Preparatory Readings

Announcement of new CAFE standards (EPA and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, April 2010)

An Action Plan for Cars (MITEI Report, December 2009, Concentrate on Introduction and Summary of Recommended Policy Portfolio, pp1-4)

Emissions limits, greater fuel efficiency for cars, light trucks made official (Washington Post, 2 April 2010)

 

Energy Discussions: Potential Impact of US Climate Policy on Personal Vehicle Transport

06:00-07:00PM Thursday, May 06, 2010
Leader: Valerie Karplus
Location: 26-204