On Monday December 29th, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will publish an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that is a first key step in making fundamental changes to the nation's fuel economy regulations. Key proposed changes are expected to include tightening the definition of what constitutes a "light truck" so that more car-like vehicles such as the PT Cruser would no longer be counted as trucks when calculating fleet fuel economy. Larger SUVs, such as the Hummer, would also be covered under the fuel economy regulations for the first time. Of particular note, the proposal attempts to promote safety by discouraging a trade-off between weight and fuel economy.

Although the proposal needs to be analyzed before any specific conclusions can be reached, one issue is clear: you have the opportunity to participate in the process -- take it. We will be analyzing key aspects of the NHTSA proposal and providing you with tips on how to make your voice heard in Washington.

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