Significant Court Win Clears the Way for Better, Cleaner Car Standards

Federal Court of Appeals Ruling Will Help Create Better Transportation Choices for Americans and Reduce Dangerous Air Pollution

April 29, Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Court of Appeals today rejected the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s attempt to overturn California’s authority to implement tailpipe carbon pollution standards for new cars – this was the final legal attack on California’s landmark carbon pollution standards.
A three-judge panel of the Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) approval of California clean car standards – standards that have been adopted in 13 more states and the District of Columbia.

In response, Ann Mesnikoff, Director of the Sierra Club’s Green Transportation Campaign, issued the following statement:

“Today’s ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals signals a victory for the millions of Americans who want action on global warming and better, more fuel efficient cars over the special interests of NADA and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce who want to hold the nation back."

“Despite those attempts, California continues to lead in cleaning up new vehicles and working with the EPA and U.S. Department of Transportation on strong standards for new vehicles through 2025. The Sierra Club is currently engaged in a campaign to obtain fuel efficiency standards of at least 60 miles per gallon by 2025."

“Strong clean car standards will not only provide better choices to consumers, but will also save American families money at the pump, reduce life-threatening pollution, create jobs, decrease our dependence on foreign oil and move our nation forward, Beyond Oil.”