Around Chicago, Mercedes M-Class diesel drivers have been discussing the government’s new fuel economy standards that will go into effect with 2011 models which should start showing up in your showrooms in Chicago.  Mercedes E-Class diesel fans also got into the debate of what these new standards will mean for drivers.

First off, a summary of the new standards is in order.  By 2016, the average fuel economy for cars must improve to an average of 37.8 miles per gallon while trucks must get to an average of 28.8 miles per gallon.  This will occur gradually, with a 5% annual increase required from current levels.  Overall, standards will vary across different sized vehicles, with larger vehicles having less stringent standards.  This may seem like a lot for the auto industry to take on, but given the technology, expertise and materials they have at their disposal, this should not be difficult to achieve. Plus this is all based on averages, so there can still be that gas-guzzler in the line-up if there are other vehicles that will bring the average down.

One of the most notable changes that will prove beneficial for automakers is that now, there will be only one standard for emissions and fuel efficiency for the nation.  This differs from the past, where three different entities split these responsibilities.  The Department of Transportation managed fuel economy, the Environmental Protection Agency dealt with emissions, and then there’s California which could impose its own strict emissions rules.  This will certainly help put everyone on the same page.

More relevant to drivers however, is how vehicles on the road will be impacted by these standards.  In and around Chicago, Mercedes E-Class diesel drivers will likely see more technology designed to help improve fuel efficiency and decrease emissions on the road.  Technology like this includes things such as: direct fuel injection systems, five and six-speed automatic transmissions, turbo-charging, as well as improvements in aerodynamics (think carbon fibers bodies).  Across the country and in Chicago, Mercedes M-Class diesel drivers are already taking advantage of the advanced diesel engines that should soon start popping up on other models.  The five-seat M-Class is still one of the few luxury SUVs on the market that offers a highly fuel-efficient diesel model.

As drivers, we have a lot to gain from these new standards.  Experts say the new standards will ultimately save 1.8 billion barrels of oil over the next five years, which equates to taking almost 58 million vehicles off the road.  In the long-term, it will also help lessen our dependence on foreign oil and oil period which only stands to help our environment.  Plus, you can expect to see a savings of almost $4000 in fuel costs over the life of your vehicle with these new standards.  I think these standards were long overdue and am happy to see that the automakers who seem to have become lazy with regards to fuel efficiency and emissions standards finally got the prod they needed to make this change happen.