Question

What are the major steps being taken to reduce emissions from passenger vehicles? What are the CAFE standards, and how are they changing?

Short answer

Steps to reduce emissions from passenger vehicles include technological advancements like hybrid or electric vehicles, use of alternative fuels, and design strategies to improve fuel efficiency; promoting behavioral changes like car-pooling and use of public transport are also important. CAFE standards, which mandate the average fuel economy of vehicles sold in the U.S, have been increasingly stringent over the years to push for reduced emissions. However, these changes have also been a source of controversy and disagreement.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Problem

The first thing to comprehend is the environmental importance of reducing emissions and why passenger vehicles are a major contributor. This sets the context for the problem.

Emissions Reduction Strategies

Now, the focus should shift towards different methodologies that are being applied to reduce vehicle emissions. These can include technological advancements like hybrid or electric vehicles, biofuels or hydrogen fuels, etc. It can also include behavioral changes like promoting car-pooling or use of public transport. Clever design strategies also play a role, such as lightweighting of vehicles to improve fuel efficiency.

Understanding CAFE standards

Next, it's essential to learn about the CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) standards. Implemented by the U.S. government, these are regulations intended to improve the average fuel economy of cars and light trucks (trucks, vans and sport utility vehicles) sold in the U.S.

CAFE Standards Changes

Finally, understanding how CAFE standards have been changing is vital. This involves explaining how the standards have progressively become severe over the years to push for better fuel efficiency and consequently, reducing emissions. This discussion could also touch on the controversies and disagreements associated with these changes.