Fuel costs alter America

Dealers report lower SUV sales as government increases mileage standards

WASHINGTON – At South Towne Motors in Atlanta, Adam Merlin sells everything from Hyundais to Hondas to Hummers. In the last few months, there’s been a dramatic customer shift away from the gas guzzlers.

Now, for the first time ever, the government is ordering light trucks, including SUVs, minivans and smaller pickups to comply with new gas mileage standards.