Detroit jumps into the fuel economy debate

For decades, as Americans enjoyed low-priced gasoline and bought large, gas-guzzling pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, Detroit


In early April, the Supreme Court ruled that the federal government has the authority to limit greenhouse gas-producing emissions from vehicles. The primary way to do that is to increase the fuel economy of automobiles, experts say, making the prospect of new fuel economy standards likely for cars and light trucks, the category that includes pickups and SUVs.

New rules would have a major impact on the nation