Australia Implements First Vehicle Emissions Rule, Mirroring US Mistakes

The Albanese government introduces Australia's inaugural vehicle emissions legislation, aiming to halve new car emissions by 2029 but faces criticism for adopting US-style loopholes for large SUVs.

• Australia's first vehicle emissions rule aims to cut new car emissions by over 50% by 2029, saving $95 billion in fuel costs by 2050.
• The legislation categorizes large SUVs as 'light commercial vehicles,' allowing them higher emissions limits, a move criticized for mirroring problematic US policies.
• Automaker lobbying led to a watering down of the original proposal, reducing the projected carbon emissions cut from 369 million to 321 million tons by 2050.
• The new rules are expected to pass despite opposition criticism, marking a significant step for Australia's environmental policy.
• Critics argue the legislation isn't ambitious enough to address the global climate crisis, with calls for more stringent standards.

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