Automotive experts predict fuel prices and mileage standards through 2020
Here are the numbers generated by the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute's Automotive Analysis Division survey of automotive experts:
- Gas prices will average slightly more than $4 a gallon by 2015 and just over $5 a gallon by 2020
- CAFE standards for cars is expected to increase from today's 27.5 miles per gallon to 33 mpg in 2015 and 38 mpg in 2020 -- a 38 percent jump
- CAFE standards for trucks will rise from the current 21.6 mpg to 27 mpg in 2015 and 31 mpg in 2020 -- a 44 percent increase
- Alternative-fueled engines will make up 42 percent of vehicle sales by 2015, and 55 percent by 2020
- The majority of alternative-fueled vehicles will be based on advanced diesel and hybrid technologies
According to this site, "More than 100 powertrain experts from across North America responded to UMTRI's online survey, which sought to examine strategic planning factors, alternative powertrain technologies, company barriers to the introduction of new powertrain technology, sourcing issues, powertrain and drivetrain technologies, and human resource issues through 2020. This continuing study also will examine the opinions and attitudes of powertrain experts in Asia and Europe over the coming months."
Reactions to this survey by Rick Wagoner and Tim Leuliette, chairman and CEO of Metaldyne, will be posted today as well.
(Edited for name correction)
[Source: Mitech News]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Roy Harvie 7:29PM (1/17/2007)
This is almost exactly what inflation has been for the last 40 years. Therefore the true price of gas adjusted for inflation will not change at all. If we all switch to battery powered cars and reduce demand for gasoline then I believe this prediction will hold true.
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Andy 8:22PM (1/17/2007)
The United States cannot continue to be dependent on petrol with the increase and danger of oil exporters and the pollution caused by petrol use. It's that simple. We have to reduce consumption with smart buying.
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greg lutz 9:26PM (1/22/2007)
Oil, gas, coal are not scarce commodities. The "chicken little" predictions are based on some primal fear that "the end is near". This fear has been around since the beginning of time.
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