Mexican automakers fear that new greenhouse gas emissions and fuel efficiency standards will lead to steep rises in the cost of new vehicles.
Eduardo Solis, president of the Mexican Automobile Industry Association (AMIA), says the new regulation (Norma Oficial Mexican 163) – currently open to public consultation – could see the average cost of a new car increase by 35,000 pesos.
The rules aim to bring vehicle carbon dioxide emissions in line with the United States and oblige car makers to have an average fuel economy level of 14.9 kilometers per liter throughout their range.The United States and Mexico, however, are still on different pages when it comes to promoting environmentally-responsible behavior.
Since 2006, individuals and businesses who buy new hybrid, electric or diesel fuel vehicles in the United States can take advantage of generous tax credits offered in most states. No similar incentives are available in Mexico.