A change in the White House could alter the rules for car makers.  The Department of Transportation and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency have decided to take another look at fuel economy standards finalized during the previous administration.  They would have increased to 54.5 mpg for 2025 model year cars and light-duty trucks.  These greenhouse gas emissions standards were established in 2012.  Regulations for the 2022-2025 model years had been up for review under the Midterm Evaluation process. Automotive groups objected to rushing that process.  EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt says they will “take a fresh look to determine if this approach is realistic”.  The EPA must make a decision by April 1, 2018.

If you drive with kids in the back seat, there’s a new way to keep an eye on them and the road ahead at the same time.  Magna International Inc. is announcing the latest addition to their EYERIS® camera technologies.  It’s a digital camera that provides a top-down view of the rear seats.  A display screen reveals what the camera sees to the driver.  Their technology also provides a rearview camera. Rearview cameras will become mandatory in the United States for all light-passenger vehicles in 2018.

There’s another choice if you’re shopping for a car with your computer.  Edmunds and State Farm are teaming up for digital car shopping.  The partnership gives customers access to Edmunds’ car buying tools.  The two hope their alliance will provide “a seamless and hassle-free approach to shopping for a car”.  Here’s the link: https://statefarm.edmunds.com/.