Fuel Economy Rules Rolled Back — EV Sales Fall, Hybrids Surge
About this episode
Fuel economy standards are being rolled back, dropping from 50.4 to 34.5 mpg by 2031, which could shift automaker focus back to gas vehicles and slow EV development. EV sales are declining, while hybrids are gaining popularity due to tax credit changes and charging concerns. The episode also covers RAM's recall of over 72,000 trucks, Jaguar's design chief departure, and highlights from November sales across major brands like Honda, Subaru, and Kia. The discussion emphasizes the evolving landscape of the automotive market and consumer preferences.
Welcome back to Weekly Wheelhouse — Auto News. Simplified.
I’m Jim with Off the Shelf Rides, and this week we break down the biggest U.S. automotive stories shaping the market right now.
Fuel economy standards are being rolled back, dropping fleet targets to 34.5 MPG by 2031 — a move aimed at lowering vehicle prices but likely increasing fuel costs long-term.
EV sales continue to slow, while hybrids surge across nearly every major automaker as buyers look for a practical middle ground.
Ram recalls over 72,000 trucks due to blank digital instrument clusters that could affect driver visibility.
The U.S. auto market fell about 7% in November, with weak EV demand driving most of the decline.
In Segment 2, we cover November sales reports from Honda, Subaru, Kia, Hyundai, and Ford, plus the debut of the 2026 Subaru Trailseeker EV.
We also recap my latest review of the 2025 Mazda CX-5 Turbo Premium, talk about what I’m driving now, and preview what’s coming next.
If this helped you stay informed, hit like, subscribe, and thanks for watching Weekly Wheelhouse!
2025 Mazda CX-5 Review - https://youtu.be/Y73FgvgrsfY?si=uQn5P9OgbXbW1ZEM
fuel economy standards
"The biggest story out there is the fuel economy standards rollback. The Trump administration has moved to rollback the US fuel economy standards."
Fuel economy standards are rules that tell car manufacturers how many miles their cars should be able to drive on a gallon of fuel. The goal is to make cars more efficient and better for the environment.
Fuel economy standards are regulations set by the government that dictate the minimum miles per gallon (MPG) that vehicles must achieve. These standards are intended to improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles.
miles per gallon (MPG)
"The fleet-wide targets dropped from about 50.4 miles per gallon down to 34.5 miles per gallon by 2031."
Miles per gallon (MPG) tells you how far a car can go using one gallon of fuel. A higher MPG means the car is more fuel-efficient and can travel farther on less gas.
Miles per gallon (MPG) is a measure of how far a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. It is commonly used to indicate a vehicle's fuel efficiency, with higher MPG values signifying better efficiency.
EV
"Next, EV sales are falling while hybrids are surging. New sales data shows EV demand slowed significantly in November, with several EVs posting double-digit declines."
An EV, or electric vehicle, is a car that uses electricity to power its motor instead of gasoline. This means they produce no tailpipe emissions and can be cheaper to run over time.
EV stands for electric vehicle, which is a car that runs entirely on electricity instead of gasoline or diesel. They are known for being environmentally friendly and often have lower operating costs compared to traditional vehicles.
hybrid
"Meanwhile, hybrid sales continue climbing across nearly every major brand. This trend is tied to changing tax credit rules, charging concerns, and the higher cost of EV ownership."
A hybrid car uses both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. This helps it save fuel and produce fewer emissions than regular cars.
A hybrid vehicle combines a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. This technology allows for better fuel savings compared to conventional vehicles.
RAM 2500
"This affects certain 2025 and 2026 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 model plus cab chassis variants."
The RAM 2500 is a larger truck than the RAM 1500, built for tougher jobs. It can carry heavier loads and tow more.
The RAM 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck designed for more demanding tasks, offering increased towing and payload capacities compared to the RAM 1500. It is often used for commercial purposes.
Ram 3500
"This affects certain 2025 and 2026 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 model plus cab chassis variants."
The RAM 3500 is even bigger and stronger than the RAM 2500, designed for the toughest jobs and can carry the heaviest loads.
The RAM 3500 is a heavy-duty truck that provides maximum towing and payload capabilities, making it ideal for commercial use and heavy hauling.
Ram 1500
"This affects certain 2025 and 2026 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 model plus cab chassis variants."
The RAM 1500 is a big truck that people use for work and everyday driving. It's known for being powerful and comfortable.
The RAM 1500 is a full-size pickup truck known for its strong performance, comfort, and advanced technology features. It is popular among consumers for both work and personal use.
Jaguar
"Next, Jaguar Fires design chief Jerry McGovern. Jaguar Land Rover has removed longtime design boss Jerry McGovern, the architect behind the modern Range Rover lineup, and the more controversial Jaguar EV Direction."
Jaguar is a well-known car brand from the UK that makes luxury cars. They are famous for their stylish designs and high performance.
Jaguar is a British luxury vehicle brand known for its performance and design. It has a rich history and is part of the Jaguar Land Rover group, which also includes Land Rover, a brand known for its off-road vehicles.
Land Rover Range Rover
"...s Jerry McGovern, the architect behind the modern Range Rover lineup, and the more controversial Jaguar EV Dire..."
The Range Rover is a fancy SUV that can go off-road but also feels very nice inside. People talk about it because it's seen as a status symbol and is great for both rough terrains and city driving.
The Land Rover Range Rover is a luxury SUV known for its off-road capabilities and opulent features. It has a significant place in automotive history as a symbol of prestige and adventure, often discussed for its blend of performance and comfort.
luxury vehicle
"This leadership change signals that Jaguar may be rethinking its future design language and its ultra-luxury EV plans."
A luxury vehicle is a fancy car that offers more comfort and better features than regular cars. They are often made with high-quality materials and have advanced technology.
A luxury vehicle is a car that provides a higher level of comfort, equipment, and performance than standard cars. These vehicles often come with premium materials, advanced technology, and superior craftsmanship.
EV (Electric Vehicle)
"This leadership change signals that Jaguar may be rethinking its future design language and its ultra-luxury EV plans. The big EV sales were the biggest factor in the decline."
An EV is a car that runs on electricity instead of gasoline. They are better for the environment and are becoming more common as technology improves.
An EV, or Electric Vehicle, is a type of vehicle that is powered entirely or partially by electricity. They are becoming increasingly popular due to their environmental benefits and advancements in battery technology.
Honda Passport
"... keeping year-to-date results up 1.8 percent. The passport had one of its best November showings ever, and t..."
The Passport is a roomy SUV that’s good for families and trips. It's getting more popular because it has a lot of space and is comfortable to drive.
The Honda Passport is a midsize SUV that offers a spacious interior and strong performance, making it ideal for families and outdoor adventures. Its recent sales success highlights its growing popularity in a competitive market.
Honda Civic
"...the passport had one of its best November showings ever, and the CR-V and Civic continued to anchor Honda's lineup."
The Honda Civic is a small car made by Honda that has been popular for many years. It's known for being fun to drive and getting good gas mileage.
The Honda Civic is a compact car that has been a staple in Honda's lineup for decades. It is known for its sporty design, fuel efficiency, and strong resale value, appealing to a wide range of drivers.
Honda Crv
"...the passport had one of its best November showings ever, and the CR-V and Civic continued to anchor Honda's lineup."
The Honda CR-V is a popular compact SUV made by Honda. It's known for being roomy and good on gas, which makes it a favorite for families.
The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV that has been one of Honda's best-selling models. It is known for its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and reliability, making it a popular choice among families.
Subaru Crosstrek
"Subaru sold 52,081 vehicles last month, with the Crosstrek remaining the brand's number one seller."
The Subaru Crosstrek is a small SUV that can drive well in tough weather conditions. It's popular for its ability to handle different terrains and is great for adventures.
The Subaru Crosstrek is a compact crossover SUV known for its all-wheel drive capability and versatility, making it popular among outdoor enthusiasts.
Subaru Forester
"The Outback and Forester also performed well, reinforcing Subaru's strength in the all-wheel drive crossover market."
The Subaru Forester is a small SUV that has a lot of room inside and is very safe. It can drive well in different weather conditions, making it a good family car.
The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV known for its spacious interior, high safety ratings, and standard all-wheel drive, making it a popular choice for families.
all-wheel drive
"...reinforcing Subaru's strength in the all-wheel drive crossover market."
All-wheel drive means that all four wheels of a car get power from the engine, which helps the car grip the road better, especially in bad weather or off-road.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system that provides power to all four wheels of a vehicle, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Subaru Outback
"The Outback and Forester also performed well, reinforcing Subaru's strength in the all-wheel drive crossover market."
The Subaru Outback is a type of vehicle that looks like a car but has more space and can handle rough roads and bad weather. It's good for families and outdoor activities.
The Subaru Outback is a wagon-like SUV that combines the features of a car and an SUV, offering spaciousness and all-wheel drive for various driving conditions.
Subaru Solterra
"However, the Solterra EV continues to struggle, which mirrors the EV slowdown across the industry."
The Subaru Solterra is a new electric SUV from Subaru. It uses electricity instead of gas, which is better for the environment, but it's having a hard time selling well right now.
The Subaru Solterra is an all-electric SUV that marks Subaru's entry into the electric vehicle market, focusing on sustainability and advanced technology.
Kia Sportage
"...king it the best November in company history. The Sportage, Seltos, and Carnival all hit their highest Novem..."
The Sportage is a small SUV that’s popular because it has a lot of features and looks good. Many people like it for its value and comfort.
The Kia Sportage is a compact SUV that has evolved into a stylish and feature-rich vehicle, appealing to a wide range of buyers. Its recent sales success reflects its strong value proposition and modern design.
Kia Seltos
"...e best November in company history. The Sportage, Seltos, and Carnival all hit their highest November tota..."
The Seltos is a small SUV that looks cool and has a lot of space inside. It’s popular with younger people because it’s affordable and has modern features.
The Kia Seltos is a subcompact SUV that combines a stylish design with a spacious interior and advanced technology features. Its strong sales performance indicates its appeal to younger buyers looking for a versatile and affordable vehicle.
0-60 time
"...producing 375 horsepower with a 0 to 60 time of just 4.4 seconds. This makes it the quickest Subaru ever sold in the United States."
0-60 time tells you how fast a car can go from a stop to 60 miles per hour. A lower number means the car is quicker.
0-60 time is a measure of how quickly a vehicle can accelerate from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour. It's often used as a benchmark for a car's performance.
NAX charging access
"...and includes standard all-wheel drive plus a NAX charging access. Subaru says the Trailseeker blends performance off-road capability and everyday usability in one package."
NAX charging access is a way for electric cars to charge their batteries quickly. It makes it easier for drivers to find places to charge their cars.
NAX charging access refers to a specific type of charging network or standard that allows electric vehicles to charge efficiently. It is important for the convenience of EV owners.
Ford Maverick
"...t year. Hybrid sales continue to climb led by the Maverick Hybrid and the Escape Hybrid. Ford's EVs, however..."
The Maverick is a small truck that’s easy on the wallet and offers a hybrid version, which means it saves gas. It's popular because it’s practical for everyday use and has a modern design.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck that has gained attention for its affordability and hybrid option, making it a practical choice for those needing utility without sacrificing fuel efficiency. Its introduction marks Ford's return to the small truck market, appealing to a new generation of buyers.
Ford Escape
"...tinue to climb led by the Maverick Hybrid and the Escape Hybrid. Ford's EVs, however, dropped to roughly 6..."
The Escape is a small SUV that’s good for families and has options that save gas. It’s popular because it’s practical and has a lot of modern tech features.
The Ford Escape is a compact SUV that offers a balance of performance, comfort, and technology, with hybrid options available for better fuel efficiency. Its popularity in the market highlights the growing demand for versatile and eco-friendly vehicles.
Ford Bronco Sport
"F-Series, Bronco Sport, and commercial models remain key drivers for Ford's overall volume."
The Ford Bronco Sport is a small SUV that is good for off-road driving but also comfortable for regular use.
The Ford Bronco Sport is a compact SUV designed for off-road capability while providing a comfortable ride for everyday use.
Ford F-Series
"F-Series, Bronco Sport, and commercial models remain key drivers for Ford's overall volume."
The Ford F-Series includes a range of trucks, like the F-150, that are well-known for being tough and able to do heavy work.
The Ford F-Series is a line of trucks known for their durability and capability, including popular models like the F-150.
Mazda Cx5
"rides. And the first one is going to be my review of the 2025 Mazda CX-5 Turbo Premium. Now it was a nice comfortable ride."
The CX-5 is a small SUV that looks nice and is fun to drive. The Turbo Premium version has more power, making it a great choice for people who want a sporty feel in an SUV.
The Mazda CX-5 is a compact SUV known for its stylish design and engaging driving experience. The 2025 Turbo Premium model emphasizes performance while maintaining comfort, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a spirited drive.
horsepower
"You get 256 horsepower with 320 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel. That drops about 20 horsepower if you use regular 87 octane gasoline."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful a car's engine is. More horsepower usually means the car can go faster and accelerate better.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, indicating how much work an engine can perform over time. In automotive terms, higher horsepower typically means better acceleration and performance.
torque
"You get 256 horsepower with 320 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel. That drops about 20 horsepower if you use regular 87 octane gasoline."
Torque is a way to measure how strong an engine is when it comes to moving the car. Higher torque means the car can start moving faster and pull heavier loads.
Torque is a measure of rotational force, which in cars translates to how quickly and effectively an engine can move the vehicle. It's especially important for acceleration and towing capacity.
octane gasoline
"That drops about 20 horsepower if you use regular 87 octane gasoline."
Octane gasoline refers to a rating that tells you how well the fuel can handle pressure in the engine. Higher numbers mean the fuel is better for powerful engines, while lower numbers are fine for regular cars.
Octane rating measures a fuel's ability to resist knocking during combustion. Higher octane fuels, like premium gasoline, can improve performance in high-compression engines, while lower octane fuels are suitable for standard engines.
compact SUV
"You do get standard all-wheel drive, and it is one of the most balanced chassis setups in the compact SUV segment."
A compact SUV is a smaller type of SUV that is easier to drive and park than larger SUVs. It usually has enough space for passengers and cargo, making it a good choice for families or city driving.
A compact SUV is a smaller sport utility vehicle that typically offers a balance of passenger space, cargo capacity, and fuel efficiency. They are popular for their versatility and ease of driving in urban environments.
cargo space
"The cargo space and tech updates make the CX-5 feel more premium than its price actually suggests."
Cargo space is the room inside a car where you can put your bags, groceries, or anything else you need to carry. More cargo space means you can fit more stuff in the car.
Cargo space refers to the area within a vehicle designated for storing luggage, groceries, or other items. It is a key factor for many buyers when choosing a vehicle, especially for families or those needing to transport goods.
tech updates
"The cargo space and tech updates make the CX-5 feel more premium than its price actually suggests."
Tech updates are improvements or new features in a car's technology, like better sound systems, navigation, or safety features. They make the car more enjoyable and easier to use.
Tech updates refer to the enhancements or new features added to a vehicle's technology systems, such as infotainment, safety, and connectivity options. These updates can improve the overall driving experience and user satisfaction.
Toyota Corolla
"...ng next. So this week I'm driving the 2026 Toyota Corolla Hybrid SE. You get about 138 horsepower, 50 miles..."
The Corolla is a very popular car that people trust to last a long time and save on gas. The new hybrid version is even better for the environment while still being a great everyday car.
The Toyota Corolla is one of the best-selling cars in history, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. The 2026 model introduces a hybrid variant, appealing to eco-conscious consumers looking for a dependable vehicle.
suspension
"the SE trim adds a sporty or suspension feel and look. So so far suspension is on the stiff side."
Suspension is what helps a car ride smoothly over bumps and turns. It connects the car's body to the wheels and helps keep everything stable.
The suspension system of a vehicle includes components that connect the car to its wheels, allowing for smooth handling and comfort while driving. It plays a crucial role in ride quality and vehicle dynamics.
Jeep Gladiator
"...eeks. And next week I'll be driving the 2025 Jeep Gladiator High Tide. It comes with a 3.6 liter V6, willy su..."
The Gladiator is a truck that looks like a Jeep, so it’s great for off-roading and has a bed for carrying stuff. It's popular with people who love outdoor activities and need a tough vehicle.
The Jeep Gladiator is a unique pickup truck that combines the ruggedness of a Jeep with the functionality of a truck bed. It stands out for its off-road capabilities and versatility, making it a popular choice among adventure enthusiasts.
3.6 liter V6
"...It comes with a 3.6 liter V6, willy suspension, mud terrain tires, and a unique appearance package with the body color hard top."
A 3.6 liter V6 engine is a specific kind of engine that has six cylinders and is known for being powerful while still being fairly efficient. It's commonly used in many vehicles.
The 3.6 liter V6 is a type of engine configuration that features six cylinders arranged in a V shape and has a displacement of 3.6 liters, providing a balance of power and efficiency.
mud terrain tires
"...It comes with a 3.6 liter V6, willy suspension, mud terrain tires, and a unique appearance package with the body color hard top."
Mud terrain tires are a type of tire made for driving on muddy or rough ground. They have special patterns that help the vehicle grip the surface better when off-roading.
Mud terrain tires are specially designed tires that provide enhanced traction and grip on muddy and off-road surfaces, making them ideal for off-road vehicles like the Jeep Gladiator.
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