The Trump administration is taking steps to address a feature in many modern cars that drivers love to hate: the start/stop technology. This feature automatically shuts down the engine when a vehicle stops, like at red lights, to save fuel. While it helps with fuel efficiency, many drivers find it frustrating.
On Monday, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would look into modifying this technology. The EPA has encouraged car manufacturers to use start/stop systems, which can improve fuel economy by 3% to 10%. However, Zeldin’s comments reflect a growing dissatisfaction among drivers. He stated on social media, “Start/stop technology: where your car dies at every red light so companies get a climate participation trophy. EPA approved it, and everyone hates it, so we’re fixing it.”
Although Zeldin did not provide specific details on how the EPA plans to change the system, the announcement has sparked a positive response online. Many people agree that addressing this feature makes sense.
Start/stop technology first appeared in hybrid vehicles from European manufacturers but has since spread to many new cars, including SUVs and trucks. By 2019, several automakers began allowing drivers to turn off the start/stop system due to complaints. Buick was one of the first to offer this option with its 2019 Envision model, followed by Ford, GM, Volvo, and Lincoln.
Even though many cars let drivers deactivate the start/stop feature, it often cannot be turned off permanently. This means that drivers have to manually disable it each time they start their vehicle. Additionally, the EPA’s fuel economy ratings for these vehicles can be affected if drivers choose to turn off the system, as the ratings are based on tests conducted with the feature both active and inactive.
As the EPA moves forward with this initiative, it appears they are responding to the voices of frustrated drivers who want more control over their vehicles.