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Dr. Chu:
In synch with the new vehicle fuel efficiency
standards, I strongly recommend that a national maximum speed limit of about 60
mph be implemented ASAP for ALL vehicles. Such a limit would yield
IMMEDIATE benefits with EXISTING vehicles including:
- Greater fuel efficiency
- Reduced emissions
- Improved highway safety.
Future vehicle technologies and designs would be
more easily facilitated, simplified and cost reduced because top speeds
affect power sources, gearing, brakes, tires, crash protection features,
etc.
Automobiles are most fuel-efficient between 45 and
60 mph. Large trucks lose fuel efficiency over 50 mph.
However, 70 mph is the typical maximum auto speed limit (with parts of
Texas and Utah having 80 mph).
Congress is unlikely to initiate and pass the
needed, common sense legislation in a timely manner. A 60 / 65 mph bill proposed about a year ago by Representative
Jackie Speier, et al died in committee when the last Congress closed. With
other countries hoping for increased U.S. leadership on climate change and
sustainability, non-elected officials with technical backgrounds (like yourself
and NASA's Dr. James E. Hansen) must take a strong initiative based on
scientific realities!
Donald H. Albertson (retired industrial
engineer)
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