US Says New Fuel Economy Rules to Cut GM Tech Costs by $20.4 Billion Through 2031

General Motors will see its technology costs decline by $20.4 billion through 2031 as a result of less stringent vehicle fuel economy rules finalized by the US Transportation Department, the agency said on September 28, 2026. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated total automaker technology costs will fall by $60.6 billion through 2031, or roughly $1,289 per vehicle. Under the prior 2024 rules, GM's costs had been projected at $31.7 billion. Stellantis will save $6.6 billion, Ford $5.8 billion, Toyota $4.5 billion and Honda $4.1 billion, NHTSA said. The new rule takes effect around early December and removes requirements to add emissions equipment or build more EVs. GM said it supports the rule's goal of aligning fuel economy standards with market realities. The 2024 rule had capped industry fines at $1.83 billion from 2027 through 2031.