America's Most Wanted: The Big 6 Automakers

In order to achieve a safer, more secure energy future for America, the OEA charter calls for action to reform the business practices of the BIG 6 US Automakers, i.e. General Motors, Daimler-Chrysler, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and Ford. 

  • The transportation industry uses nearly 70% of the oil consumed in the US which is a leading cause of global warming, foreign conflicts, and economic crisis.
  • U.S. cars and light trucks together consume 8.2 million barrels per day of oil.
  • In the US the largest single source of climate change emissions [one-third] is transportation. We must halt pollution from U.S. cars and trucks to tackle global warming.
  • If the US auto industry were a country, it would rank 5th in Global Warming polluters just behind Japan and ahead of 188 other countries.
  • The fuel economy average for both cars and trucks is at its lowest point since 1980.

Strategic Imperatives for Threat Abatement

In order to avoid the profound national security threat posed by oil addiction, the Agency has defined the following strategic imperatives for the Big 6:

Immediate Abatement Procedures

  • Stop blocking progress. As Congress tries to pass laws to raise fuel-economy, the auto industry spends millions of dollars to block these advances. The Big 6 must let Congress do its job and save Americans money at the pump.
  • Innovate not litigate. The Big 6 spend billions to convince the public that they are committed to producing clean vehicles, yet they are suing California and ten other states to prevent the regulation of global warming pollution from tailpipes. It’s time to innovate not litigate.

Long Term Threat Abatement

  • The Big 6 must deliver commitments not concepts. The OEA will pursue full disclosure from auto companies regarding quantity and timeframe for mass-production of ultra-efficient vehicles.  Knowing that a conservative estimate with commercial, off-the-shelf technologies would double fuel economy in a decade, the Big Six must publicly set a target for fleet-wide fuel economy. Much more can be achieved with innovations such as electric vehicles and plug in hybrids. 
  • Reduce greenhouse gas pollution by a minimum of 4% per year. The OEA will work forcefully with the Big 6 to help them restructure as environmental leaders. America can’t afford to wait any longer.

Failure to submit corporate planning documents that unequivocally demonstrate these commitments, will lead to Agency action.