Is it finally happening?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), under the direction of Administrator Lee Zeldin during Donald Trump’s presidency, is preparing to reconsider the controversial start/stop engine technology found in many newer vehicles. This feature, which automatically shuts off the engine when a vehicle is idle in traffic or at red lights, was introduced to help reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Although it offers a modest improvement in fuel economy—ranging from 3% to 10%—the technology has drawn widespread criticism from drivers who find it frustrating or unnecessary.
Zeldin recently indicated that the EPA is exploring ways to revise how this system is used and regulated. The agency currently encourages automakers to include the start/stop function through fuel-efficiency incentives. Despite these incentives, public opinion has grown increasingly negative, prompting calls for more flexibility or the option to disable the system more permanently.
Originally popularized in hybrid vehicles by European manufacturers, the start/stop system has since been implemented in a wide range of gas-powered cars, trucks, and SUVs. In response to consumer pushback, automakers like Buick, Ford, GM, and Volvo began allowing drivers to turn off the feature manually. However, most vehicles do not allow it to remain off permanently, requiring users to disable it each time they start the car.
This limitation is also tied to how the EPA calculates fuel efficiency. If a car allows the start/stop feature to be turned off permanently, it must be tested both with the system active and deactivated. The agency then averages the results for the vehicle’s official fuel economy rating, which often results in a lower score than if the system remained on continuously.
The growing dissatisfaction with start/stop technology has led the EPA to reassess its role in promoting the feature. Although details on potential changes remain unclear, Zeldin’s remarks suggest a move toward giving drivers more control and addressing the broader backlash. If implemented, these changes could influence future vehicle design and how fuel efficiency is measured and incentivized.
