WASHINGTON, Aug. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) today issued the “Safer Affordable Fuel-Efficient (SAFE) Vehicles Rule for Model Years 2021-2026 Passenger Cars and Light Trucks (SAFE Vehicles Rule),”a notice of proposed rulemaking that would freeze fuel economy standards at model year (MY) 2020 levels for MY 2021-2026. The American Chemistry Council issued the following statement, which may be attributed to Steve Russell, vice president of ACC’s Plastics Division:

“Advanced plastic and polymer composites are improving the safety, design, and efficiency of automobiles sold in the United States today and will continue to do so. NHTSA has determined through its own scientific research [ DOT HS 811 692 ,  DOT HS 812 404 ] that lightweight plastics and polymer composites maintain crashworthiness while improving fuel efficiency. ACC will work with the Administration to ensure the value of lightweight plastic and polymer composites and the high-skilled manufacturing jobs in the United States that produce them are reflected in the final rulemaking. These technologies—which are made in America and exported around the world—make the U.S. a leader in this economically vital industry.

“Plastic composites can absorb up to 12 times the crush energy of alternatives. Experts have found that the size of a vehicle is much more relevant to passenger safety than its weight. The latest science clearly shows that lightweight plastic and composite materials maintain and in some cases improve automotive safety.

“Advanced plastic and composite materials will remain essential to economically enhancing vehicle safety features, reducing vehicle related injuries and fatalities, and optimizing performance and consumer preference through design flexibility.

“ACC and its member companies will continue to innovate to bring the safety and design benefits of lightweight plastic and polymer composites to American consumers.”

http://www.americanchemistry.com

The American Chemistry Council (ACC) represents the leading companies engaged in the business of chemistry. ACC members apply the science of chemistry to make innovative products and services that make people's lives better, healthier and safer. ACC is committed to improved environmental, health and safety performance through Responsible Care®; common sense advocacy designed to address major public policy issues; and health and environmental research and product testing. The business of chemistry is a $768 billion enterprise and a key element of the nation's economy. It is among the largest exporters in the nation, accounting for fourteen percent of all U.S. goods exports. Chemistry companies are among the largest investors in research and development. Safety and security have always been primary concerns of ACC members, and they have intensified their efforts, working closely with government agencies to improve security and to defend against any threat to the nation’s critical infrastructure.

Jennifer Killinger (202) 249-6619                                                                                            Email: jennifer_killinger@americanchemistry.com