Words: Andrew Sluys
Published 14 February 2026
The Trump administration has stated plans to end an incentive for automakers to install the controversial “stop/start” feature in vehicles.
As part of an effort to reduce overall greenhouse emissions, the feature was first implemented to shut off modern vehicles at idle.
The Environmental Protection Agency labelled the feature “almost universally hated” when it made its announcement.
Data shows around two-thirds of all modern vehicles are fitted with the stop/start technology, which provides two main benefits; it reduces emissions and improves overall fuel economy.
Studies have found it can improve fuel economy by between seven and 26 per cent, depending on the vehicle, and driving conditions.
When speaking on the matter at the White House, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin hopes this move would save consumers when they bought a new vehicle.
“There will be no more climate participation trophies awarded to manufacturers for making Americans’ cars die at every red light and stop sign,” Zeldin said. “It’s over, done, finished.”
In response to the ruling, US automakers were resoundingly positive about it.
Ford stated it appreciated the effort “to address the imbalance between current emissions standards and customer choice.”
Stellanits echoed this sentiment; “because it enables us to continue offering Americans a broad range of cars, trucks and SUVs – including BEVs, REEVs, hybrids and efficient internal combustion engines – that they want, need and can afford.”
