Automakers Sought Looser Rules; Now Hope to Stop Trump From Going Too Far

"President Trump on Friday is expected to meet with the chief executives of the world’s major automakers to deliver a pointed message: Get on board with the administration’s plan to dramatically roll back fuel economy requirements, according to interviews with four people close to the administration’s thinking.

However, this past Tuesday in House testimony, Mitch Bainwol, the auto industry’s top lobbyist, suggested that the automakers have a different message: They are continuing to urge the Trump administration, he said, “to find a solution that continues to increase fuel efficiency standards.”

That sets up an awkward meeting with Mr. Trump. It is a tricky situation of the carmakers’ own making."

Hiroko Tabuchi and Neal E. Boudette report for the New York Times May 9, 2018.