US legislators have been debating the best means for advancing new fuel economy standards, as both sides of the political divide discuss the current energy policy.

Transportation secretary Norman Mineta led debate at the Energy and Commerce Committee, reporting to the House of Representatives on the development of the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards.

While support for increasing the stringency of the regulations has begun to grow, Mr Mineta said the plans could take years to yield a significant effect.

Citing the moon race launched in President John F Kennedy's time, which called for moon landings within a decade, Mr Mineta said it was important to look at the long-term.

Despite failing to offer a clear plan for the development or establish definitive targets for vehicle efficiency, he extended qualified support from the Bush administration.

Last week the president met with Congress members to discuss the future of the country's energy policy, with CAFE standards among the issues addressed.

However, some figures are now calling for greater detail, with representatives already positing potential targets.

Republican Sherwood Boehlert has already tabled a bill garnering more than 150 votes which proposed the vehicle average of 33 miles per gallon by 2016.

Manufacturers are reluctant to agree to strict standards which they say will prove costly and unworkable, preferring instead to concentrate on new technologies and innovations.


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