UCSVanguard 2009

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) developed the Vanguard blueprint to show that current technologies—such as cylinder deactivation, turbocharging, and continuously variable transmissions—can reduce global warming emissions across all vehicle classes. The report argues that while individual components are already used in many 2008 model year vehicles, automakers are resisting the implementation of full technology packages that would meet the 2016 clean car standard. Financial analysis indicates that for various vehicle types, the increase in purchase price for these upgrades would be offset by lifetime consumer savings, with payback periods ranging from 2.1 to 3.6 years.

• The Vanguard blueprint utilizes existing technologies and fuels to meet California's global warming emission standards while maintaining expected safety and performance levels.
• Specific technical components identified to reduce emissions include cylinder deactivation, turbocharging, stoichiometric direct injection, variable valve lift and timing, improved A/C refrigerants (such as HFC-152a), better aerodynamics, low rolling resistance tires, and advanced transmissions (continuously variable and automatic manual).
• Applying the Vanguard technology package to different vehicle classes results in a net lifetime financial gain for consumers, with the shortest payback period of 2.1 years for midsize SUVs and fullsize pickup trucks.
• The document asserts that automakers are actively working to block emission laws in California and 14 other states despite the availability of these cost-effective technologies.

APA

Union of Concerned Scientists (2009). UCSVanguard 2009. https://www.ucs.org/sites/default/files/2019-09/Vanguard-2009-Fact-Sheet.pdf

Chicago

Union of Concerned Scientists. UCSVanguard 2009. 2009. https://www.ucs.org/sites/default/files/2019-09/Vanguard-2009-Fact-Sheet.pdf.

Wikipedia

{{cite report |author=Union of Concerned Scientists |title=UCSVanguard 2009 |date=2009 |url=https://www.ucs.org/sites/default/files/2019-09/Vanguard-2009-Fact-Sheet.pdf |access-date=23 October 2026 |via=Climate Insights Directory}}

BibTeX

@techreport{unionofconcernedscientists2009ucsvanguard, author = {{Union of Concerned Scientists}}, title = {{UCSVanguard 2009}}, institution = {Union of Concerned Scientists}, year = {2009}, url = {https://www.ucs.org/sites/default/files/2019-09/Vanguard-2009-Fact-Sheet.pdf}, urldate = {2026-10-23}, note = {Indexed by Climate Insights Directory} }