Senate closes in on 'cash-for-clunkers' vote

Fleet bill would encourage higher mpg cars

Gordon Trowbridge / Detroit News Washington Bureau

Washington -- Consumers are a step closer to getting thousands of dollars to trade in gas-guzzling vehicles for new models.

The Senate was close Tuesday to calling a vote on the bill to give consumers up to $4,500. The "cash-for-clunkers" legislation is part of a bill regulating tobacco. A vote could come today.

The Senate would also consider a competing measure, proposed by Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., aimed more at improving the fuel efficiency of the nation's auto fleet than boosting auto sales.

Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Lansing, and Sen. Sam Brownback, R-Kan., introduced their bill last month.

It would offer credits of up to $4,500 for consumers to trade in vehicles rated at 18 miles per gallon or less, if they buy a new vehicle of at least 22 mpg.

There are slightly different requirements for light trucks and business fleets.

Similar measures have boosted auto sales in other countries.

Sales in the United States have plunged amid the deep recession, and automakers and dealers have called the legislation crucial to helping them weather the downturn.

President Barack Obama, in remarks Monday on General Motors Corp.'s bankruptcy filing, urged Congress to pass such a bill.

The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers sent a letter to senators, urging them to pass the Stabenow-Brownback proposal.

"The U.S. is already well behind other major economies in adopting a fleet modernization program, and many buyers are now delaying purchase decisions until Congress acts," said the letter from Dave McCurdy, the group's president.

Stabenow said the measure would need 60 votes to pass, not a sure thing given the opposition of many Republicans on additional aid to the auto industry.

Also working against it: the desire of Democrats such as Feinstein to pursue environmental goals.

gtrowbridge@detnews.com (202) 662-8738