EPA Ends Credits for Automatic Start-Stop Vehicle Ignition

EPA Administrator Zeldin calls the feature 'everyone hates'

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Environmental Protection Agency announced an end to credits for automakers who install automatic start-stop ignition systems in vehicles, a technology intended to reduce emissions. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin called the feature the 'Obama switch' and said it makes vehicles 'die' at every red light and stop sign, claiming it 'kills the battery' without significant environmental benefits.

Why it matters

This move aligns with the Trump administration's broader efforts to roll back automotive industry regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting cleaner vehicles, including eliminating electric vehicle tax credits and weakening fuel economy standards.

The details

The start-stop technology automatically shuts down a vehicle's engine when the driver comes to a complete stop, then restarts it when the driver takes their foot off the brake. It was intended to cut idling, fuel consumption and emissions. About two-thirds of vehicles now have this feature, providing 7-26% fuel economy savings according to industry estimates. However, Zeldin claimed it 'kills the battery' and provides no significant environmental benefit.

  • On February 13, 2026, the EPA announced the end of credits for automakers installing start-stop systems.

The players

Lee Zeldin

The EPA Administrator who called the start-stop feature the 'Obama switch' and said 'everyone hates' it.

Donald Trump

The former President who joined Zeldin in announcing the repeal of the scientific finding known as endangerment, which has been the central basis for regulating U.S. greenhouse gas emissions.

Stellantis

The Jeep-maker that welcomed the deregulatory effort, saying it supports a 'rational, achievable approach' on fuel economy standards that 'preserves our customers' freedom of choice.'

Ford Motor Co.

The automaker that said it 'appreciates the work of President Trump and Administrator Zeldin to address the imbalance between current emissions standards and customer choice.'

General Motors

The automaker that deferred comment to the industry group Alliance for Automotive Innovation.

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The takeaway

This decision reflects the Trump administration's broader efforts to roll back automotive industry regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting cleaner vehicles, prioritizing 'customer choice' over environmental concerns.