Includes bibliographical references and index.

The automobile industry in transition -- The costs of safety and emissions regulation -- The effects of regulation on automobile safety -- Automobile emissions control -- Regulation of fuel economy -- The confliciting goals of regulation. Study of government policy and regulations affecting the motor vehicle industry in the USA - considers the industry's market, profitability, competitiveness, etc.; comments on legislation with regard to standards for vehicle safety, air pollution and fuel economy (energy conservation); presents a cost benefit analysis of production costs, automobile maintenance, mortality related to road traffic, etc., following the application of the programmes; discusses conflicting goals of regulations. Graphs, references, statistical tables.