Skip to Content
Streetsblog USA home
Streetsblog USA home
Log In

The Obama administration plans to close the door on the politically popular and environmentally slipshod auto trade-in program known as "cash for clunkers," according to a report this afternoon in the Wall Street Journal:

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said Wednesday he would disclosewithin two days updated figures on the program, including how much ofthe $3 billion in funding was left. He said he would also offer ablueprint for how the administration will wind down the program toensure all vouchers issued by dealers are reimbursed by the governmentbefore the money runs out.

"They're going to get their money," Mr. LaHood said, responding todealers' complaints of payment delays. "There will be no car dealerthat won't be reimbursed."

Auto dealers have submitted claims to about $1.8 billion of the program's taxpayer-funded rebates, which represents 435,102 vehicle purchases, according to data released today by the U.S. DOT.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog USA

Friday’s Headlines Drink From the Firehose

A key DOT nominee's role in Project 2025, more dubious executive orders, climate change accelerates and more headlines.

February 7, 2025

Friday Video: It’s Been a Week! Take A Breath And Watch People Bike In Utrecht

Take a break, regulate yourself, and get back to fighting for a better future for transportation in America.

February 7, 2025

Commentary: It’s Time for Newsom to Bring it Home on High Speed Rail

Oil-funded, Trumpian Republicans long-ago decided to turn California's HSR project into a political football. If they want to play games, then it's long past time for California Democrats to stop jerking around and play to win.

February 6, 2025

Talking Headway Podcast: 20 is Plenty in Wales

Welsh MP Lee Waters and the University of Sydney's Dr. Jennifer Kent on how Wales passed a national 20 mph speed limit.

February 6, 2025

Who is Trump’s FTA Pick Marc Molinaro — And Will He Kill Congestion Pricing?

If confirmed, Trump FTA pick Marc Molinaro can do a lot to gum up funding for mass transit across the country. Here's a look at his record.

February 6, 2025
See all posts