This spring, with the full support of U.S. automakers, the administration set a rigorous standard for automobile fuel economy ”“ 35.5 miles per gallon by 2016.

This requirement will benefit consumers, the economy and the environment, and it sets a single, national standard that automakers can live with. As President Obama said in May, “Instead of fighting higher standards, auto manufacturers are engaged in a race to meet them.”

But the race shouldn’t end in 2016, and it won’t. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Transportation are developing fuel efficiency standards for 2017 and beyond.

The standards for model years for 2017 through 2025, of course, should be far better than 35.5 miles per gallon. American industries routinely set challenging standards and achieve them, and there are already hybrid cars on the road that can exceed 50 miles per gallon.

A coalition of environmental organizations ”“ Go 60 MPG ”“ is pressing for a fuel efficiency standard topping out at 60 miles per gallon. If achieved, it could save Americans more than $100 billion at the gas pump in 2030. Maine residents would save $427 million, according to Environment Maine.

Better fuel economy will cut transportation costs as well, and it will support national security by reducing our dependence on foreign oil. It will benefit the environment by holding down emissions and reducing the risk of oil spills.

The automobile industry may be reluctant to establish tougher standards so soon after agreeing to achieve an average of 35.5 miles per gallon. But the industry, and its customers, should embrace the 60-miles-per-gallon goal. If it’s a question of meeting consumer demand, car companies have shown they are able to be nimble and inventive.

— Questions? Comments? Contact Managing Editor Nick Cowenhoven at nickc@journaltribune.com.