Start-Stop System Falls Out of Favor: U.S. Automakers Lose Incentives for Installing It

Automakers in the United States will no longer receive regulatory incentives for equipping vehicles with Start-Stop systems, following a decision by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). So what’s changing?

The EPA is rescinding a 2009 decision that outlined measures aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. As part of that move, automakers will no longer earn so-called “eco bonuses” for installing Start-Stop systems in their vehicles. Studies have shown that the feature has never been especially popular with many drivers.

According to the agency, the decision eliminates existing greenhouse gas emissions standards for vehicles — as well as related regulatory incentives for auto manufacturers.

Many drivers dislike Start-Stop systems because of how they operate. In most vehicles, the feature automatically reactivates every time the engine is restarted, meaning drivers who prefer to turn it off must manually disable it after each ignition cycle.

The most likely outcome for the U.S. market is not the immediate disappearance of the technology. Start-Stop systems require reinforced starters, upgraded alternators, and higher-capacity batteries, while key vehicle systems remain powered even when the engine is shut off. Instead of phasing the feature out entirely, automakers are more likely to revise the operating logic — potentially giving drivers the ability to permanently deactivate Start-Stop if they choose.