why can't we force out the technology instead of being forced into compliance;ie fuel emiss and economy?

Answer 1

Is all about money, who will make the most if laws are pass and who will lose the most if we change technology.
Example. DuPont have the government pass a law to change all freon because the R132 patent was bout to expire and other company could start producing it. Now new car has to use the freon that only DuPont make, hint more money for them.

Answer 2

Because a car is *alot* faster than a horse.

In any case, creating a next to zero emmission vehicle is a good thing.