US lawmakers approve energy bill

Carmakers, such as GM, are developing plug-in cars to save fuel

An energy bill that would require the first rise in vehicle fuel efficiency in more than 30 years has been passed by the US House of Representatives.

The bill, which is expected to face resistance from the Senate and White House, also imposes $13bn in taxes on big energy companies.

It would raise vehicle fuel economy by 40% by 2020 and require greater use of greener energy sources such as ethanol.

The House of Representatives passed the bill by a vote of 235-181.

"Their proposal would raise taxes and increase energy prices for Americans," the White House said in a statement.

"This is a misguided approach and if it made it to the president's desk, he would veto it."

The centrepiece of the bill is an increase in fuel economy standards to 35 miles per gallon (15 km per litre) - the first change in rules since 1975.

Analysts said the bill is unlikely to survive intact, but a pared-down version could become law if controversial tax and renewable electricity provisions are dropped.