One of the central tenets of the Obama administration's plan for lowering fuel costs and limiting gas consumption is a mandate that would require all automakers to provide more fleets with higher gas mileage. Though it might seem like a smart plan, experts say it could result in expensive cars that drive consumers away.

The study, from the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), found the mandate could raise the average price of cars and light trucks by as much as $3,000 by 2025. Though the more expensive vehicles may help consumers save money on gas, some experts say it's not enough to justify the increase in initial costs. Some dealers also warn that more expensive cars may make banks less likely to approve drivers for auto loans.

"To work, fuel economy improvements must be affordable," industry insider Don Chalmers said at a recent press briefing. "While you can mandate what automakers must build, you can’t dictate what customers will buy, nor can you dictate if a bank will make a loan."

As a result of the increased prices, NADA believes the mandate could result in 7 million drivers being shut out of the new vehicle market. According to The New York Times, the mandate, which was made in 2010, requires all automakers to create new cars that have an average of 35.5 miles per gallon by 2016.

While the prices of new cars may be rising due to new standards, there are still many fuel-efficient used vehicles available at New Jersey State Auto Auction. Whether you're looking for a compact used Ford or a pre-owned SUV, NJ Auto has a wide variety of makes and models that will appeal to every driver.