The Bush administration proposed new fuel economy standards Tuesday for pickup trucks, minivans and some sport utility vehicles, calling on automakers to make modest improvements to gas mileage amid rising prices at the pump.

The plan would require the auto industry to raise standards for most light trucks – which include pickup trucks, minivans and SUVs – beginning in 2008 and to be completed by 2011.

But the largest SUVs, such as the Hummer H2, and cars would not be affected by the plan.

Transportation Secretary Norm Mineta said the program would be expected to save about 10 billion gallons of gasoline.

Automakers currently are required to maintain an average of 27.5 miles per gallon for passenger cars and 21 mpg for light trucks.