Simple and straightforward solutions (re: things that actually fix problems and don't sweep them under a rug for a few years) don't win elections. Which, unfortunately, is the only thing that matters in US government most days..
As much for upkeep. I guarantee that the money isn't anywhere near enough to make a difference.
I also notice that it isn't measured in fuel efficiency, but in vehicle type. Why aren't registration fees based on how fuel efficient the vehicle is instead of what kind of vehicle it is if it's just about gas taxes?
It can... but it won't. As the other commenter said, they'll just squeeze the money out of other parts of the supply chain. Either by going even cheaper on safety and emissions (causing more problems) or squeezing their workers out of money.
These companies have decades, if not centuries, of practice in ensuring they can maximize their profit in any way possible. Taking a nibble here and there isn't going to do shit for the overall problem.
Cool. But until you actually do something about the producers, it's just a giant bandaid for a gushing mortal wound. It stems the tide, but you're still bleeding to death.
They're not, actually. Just because you only see Epic (which still has market share despite every effort they've made to drive people away) doesn't mean there aren't other storefronts.
"I prefer a quality storefront that at least presents the pretense of caring about providing a quality product to one that just wants to separate me from my money"
Taking the most positive likely option, developer salaries. Possibly repaying past investment that they used to pay salaries before they published as well.
Obviously corruption is a possibility, but it's not the only possible answer.
That obviously being the only other choice, of course.