In a recent report, Fox Business’ Hillary Vaughn shared that the Biden administration appeared to be tapping the brakes on its aggressive push for electric vehicles ahead of the 2024 election. Here’s the full story.
Biden’s Revised Plan for EV Adoption
Vaughn shared that the Biden administration’s initial plan aimed at making 67% of new car sales electric vehicles by 2032. However, major automakers, including GM, Ford, and Toyota, expressed concerns about the feasibility of this ambitious target. Last year, only 7% of new car sales were electric vehicles, signaling a significant gap between the set goal and the actual market adoption.
The video added that reports suggest that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is now finalizing a revised rule, considering a more gradual approach to allow automakers additional time to transition away from gas-powered cars. The proposed rule suggests a sharp increase in EV sales post-2030, with the official announcement expected in the spring.
Trump’s Critique and Biden’s Response
While the Biden administration navigates its reevaluation, former President Trump has seized the opportunity to make the EV push a campaign issue. Trump criticized Biden’s “ridiculous electric vehicle mandate” and claimed that all these cars would be made in China within three years.
The Biden campaign responded by accusing Trump of losing the electric vehicle race to China during his presidency.
Green New Scam
Vaughn said that the debate has intensified as Trump characterizes Biden’s efforts as a “Green New Scam.” In response, the Biden team defended its commitment to keeping the U.S. at the forefront of car manufacturing, ensuring good-paying auto union jobs domestically.
Acknowledging the importance of winning over autoworkers, the Biden administration secured an endorsement from the United Auto Workers (UAW) union last month. Vaughn shared that however, even with the union’s backing, there are indications that some workers may lean towards supporting Trump in the upcoming election.
Challenges with Auto Workers’ Support
Union President Rory Gamble admitted that several workers shared concerns about certain rules, signaling potential challenges in gaining full support from the workforce.
Vaughn added that the administration’s strategy of “slow-walking” some of the rules, likely those raising concerns among workers, is seen as an attempt to address these issues and alleviate apprehensions within the industry.
Several YouTube users shared their thoughts on the situation.
One user claimed that people voted with their pocketbooks and are now frustrated with certain policies of the current administration. Another user shared EV’s perceived drawbacks, including cost, inconvenience, maintenance problems, insurance expenses, and repair costs as the reasons behind the delay in the green agenda.
So what are your thoughts? How do you think the EV initiative will play out in the upcoming elections?
