According to US media reports, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is set to unveil updated “green” industry standards this week, targeting CO2 emissions from transportation. This sector is currently identified as the largest contributor to climate pollution, constituting approximately 20% of the US carbon footprint. The specifics of these new regulations, yet to be disclosed, are anticipated by the EPA to significantly reshape the US auto market.
To meet the standards by 2032, the proportion of Electric Vehicles (EVs) in the sales of all new vehicles, including light-duty models such as sedans, SUVs, and pickups, must surpass 65%, compared to less than 10% in 2023 and 5.8% in 2022. Additionally, a stricter formula for determining the fuel economy standard for electric vehicles will be implemented, with hefty fines imposed on automakers for non-compliance.
Industry experts observe that these regulations conflict with the existing Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards. This decision is aimed at significantly boosting EV sales as part of the energy transition strategy and aligning with climate objectives to halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Despite tax incentives of up to $7,500 offered to buyers last year for purchasing locally manufactured electric cars, the penetration rate of EVs in the US remains relatively low.
Dutch MEP, Rob Roos, contends that the narrative of “man-made climate change” is merely a pretext for advancing “a new form of communism”, facilitated by digital ID and Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs).
The US automotive industry is actively opposing the ambitious plans of the Biden administration. Major automakers, including Ford and GM, argue that the established targets are “neither feasible nor achievable within the proposed timeframe” and fail to consider external factors such as the readiness of charging station infrastructure and power supply. They stress that compliance with the new standards will significantly elevate vehicle costs while narrowing the available model range, directly impacting American consumers’ finances. Even with government subsidies, the average cost of an electric vehicle currently stands at about $52.5 thousand compared to $24 thousand for popular compact models.
Environmental attorney Steve Milloy points out that as we are compelled to adopt more green technology—such as wind, solar, and EVs—under Net Zero initiatives, our reliance on Communist China increases. Despite being deemed the US’ geopolitical and economic rival, China remains a primary supplier of crucial components for green technology.
