President Joe Biden is pushing forward with his green agenda, reportedly preparing to introduce strict emissions restrictions that could — in essence — compel electric vehicle (EV) sales. The Environmental Protection Agency looks set to implement regulations the Biden government surmises could propel EVs to account for roughly two-thirds of new car and light truck sales by 2032, a notable increase from less than 10 percent last year. Such measures aim to reduce pollution and CO2 emissions and align with the U.S.’ commitment to the Paris Agreement, which proposes significantly lowering greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
The transportation sector remains the United States’ most significant contributor to climate pollution. Manish Bapna, chief of the Natural Resources Defense Action Fund, suggested that reducing transportation’s 20 percent carbon footprint is essential to achieving “real, concrete progress.”
However, the President will have to navigate new emission regulations amidst resistance from Michigan voters and auto industry workers who are cautious of an abrupt shift to EVs. American automakers emphasize that these EV targets are unachievable without improved charging infrastructure. Auto industry economists note that the rising labor costs combined with the need for expensive EV infrastructure make electric vehicles less attractive to consumers at price points. The high costs may pressure the EPA to back down and establish more moderate emission reduction goals in the short term, though still targeting the same 2032 objectives.