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Impending Shifts in American Car Choices: Trump’s Executive Actions

Published: 02 February 2025

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EV Sector

Trump’s EV Policy Shake-Up: A New Era for Automakers

Overturning the EV Norms

President Trump’s recent executive actions might soon reshape the American automotive landscape, particularly concerning the types of vehicles one might choose to drive. A prominent move on his part is the elimination of what he refers to as an electric vehicle mandate, along with strong indications towards ending subsidies for electric cars. In his inaugural address, the President emphasized his commitment to driving down costs by addressing what he described as inflation due to overspending and escalating energy prices. His mantra, "Drill, baby, drill," sets a clear agenda for future energy policy.

Understanding the So-Called EV Mandate

Despite Trump's assertions, there isn't a specific mandate requiring the production of electric vehicles. However, current regulations are crafted to encourage more EV production, pushing companies to increase their EV output to comply with them. While President Biden aimed for a target of 50% EVs by 2030, Trump has decisively revoked that goal and halted funding for a national electric vehicle charging network.

Potential Loss of EV Incentives

The existing tax credit of up to $7,500 for EV buyers might be on the chopping block. Although it's still in place, speculations are rife that Trump will end this incentive, potentially making electric cars, already on the higher end of the price spectrum, less attractive to consumers. The resulting impact could be a dampened demand for EVs and might further soften the market by altering tailpipe emissions targets, compelling automakers to rethink their EV strategies.

Tesla’s Financial Stake in Clean Air Credits

For Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk, the loss of billions in clean air credits is a possibility looming on the horizon. While Musk claims a lack of dependency on EV tax credits for sales, Tesla’s business model significantly benefits from selling emissions credits to other automakers, comprising a notable portion of the company's profits. With potential regulatory relaxation, these credits could prove less necessary, endangering a steady revenue stream for Tesla.

Global Auto Industry Dynamics

In the grand scheme, the automobile industry remains a global playground. Regardless of policy shifts within the US, automakers face international competition, especially from Chinese manufacturers who, benefiting from substantial subsidies, produce cost-effective electric vehicles. This global pressure means that US carmakers must continually innovate and adapt, even as domestic policies evolve.


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