Twenty-five Michigan lawmakers are standing in opposition to the electric vehicle mandate put forth by the Biden administration through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
By 2032, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will gradually implement regulations for light-duty and medium-duty vehicles. These regulations aim to ensure that approximately 67% of all new car sales are electric vehicles.
Republican lawmakers are arguing that the mandate will have a detrimental impact on auto jobs in Michigan, which currently account for 19% of automotive production in the United States. They claim that the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) will lead to a decrease in the demand for human labor, as EV production requires 30% less manpower.
Lawmakers expressed their concerns regarding the imposition of electric vehicle mandates, emphasizing the importance of consumer choice, economic impacts, and technological feasibility. They acknowledged the commendable objective of enhancing automobile safety and environmental friendliness but stressed the need for a balanced, market-driven approach that prioritizes the diverse needs and preferences of motorists.
According to The Center Square’s report, states that are against electric vehicle (EV) mandates are being criticized in a letter. The letter highlights the significant impact of the auto industry on Michigan’s economy, stating that it supports approximately 1.1 million jobs, which accounts for 20% of the state’s workforce.
The Biden administration has set a goal of achieving a 50% share of electric vehicles (EVs) in all new vehicle sales by 2030. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the percentage of electric cars sold in 2022 reached an estimated 14%, showing a significant increase from approximately 9% in 2021 and less than 5% in 2020. This indicates a growing trend towards the adoption of electric vehicles in the automotive industry.
According to Kelley Blue Book, the total vehicle market share for 2023 stood at 7.6%.
According to the letter, the targets set for reducing emissions are likely to be unachievable and will result in significant costs for motorists in Michigan and across the nation.
The letter was signed by Republican Floor Leader Bryan Posthumus, residing in Rockford, along with Rep. Ann Bollin from Brighton Township, and Rep. Curt Vanderwall from Ludington.
Michigan is currently facing a shortfall of 1.9 million electric vehicles in its aim to reach a total of 2 million by 2030. To bridge this gap, the state needs to add over 28,000 electric vehicles each month for the next 67 months. Only by doing so can Michigan achieve its ambitious goal.
In a letter expressing their concerns, it is stated that the potential consequences of this rule are worrisome for both the skilled workers in Michigan who have extensive experience in manufacturing vehicles powered by liquid fuels, as well as the employees of the original equipment manufacturers (OEM) who provide components for these vehicles. The letter highlights that out of the top 100 automotive suppliers in North America, an overwhelming majority of 96 have established their presence in Michigan, with 60 being headquartered in the state.
According to a recent poll, it has been found that 50% of likely voters believe that the Biden administration should lower its targets for electric vehicle (EV) sales. Additionally, nearly two-thirds of likely voters feel that the current demand for EVs is not aligned with the government’s efforts to promote them.
The letter asserts the urgent need for President Biden and the Office of Management and Budget to put a stop to the implementation of the EPA’s proposed tailpipe rule.
