Ever since Joe Biden assumed the presidency, his unwavering commitment to dismantling the fossil fuel industry in favor of the green-energy ideology championed by figures like AOC and John Kerry has been front and center. While the transition to a fully electric future remains decades away, particularly in the realm of automobiles, the administration persists in pressuring automakers to stock their showrooms with electric vehicles (EVs).
However, the reality on the ground paints a different picture. American car buyers are not ready to embrace the complete shift to electric vehicles. The roadblocks are many, including exorbitant prices, lingering consumer skepticism, and a glaring absence of charging infrastructure. As a result, dealerships across the nation find themselves grappling with an unsightly surplus of EVs, and they are now taking a stand.
A united front comprising more than 3,000 new car dealerships spanning all 50 states and representing every major car brand is sending a resounding message to President Biden. Their plea? A halt to the breakneck acceleration of the EV agenda, with particular concern about the recent mandates on tailpipe emissions standards.
In their open letter to the President, the coalition expressed their viewpoint: “While electric vehicles certainly hold appeal for many consumers, it is evident that the demand for them has not caught up with the influx of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) we are compelled to stock due to current regulations. BEVs are amassing on our lots.”
To foster real growth in the EV industry, adequate charging infrastructure is a prerequisite, and the truth is, it remains sorely lacking in most regions. When coupled with the hefty price tags, consumers are hesitant to make the switch, leaving dealerships burdened with surplus inventory that needs to be moved before the next model year arrives.
The letter goes on to echo the sentiments of the average American consumer: “Mr. President, it is time to reevaluate the impractical government mandate for electric vehicles. Let’s allow time for battery technology to evolve, for EVs to become more affordable, for domestic mineral sources to fuel battery production, and for a reliable charging infrastructure to take shape. Above all, let’s give American consumers the freedom to choose electric vehicles at their own pace.”
Despite government incentives aimed at encouraging EV adoption, the simple truth remains: most Americans do not want to be compelled to purchase something they are not ready for. Considering that China currently dominates the production of key EV components, consumers are rightly concerned about the potential high costs associated with repairs or replacements, particularly for batteries.
A report from the Alliance for Automotive Innovation reveals that a staggering 93% of new car sales in 2022 were gasoline-powered, and this trend shows no signs of waning, despite the relentless push by President Biden and the green movement.
Before electric vehicles can become a practical choice, there are numerous hurdles to clear. Even then, they should remain an alternative rather than a mandate. The American consumer needs to be won over, not coerced into embracing electric vehicles, and at present, that shift is far from reality.
As the auto industry grapples with the transition, it is clear that patience, affordability, and consumer choice should be paramount. America’s road to electric mobility must be paved with options, not mandates.
