4,000 dealerships want Biden to slow down the push for electric vehicles as demand for traditionally powered cars is strong.
In a united front, nearly 4,000 dealerships in the United States are voicing their concerns about proposed federal regulations that would accelerate the transition to battery electric vehicles.
The appeal, sent directly to President Joe Biden on Tuesday, calls for a reconsideration of the EPA's controversial proposal, which calls for 60 percent of new vehicle sales to be electric vehicles by the 2030 model year, rising to 67 percent by 2032.
This request is expressed in a letter from dealerships, which notes the need for a more balanced approach to the transition to electric vehicles. Dealerships that represent a variety of vehicle brands and cover states such as California, Michigan, Colorado and New York say the proposed rules are ahead of consumer readiness for all-electric vehicles.
The main concerns highlighted in the letter relate to the current challenges faced by potential electric vehicle consumers, including the availability of reliable charging networks, vehicle affordability and ongoing range anxiety. Despite legislative efforts such as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 and the Inflation Relief Act of 2022, which provide significant federal funding for a national electric vehicle charging network and other issues, dealerships have noted the need to delay such regulations.
“These vehicles are ideal for many people, and we believe their appeal will grow over time,” the letter said.. “However, the reality is that the demand for electric vehicles today is not keeping pace with the large influx of traditional vehicles that are entering our dealerships due to the high demand for them.”
Dealers suggest that allowing additional time to improve battery technology, increase EV availability and expand charging infrastructure will better serve consumers' interests. The letter, penned by Mickey Anderson, CEO of Baxter Auto Group, highlights the lack of a consumer voice in the current conversation surrounding the transition to electric vehicles. “This issue is becoming overly politicized,” Anderson said.