In what has been described as “the single most important climate regulation in the history of the country,” the Biden administration has finalized new tailpipe emission standards that mark a decisive push for the U.S. auto market towards electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids. This long-awaited rule from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is expected to significantly boost the sales of cleaner vehicles and cut over 7 billion tons of carbon emissions, while providing substantial benefits in terms of public health and reduced fuel costs.
The new standards, which apply to model years 2027 through 2032, are seen as the Biden administration’s hallmark response to the climate crisis. As the transportation sector is responsible for nearly a third of all U.S. climate pollution, this move is a critical step in mitigating the nation’s carbon footprint. President Joe Biden vowed the cars would be made by American workers. “US workers will lead the world on autos making clean cars and trucks, each stamped ‘Made in America,’” Biden said.
However, the new rules also come with a concession to automakers and labor unions, implementing a more gradual phase-in than originally proposed. Rather than mandating that two-thirds of all vehicles sold be electric by the end of the decade, the administration is allowing plug-in hybrids a significant role in the transition. The target for EVs is set at 35% to 56% for 2032, with plug-in hybrids aiming for 13% to 36%.
Federal authorities stated that the regulation does not show bias towards electric vehicles compared to other vehicle types, and is projected to decrease almost the same amount of pollution as the initial suggestion – over 7 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, as well as other pollutants harmful to human health. The revised rule is anticipated to cut passenger car emissions by almost half from the levels in 2026 by the year 2032.
The rule has received mixed reactions from the auto industry. Some, like Toyota, have expressed concern over the rapid shift towards EVs, citing challenges such as affordability and charging infrastructure. Yet, industry groups like the Alliance for Auto Innovation have praised the EPA’s tempered approach, recognizing the need for reasonable electrification targets to allow market and supply chain adjustments.
Notably, the new tailpipe rules extend beyond climate benefits, targeting various pollutants that contribute to smog and particle emissions. These pollutants are linked to numerous health issues, including heart problems, asthma, and decreased lung function. With the updated standards in place, communities across America are poised for significant relief from vehicle exhaust pollution.
Despite the challenges ahead, the demand for fully electric cars continues to grow, with EV sales in the U.S. having jumped 46.3% from 2022 to 2023.
While the new rules chart a clear path towards a greener auto industry, their long-term impact will be shaped by a complex interplay of market forces, consumer preferences, and ongoing political dynamics.
Relevant articles:
– Biden administration rolls out new tailpipe rules that will boost EVs and hybrids | CNN
– EPA issues new auto rules aimed at cutting carbon emissions, boosting electric vehicles and hybrids, The Associated Press, Wed, 20 Mar 2024 18:45:00 GMT
– EPA’s new auto emissions rules boost electric vehicles and hybrids, CBS News, Wed, 20 Mar 2024 17:53:51 GMT
– Biden seeks to accelerate the EV transition in biggest climate move yet, The Washington Post, Wed, 20 Mar 2024 18:30:00 GMT