Trump Hints at Scaling Back U.S. Electric Vehicle Targets

Trump Pledges to Reverse EV Policies if Elected

During a speech at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump declared that he would rescind the country’s electric vehicle targets on his first day in office. “On day one, I will end the electric vehicle mandates,” Trump said. “This will save the American auto industry from complete destruction that is happening right now.”

EPA’s Revised Electric Vehicle Sales Targets

Although the United States does not have formal EV mandates, Trump appeared to refer to the sales targets established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In April, the EPA introduced new measures aimed at reducing emissions from diesel and gasoline vehicles. These measures target a market share of 60% for light battery electric vehicles (BEVs) by 2030 and 67% by 2032.

However, in March, the EPA revised its projections, adjusting the BEV share target to 56% by 2032 to reflect the expected sales contribution from plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Trump also criticized the EPA’s policies, noting that some individual states oppose the targets and may pursue their own, conflicting goals.

Criticism of Chinese EV Manufacturers

Trump expressed concern over Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers expanding their presence internationally. “Right now, as we speak, massive factories are being built across the border in Mexico… These are being constructed to make cars by China and sell them in our country,” he said. On March 16, he announced plans to impose a 100% tariff on Chinese-made vehicles entering the United States, stating, “You won’t be able to sell them.”

China’s Global EV Production Investments

China’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer, BYD, continues its global expansion. The company has announced investments in electric vehicle production in Hungary, Thailand, Uzbekistan, Morocco, India, Turkey, Vietnam, and Cambodia. BYD aims to achieve an annual production capacity of over 1 million EVs through these international ventures.