Thousands of car dealers are slamming the Biden administration in response to new electric vehicle mandates.
They are saying the new regulations around tailpipe emissions will limit their ability to manufacture compliant vehicles, all while consumers are apprehensive about paying higher prices for electric models during a persistent period of rampant inflation.
In their letter, three thousand dealers across the country requested that President Joe Biden pump the brakes on his administration’s expectation that the automotive industry help ensure that two-thirds of all cars on the road are electrified by 2032.
“We are small businesses employing thousands of Americans. We are deeply committed to the customers we serve and the communities where we operate, so we are asking you to slow down your proposed regulations mandating battery electric vehicle (BEV) production and distribution,” wrote the dealers.
“Currently, there are many excellent battery electric vehicles available for consumers to purchase. These vehicles are ideal for many people, and we believe their appeal will grow over time. The reality, however, is that electric vehicle demand today is not keeping up with the large influx of BEVs arriving at our dealerships prompted by the current regulations. BEVs are stacking up on our lots.”
“Last year, there was a lot of hope and hype about EVs. Early adopters formed an initial line and were ready to buy these vehicles as soon as we had them to sell. But that enthusiasm has stalled. Today, the supply of unsold BEVs is surging, as they are not selling nearly as fast as they are arriving at our dealerships — even with deep price cuts, manufacturer incentives, and generous government incentives,” they added.
“While the goals of the regulations are admirable, they require consumer acceptance to become a reality. With each passing day, it becomes more apparent that this attempted electric vehicle mandate is unrealistic based on current and forecasted customer demand.”
The pushback is a blow to Biden’s green energy agenda, which has already suffered diminished optics among progressives due to executive orders expanding domestic drilling in Alaska and elsewhere.
In September, auto union workers cited unrealistic EV mandates and the closure of longstanding production plants in their strike against the nation’s three largest car manufacturers.
A lack of charging infrastructure across the country has also been a black eye for Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who continues to be hounded by climate activists at public meetings.
Over the summer, a deputy to Buttigieg suffered an embarrassing moment during her cross-country EV tour when her entourage ran out of chargers and overtook one being used by a family, who promptly complained and got their spot in line returned.
