The Biden administration has introduced groundbreaking automobile emissions standards, which officials have labeled the most ambitious plan yet to reduce planet-warming emissions from passenger vehicles.
Announced on Wednesday, the new rules relax initial tailpipe limits proposed last year but eventually aim to achieve the strict standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Despite the auto industry’s concerns about lower electric vehicle (EV) sales growth, the EPA’s final rule mandates that 56% of new vehicle sales must be electric by 2032.
Additionally, at least 13% of sales should be plug-in hybrids or other partially electric vehicles, complemented by more efficient gasoline-powered cars.
The new standards are projected to prevent over 7 billion tons of carbon emissions over the next three decades, providing nearly $100 billion in annual net benefits, including lower healthcare costs and significant reductions in fuel, maintenance, and repair expenses.
The EPA rule, applying to model years 2027 to 2032, aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gases and other air pollutants from new passenger cars, light trucks, and pickups.
EPA Administrator Michael Regan emphasized the public health and environmental benefits, stating that the standards would help “tackle the climate crisis” while promoting the adoption of cleaner vehicle technologies.
Changes to the initial proposal address the auto industry’s objections to a rapid EV transition and public hesitance toward new technology.
The revised rule slows the implementation of stricter pollution standards from 2027 through 2029, nearly reaching the preferred EPA levels by 2032. Regan highlighted the rule’s technology-neutral and performance-based approach, allowing manufacturers flexibility in choosing pollution-control technologies.
While environmental groups have praised the new plan, some, like the Center for Biological Diversity, expressed concerns about potential loopholes and delays in progress.
Conversely, the Alliance for Auto Innovation commended the moderated pace of EV adoption, deeming it a pragmatic approach for the industry.
Despite criticism from Republicans and former President Donald Trump, who argue that the EV push could lead to job losses, the Biden administration remains committed to its climate goals.
White House officials believe the new rule will drive substantial reductions in emissions and air pollution, aligning with the broader objective of addressing climate change while supporting American jobs and the economy.