EV subsidies ride off into the sunset

Dear Editor,

Electric vehicle (EV) subsidies have officially rode (drove?) off into the sunset. The multi-thousand dollar credits for both used and new EVs were instituted by President Biden as part of the historic Inflation Reduction Act, and were designed to spur the American consumer into adopting EVs and thus reducing transportation pollution - but the Trump Administration is putting a stop to the subsidies, under their typical rallying cry of 'woke' or 'DEI'.

Transportation pollution is no joke - as a share of the US' total emissions, it accounts for 28%, easily the highest-producing category, per the EPA. The benefits of EVs on emissions are similarly no laughing matter - the International Energy Agency estimates that over their respective lifecycle (including production, refueling, and driving), a medium sized EV will produce >50% less emissions than a conventional gas car.

The benefits of EVs for our breathable air and climate are therefore obvious, although recognizing the obvious is not the Trump Administration's strong suit. Legacy automakers understand the imminence of EVs and are watching worldwide as Chinese brands dominate national markets; yet our government incentivizes them to double down on our smoggy gas cars. The implications are clear - America will be left behind in a cloud of exhaust, while the world races forward towards a cleaner future.

Sincerely,

Nathan Dombeck

Janesville, WI