Is the U.S. Slipping Behind on Electric Vehicles?

As the the U.S. approaches a seemingly important “green” milestone — one million electric vehicle sold — the reality may in fact be a bit darker.

A number of respected sources, such as Maxine Joselow, E&E News put the development into context.

She recently wrote:

“The United States started pursuing an EV market in earnest in 2011. Since then, sales have made a slow but steady climb. The third quarter of 2018 marked a record, with automakers selling more than 110,000 EVs—up 95 percent year over year.

In this case, though, context matters. EVs still only represent just over 1 percent of the country’s vehicle fleet. Gas guzzlers continue to dominate the market.”

Around the world, China is taking over the leadership role, having entered the EV market after the United States. However, by some estimates, it now ranks number one in e-vehicle use worldwide.

Jose low also noted: “The 1 million benchmark comes on the heels of a major U.N. report on climate change that warned of dire consequences if the world fails to limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius (Climatewire, Oct. 9).

Buried in the second chapter of the report were ominous warnings about the need for rapid electrification of cars and other forms of transportation (Climatewire, Oct. 9).”

What experts agree must happen is that the public and private sector must contribute to the allure and attractiveness of electric vehicles — and that will definitely require a concerted effort.

To date, the will in Washington is wanting, and the follow-through in Detroit and elsewhere is less than robust.

Category: General Update, Green, News