US Election 2024: The Future of EVs at Stake

As the vote counting begins, the fate of the US EV industry is uncertain. Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump offer sharply contrasting visions for the future of EVs, each with potentially vast implications for climate policy, automotive manufacturing, and the economy. Their policies may shape the EV market and America’s role in the global clean energy landscape.

Harris: Pushing for an EV-powered America

Vice President Kamala Harris has advocated prominently for the Biden administration’s initiatives to accelerate EV production and adoption. Her stance aligns with the ambitious goals outlined in the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, which includes:

• Cutting U.S. carbon emissions by 40% by 2030
• Investing US$370 billion in renewable energy and EV infrastructure over the next decade
• Offering tax incentives for EV purchases
• Funding nationwide charging stations

Harris has highlighted the economic benefits of supporting domestic EV manufacturing, emphasising job creation and industry growth potential. During a recent visit to Detroit, she remarked, “This investment will help to keep our auto supply chains here in America, which strengthens America’s economy overall and will keep those jobs here in Detroit.”

Her approach supports the belief that a robust EV sector will secure America’s automotive future and reduce dependency on foreign resources.

Trump: Sceptical of Government intervention in EVs

Former President Donald Trump has maintained a critical stance on EVs, positioning himself as a defender of traditional automotive jobs and industry autonomy. He has proposed:

• Eliminating “electric-vehicle mandate” - though no such federal mandate exists
• Rolling back sections of the Inflation Reduction Act through executive action
• Possibly ending tax credits for EV purchases

However, Trump’s tone toward EVs has shown some nuance. After a conversation with Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk, he conceded, “You do make a great product,” recognising Tesla’s contributions to the industry. Despite this, Trump’s emphasis remains on reducing government intervention, advocating for market-driven adoption rather than federal support for EV infrastructure or incentives.

Economic and job implications

The debate over EV policies is particularly intense in Michigan, a state known for its deep automotive roots and a key battleground in national elections. Harris and Trump each presented their policies as beneficial to American workers, but their perspectives differ significantly:

• Harris argues that promoting EVs will create new high-paying jobs in renewable energy and manufacturing, strengthening US competitiveness
• Trump contends that an aggressive EV push could threaten traditional auto industry jobs and, in his view, primarily benefit China by increasing reliance on imported EV materials

The shift to EVs has already begun generating jobs across America. According to the environmental group Climate Power, the clean energy sector has added over 330,000 jobs nationwide. Yet, as the US pivots from traditional vehicles, the transition may place some existing jobs at risk, particularly in conventional automotive manufacturing.

Competing visions for global leadership

The candidates’ differing visions extend to America’s role in the global EV market. Harris sees proactive government investment as critical for competing with countries like China, which has advanced rapidly in EV manufacturing and adoption.

Trump, however, argues that market dynamics should guide EV production, allowing consumers to determine demand without federal mandates or incentives.

Respecting consumer choice

Despite their contrasting approaches, both candidates have reassured voters that they do not intend to force EV purchases:

• Harris recently stated, “I will never tell you what kind of car you must drive.”
• Trump, meanwhile, promised to defend consumer choice, opposing any form of an EV purchase requirement

What’s next for the US EV market?

Greg Bollefer, EVP of Commercial & Product Development at Green Worldwide Shipping, gave insight during a recent interview:

“Many fear climate initiatives may lose priority under a conservative government, citing Trump’s initial approach during his last term as an example. However, even as the US withdrew from the Paris Agreement, businesses across political lines continued pushing forward with sustainable initiatives. As a global leader, the US recognises that innovation drives economic strength and global influence. Companies are increasingly aware of their environmental responsibilities, and American businesses see sustainable practices as both a duty and a profitable path. As we innovate, the world keeps pace—and in areas like Europe, often surpasses us.

As EV infrastructure grows, a natural shift toward EVs is expected. The UK government is already introducing policies that penalise petrol car ownership. However, many drivers feel the transition is premature, given that they still have years left on their current vehicles. While people are open to going electric for future purchases, they resist pressure to abandon their existing cars too soon. The sentiment is clear: consumers are willing to evolve but prefer a gradual, organic shift rather than immediate penalties on their current choices.”

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