Just a few weeks ago, we celebrated America’s Independence Day. This national holiday is a reminder to each of us of the ideals our forefathers fought for – individual freedom being at the forefront.
Unfortunately, individual freedoms are being stripped away by unnecessary government regulations and mandates. The most recent example is EPA’s finalized tailpipe emissions rule for new automobiles is stripping away consumers’ choice of vehicle.
The EPA has implemented this sweeping mandate for the auto industry to rapidly increase the number electric vehicles (i.e., fully battery and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles) produced and offered to consumers beginning in Model Year 2027. The rule is effective for cars, SUVs, vans, and pick-up trucks.
While electric vehicles are an option chosen by some, they are not a practical or affordable choice for all consumers. An additional point to consider is a serious lack of EV infrastructure that can create logistical issues for consumers needing to re-charge their vehicle. Worse yet, this decision gives little consideration to the “cradle-to-grave” implications for resourcing, manufacturing, distributing, and disposing of EV batteries, which exploits rare minerals and cheap labor, and only exacerbates the challenges facing recycling and sustainable waste management.
When choosing to purchase a vehicle, there are many factors to consider – most, if not all, of which are personal and specific to the individual buyer. This sweeping federal mandate is just one more step that the government has taken to insert itself into the consumer’s life and I believe it goes too far.
Supply and demand are the most effective way to determine the true market for goods and services, providing a choice, not a mandate.
Author: Sherri B. ChippoPublication: PennLive
https://www.pennlive.com/opinion/2024/08/electric-vehicles-arent-practical-or-affordable-for-many-people-pennlive-letters.html