Regulators, mount up: The Environmental Protection Agency is expected to float tough vehicle pollution rules this week that would speed transition to electric cars and trucks, Ben writes.
The big picture: While the new climate law relies heavily on tax incentives, the Biden administration is wielding prescriptive regulations to drive clean tech, too.
Why it matters: Transportation is the country’s largest source of greenhouse gas emissions.
Zoom in: The New York Times reports the draft rules would effectively require EVs to account for 54%-60% of new car sales by 2030 and 64%-67% in 2032.
The Washington Post has the same figures, but notes they represent the most stringent of several options in the rule.
How it works: EPA auto rules don’t specifically require EV levels, but strong CO2 emissions standards are a de facto mandate.
That’s because more efficient gas-powered models alone can’t achieve the required fleet-wide carbon cuts.
Yes, but: EPA did not confirm the EV levels the NYT and WaPo reported, telling Axios “the proposal process is not yet final.”
Driving the news: Two draft emissions rules are expected this week, a federal source confirms, speaking anonymously ahead of the rollout.
- One addresses light-duty vehicles — cars, SUVs, pickups — from model years 2027-2032.
- The other sets rules for heavy-duty vehicles and engines.
What we’re watching: The fine print. Officials will likely reveal more about how they see the climate law and 2021 infrastructure law driving market evolution.
What they’re saying: Automakers are wary, even as the industry invests heavily in EVs.
- “A clear-eyed assessment of market readiness is required. The answer on rule feasibility is: it depends,” states a memo from the Alliance for Automotive Innovation.
- Much depends on charging availability, supply chains and other variables, the industry group said.
What we don’t know: Whether the rules will survive litigation that follows almost all big regulations once they’re finalized. They could also be softened by a change in White House control.
