Congressman Tim Walberg, a Republican from Michigan, expressed his concerns on Thursday about the Biden administration’s push for the United States to transition from gas-powered to electric vehicles. He argues that the necessary infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs) is insufficient and that Americans are not in favor of this shift.
Walberg, along with 121 other colleagues, has signed a letter urging the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to reconsider its proposed Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards. These standards, in line with recent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposals, would effectively require a majority of new vehicles to be electric due to emissions regulations.
Walberg criticized the government’s role in pushing for EV adoption, stating that it contradicts the principle that NHTSA’s CAFE standards should not prioritize EVs over liquid-fueled vehicles due to their significant differences.
He also raised concerns about the United States becoming more dependent on China through the adoption of EVs, as China is a major producer of essential components in EV batteries. Referencing the COVID-19 pandemic, he highlighted the risks of relying on China for critical supplies, noting that China powers its EVs primarily with coal-fired plants.
Walberg identifies as an environmentalist and advocates for responsible stewardship of natural resources. However, he believes that mandating EVs is not the right approach and could potentially harm the environment more than help it.
He also mentioned the American public’s reluctance to embrace electric vehicles, citing their current limitations such as reduced range in cold weather. Walberg shared an anecdote from an auto dealer who experienced range anxiety during a trip to a football game, illustrating the practical challenges EV owners face, including long wait times for charging.
In conclusion, Walberg emphasized the need for a free-market approach and a more gradual, consumer-driven transition to electric vehicles, rather than government mandates.
