Automakers and oil industry face off over electric vehicles

The battle between the auto and oil industries intensifies as the Biden administration pushes for cleaner vehicle standards, with automakers leaning toward electric vehicles while the oil industry resists change.

Marianne Lavelle reports for Inside Climate News.

In short:

• The Biden administration's drive for cleaner vehicles has created a rift between automakers, who are investing in electric vehicles, and the oil industry, which fears losing its gasoline market.
• Former President Donald Trump supports the oil industry's stance, pledging to roll back EV-friendly policies in exchange for campaign contributions.
• Environmental groups and some automakers support the transition to EVs, while the oil industry mounts a significant campaign against it, claiming it limits consumer choice.

Key quote:

“They want to stop you from having cars.”

— Former President Donald Trump

Why this matters:

The outcome of this battle will significantly impact the U.S. strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. A shift to electric vehicles could drastically cut fossil fuel consumption, but the transition faces strong opposition from powerful oil interests.