US oil trade group challenges Biden administration's EV mandate in court

The American Petroleum Institute has filed a lawsuit against the Biden administration's new tailpipe emission rules, arguing they exceed the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's authority and threaten the gas-powered car market.

Jarrett Renshaw reports for Reuters.


In short:

  • The American Petroleum Institute (API), along with co-petitioners, filed a federal lawsuit against new EPA emission rules promoting electric vehicles.
  • The rules aim for up to 56% of car sales to be electric by 2032, but API claims they exceed congressional authority.
  • The National Corn Growers Association and American Farm Bureau Federation join the lawsuit, citing negative impacts on the corn-ethanol industry.

Key quote:

“Today, we are taking action to protect American consumers, U.S. manufacturing workers and our nation’s hard-won energy security from this intrusive government mandate.”

— Ryan Meyers, API senior vice president and general counsel

Why this matters:

API argues that the stringent emission standards could significantly disrupt the gas-powered car market, potentially driving up costs for manufacturers and consumers alike. On the other side, environmental advocates and the Biden administration maintain that these measures are crucial for mitigating climate change and reducing pollution. The new rules are part of a broader strategy to transition towards cleaner, more efficient vehicles, with an emphasis on electric cars.

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