Could a new proposal jeopardize the automotive world’s shift to electric vehicles (EVs)? The Alliance pour l'innovation automobile est de cet avis. Le groupe a récemment fait part de ses préoccupations concernant la NHTSA’s proposed fuel economy standards for the 2027-2032 model years. According to them, if these new standards are accepted, they might just impede the industry’s push to go electric.

Le cœur du problème

In July, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) had a proposition on the table. They aimed for a 2% yearly fuel efficiency gain for cars and a 4% yearly leap for light trucks for the 2027-2032 model years. Compare this to last year’s targets: an 8% yearly rise for cars in 2024-2025, and a 10% jump in 2026.

La récente proposition rendrait obligatoire la mise en place d'un L'économie moyenne de carburant des flottes avoisinera les 58 mpg d'ici à 2032Cette exigence représente une augmentation significative par rapport à l'exigence précédente, qui était d'environ 49 mpg d'ici à 2026.

L'Alliance automobile tire la sonnette d'alarme

In a virtual public gathering, Michael Hartrick of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation raised the alarm. He stated the NHTSA’s July proposal “exceeds maximum feasibility.” Hartrick didn’t just stop there. He voiced worries about penalties for not meeting these standards and an upcoming rule from the US Department of Energy.

Cette règle pourrait poser des problèmes aux constructeurs automobiles qui tentent de jongler avec leurs engagements en matière de véhicules électriques tout en améliorant l'efficacité de leurs véhicules traditionnels.

Hartrick didn’t mince words, saying, “We are concerned that NHTSA’s consideration of BEVs in developing its proposed standards… combined with DOE’s proposal to devalue the fuel economy of electric vehicles by 72% will result in serious misalignment, distracting manufacturers’ attention and resources from the EV transition.”

However, the NHTSA’s acting administrator, Ann Carlson, took a different stance. She emphasized the benefits: better car efficiency in the US, boosted US energy self-reliance, and increased savings for the average American.

As she put it, “These targets are consistent with Congress’ direction to conserve fuel and promote American energy independence and American auto manufacturing.”

Un carrefour pour la transition vers les VE

As the debate heats up, the fate of the EV transition hangs in the balance. It’s clear that while the drive for efficiency is commendable, ensuring the proposed standards align with the broader vision of an electric future is crucial.