You've probably heard one or two myths about EVs. Here are some facts about EVs:
Investing in electric vehicle manufacturing will energize Michigan's economy.
Michigan’s growing EV manufacturing industry is boosting economic growth in communities and local economies throughout the state, while strengthening the state’s automotive workforce. Michigan was named the national leader in the EV battery and clean energy race, fostering $21.3 billion in new projects with 16,600+ jobs created, and 167,000 jobs projected.
With federal tax rebates, EVs are becoming more affordable.
The expanded EV tax credit in the IRA allows car buyers at all income levels to claim up to $7,500 in tax credits for purchasing a new electric vehicle. There are new EVs on the market starting at $28,000, and as EV manufacturing and battery production increases in the United States, EVs will become even more affordable.
EVs put Michigan in a prime position to continue to lead in global automotive manufacturing.
Michigan workers make great cars, electric and otherwise, and they know Michigan needs to stay competitive in the global race for quality electric vehicles. While we already produce several industry-leading EVs in the auto state, much more is coming, thanks to recent announcements making Michigan the leading state for bringing home federal IRA investments for EV and battery manufacturing.
EVs are NOT mandated.
While there have been some misleading claims in the popular media on this point, the federal government does not mandate the use of EVs. EVs are one of the options that automakers have to help them meet vehicle fuel economy standards, and there are several incentives and other programs available that help make the technology more accessible to American drivers. Federal tax incentives also encourage the purchase of electric vehicles and batteries that are made in the United States.
EVs are GOOD for the environment.
EVs are a lower-emissions option than cars with internal combustion engines. A recent Bloomberg report confirms that EV lifecycle emissions can be over 70% lower than gasoline and diesel vehicles. EVs create 3,932 lbs. of CO2 equivalent per year, compared to 11,435 lbs. for gasoline vehicles. Said simply, EVs produce way less pollution. A safer, smoother ride with less maintenance and cleaner air!
EVs are GOOD for consumers, too.
EVs are significantly cheaper to fuel and maintain than their gasoline counterparts. The cost of electricity, for example, is much less volatile and at least half the price of gas. With fewer moving parts, they are also cheaper to maintain. With federal incentives and rebates backed by the Biden-Harris administration, EVs are becoming increasingly more affordable.
The bottom line:
There's a lot of damaging misinformation about EVs being spread by the naysayers right now. We hope you consider the source of that information and know that EVs are critical to ending our dependence on fossil fuels, reducing pollution, and improving our health. Investing in a cleaner, more sustainable auto industry now ensures that Michigan is prepared to lead the auto industry in the future.
