A key lobby group in the United States is pushing policymakers to better support the introduction of electric vehicles.
In a report recently published by the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, the group says that the automotive industry is “on the cusp of a transformative moment” and that “substantial, long-term investments in electrification, as well as advanced safety technologies,” is needed.
The Alliance for Automotive Innovation notes that a comprehensive national vision and “strategy rooted in economic, social, environmental, and cultural realities,” is required if the U.S. is to remain a leader in the development and adoption of electric vehicles. It adds that China has already established dominance in the EV race with its battery supply chain and manufacturing prowess. Europe is also developing its own supply chains while Japan has made a commitment to supporting technology advancements with fuel cells.
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“The auto industry has long been an economic engine for the nation, and it is poised to remain the bedrock of U.S. innovation and manufacturing for decades to come,” the lobby group said. “Realizing this potential, however, requires collaboration, cooperation, and creativity among all stakeholders. This is an opportunity to open our minds to new possibilities and work together to take a fresh, comprehensive look at what it will take to realize a shared vision of a cleaner, safer, smarter future.”
As CNBC notes, President-elect Joe Biden strongly supports electric vehicles and has already promised $400 million in public investment in clean energy that includes battery technologies and EVs. He also wants to establish 500,000 new EV charging outlets across the country by the end of 2030, a significant increase on the current 29,000 charging outlets available.
The alliance has also suggested support to incentivize investments in research and development, as well as manufacturing, is necessary.