 "Earlier this year, Trump reportedly assured oil executives that he would overturn Biden’s environmental policies in exchange for campaign support. His promises include blocking new environmental rules and reversing existing ones. Image Credit: Reuters, Reuters")
President-elect Donald Trump is reportedly gearing up to dismantle much of President Biden’s climate and electric vehicle (EV) policies. According to sources, Trump’s transition team is pushing to cut funding for EVs, charging stations, and emissions initiatives. Instead, the focus would shift towards curbing China’s influence in car manufacturing, including tariffs on battery materials and auto components.
The Biden administration’s ambitious EV support, like the $7,500 tax credit for buyers and billions allocated for building charging networks, is also on Trump’s chopping block. In its place, the incoming administration plans to redirect funds towards boosting US production of batteries and their raw materials while negotiating trade exemptions with allies.
More gas, more emissions
A key part of Trump’s reported strategy involves reversing emissions and fuel economy standards to 2019 levels. This move would allow automakers to manufacture more gas-powered vehicles, increasing emissions per vehicle mile by roughly 25% compared to current regulations. Car fuel economy would also take a hit, dropping by about 15%.
For climate scientists, the shift is worrying. They have consistently emphasised the need to transition from petrol cars to EVs to slow climate change. Vehicle emissions contribute significantly to greenhouse gases, which trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to rising temperatures, extreme weather, and ocean disruptions — problems already visible today.
Tariffs and trade wars looming
Trump’s approach reportedly includes slapping tariffs on battery materials globally, an action that could trigger retaliation from other countries. Economists have warned this could ignite trade wars, disrupt supply chains, and damage the global economy. Some experts believe such policies would also strain US alliances built after World War II.
Trump’s protectionist stance might play well domestically, but economists suggest the fallout could be severe. Higher tariffs would likely lead to price hikes and stifle economic growth, making the EV market even less competitive.
The bigger picture
The Biden administration championed green initiatives through legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act, allocating $369 billion for climate-friendly projects and strict EPA rules encouraging automakers to prioritise EVs. In contrast, Trump has been vocal about his scepticism of climate change, calling it a “hoax.”
Earlier this year, Trump reportedly assured oil executives that he would overturn Biden’s environmental policies in exchange for campaign support. His promises include blocking new environmental rules and reversing existing ones. While these plans might seem like a gut punch for environmental advocates, they come as no surprise to anyone familiar with Trump’s stance.
For now, the world watches as Trump prepares to steer America’s climate and energy strategy back to pre-Biden levels — a move that could leave both the environment and international trade in turbulent waters.