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Biden Will Sign Non-Binding Order for Half of U.S. Sales to be Zero-Emissions by 2030

electrify-america-colorado-mills-oem.jpg Newer Electrify America DC fast charging stations deliver up to 350 kilowatts to compatible EVs. | Manufacturer image

President Joe Biden will sign an executive order aiming for zero-emissions vehicles to account for half of all U.S. sales by 2030. An Aug. 5 statement by the White House quantified zero-emissions vehicles as all-electric, plug-in hybrid or fuel-cell electric. The statement went on to note that battery-pack costs have fallen 85% since 2010, calling the 50% goal a “deployment target.” Although Reuters notes that the agreement isn’t legally binding, automakers released statements of agreement. 

Related: 5 Things That Could Slow Your EV’s Home Charging Speeds

In a joint statement, the Detroit Three automakers announced a “shared aspiration to achieve sales of 40-50% of annual U.S. volumes” of EVs, fuel-cell vehicles or plug-in hybrids. Likewise, BMW, Ford, Honda, Volkswagen and Volvo issued a separate statement that they “are driving towards 40-50% of our sales being EVs in the next nine years.”

Consumer adoption, of course, is key. A Pew Research survey released in June found 7% of U.S. adults said they currently own an EV or hybrid, with 39% saying they’re “very or somewhat likely to seriously consider buying an electric vehicle” the next time they shop for a new car. The Tesla Model Y is currently the best-selling all-electric nameplate on the market, according to Automotive News’ sales tabulations through the first half of 2021, but it still ranks No. 21 in overall sales.

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Former Assistant Managing Editor-News Kelsey Mays likes quality, reliability, safety and practicality. But he also likes a fair price. Email Kelsey Mays

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