At a rally on Saturday, former President Donald Trump declared his support for electric vehicles (EVs), attributing this stance to a strong endorsement from Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Despite this newfound support, Trump criticized the current state of EV infrastructure and President Biden’s EV mandates.
The Endorsement and Its Implications
Musk’s Influence
Trump stated that Musk’s endorsement left him with “no choice” but to support electric vehicles. “I’m for electric cars. I have to be because, you know, Elon endorsed me very strongly,” Trump told the crowd. However, he emphasized that his support for EVs only extends to them being a “small slice” of the automotive market, advocating for a diverse range of vehicle options, including gas-powered and hybrid cars.
Criticism of EV Mandates and Infrastructure
Opposition to Biden’s Policies
Trump has been vocal in his opposition to the Biden administration’s push to increase electric vehicle sales to 50% of all new vehicle sales by 2030. At a recent bitcoin conference, Trump reiterated his belief that not everyone should be forced to drive electric cars. He expressed his intention to remove such mandates, emphasizing the need for consumer choice in vehicle types.
Cost of EV Infrastructure
Trump has also criticized the cost associated with installing EV chargers across the country. He provided varying estimates for the total expense, ranging from $5 trillion to $12 trillion, depending on the event. These figures starkly contrast with the $7.5 billion allocated by the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 for EV charging stations.
Musk’s Political Stance
Shifting Alliances
Elon Musk, once a favorite of the environmentally conscious left due to Tesla’s pioneering role in the EV industry, has recently shifted towards conservative politics. His acquisition of Twitter in 2022, rebranded as X, included changes that critics argue have undermined efforts to control hateful speech and misinformation on the platform.
Public Support and Financial Contributions
While Musk has publicly supported Trump, he has denied rumors of pledging a $45 million donation to a pro-Trump super PAC. Musk’s backing comes amidst his broader advocacy for free speech and his critique of government regulations.
The Future of EVs in the Political Landscape
Balancing Support and Criticism
Trump’s mixed messages about electric vehicles highlight the complexities of his political strategy. While he acknowledges the importance of EVs due to Musk’s endorsement, he remains critical of the current infrastructure and regulatory approach. This stance reflects his broader message of supporting consumer choice and opposing mandates he views as restrictive.