Former Chrysler CEO Critiques Biden-Harris EV Mandate Comments

In a recent appearance on “Cavuto: Coast to Coast,” former Chrysler LLC and Home Depot CEO Bob Nardelli voiced strong criticism of the Biden-Harris administration’s stance on electric vehicles (EVs), labeling it a “deceptively correct comment.” Nardelli’s comments come amid rising tensions between political frontrunners, with Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump presenting contrasting energy policies.

Nardelli expressed skepticism about the administration’s claims that they are not mandating the transition to EVs. He stated, “I think the EV ‘mandate,’ while they say that’s not the case, it’s just another deceptively correct comment coming out of this administration.” He pointed out that by 2035, the government plans to limit car production and sales to EVs, which he argues essentially serves as a mandate.

Fox News Digital recently highlighted Harris’s significant involvement in promoting the end of traditional gas-powered vehicles. Her commitment to the EV agenda dates back to her Senate career, where she co-signed the Green New Deal legislation proposed by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Edward Markey in 2019. Although the legislation aimed to transition the U.S. to 100% clean energy by 2040, it ultimately failed to pass in the Senate.

Following the 2020 election victory of the Biden-Harris ticket, Harris took on a prominent role in climate initiatives, notably leading the Clean School Bus program. The administration has also set a goal for 50% of car sales to be electric by 2030, reinforcing its commitment to EVs.

Nardelli argued that while an evolution toward EVs might be necessary, the current approach feels more like a revolution. He questioned who truly benefits from these policies, noting, “If you look at the average age of the car on the road today, 296 million vehicles, it has gone from 10 years [old] to over 12 years. So the consumer is saying, ‘Hey, I don’t want an EV. I’ll keep what I have.’” He added that traditional car parts manufacturers are thriving amid this uncertainty.

The former CEO also highlighted concerns about the resale value of EVs, stating that it is “minuscule” compared to gas-powered vehicles. “The price tags for new EVs are high, and consumers are understandably hesitant,” he noted.

Furthermore, Nardelli addressed the issue of charging infrastructure, emphasizing the practical challenges of home charging. “If you put a 110-volt charger in your house, it’s about eight hours to get a full charge, and you’re going to pay $7,000 to get it hooked up,” he explained, illustrating the financial burden on consumers looking to switch to electric.

While President Biden is not seeking re-election, Harris has indicated that her future campaign will not be an extension of his policies. Nevertheless, her campaign website outlines plans to “build the industries of the future while creating high-quality union jobs in the electric vehicle and battery supply chains.”

As the political landscape continues to shift, the debate over EV mandates and the future of the automotive industry remains hot. It has significant implications for consumers, manufacturers, and policymakers alike.

Source: FOX Business