Driving change: Accelerating the transition to electric vehicles in America | Climate Group Skip to main content
ev

Driving change: Accelerating the transition to electric vehicles in America

23 February 2024, 14:45 UTC 2 min read

Richard Parker, EV100 Program Manager, North America

The road to sustainability 

As the world unites to combat climate change, it's evident that transportation is the number one source of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. Recognizing the urgent need for change, legislative initiatives such as the Inflation Reduction Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act are pivotal in supporting the transition away from high-emission transportation.  

These bills allocate resources towards modernizing infrastructure and promoting sustainable modes of transportation, such as electric vehicles (EVs) and public transit. By investing in cleaner technologies and enhancing transportation systems, these initiatives not only mitigate emissions but also lay the groundwork for a more sustainable and resilient future. 

A call to action for the Biden Administration 

Climate Group’s transportation advocacy work extends across federal and state levels in the United States. Currently, our gaze is fixed on federal emission standards. We urge the Biden Administration to finalize the strongest possible version of the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles - Phase 3 and the Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Light- and Medium-Duty vehicles. These standards send a resounding message to the market: EVs are the future.  

Additionally, we support California's Advanced Clean Cars II and Advanced Clean Trucks regulations, which further stimulates greater vehicle availability and clean air benefits. 

ev100

Shaping the future with EV100 and EV100+ 

Our global corporate action campaigns, EV100 and EV100+, spearhead this transition with member companies committed to electrifying their fleets. Beyond individual commitments, these programs wield collective influence to display the growing demand for EVs and advocate for policies that expedite the transition. 

In 2023 alone, EV100 members in the US procured over 2,200 new EVs for their fleets, signaling an impending surge in EV adoption. Globally, our members have acquired nearly 70,000 EVs in the past year alone, underscoring the momentum. 

Charting the course at the US Climate Action Summit 

As we gear up for the US Climate Action Summit, our attention turns to Washington, DC. At the Leaders’ Forum on April 24, we'll convene policymakers, corporate leaders, and community advocates for a closed-door session. This gathering will delve into the pivotal state-level strategies necessary to electrify the nation's transportation infrastructure, fostering dialogue and collaboration for a sustainable future. 

Driving Change Together 

Through supporting corporate fleets, championing ambitious policies, and fostering critical discussions, we're spearheading action against the foremost emitter in the United States. Together, we're accelerating the transition to a cleaner, greener future.