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Negative feedback.
To raise your point about all the negative feedback you're getting, what I don't understand is why they think people will be forced into buying EVs? I mean if you take the letter published on the website, in which they say there will be 3-4 EVs for every fuel vehicle, that still means there will be fuel vehicles and they just have to compete for people's dollars like everyone else.
Our 2011 VW Tiguan is looking at $3500 in repairs coming up (mainly suspension damage as they have taken more than eight years to dig up a road near us and leave potholes all over the place (and we've still got two more to go). We've been mainly looking at EVs to replace it for two reasons. First off, we only drive that vehicle 3000-5000 miles a year, so it's in the sweet spot for an EV. Secondly, in theory it's a significantly simpler machine than a gas one, so maintenance should be a lot less. So, after spending $8K getting my Mini Countryman fixed (which we're keeping as I like it too much), cheaper maintenance looks very, very attractive. And because we use it so little, we're looking at a second-hand vehicle as you can pick up a rather nice Volvo, Chevy, VW, or Audi, two to three years old for $18-29K. This is just the start. Once the Chinese vehicles start entering the market, the US ones will be toast unless they can really make use of the technology to make these vehicles simpler. Ironically, a lot of the ground work was done by Tesla but after Musk wrecked a big chunk of the federal government, I'd rather walk than buy a Tesla at this point. And the best part is that we're reaching a point in which I don't have to.
Glad to see you writing again!
Paul G.
Silver Spring, Maryland
EV development is crushingly expensive.
Yes, Peter, our country will survive the current administration. I don’t know how well it could survive the effects if the current California leadership gets in power. He would likely let the country flood with even less-civilized people than we get from the leadership in Detroit, and let them take huge government subsidies like the current administration is finding in various states (not just Minnesota, but California and Massachusetts, too). Last I checked, government solvency and the pursuit of *advancing* civilization is kind of important.
The main problem with EVs, as Ford is painfully learning, is that the up-front costs to develop EV chassis and tooling plants to build them at scale, is absurdly, mind-numbingly expensive. Tesla lost billions of dollars over the span of a decade before becoming profitable, first only through carbon credits, then on the cars, themselves. Now the other automakers are learning how different and difficult it is to design and mass-produce EVs. And this is not coming from an anti-EV person. In fact, I’m surprised how long it took for you to see how important EV development is for long-term survival of automobile companies. I remember when you said ICE cars would dominate “for decades to come”. I guess better late than never, huh?
You have not lost this reader, not even close! Please do what you can to stay healthy; your insight is appreciated by so many people, myself included.
Michael Ball
Kensington, Maryland
A view from 10,000 feet.
When you consider that the oil companies have buried the facts about the damage to the 10,000 feet of air that we must all share, you know, the fact that burning a 6 pound gallon of gas produces 19 POUNDS of Co2, since 1954, it becomes obvious that the American auto industry is just the marketing arm for "big oil". Hence, the support of the red hats and their attacks on electric vehicles. Just like wind turbines killing millions of birds. It is no wonder that today, in 2026, vehicle fleet mileage is still stuck in the 1950's, just like that other political party. You all do realize that big oil, the Saudis (who supported Hitler during WW2), Putin and the tangerine terrorist only care about selling their garbage and could care less about destroying that 10,000 feet of air that we must all share.
Ptg0
Highland Park, Michigan
A Hard Rain's A-Gonna Fall.
Your rant was clear and accurate, even more so this time. You've helped confirm my belief: 20% of the population cannot read or refuse to do so. It may be the same 20%, it will be the darkest day in the decline of the American auto industry, as Zeekrs roll across the Ambassador Bridge, and people demand to know why they can't have them. Then the Orange Menace will do the stupidest possible thing, as always.
Joe Folz
Bonita Springs, Florida
Economic suicide.
We both know that the human mind is incapable of change. Americans voted Trump into office twice based on promises to farmers, coal workers, auto workers, the military and anyone else he could pander to. Not once have I seen the guy eat dinner with these folk. Or deliver on any promise other than things that actually are detrimental to their cause. And Americans elected the guy twice. So there’s a track record of stupidity that explains the EV rejection. The UAW negotiated the electric plants into the latest contract. Ford built the plants to manufacture them. So why are they walking away? Farley’s “Model T” moment has already evaporated into thin air. Because of the whims of Trump. EV bad, McDonalds and Beef Tallow good! Whatever happened to letting the market decide. If Ford can build an EV, at a decent price, in a Union factory who is harmed by this? Why abandon what every other vehicle market is transitioning to. Isolationism isn’t an economic policy. It’s economic suicide.
JRR
Plymouth, Michigan
The Barrett Jackson Bacchanal.
Around here the greatest annual neighborhood entertainment spectacle is the B-J freak show. This describes both the people and the cars. I have witnessed its entire evolution from humble circus tent beginnings when Tom Barrett and Russ Jackson would hustle in and out of the adjacent single wide mobile home serving as the “office”, barking at consignees. Mrs. Nellie Jackson hand scribbled each bidder’s pass/ID with a smile and warm greeting while recalling your name from last year, then stuffed your $10 cash bidder’s fee for all five days into the cigar box in front of her on the folding card table desk. Times have changed. If I recall correctly, the whole enterprise (the “brand” and its multiple eponymous events) has been sold to a giant international conglomerate events manager. Now the whole thing couldn’t be farther from genuine automotive realism. Sayonara the normal average automobile hobbyst/enthusiast.
Single day entry fee is $30+ per person for the most basic privilege of walking the event and browsing the merchandise. And there’s lots of merchandise to oogle besides cars: everything the stereotypical, decadent, well moneyed car collector/enthusiast is presumed to lust after. This is not the family values crowd. If you hang around long enough you might even score a good discount on some breast implants for your 3rd wife. There are even some mail order prescription ED plans for your enrollment too. Don’t go there hungry or thirsty. You can only satisfy your appetite and rid your guilt by pretending that you are making the largest individual donation in history to the World Food Bank! Remember, it’s all for charity, right??? Thankfully, the nice clean and plumbed restrooms today are free, but the long Porta Potty banks of yore with their slamming doors added some sonic atmosphere and a little aroma.
Problem with all of this is that now everyone thinks that the dusty ‘52 Plymouth Cranbrook 4-dr sedan in grandma’s barn is worth $100,000. The new golden age indeed, as my excellent, one owner, un-restored, all original wife reminds me.
Dr. John
Phoenix, Arizona
Hanging tough.
Loved today's column! I'm not afraid of EVs nearly as much as I am of stumble-bum, knee-jerk, half assed decision makers.
Thank you for talking truth to power. Hang tough, you are appreciated.
Eric Bray
Fairlawn, Ohio
Witnessing the loss of rational thought in real time.
Witnessing what is occurring inside our own borders has been the distraction that Orange Man relishes so he can control the narrative. It has also left me three weeks behind in welcoming your return to AE with a better health prognosis. There is a contingent of the populace that will believe anything they are told by this administration without questioning the veracity. As Paula Jones said of Bill Clinton “He’s the President” for explaining her past behavior in his company. Now we have a President who openly admits to "grabbing 'em by the pussy" in his own words. The moron believes that by introducing Chinese auto manufacturers to the American economy it would be a welcome addition. Why, they would have to build infrastructure such as warehouses, showrooms, employ administrative and dealership personnel and it would just be a bonanza for all Americans. WTF. We are witnessing the slow deterioration of our Arsenal of Democracy without his ludicrous supposition. We are subject to his ego gratification at our own expense. We are also experiencing his loss of rational thought every time he speaks. The Weave is BS.
Back to EVs. Farley and Barra thought they had the future of the industry in their hands. To be blindsided by this administration’s actions has forced the Big 2 write-offs at Ford $19.5B and GM $9 + B. That these geniuses still have their jobs is astounding. The EV owners that I know personally still maintain a holier than thou attitude when it comes to their choices. When they lose that edge is anyone’s guess. When asked, they admit to owning an ICE as well. For the longer trips they take. Of course. Don’t even get me started on autonomous vehicles.
Welcome back.
Jack J.
Melbourne, Florida
Thank you.
On these darkest of days, it is so refreshing and reassuring to hear your clear-headed POV. With the absolute insanity that's taking place at the behest of an amoral government, I have been muttering to myself over and over: "where is the outrage?". I don't count the social media echo chambers - but your format of just emailing you, not logging in with some stupid username and password, just regular old email, is a way to hear a cross section of the average male. So it's not only refreshing to hear YOUR take on the current admin,, but of your readers as well.
I always knew EVs would take a while to get a foothold in the US. But I was surprised by the recent level of anti-EV vitriol considering the orange muppet was bankrolled by an EV pioneer. If you drive one you just know it's better in just about every way. Except for towing an RV or boat (not many chargers in remote areas) and not great for long road trips - especially in the winter. The Scout EREV solves both of these issues and it'll be great for around town. I have a deposit on one. I also have a deposit on a Slate - which will be a perfect second vehicle for the family.
It's still early days in terms of EV choices and affordability, but I think when the Slate and Scout arrive - it will be somewhat of a tipping point.
DH
Detroit, Michigan
Just a matter of when.
It is pretty clear that EVs will be the dominant form of automobile in near future. One can have an informed debate about the exact timing. It's unfortunate that the topic has become another weapon in the interminable political culture wars. EVs are a certain technology, and are not left, right, progressive nor conservative. The ultimate deciding factor will be affordability and total cost of ownership. Bloomberg has forecast that the cost of LI-based batteries will HALVE by 2030. Think about that; the most expensive component of the vehicle will cost 50% less. It is clear that ICE vehicles will no longer be competitive. The real tragedy is that the US administration is destroying the ability for the D3 to compete in this new electrified market, and is intent on destroying our Canadian manufacturing base (which is a whole other topic.)
Your recent highlight of the latest, greatest Corvette illustrated EVs' technology advantage. The Tesla Model S Plaid is over 5-years-old, yet matches or beats the Corvette in all performance categories, costs less, and has 4-doors and two trunks. The latest Vette is a wonderful piece of engineering, at much lower cost than traditional exotics, but has become irrelevant. May it Rest in Peace.
SDS
Toronto (via Trollhattan/Russelsheim/Torino/Paris)
Missed Opportunity.
There's plenty of blame to go around but most of it falls to our so called political and industry "leaders".
U.S. history is full of examples of national challenges that were taken on as national projects - National Interstate and Defense Highways Act; Rural Electrification; Transcontinental Railroad; the Space Race, etc. We would not have the prosperity we enjoy today if it were not for the direct benefits of these projects. But each of them required our collective leadership to stand up and make the case. John F. Kennedy's "Special Message on Urgent National Needs" moon shot speech is probably the one most of can remember. These were not "let the market decide" moments.
When the China/EV challenge appeared, it was never addressed as the national challenge it was (is). Rather than making the case for an all-in moon-shot response, our leaders gave us individual tax credits wrapped up with the New Green Deal political football. This could have been an inflection point for the technological and manufacturing future of our nation.
Our transportation, and attendant manufacturing future, will be forever shaped by our leadership failing to rise to the challenge.
NOG
North Oakland County, Michigan
Fools and their money.
Barrett "where a fool and his money soon part" Jackson
MLH
Salem, Virginia
Here's to hope.
I've been reading your column for many years, and I don't think you've gone easy on any of the occupants of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave, but I'm quite sure this is the first time you've ever needed to say this:
I'm hoping this country can survive his grossly malignant term in office.
All I can say is, I hope so too.
Dan Manes
San Diego, California
How Europe differs.
On my recent trips to Europe, I attempt to "register" my 3 liter gas car and see what it would cost. I have been amazed on my last three trips (Norway, Denmark, Spain, Portugal) how much it could cost to get my C43 on the road....up to $12,000 in registration fees and taxes, due to engine size and carbon, with four figure yearly registration fees. I saw a late model Ferrari in Lisbon, and was more impressed that he could afford to register the car and pay the fees, than I was that he had "a Ferrari".
You know what are cheap to register in all those places? Electric cars.
The current Euro tax and registration codes get you two cheap things to register... (very) mild hybrids with 1.4-liter engines and a CVT, or electric. I miss the manual diesel you used to get as default euro rental car.
If you want any performance at all, you are essentially forced to go electric; they've taxed any performance gas car into oblivion.
Norway had the full spectrum of Chinese electrics... letting them into Canada is the true camel's nose in the tent.
The secret profit margin of Detroit automakers is in danger, and they can't afford to fall behind of the state of the art electric car makers, no matter where they are sourced.
Casey Raskob, Esq
Green Leafy Burbs, New York City
The war of words continues.
I am actually finding the pro-EV brigade to be even more intolerable, and I am an EV owner that loves my EV.
The strident screams that all ICE vehicles and evil and must die from them definitely do not help their cause. If you really want to pi$$ them off, point out that a coal power EV (accurately terms as a Pollution transfer Vehicle) is still better than an ICE for GHG. When you improve the emissions at a coal plant, you also create an OTA update of sorts that makes each EV sucking in the electrons cleaner.
For those of us with decades of real automotive experience, we know that there is no single answer. Will the world end if only 85% of the fleet is EV? Science would say that is good enough, but in EV world that would be heresy.
What we need is a mix that allows the few corner cases to be EREV or ICE while getting maximum EV use where it's better for the consumer.
Rant Over!
Tyrone G,
Boston, Massachusetts
Editor's Note: As Peter has said over, and over, and over again, oh, probably for the last half-decade or so, our nation's fleet will be powered by a kaleidoscope of power choices. ICE, EREV, Hybrid and BEV vehicles will all be a part of the equation. His latest prediction? BEVs will make up 40 percent of our nation's fleet, in ten years at the earliest. -WG
Times are a changin'.
I used to be firmly convinced that EVs were going to be a niche product for a while to come, because people who live in apartments can't easily or cheaply put in charging.(Which a tenant has the right to do, albeit at their expense.)
But now, public charging in at least West Los Angeles is such that three of my neighbors who have electric cars don't bother with the expense of installing equipment. Why bother when in a few miles are public charging stations and even the Tesla Drive-in that are faster and cheaper?
Add in the fact that gas stations sit on some pricey real estate in LA. I've seen five of them in the area in the last few years get torn down to make mixed-use developments. What slows development down is the fact that those gas stations have to have expensive removal of tanks and soil mitigation. Which is the reason that the city of West Hollywood took over a lot at Crescent Heights and Santa Monica. They paved over the problem and put in parking. With charging stations.
I don't think I will live to see the day when I can only buy gas in Pomona, but as charging times get faster and batteries become cheaper and more stations are being put in; EVs look more and more like a viable alternative for the average person.
Now I have to just win Power Ball Lotto so I can afford that electric Pagoda-top Benz.
Tom Pease
AE's L.A.-based correspondent
Beverly Hills, California