4,800 Dealerships Send 2nd Letter to Biden; UAW Urges Higher Tariffs on Cars & Parts
This week just under 4,800 dealerships sent a second letter to President Joe Biden, urging him to “hit the brakes” on the EPA proposal that would effectively mandate that two-thirds of new cars sold be all electric by 2032. A similar letter sent to the president in November from nearly 4000 dealership franchises did not receive a response. Both letters were spearheaded by dealer Mickey Anderson, CEO of Baxter Auto Group, through a coalition “representing the voice of the customer.” The EPA is expected to make a final ruling on the proposal in as soon as a few weeks.
EPA Tailpipe Emissions Proposal
The EPA’s proposed rule, which would effectively require two thirds of new vehicles sold in the U.S. be all-electric by 2032, is expected to be finalized early this year. Late last year, the House of Representatives passed the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act, which would permanently prohibit the EPA from finalizing the rule. Dealers are urged to contact their Senators and ask that the Senate follow suit and pass the CARS Act TODAY.
Tariffs
Also this week, just days before endorsing President Joe Biden’s reelection, the United Auto Workers (UAW) called on the administration to raise tariffs on autos and auto parts, particularly electric vehicles and related components. The comments came in response to USTR’s request for input on automotive trade as it begins to gear up for the renewal of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) in 2026.
Quotes of the Week
“Dealers have never had the luxury or avoiding politics because they find it distasteful or offensive. Policies formed in Congress, in the White House, and at federal agencies shape our industry at every level. You can’t afford to take your eyes off of what is happening in Washington, D.C., because Washington, D.C. always has its eyes on you.”
-Cody Lusk, President & CEO, AIADA (January 2024 President’s Message)
"The tragedy here is that if the manufacturers were truly free to build the cars that customers today are preferring, we would be selling far more plug-in EVs and hybrids. I don't think it would do anything to diminish the 7 or 8 percent current demand, but there would be more investments made in these other alternative technologies."
-Mickey Anderson, CEO, Baxter Auto Group (Automotive News)
Friday Feel Good
Here is just one recent example of how dealers are doing good in their communities:
Burke Subaru in New Jersey delivered over 100 warm winter coats to the Cape May Housing Authority and Cape May Cares as part of the Subaru Operation Warm endeavor. (h/t NJCAR)
We want to hear more about how you are supporting your local community – tweet us at @AIADA_News and use the hashtag #DealersDoGood.
