WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Trump-Vance administration has initiated efforts to reverse federal and state policies aimed at phasing out internal combustion engine vehicles, a key promise made during President Donald J. Trump’s 2024 campaign.
On its first day in office, the administration began the process of revising federal rules and reviewing the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) decision to grant California a waiver allowing the state—and others following its lead—to ban the sale of new gas-powered cars and trucks. The administration’s actions were applauded by the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM), which advocates for consumer choice in vehicle and fuel options.
“President Trump promised to end gas car bans and vehicle mandates on day one of his new administration, and we are pleased to see that work already underway,” said Chet Thompson, AFPM President and CEO. He noted that durable solutions would require regulatory and legislative action, adding that AFPM looks forward to working with the administration and Congress on policies that promote U.S. energy security and consumer freedom.
California’s Advanced Clean Cars I mandate, which sets aggressive electric vehicle sales targets, and EPA emissions standards for light, medium, and heavy-duty vehicles are among the regulations under scrutiny. AFPM is also engaged in ongoing litigation challenging these rules, asserting that they limit consumer choice and harm the liquid fuels industry.
New Jersey, under Governor Phil Murphy has proposed similar legislation to Advance Clean Cars, with the governor declaring a ban on the sale of new gasoline-powered cars by 2035.
Trump’s actions during his first week in office could derail that plan.
“With my actions today, we will end the Green New Deal, and we will revoke the electric vehicle mandate, saving our auto industry and keeping my sacred pledge to our great American autoworkers,” Trump said during his inauguration speech on Monday. “In other words, you’ll be able to buy the car of your choice. We will build automobiles in America again at a rate that nobody could have dreamt possible just a few years ago. And thank you to the autoworkers of our nation for your inspiring vote of confidence. We did tremendously with their vote.”
Polls show widespread public opposition to gas car bans, with 70% of Americans rejecting such policies, according to AFPM. The administration’s actions signal the beginning of what is expected to be a lengthy battle over the future of vehicle regulations and energy policy in the United States.