Larisa Manescu, larisa.manescu@sierraclub.org
WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, the executives of several auto manufacturers, including Toyota, Honda and others, sent a letter to Speaker Pelosi opposing Representative Dan Kildee’s popular amendment, supported by environmental groups, labor unions, and major automakers, to expand the federal electric vehicle tax credit.
The group has also launched a digital ad campaign opposing the proposed tax credit.
The incentive includes a $7,500 point-of-sale consumer rebate, with an additional $4,500 for vehicles assembled by union workers and $500 for vehicles using batteries manufactured in the US. The House package also includes a used EV tax credit.
In response to the lobbying led by Toyota, Katherine García, Acting Director of the Sierra Club’s Clean Transportation for All campaign, released the following statement:
“Toyota is at it again, leading a group of manufacturers in opposing smart environmental policies that are critical for reducing climate-disrupting emissions, improving air quality, and ensuring family-sustaining careers.
“Climate action and economic justice cannot and should not be divorced -- they must go hand in hand in this legislation.
“For years, Toyota has refused to invest in electric cars, denied the benefits of electric vehicles, and stood in the way of progress. Its lobbying at this moment shows the automaker remains stuck in reverse.
“Representative Kildee’s amendment will accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles and help meet President Biden’s climate goals. We urge Congress to maintain the important labor provision in the electric vehicle tax incentive that will benefit the environment and workers.”
Background: In August, Sierra Club published a report that highlighted Toyota’s slow electrification strategy and lobbying efforts for weak emissions standards. The New York Times also recently reported on Toyota’s global lobbying against stricter emissions standards and EV initiatives.
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with millions of members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.