A new analysis of manufacturer sales predictions from the nonprofit Consumer Federation of America (CFA) predicts that 2017 plug-in sales will increase by over 100% compared to 2016. The Tesla Model 3 and Chevrolet Bolt are expected to lead the pack, with the Volt close behind.
“With batteries becoming more efficient, an increasing variety of market choices, and prices becoming more affordable, there is no question that EVs are poised to disrupt the automotive marketplace,” said Jack Gillis, CFA’s Director of Public Affairs. “What’s particularly noteworthy is that EVs are being adopted faster than the now well-established hybrid vehicles.”
CFA also publishes the Car Book’s Snapshot Guide to Electric Vehicles, which provides an overview of the plug-in vehicles available in the US for 2017.
However, Mr. Gillis sounds a cautionary note against tampering with fuel economy regulations: “This increase in electric vehicles is directly attributed to compliance with federal and California fuel efficiency standards. The Chinese have made the development and production of EVs a top priority. Not prioritizing EVs will have a profoundly negative impact on domestic manufacturers both here and in the global marketplace.”
Gillis notes the irony of US automakers expanding their EV offerings in the Chinese market while, here at home, they lobby to water down the standards that have encouraged the current boom. In order to meet strict fuel economy targets, Ford is planning to make 70% of its Chinese vehicles hybrids, plug-in hybrids, or fully electric vehicles by 2025. “If they can do that in China, we certainly expect they will do it here in their home country,” said Gillis.
Source: Consumer Federation of America