On his first day in office, President Trump signed a series of Executive Orders (EOs) that outline sweeping changes to U.S. energy and environmental policies. Among the most significant actions are directives that could reshape the future of clean transportation, electric vehicles (EVs), and infrastructure funding.
One of the key directives, titled “Unleashing American Energy,” aims to open federal land for energy and mineral development, accelerate permitting for liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminals, and eliminate regulatory barriers to fossil fuel projects. Additionally, the EO takes aim at the nation’s efforts to address climate change, calling for the elimination of policies that prioritize the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, such as Phase 2 and 3 Medium and Heavy-Duty Vehicle (MHDV) Greenhouse Gas regulations and Clean Power Plan policies and all of former President Joe Biden’s executive orders related to studying, measuring or mitigating the impacts of climate change.
However, the EOs also signal a shift in how the U.S. government addresses electric vehicles and clean energy technologies:
- Elimination of EV Mandates: Section 2(e) of the EO states a clear intent to eliminate the “electric vehicle mandate,” promoting true consumer choice and removing what it calls “unfair subsidies” for EVs. This will likely lead to an effort to freeze implementation of the $7,500 light-duty and $40,000 medium and heavy-duty EV tax credits. This could drastically alter the landscape for EV adoption in both the consumer and commercial fleet markets, with far-reaching implications for the auto industry.
- Freeze on Infrastructure Funding: Section 7(a) orders a pause on the disbursement of funds for electric vehicle charging stations, including programs under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program and Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant Program. This freeze impacts funding streams that many fleet operators rely on for EV infrastructure expansion, but likely only impacts program funds which have not yet been contracted by the Federal government.
While these actions are part of a broader strategy to reduce the influence of climate change policies, the full impact will depend on how federal agencies respond and the pace with which requisite public processes and regulatory reviews are completed. In another executive order signed on Monday, “Putting America First in International Environmental Agreements,” President Trump directed the United Nations (UN) Ambassador to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, as well as the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.
Compliance360 proactively tracks transportation policy trends at the local, state and federal level. Our 360-degree process ensures our team understands your priorities and continually monitors the evolving regulatory landscape to provide you with expert insights into the regulations that impact your business and the tools to help you prepare. Our regulatory compliance experts can help your organization navigate climate-related compliance requirements and implement your climate-related reporting targets.
Looking for more information? As the regulatory landscape continues to shift, fleets need clarity and actionable insights to navigate the changes ahead. ACT Expo, taking place April 28 to May 1, 2025, provides the ideal opportunity for fleets to gain expert guidance on how to manage the evolving policy environment. With a deep-dive regulatory workshop on the agenda, fleets will leave with the tools and strategies needed to optimize their operations, drive sustainability, and stay competitive. Sign up for updates at www.actexpo.com to ensure you’re prepared for the road ahead.