Automotive
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Returns to its Origin
Last Updated on September 6, 2025 by Daily News Staff
SALT LAKE CITY /PRNewswire/ — Legends never die. Toyota’s off-road icon and longest-running nameplate is making a triumphant comeback to North America for the 2024 model year, returning to its rugged origin. Since its introduction in the U.S. market in 1958, the Land Cruiser evolved over the years from the legendary two-door models like the 40 Series with its fold-down front windshield, white roof, and rear jump seats to the capable yet fully loaded 200 Series, which was the last generation to be sold in the States and combined Land Cruiser’s unbreakable strength with premium luxury features. Now, Land Cruiser stays true to its heritage, returning as a high-quality off-roader at a more accessible price point that will take a wider range of customers on numerous backcountry adventures across the globe. 
Built on the TNGA-F global truck platform, the new Land Cruiser is designed, engineered, and tested to survive in the harshest of environments. For this new generation, Land Cruiser is exclusively available with the range-topping i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain producing 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque. It’s slightly smaller and narrower than the outgoing 200 Series model, making it nimbler on the trails, and Land Cruiser features off-road tech that has debuted on the newest generation of Toyota trucks. Limited to 5,000 units for the first two months of production, Land Cruiser will be offered in a First Edition grade that includes two new two-tone paint colors and additional off-road equipment.
“This icon belongs in our lineup,” says Toyota group vice president and general manager Dave Christ. “For 2024, Land Cruiser returns to its origin with a heritage-inspired design paired with the legendary capability and durability Land Cruiser is known for, and it will take even more customers on adventures across the globe as it has done for generations.”
The 2024 Land Cruiser will be built in Toyota Motor Corporation’s Tahara and Hino plants in Japan and arrive in the U.S. in the spring of 2024. Manufacturer’s suggested retail pricing will start in the mid-$50,000 range and be announced closer to its on-sale date.
Back to its Origin
For decades, Land Cruiser has been known for its world-renowned capability as the staple of Toyota’s core values of quality, durability, and reliability. When Land Cruiser arrived in the U.S. in the late ’50s, Toyota sold only one unit in its first year. But then, when the 40 Series arrived, Land Cruiser became the best-selling Toyota in the U.S. for five years running. These early models featured solid front and rear axles on leaf springs, and the boxy look with a flat roof, short overhangs, and “TOYOTA” grilles became iconic. Soon after, though, customers wanted a bigger 4×4, and the Land Cruiser grew into larger station wagon models such as the 55 and 60 Series and ultimately lead to where the Land Cruiser left off in the U.S.: the 200 Series, a premium, full-size luxury off-road SUV.
Now, in its return to the U.S. market after a three-year hiatus, Land Cruiser utilizes the global TNGA-F body-on-frame platform. This new ladder frame allows for more rigidity in the chassis compared to the 200 Series model thanks to the use of high-strength steel with blanking and laser welds. Compared to the outgoing 200 Series, the new Land Cruiser is 4.4 inches narrower and 1.2 inches shorter for more off-road prowess.
Toyota’s North American-based studio CALTY Design Research worked closely with the global development team to establish the design direction for the new Land Cruiser. The design team used four key terms to lead the development: authentic, reliable, timeless, and professional. The all-new Land Cruiser is derived from a pure expression of form aligning with function.
For the signature Land Cruiser look, the 1958 grade features the iconic round LED headlights and “TOYOTA” heritage grille, while Land Cruiser grades upgrade to slim, rectangular headlights reminiscent of the FJ62. A squared body profile resembles that of Land Cruisers of old, and the A pillar is pushed back not only to complement the look, but for better outward visibility on the trails. The front overhang is also decreased for greater approach.
A newly developed double-wishbone front suspension with twin-tube shocks is paired with a multi-link rear suspension with coil springs. To provide improved steering feel and facilitate the incorporation of additional safety and convenience features, Land Cruiser will feature electric power steering, and all models feature 17-inch disc brakes front and rear. With a trailer hitch standard on all grades, Land Cruisers can tow up to 6,000 pounds.
i-FORCE MAX Hybrid Standard
Land Cruiser’s new i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain comes standard on all grades and pairs a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with a 48-hp electric motor integrated into an eight-speed transmission feeding off a 1.87-kWh NiMH battery pack that creates a total system output of 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque. Fuel economy estimates will be announced closer to Land Cruiser’s on-sale date.
All Land Cruisers are equipped with a full-time four-wheel drive system with a center locking differential and an electronically controlled two-speed transfer case with high/low range. The system also features vehicle stability control (VSC) and an automatic limited-slip differential (Auto LSD). An electronic locking rear differential is standard on all Land Cruisers and can help split power 50/50 to the rear wheels for improved traction control on rough terrain.
An Off Road Icon
Land Cruiser has long been an off-road icon and this new generation continues its legacy. An all-new front stabilizer bar disconnect is standard on Land Cruiser and First Edition grades and increases flex at the push of a button. Overall, Land Cruiser has an approach angle up to 31.0 degrees and max departure to 22.0 degrees while breakover angle reaches 25.0 degrees. Ground clearance is up to 8.7 inches. For off-road protection, Land Cruiser customers can add rock rails and full coverage high strength steel skid plates. For off-road recovery, front tow/recovery hooks come standard. The Land Cruiser 1958 grade comes standard from the factory with fog lamps that will aid in overall visibility. The Land Cruiser grade gets upgraded color selectable RIGID fog lamps.
Multi-Terrain Select, which is now functional in both 4WD-High and 4WD-Low, is standard on the Land Cruiser grade and offers adjustable settings to help control wheel spin on a variety of terrain such as Mud, Dirt, and Sand. The CRAWL Control function is standard and acts as a low-speed, off-road cruise control allowing the driver to focus on steering while the system maintains one of five selectable speeds. Downhill Assist Control is another off-road feature that’s standard and it helps the driver navigate descents by limiting the speed of the vehicle. Drivers can view potential obstacles that are looming on the trail via the Multi-Terrain Monitor that can display crisply on the available 12.3-inch touchscreen, which comes standard on the Land Cruiser grade.
With Toyota Genuine Accessories and Associated Accessory Products (AAP), Land Cruiser is a blank canvas for customization. The AAP ecosystem will continue to evolve over time and currently includes over 100 accessories such as off-road recovery gear, rack attachment brackets for storage gear, outdoor sporting equipment carriers, and more. These products can also be conveniently rolled into customer’s monthly payments making accessorizing Land Cruiser through Toyota easier than ever.
A Connected Cruiser
With seating for up to five, Land Cruiser 1958 models feature black fabric seats and an 8.0-inch touchscreen displaying Toyota’s latest Audio Multimedia system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The new multimedia system also gives drivers the opportunity to access a wide range of enhanced connectivity and convenience features, including Over-the-Air (OTA) updates. The Land Cruiser grade has heated and ventilated SofTex-trimmed seats available in either black or Java and includes a 12.3-inch multimedia monitor and an available 14-speaker JBL premium sound system. Land Cruiser grade is also available with 4G connectivity for up to five devices that can turn the vehicle into an AT&T Hotspot. An available premium package includes leather-trimmed seats on the Land Cruiser Grade. The limited First Edition grade is exclusively available with leather-trimmed seats and a “First Edition” logo embossed on the door panels. A standard Qi wireless charging pad has enhanced power output, and dual USB-C charging ports are included in the front row and available for the rear passengers. There are also enhanced functional features while driving on rough trails including a palm rest for using the center touch screen and side knee pads.
A Smart Key System with push-button start is standard on all grades. With an active Remote Connect trial or subscription, an available Digital Key connects with compatible smartphones to allow vehicle entry, tailgate access, and vehicle starting (4G network dependent). The Digital Key can also be remotely shared with others to give more control over vehicle access rather than giving someone the physical key.
Simple Grade Structure
Land Cruiser will be available in three grades: Land Cruiser 1958, Land Cruiser, and the limited run Land Cruiser First Edition. An available premium package adds power heated and ventilated leather-trimmed seats with lumbar support, a 14-speaker JBL audio system, head-up display, digital rearview mirror, moonroof, and more.
The 2024 Land Cruiser will be offered in seven exterior color choices: Ice Cap, Wind Chill Pearl, Underground, Black, Meteor Shower, Trail Dust, and Heritage Blue. The two-tone Trail Dust and Heritage Blue exterior colors feature a Grayscape roof. Land Cruiser 1958 Land Cruiser Land CruiserFirst Edition Platform TNGA-F Engine Turbocharged 2.4-Liter Four-Cylinder Hybrid Battery 1.87-kWh NiMH Battery Transmission 8-speed Automatic Transmission Drivetrain Full-time 4×4 with two-speed transfer case Horsepower 326 horsepower Torque 465 lb.-ft. Towing 6,000 lbs. Wheelbase 112.2 in. Overall length 193.7 in. Overall width (+ mirrors) 84.2 in. Overall height 73.2 in. Ground Clearance 8.7 in. Running Ground Clearance 8.3 in. Approach/Breakover/Departure Angles 30.0º/25º/22.0º 31.0º/25.0º/22.0º 31.0º/25.0º/22.0º Wheels 18-in. alloy 18-in. alloy(20-in. opt) 18-in. alloy Tires 245/70R18 265/70R18 (265/60R20 opt) 265/70R18 Land Cruiser 1958 Land Cruiser Land Cruiser First Edition · Rear locking differential· CRAWL control· “TOYOTA” heritage grille· Round LED headlamps· LED fog lamps· 18-in. alloy wheels with 245/70 all-
season tires· 8.0-in. multimedia monitor· 6-speaker sound system· Heated steering wheel· Fabric/manual heated seats· 2400W AC inverterAdds or replaces…· Front stabilizer bar disconnect· Rectangular LED headlamps· RIGID color-selectable LED fog lamps· 18-in. alloy wheels with 265/70 all-
season tires· Multi-Terrain Select (MTS)· Multi-Terrain Monitor (MTM)· 12.3-in. multimedia monitor· 10-speaker sound system· SofTex heated/ventilated power seatsAdds or replaces…· Roof rack· Rock rails· Front skid plate· Round LED headlamps· 18-in. alloy wheels with 265/70 all-
season tires· Tailgate light· Back door guard· Mudflaps· Unique-stitched key glove· Leather heated/ventilated power seats
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 Standard
All 2024 models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, Toyota’s suite of active safety and convenience systems. TSS enhancements are made possible by system sensors with improved detection capability. This suite of features includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Automatic High Beams
- Proactive Driving Assist
When system operating conditions are met, using the vehicle’s camera and radar, Proactive Driving Assist is designed to provide gentle braking into curves or gentle braking and/or steering to help support driving tasks such as distance control between a preceding vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist. Proactive Driving Assist is not a substitute for the Pre-Collision System and operates in different circumstances.
The Toyota Safety Sense features have been enhanced for TSS 3.0:
- The Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection has enhanced detection capabilities thanks to new system sensors. It receives enhanced intersection support with improved detection capability in certain circumstances. In addition to pedestrian and bicyclist detection, this system now includes the capability to detect a motorcyclist.
- Lane Departure Alert will now provide Steering Assist as well as enhanced lane recognition that includes detection of certain 3D objects, like guardrails, that may be used to help define the lane.
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control will have Full-Speed Range capability and adds a fourth following distance setting, from the previously available three. Enhanced vehicle detection allows for the ability to detect more than one preceding vehicle, as well as vehicles in adjacent lanes. This helps the system to provide smoother, more natural speed adjustments, especially when the driver changes lanes.
- Lane Tracing Assist is new to Land Cruiser, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control must be enabled for it to function. The system requires detectable lane markings to function. Like Lane Departure Alert, lane recognition is enhanced over prior TSS generations. In addition to lane centering, this system also helps provide more space between vehicles being passed in adjacent lanes. It works by offsetting the vehicles’ driving path with minor steering adjustments while keeping the vehicle within its lane.
- An Emergency Driving Stop System is a new function of Lane Tracing Assist. It’s designed to monitor the driver’s inputs, such as steering operation, to determine if they’re inattentive or non-responsive, such as during a medical emergency. This feature is designed to bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver doesn’t respond to alerts to take control.
- Road Sign Assist is also new to Land Cruiser. This system is designed to detect speed limit signs, stop signs, Do Not Enter signs, yield signs, and certain warning signs, and display an icon of the sign on the Multi-Information Display (MID).
In addition to TSS 3.0, other standard features include Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), which is designed to help detect and warn you of vehicles approaching or positioned in the adjacent lanes and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) for added peace of mind by helping to detect vehicles approaching from either side while backing out and alerting you with a visual and audible warning. Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) also comes standard.
Beyond Zero Vision
As part of Toyota’s diverse approach to working toward a carbon neutral future, Land Cruiser is the latest hybrid offering in Toyota’s lineup to wear the Beyond Zero badge. Today, Toyota offers 16 electrified vehicles for customers to choose from. With twelve hybrid models, two plug-in hybrid models, the bZ4X battery electric vehicle, and the zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell Mirai, Toyota provides more choices than any other automaker for customers to reduce their carbon footprint.
Limited Warranty
Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against perforation from corrosion for 60 months with no mileage limitation. Hybrid-related components that require repairs needed to correct defects in materials or workmanship are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, whichever comes first from original date of first use when sold as new. The hybrid battery is covered for 10 years/150,000 miles, whichever comes first, and is transferable across ownership.
The 2024 Land Cruiser comes with ToyotaCare, a plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance, for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 2 years, unlimited mileage of Roadside Assistance.
4Connected Services are dependent on network availability and other factors.
About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.
Toyota directly employs more than 49,000 people in the U.S. who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of more than 33 million cars and trucks at our nine manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 10th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 24 electrified options.
Through its Driving Possibilities initiative, the Toyota USA Foundation has committed $110 million to create innovative educational programs within, and in partnership with, historically underserved and diverse communities near the company’s 14 U.S. operating sites.
For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.
For customer inquiries, please call: 800-331-4331
SOURCE Toyota Motor North America
Automotive
Slate Truck Update: Affordable EV Pickup Moves Closer to Production With $24,950 Price Tag
Slate Truck officially reveals a $24,950 price, improved 205-mile range, and production updates. See how Jay Leno’s test drive highlighted the customizable affordable EV pickup.
Last Updated on June 27, 2026 by Daily News Staff
The race to bring affordable electric vehicles to American drivers is heating up, and one startup continues to attract major attention: Slate Auto’s compact electric pickup truck.
Since its debut, the Slate Truck has positioned itself as a different kind of EV — one focused less on luxury technology and more on affordability, simplicity, and customization. The company recently revealed important updates, including official pricing, improved range estimates, and the opening of preorders as it moves closer to production. 
Slate Truck Officially Priced at $24,950
When Slate Auto first introduced the truck, the company gained headlines by suggesting an electric pickup could eventually cost under $20,000 after incentives.
That original target has changed, but Slate says the mission remains the same: build a practical electric vehicle at a price point accessible to more consumers.
The base Slate Truck will start at $24,950 before taxes, fees, and optional equipment. The company is also offering SUV conversion options starting around the $30,000 range.
While it is no longer a sub-$20,000 vehicle, the Slate Truck could still become one of the most affordable new EVs available in the United States.
More Range Than Originally Expected
One of the biggest technical updates is the truck’s improved estimated range.
Early versions of the Slate Truck were expected to offer around 150 miles of range. The company has now increased that estimate to approximately 205 miles using a 63-kWh LFP battery pack.
The truck is expected to feature:
- Rear-wheel-drive electric motor
- Around 181 horsepower
- Approximately 1,550-pound payload capacity
- Around 2,000-pound towing capability
- NACS charging connector for Tesla Supercharger access
Jay Leno Takes the Slate Truck for a Drive
The Slate Truck gained additional attention after appearing on Jay Leno’s Garage, where longtime automotive enthusiast Jay Leno tested a prototype version of the vehicle.
The episode gave viewers a closer look at Slate’s unusual approach: instead of building a luxury EV loaded with expensive features, the company created a simple platform that owners can customize over time.
The truck’s philosophy includes:
- Easy-to-repair design
- Replaceable body panels
- DIY-friendly customization
- Accessories that allow owners to personalize the vehicle after purchase
The concept is closer to an automotive “blank canvas” than a traditional factory-built vehicle.
Built Around Customization
Slate’s strategy is different from most automakers. Instead of offering dozens of factory trims, the company plans to sell a basic vehicle and let owners add features later.
Planned upgrades include:
- Interior improvements
- Audio systems
- Roof racks
- Exterior accessories
- Wrap options
- Pickup-to-SUV conversion kits
Slate says it plans to offer more than 175 accessories, allowing owners to build a vehicle based on their needs and budget.
Production Plans Remain on Track
Slate continues preparing for production at its Indiana manufacturing facility.
The company has raised additional funding, including a reported $650 million funding round, bringing total funding to approximately $1.4 billion. The money is intended to support factory development and production preparation.
Current plans:
- Production start: Late 2026
- Initial deliveries: Expected toward the end of 2026
- Larger production ramp: Expected in 2027
Can Slate Change the EV Market?
The Slate Truck represents a different idea about what an electric vehicle should be.
Instead of competing with premium models like the Rivian R1T or Ford F-150 Lightning, Slate is targeting drivers who want something affordable, practical, and easy to personalize.
The biggest challenge now is turning strong consumer interest into actual vehicles on the road.
With tens of thousands of reservations and growing attention from automotive media, Slate has created something rare in today’s auto industry: excitement around a vehicle designed around affordability.
The next major test will be production.
Related STM Daily News Coverage
- Electric Vehicle Innovation and Transportation Updates
- Automotive Industry News and Consumer Trends
- The Future of Transportation Technology
Further Reading
- Slate Auto Official Website
https://www.slate.auto - Jay Leno’s Garage: Slate Truck First Drive
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6_9_HHLOSY - TechCrunch: Slate Auto Updates and Production Plans
- Cars.com: Slate Truck Pricing and Specs
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Consumer Corner
Understanding Auto Insurance for New Grads

(Family Features) Graduation is an exciting time, but it also means new responsibilities.
“Graduates are stepping into a world filled with opportunities and uncertainties,” said Kevin Quinn, VP, Auto Claims at Mercury Insurance. “Understanding your insurance needs is a crucial step in protecting your future.”
If, like many recent grads, you’ve been on your parents’ auto insurance and now need your own, consider these simple steps from Mercury Insurance to help you get the coverage you need.
1. Review Your Current Coverage
As a starting point, talk to your parents and their insurance agent to understand what coverage you currently have.
“Knowing what coverage you’ve had under your parents’ policy helps you understand what protections you might need going forward,” Quinn said.
2. Decide on Your Coverage
Understanding the different types of coverage available ensures you choose the right protection for your vehicle and situation. Different types of coverage include:
- Liability: Covers damage you cause to others.
- Collision: Covers damage to your car from accidents.
- Comprehensive: Covers non-accident damage (like theft or weather).

3. Check State Requirements
Every state has different auto insurance laws. Look up the minimum coverage requirements for your state or ask an agent to explain them.
4. Get Quotes
Shopping around is essential. Contact multiple insurance companies to get quotes. Different companies offer various rates and discounts, so take the time to compare prices and coverage options to find the best deal. For example, you can obtain a quote from Mercury Insurance online.
Many insurers also offer discounts for safe driving, good grades or combining policies. Be sure to ask about lower rates and potential savings for:
- Good driving record
- Completing driver education courses
- Bundling with other insurance policies
5. Review and Choose
Look over the quotes and coverage options. Select a policy that provides adequate coverage without stretching your budget too thin.
6. Set Up Your Policy
Once you’ve chosen a policy, work with the insurance company to set it up. For example, Mercury Insurance has a team of agents ready to help make this process as seamless and easy as possible. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions to avoid surprises later on and contact an agent if you have any questions.
For more information, visit mercuryinsurance.com or contact your local agent.
Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
SOURCE:
Mercury Insurance
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Automotive
EPA removal of vehicle emissions limits won’t stop the shift to electric vehicles, but will make it harder, slower and more expensive
The EPA’s move to rescind the 2009 “endangerment finding” and roll back vehicle emissions limits won’t stop the shift to electric vehicles—but it will slow adoption, raise costs, and increase climate and public health harms.

Alan Jenn, University of California, Davis
The U.S. government is in full retreat from its efforts to make vehicles more fuel-efficient, which it had been prioritizing, along with state governments, since the 1970s.
The latest move came on Feb. 12, 2026, when President Donald Trump and the Environmental Protection Agency issued a new rule rescinding the landmark “endangerment finding,” and reversing various emissions limits on cars and trucks. The 2009 finding stated that greenhouse gases pose a threat to public health and welfare. If the new rule stands up in court and is not overruled by Congress, it would undo a key part of the long-standing effort to limit greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles.
As a scholar of how vehicle emissions contribute to climate change, I know that the science behind the endangerment finding hasn’t changed. If anything, the evidence has grown that greenhouse gas emissions are warming the planet and threatening people’s health and safety. Heat waves, flooding, sea-level rise and wildfires have only worsened in the decade and a half since the EPA’s ruling.
Regulations over the years have cut emissions from power generation, leaving transportation as the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S.
The scientific community agrees that vehicle emissions are harmful and should be regulated. The public also agrees, and has indicated strong preferences for cars that pollute less, including both more efficient gas-burning vehicles and electric-powered ones. Consumers have also been drawn to electric vehicles thanks to other benefits such as performance, operation cost and innovative technologies.
That is why I believe the EPA’s move will not stop the public and commercial transition to electric vehicles, but it will make that shift harder, slower and more expensive for everyone.
Putting carmakers in a bind
The most recent EPA rule about vehicle emissions was finalized in 2024. It set emissions limits that can realistically only be met by a large-scale shift to electric vehicles.
Over the past decade and a half, automakers have been building up their capability to produce electric vehicles to meet these fleet requirements, and a combination of regulations such as California’s zero-emission-vehicle requirements have worked together to ensure customers can get their hands on EVs. The zero-emission-vehicle rules require automakers to produce EVs for the California market, which in turn make it easier for the companies to meet their efficiency and emissions targets from the federal government. These collectively pressure automakers to provide a steady supply of electric vehicles to consumers.
The new EPA move would undo the 2024 EPA vehicle-emissions rule and other federal regulations that also limit emissions from vehicles, such as the heavy-duty vehicle emissions rule.
The possibility of a regulatory reversal puts automakers into a state of uncertainty. Legal challenges to the EPA’s shift are all but guaranteed, and the court process could take years.
For companies making decade-long investment decisions, regulatory stability matters more than short-term politics. Disrupting that stability undermines business planning, erodes investor confidence and sends conflicting signals to consumers and suppliers alike.

A slower roll
The Trump administration has taken other steps to make electric vehicles less attractive to carmakers and consumers.
The White House has already suspended key provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act that provided tax credits for purchasing EVs and halted a US$5 billion investment in a nationwide network of charging stations. And Congress has retracted the federal waiver that allowed California to set its own, stricter emissions limits. In combination, these policies make it hard to buy and drive electric vehicles: Fewer, or no, financial incentives for consumers make the purchases more expensive, and fewer charging stations make travel planning more challenging.
Overturning the EPA’s 2009 endangerment finding would remove the legal basis for regulating climate pollution from vehicles altogether.
But U.S. consumer interest in electric vehicles has been growing, and automakers have already made massive investments to produce electric vehicles and their associated components in the U.S. – such as Hyundai’s EV factory in Georgia and Volkswagen’s Battery Engineering Lab in Tennessee.
Global markets, especially in Europe and China, are also moving decisively toward electrifying large proportions of the vehicles on the road. This move is helped in no small part due to aggressive regulation by their respective governments. The results speak for themselves: Sales of EVs in both the European Union and China have been growing rapidly.
But the pace of change matters. A slower rollout of clean vehicles means more cumulative emissions, more climate damage and more harm to public health.
The EPA’s move seeks to slow the shift to electric vehicles, removing incentives and raising costs – even though the market has shown that cleaner vehicles are viable, the public has shown interest, and the science has never been clearer. But even such a major policy change can’t stop the momentum of those trends.
This is an updated version of an article originally published Aug. 5, 2025.
Alan Jenn, Associate Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Davis
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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