Automotive

Electric car revolution puts Native communities at risk

New research from Associate Professor of Law Lisa Benjamin explores the positive environmental justice impacts of electric vehicles while urging updates to land-use and mining regulations to protect Native communities

Published

1 year ago

August 16, 2023

Daily News Staff

Newswise — Conditions are ripe for an accelerated transition to electric vehicle (EV) use in the United States. The Biden-Harris administration has set a target that 50 percent of newly purchased cars in 2030 be electric. In addition, the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 provides significant tax incentives for purchasing electric vehicles and for companies that produce them.

And that is good news for environmental justice (EJ), says Lisa Benjamin, author of a paper called “EVs as EJ?” forthcoming in Harvard Environment Law Review. Benjamin, associate professor of law at Lewis & Clark Law School, details all of the positive impacts of EVs on environmental justice pursuits. But she also outlines the potential harm that could be done to Native communities without updated mining regulations and greater inclusion in land-use decision-making.

The reason? The increase in electric vehicle production is being accompanied by an increase in domestic mining for the minerals included in EV batteries. Many of these minerals, such as lithium and cobalt, are located in or near tribal lands, including sacred and culturally important sites.

EVs and Environmental Justice

Widespread adoption of EVs is critical to reducing carbon and other greenhouse gas emissions, a key driver of climate change. The transportation sector is the largest source of U.S. carbon emissions. According to the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), a 50 percent reduction in carbon must be achieved by 2050—and as much as a 91 percent decrease by 2100—to stay within the globally accepted goal of limiting the planet’s warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. The rapid adoption of electric vehicles is poised to play a major role in this reduction.

As Benjamin explains, a reduction in gas-powered cars will be especially beneficial to communities of color and/or low-income communities who have been disproportionately harmed by environmental burdens.

“Because of discriminatory policies, highways were built near and through Black and brown communities, making these communities much more vulnerable to chronic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes through exposure to air pollution,” says Benjamin, whose work focuses on climate justice and climate risk as well as how these issues intersect with energy law and administrative law.

In addition, says Benjamin, cost barriers and the lack of availability of charging stations and other infrastructure are preventing wider adoption of EVs by lower-income families.

“EVs are not affordable, and they have to be more affordable if we are going to provide economic justice for communities who have been discriminated against,” says Benjamin.

Key Minerals Near Tribal Lands

Despite all of the ways that greater adoption of electric vehicle use is making a positive difference, there are potential negative impacts.

According to a White House fact sheet, the clean energy transition is expected to drive up global demand for key minerals essential for EV batteries, such as lithium, graphite, cobalt, and nickel by 400 to 600 percent.

“Imperial Valley in California has one of the largest deposits of lithium in the world. There are also deposits in Oregon, Nevada, North Dakota, Tennessee, and Arkansas. The vast majority of nickel, copper, and lithium are located within 35 miles of Indian reservations. …” writes Benjamin.

“The deposits happen to be either in or really near tribal lands from reservations,” says Benjamin.

Stronger Regulations Needed

In order to prevent further harm to Native communities, Benjamin urges the Bureau of Land Management to adopt stricter requirements prohibiting mining not only at sacred sites on reservations but also in any adjacent areas deemed culturally important. One area of focus is an update to the 1872 General Mining Act which, writes Benjamin, was “passed during a period of exploration and exploitation of the American West.”

“If the regulations are reimplemented, or redrafted, that could lead to more consultation with tribes,” says Benjamin. “This is especially important in areas that may be off-reservation but still of cultural importance to tribal communities to ensure that their interests are fully taken into account when people mine for those materials.”

Benjamin also recommends that the Bureau of Land Management strengthen their process for including Native communities in the agency’s decision-making procedures.

While Professor Benjamin acknowledges that the transition to greater electric vehicle use is important for achieving climate and environmental justice goals for a number of disadvantaged communities, she says it’s important to ask: “How do we make sure that the transition not only provides benefits for these communities but also does not further disadvantage them?”

Journal Link: Harvard Environment Law Review

Source: Lewis & Clark College

Author

Daily News Staff

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Consumer Corner

Honda Revives the Iconic Prelude: A Thrilling Return to the Sport Coupe Scene

Published

4 days ago

December 17, 2024

Mark Bennett

Exciting news for car enthusiasts! Honda Motors has officially announced the return of a beloved nameplate: the Prelude. Making its comeback in the U.S. market in late 2024, the sixth-generation Prelude is set to advance the joy of driving into the electrified future with Honda’s award-winning two-motor hybrid powertrain.

The Honda Prelude

Originally introduced in November 1978, the Prelude quickly became a favorite among driving enthusiasts, known for its sporty looks and dynamic performance. Honda is set to honor this legacy by integrating innovative features into the new model, including the revolutionary Honda S+ Shift. This sophisticated drive mode enhances Linear Shift Control to ensure an engaging and responsive driving experience—perfect for both longtime fans and new drivers.

Jessika Laudermilk, Assistant Vice President of Honda Auto Sales, stated, “The return of the Honda Prelude as a hybrid-electric sports model demonstrates our continued commitment to offer a variety of exhilarating products to meet the needs of our customers.” With the Prelude joining the ranks of the iconic Civic and Accord, Honda is reuniting its classic lineup, all backed by hybrid technology.

This news arrives at a momentous time, as Honda celebrates 25 years of hybrid sales in America, proudly introducing the nation’s first hybrid-electric model, the Honda Insight, in 1999. Today, Honda is pushing further on its electrification strategy, striving for all battery-electric and fuel cell electric vehicles to make up 100% of their sales by 2040. Hybrids are a crucial part of this journey, and Honda has already achieved impressive milestones, with electrified vehicles accounting for over a quarter of their total sales in 2024.

The Prelude will make its North American debut following its global unveiling at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, where it captured the hearts of many. Honda’s commitment to innovation is clear in the Prelude’s design and features, from introducing groundbreaking technologies like four-wheel steering and torque vectoring systems in its earlier iterations to the hybrid-electric capabilities of this new generation.

As Honda continues to pave the way for its electrified future with products like the Honda Prologue electric SUV and the forthcoming Honda 0 Series models, the return of the Prelude signifies not just a nostalgic revival but also a new era of exhilarating driving experiences.

Fair warning to enthusiasts: excitement is building as the Prelude prepares to hit the roads again, promising a blend of classic sports coupe design and the cutting-edge technology that defines Honda’s future. Keep your eyes peeled for more updates and prepare to embrace the joy of driving like never before!

Stay tuned for more updates and feel free to share your thoughts on the return of the Prelude below!

For more information on Honda next-generation technologies, click here.

About Honda
Honda offers a full line of clean, safe, fun and connected vehicles sold through more than 1,000 independent U.S. Honda dealers. The award-winning Honda lineup includes the Civic and Accord, along with the HR-V, CR-V, Passport, Prologue and Pilot sport utility vehicles, the Ridgeline pickup and the Odyssey minivan. The Honda electrified vehicle lineup, representing more than a quarter of total sales in 2024, includes the all-electric Prologue SUV, hybrid-electric Accord, CR-V, and Civic, and Fuel-Cell-electric CR-V e:FCEV, with a hybrid Prelude set to join the lineup in late 2025.

Honda has been producing automobiles in America for over 40 years and currently operates 18 major manufacturing facilities in North America. In 2023, more than 99% of all Honda vehicles sold in the U.S. were made in North America, with about two-thirds made in America, using domestic and globally sourced parts.

More information about Honda is available in the Digital FactBook.

Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!

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Consumer Corner

Kia EV9 Crowned “2024-2025 Electric SUV of Texas” at TAWA Truck Rodeo

Published

6 days ago

December 15, 2024

Hal Machina

Kia EV9

Irvine, California – December 6, 2024 – Kia’s all-electric, three-row flagship SUV, the EV9, has made a significant mark in the automotive world, earning the esteemed title of “2024-2025 Electric SUV of Texas” at the recent Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) “Truck Rodeo.” This prestigious award highlights Kia’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in the electric vehicle segment, proving once again that in Texas, bigger often means better.

The annual Truck Rodeo is a highly anticipated event in the automotive calendar, attracting over 40 TAWA journalist members who meticulously evaluate the top contenders among trucks, EVs, SUVs, and CUVs. This year’s competition featured an impressive lineup of 28 vehicles, all put through their paces across more than 260 rigorous driver and vehicle excursions. Journalists assessed each vehicle’s performance, comfort, technology, and overall driving experience, ensuring that the results accurately reflect the best-performing vehicles on the market.

“Kia has a long history with TAWA, and we’re thrilled that the EV9 has been named ‘2024-2025 Electric SUV of Texas’ by this distinguished group of journalists,” remarked Steven Center, COO and EVP of Kia America. “This award is further evidence that Kia builds vehicles held in high regard by the press and desired by consumers. Texans love their SUVs, and the EV9 resonates with TAWA members for its design, interior space, range, technology, and dynamic driving performance. Winning this award adds to the EV9’s long list of accolades and demonstrates its success as the first mainstream three-row fully electric SUV.”

The Kia EV9 SUV

During the event, TAWA members drove the EV9 on both predetermined off-road and street courses, simulating real-world driving experiences to evaluate how well the vehicle meets the needs of consumers. The journalists praised the EV9 for its spacious interior, advanced technology features, impressive range, and overall driveability. The acknowledgment from such a respected group underscores Kia’s growing influence in the electric vehicle arena and reinforces the EV9’s position as a leader in the evolving SUV market.

As the automotive industry continues to shift towards electrification, Kia’s EV9 stands out not just for its innovative design and functionality but also for its ability to cater to the diverse needs of modern drivers. With the recognition from TAWA, the Kia EV9 is poised to capture more hearts and minds in Texas and beyond, solidifying its place in the future of electric SUVs.

More information on the 2024 TAWA Truck Rodeo, including the full list of participating vehicles, can be found at www.texasautowriters.org.

Kia America – about us

Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys. Kia is recognized as one of the TIME World’s Most Sustainable Companies of 2024. Kia serves as the “Official Automotive Partner” of the NBA and WNBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles sold through a network of over 775 dealers in the U.S., including several cars and SUVs proudly assembled in America*.

Source: Kia America

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Consumer Corner

Nissan Strikes Gold: Four Best-in-Class Recognitions in Money.com’s Best Cars and Trucks 2025

Published

1 week ago

December 14, 2024

Hal Machina

Nashville, Tenn. – Exciting news from the automotive world! Nissan has made a significant splash in Money.com’s Best Cars and Trucks 2025, earning four prestigious best-in-class accolades for its standout models. This recognition highlights the brand’s relentless dedication to delivering excellent value, performance, and innovation across various vehicle categories.

Money.com rigorously assessed over 200 cars to determine the best options in the market. Nissan emerged victorious with the following honors:

Best Small SUVs: Nissan Kicks
Best Midsize Cars: Nissan Altima
Best Affordable Sports Cars: Nissan Z NISMO
Best Affordable Electric Cars: Nissan Ariya

“This recognition highlights the strength and versatility of Nissan’s lineup,” said Vinay Shahani, senior vice president of U.S. marketing and sales, at Nissan Americas. “From the excitement of Z NISMO to the stylish value-led Kicks, these awards reflect our commitment to vehicles that meet—and exceed—the diverse needs of our customers.”

Unpacking the Winners

Let’s delve deeper into what makes these award-winning models shine in their respective categories.

1. Nissan Kicks: Best Small SUV

The Kicks stands out with its bold design and versatile technology, perfectly tailored for city living while being ready for weekend adventures. With an airy cabin, ample storage, and class-leading safety features, it’s the ideal companion for urban explorers seeking style and practicality in one efficient package.

2. Nissan Altima: Best Midsize Car

Striking the perfect balance between performance and comfort, the Altima is an exceptional midsize car that offers cutting-edge safety features and a spacious, refined interior. With advanced technology and a smooth driving experience, the Altima excels in meeting the needs of families and commuters alike.

3. Nissan Z NISMO: Best Affordable Sports Car

For those with a passion for performance, the Z NISMO is a testament to Nissan’s rich sports car heritage. With a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine and numerous track-focused enhancements, this sports car delivers thrilling speed and exhilarating handling, making it a fantastic option for driving enthusiasts who crave excitement without breaking the bank.

4. Nissan Ariya: Best Affordable Electric Car

In the era of electrification, the Ariya stands as Nissan’s flagship all-electric crossover, showcasing visionary design and cutting-edge technology. With an impressive range and available advanced driver assistance features, the Ariya blends sustainability with comfort and convenience, making it a compelling choice for eco-conscious drivers.

A Commitment to Excellence

Each of these award-winning models exemplifies Nissan’s commitment to providing vehicles that offer exceptional value for money, low cost of ownership, advanced safety features, outstanding performance, and a host of innovative features. The recognition from Money.com affirms Nissan’s continuous efforts to meet the diverse needs of its customers, ensuring that every journey is a delightful experience.

In a market brimming with choices, Nissan continues to stand out with a lineup that captures the essence of modern driving. Whether you’re navigating bustling city streets or hitting the open road, Nissan’s award-winning vehicles promise to deliver on performance, safety, and style—all while keeping affordability at the forefront.

Conclusion

As we celebrate these four fantastic accolades, it’s clear that Nissan is not just competing with various manufacturers; they are leading the charge in the automotive industry. These recognitions from Money.com reinforce Nissan’s position as a brand that caters to a wide array of driving needs while keeping innovation and value at the heart of its mission.

So, whether you’re an adventure seeker, a daily commuter, a sports car enthusiast, or an eco-conscious driver, there’s a Nissan waiting to elevate your driving experience. Here’s to more miles filled with joy, and congratulations to Nissan for this remarkable achievement!

To read Money.com’s full announcement and methodology, visit Money.com’s Best Cars and Trucks 2025.

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