By Andi Anderson
The Illinois Corn Growers Association (ICGA) is among the many groups raising concerns about the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) proposed electric vehicle (EV) standards. The ICGA is concerned about the impact of the proposal on rural communities, farmers, and biofuel producers.
The NHTSA's proposal would require an industry fleet-wide average of 58 miles per gallon for cars and light duty trucks by model year 2032. The proposal would electrify America's vehicle fleet, as the only technology capable of meeting the standard.
The ICGA is concerned that a quick transition to a nation-wide electric vehicle fleet would be difficult and costly for rural communities. The ICGA estimates that the proposal would cost American farmers nearly one-billion bushels of corn annually by 2033. Charging station availability and electrical power are also a worry in rural areas.
The ICGA is also concerned about the impact of the proposal on biofuel producers. Biofuels, such as ethanol and biodiesel, are made from renewable resources and can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The ICGA argues that biofuels should continue to play a role in the nation's energy mix, even as the transition to electric vehicles progresses.
The ICGA is urging the NHTSA to consider the concerns of rural communities, farmers, and biofuel producers when developing its final EV standards. The ICGA believes that there is not a "one size fits all" solution to the problem of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and that all options should be on the table.
The NHTSA is expected to release its final EV standards next year. In the meantime, the ICGA is continuing to work with policymakers to advocate for rural communities, farmers, and biofuel producers.
Photo Credit: ICGA
Categories: Illinois, Crops, Corn