On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump made an impactful statement during his inaugural address: “You can now buy the car you want.” This isn’t just a feel-good message; it’s a significant policy shift that redefines the future of the automotive industry. His executive order has slashed the authoritarian EV mandates that were a cornerstone of the previous administration, giving consumers and automakers the freedom to choose what’s best for them.
A Return to Tradition: EV Mandates Gone
Under Trump’s executive order, the ambitious goal set by the Biden administration, that required 50% of all vehicles sold should be electric by 2030, has been revoked. This is a pivotal move for automakers who are under tremendous pressure to expand their electric vehicle offerings rapidly. With the mandate now lifted, manufacturers are free to shift gears and focus on producing vehicles they’ve mastered, whether that’s gasoline-powered cars, trucks, or EVs.
Trump’s executive order targets government-imposed market distortions, including restrictions on tailpipe pollution and federal incentives for EVs. While he paused funding for EV infrastructure and related programs, his actions stopped short of directly reversing existing regulations or the $7,500 tax rebate. However, he has the authority to limit eligibility and make adjustments.
This move allows automakers to balance traditional and electric vehicles without the looming deadline that caused many to scramble. For consumers, it means a broader choice of cars, from the most innovative electric models to the tried-and-true gas-powered options they’ve come to love.
What This Means for Dealers
This change directly benefits automotive dealers, who will no longer be locked into selling a limited range of vehicles or struggling to meet quotas for electric vehicles. Instead, dealers will be able to offer a well-rounded inventory that caters to their customers’ diverse preferences. Whether it’s a high-performance SUV, a family sedan, or the latest electric model, dealers now have the freedom to stock vehicles that align with customer demand.
The new landscape will likely spark renewed interest in gas-powered cars, which continue to hold a strong position in the market, creating an opportunity for dealers to attract more customers by offering the best of both worlds: the power and performance of traditional engines alongside the growing appeal of electric vehicles.
How Strong Automotive Can Help
At Strong Automotive, we understand the ever-changing nature of the automotive industry. That’s why we’re here to help you make the most of these new opportunities. With the shift away from strict EV mandates, now is the time to adapt your marketing strategy and highlight the broad selection of vehicles you offer.
We provide tailored marketing solutions that help dealerships like yours attract customers, boost sales, and stay competitive in this evolving market. Whether you’re focusing on traditional vehicles or electric cars, we’ve got the expertise to help you reach your audience and drive success.
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John Paul Strong
John Paul Strong combines his two decades of automotive marketing experience with a team of more than 150 professionals as owner and CEO of Strong Automotive.
