New Government Policies Aim to Increase Adoption of Electric Vehicles Nationwide
March 13, 2025 — The federal government released new policies to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across the United States.
The rules announced in the nation’s capital would reduce pollution, increase clean energy, and make EVs more affordable for all.
A Push for Cleaner Roads
These new policies offer enormous perks. Buyers are currently eligible for tax credits of up to $7,500 on new EVs and $4,000 on used ones. So will businesses installing charging stations. The goal? Have 50% of new car sales electric-powered by 2030. That’s a leap from under 9% in 2024.
It’s about the planet and jobs, officials say. Transportation emits almost 30% of U.S. greenhouse gases, most of it from gas cars. EVs can slash that. And the chargers and batteries are more American work. The government intends to increase the number of charging stations to 500,000 by 2030, from 170,000 currently.
Cash and Chargers: What’s In the Plan?
The policies combine money and muscle. The $7,500 credit will go into effect as long as the EV’s battery is manufactured here in North America. Buyers of used EVs receive $4,000 if the vehicle costs less than $25,000. Charging firms can also deduct 30% of installation costs, up to $100,000 per station. States will share $5 billion to build chargers along highways.
Why It Matters Now
Gas prices are rising — recently reaching $4.50 per gallon. EVs save on fuel and repairs. But they’re more expensive at the onset, and chargers are patchy outside urban areas. These rules address both issues. “We want EVs to be available for all drivers, not just the wealthy,” said Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
Background shows urgency. The U.S. trails countries like Norway, where EVs are 80 percent of new sales. China’s at 22%. In the United States, it’s been stuck under 10%. Previous efforts, such as the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, installed chargers but didn’t send sales soaring. This time, the bottom line is wallets and access.
Who Wins, Who Watches?
Automakers, like Tesla and Ford, applaud the move. They’ve also increased EV production — Tesla’s Model Y topped sales in 2024. But oil companies worry. Reduced gas usage could affect their bottom line. Environmentalists are thrilled — though some say hybrids should be included as well. That [shift] is expected to provide a 15% lift in sales by 2027, analysts say.
Rural areas might lag. There are no chargers there, and EVs are more than most can afford. The plan provides grants to remedy that, aiming 40% of its funds at low-income areas. States have to apply quickly — tentatively by June 2025.
Next Steps and What’s on the Line
Those policies go into effect January 2026. States will soon pitch plans to tap federal cash Congress still needs to approve $6 billion in additional funds linked to the Inflation Reduction Act. If that flops, charger goals could stall.
This could reshape driving. Fewer oil imports and more clean air from EVs. But it all comes down to execution. Will chargers be available in small towns? Can factories keep up? The U.S. wants to lead on clean tech, but it’s a race against time — and skeptics.