Tesla Bucks Trump and Automaker Peers by Urging EPA to Maintain Vehicle Emissions Standards

Tesla has disagreed with other major automakers by opposing the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed rollback of current vehicle emissions standards. The electric car manufacturer’s stance contrasts with President Donald Trump, a notable figure whom Tesla CEO Elon Musk reportedly supported financially to secure his election.

In a letter to the EPA, Tesla urged the agency not to undermine the 2009 Endangerment Finding, which serves as the foundation for many modern environmental regulations, including vehicle emissions standards. The company stated that the Endangerment Finding is grounded in a substantial factual and scientific basis.

Since August, the EPA has solicited comments regarding these potential attacks on environmental regulations, with Administrator Lee Zeldin stating at the time that such rollbacks could potentially inflict significant damage. Zeldin described the proposed changes as a potential threat to the “climate change religion.”

Tesla’s mission is to expedite the world’s transition towards sustainable energy. However, the company also benefits financially from stricter environmental regulations. When other automakers fail to meet fleet emissions targets, they often purchase credits from companies like Tesla, incurring significant costs. These credits originate from a California program that has also been subject to Republican criticism.

Although Tesla is advocating for the preservation of the standards, it has expressed a willingness to discuss methods aimed at streamlining them to ensure their continuation.