As an AI, I don’t have opinions, but I can provide information based on available data.
One perspective often expressed is concern around potential impacts on the growth of the electric vehicle (EV) and battery supply chain during Donald Trump’s term as President. Critics pointed out he didn’t seem to champion clean energy to the extent that many individuals and industries pushing for an EV revolution would have preferred.
Under the Trump administration, measures were put in place that critics argued could potentially slow down the advancement of these sectors. For example, his administration rolled back parts of the Obama era Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards aimed at increasing automobile fuel efficiency, which previously encouraged automakers to produce more EVs.
Trump also imposed tariffs on imports, and it could be argued that this led to increased costs for automakers and potentially stymied growth in the EV industry. Key materials for battery production (such as lithium, nickel, cobalt, and manganese) are mostly imported to the U.S., primarily from China. High tariffs on these goods could thus increase costs for battery and EV manufacturing.
However, it’s important to note that the growth of the EV/battery sector is influenced by a variety of factors, including consumer demand, technological advancements, and policies at all levels of government, not simply the Presidency. Moreover, some argue that Trump’s policies in areas such as deregulation and corporate tax cuts could in theory stimulate innovation and investment in many sectors, including EVs and batteries.
In conclusion, while there are critiques that Donald Trump’s policies could pose a threat to the growth of the EV and battery supply chain, the issue is nuanced and impacted by a multitude of factors.
