An Automotive News report said that the Alliance for Automotive Innovation had joined a new coalition that includes 23 members from automakers, union workers, and electrical utilities.
They also represent environmental groups and advocates for the construction of an EV-charging network across the country.
The National EV Charging Initiative, launched Wednesday, stated that its members would create a common framework for bringing together public and private resources to accelerate the adoption of EVs in America and increase the speed, scope, and scale of infrastructure deployment; the report said.
After the U.S. Senate passed Tuesday a bipartisan $1 trillion infrastructure bill which includes $7.5 billion to finance EV charging stations, the group was formed. It follows President Joe Biden’s lead for the nonbinding target for zero-emission vehicles.
There will be plug-in hybrids and battery electrics to make up half the new vehicles sold in 2030.
In the report, John Bozzella (CEO of the alliance) stated that the initiative “aims at bringing together a diverse range of stakeholders, which are critical to building out EV charging infrastructure.”
“We can make sure that all communities benefit from the transition to EVs by collaborating across different sectors, both private and public. This will also support American workers and increase U.S. economic security and competitiveness.”
The Alliance for Transportation Electrification is a member and the Electric Drive Transportation Association and the Environmental Defense Fund, Electrification Coalition, National Resources Defense Council, Plug-In America, and Sierra Club.
The Zero Emission Transportation, a group launched in 2020, is also a member. It is an advocacy group for national policies to allow 100 percent EV sales in America by 2030.
The coalition signed a memorandum of understanding with all levels of government, pledging to work together to create an EV charging network that passenger and heavy-duty vehicles can use. The report said the 24 signatories pledged to invest in the network themselves and push for additional funding from the government.
Colleen Quinn (president of eMobility Advisors) stated that the groups were ready, willing to collaborate to build the national charging system needed to achieve the Biden administration’s goal of transforming the transportation system. “Investing in the system will contribute towards a just transition that creates jobs, addresses climate crisis, and reduces air pollution.”