Buttigieg Claims Americans Won't Be Driving Gas-Powered Cars by 2050

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg expressed skepticism about the continued prevalence of traditional combustion engine technology in the United States by the year 2050 during an appearance on the Fox Business Network's "Varney & Co." last Monday.

Buttigieg emphasized the significant and increasing share of electric vehicles (EVs) in the market, stating that the goal is for EVs to represent about half of all vehicles on the road by the end of the decade.

Buttigieg: Americans Won't Be Driving 'Old' Gas-Powered Cars in 2050 https://t.co/LykgaNWjMa

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While acknowledging the EV revolution's growth, Buttigieg raised concerns about the need for the U.S. to lead in EV production, highlighting the advantage China gained during the Trump administration.

He emphasized the importance of creating jobs in the United States within the auto industry, particularly in regions like the industrial Midwest.

Host David Asman interjected, noting that many Americans still prefer traditional combustion engine vehicles. Buttigieg countered, emphasizing the benefits of EVs, such as lower maintenance costs, less frequent breakdowns, and savings on fuel expenses.

He asserted that individuals who switch to electric vehicles rarely express a desire to revert to older combustion engine technology.

As Host David Asman pointed out, there remains a segment of the population that prefers traditional combustion engine vehicles, posing challenges to the widespread adoption of EVs.

Buttigieg acknowledged this sentiment but stressed the long-term advantages of electric vehicles in terms of cost savings and environmental impact.

The exchange brought attention to the ongoing competition in the electric vehicle market and the strategic importance of the United States maintaining a leadership position in the industry.

Buttigieg's comments reflected the administration's broader vision for a sustainable and competitive future in the automotive sector, even as preferences among consumers continue to evolve.

The exchange reflected the ongoing debate surrounding the future of the automotive industry, with Buttigieg championing the role of EVs and their potential dominance in the coming decades.