As Lujan Grisham mandates EVs, sales continue to crater
Democrat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s administration in New Mexico has faced significant criticism for its focus on electric vehicle (EV) mandates while the state struggles with increasing crime rates. The governor’s ambitious plan requires that 43% of all new vehicle sales be electric by 2026, a target that appears increasingly unrealistic given current trends in EV adoption and the state’s pressing public safety concerns, per the Rio Grande Foundation.
Recent data indicates that consumer interest in EVs in New Mexico is lukewarm, with EV registrations declining to 4.59% in the first quarter of 2024. This is significantly lower than the state’s ambitious target and suggests a disconnect between the administration’s goals and consumer preferences. Critics argue that the high cost of EVs, coupled with a lack of infrastructure, makes them inaccessible to many residents, especially given New Mexico’s median household income of around $56,420, which falls below the average cost of an EV.
This issue is not unique to New Mexico. Similar trends have been observed in other states with stringent EV mandates, such as Washington, where sales have also fallen short of targets. The challenge of pushing EVs in a market where consumer interest is tepid raises questions about the practicality of such mandates.
Moreover, the focus on EVs comes at a time when New Mexico faces significant crime-related issues. The state has seen rising crime rates, and many residents feel that public safety should be a more immediate priority.
Gov. Lujan Grisham called a special legislative session to address these concerns, proposing measures such as changes to the state’s criminal competency laws and increased penalties for certain offenses, but within five hours, Democrats moved to adjourn without passing any meaningful crime measures except the bill to fund the session, which tacked on funds for assisted outpatient treatment.
However, the governor’s EV push has overshadowed these efforts, leading to criticism that her administration’s priorities are misplaced.
Local car dealers also face challenges due to the mandate, as they are now forced to pivot toward selling EVs despite consumers not wanting to buy them. This situation could impact sales and profitability, particularly in a state where many residents may not have the financial means to purchase higher-cost EVs, not to mention the state being so rural, that EVs are not practical for traveling long distances.
As New Mexico approaches the deadline for the EV mandate, uncertainty looms. However, it is clear that people do not want to buy these vehicles.
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