american energy and american made

​As we approach this Independence Day, I want to call attention to two things from the world of electric vehicles (EVs). First, I am thankful that EVs provide independence from foreign petroleum fuel products. The market price for vehicle fuel depends largely on global supply/demand mixed with the latest foreign crisis. The net result can be extreme price volatility. The global petroleum market is complex and there are certainly other impacts to consumer fuel pricing, but global oil prices are the largest component. Conversely, an electric vehicle only uses electricity that must be produced locally, distributed locally, and consumed locally, supporting local jobs. That is true whether the electricity is produced from solar, wind, hydroelectric, nuclear, natural gas, or coal - it's all local. You can’t ship a boatload of electricity from a foreign country!

Secondly, I want to celebrate the fact that EVs make up four of the top six most American-made vehicles sold according to the 2022 American-Made Index by Cars.com. The Tesla Model Y and 3 took first and second place while the Model S and X were fifth and sixth respectively. It is encouraging to see an American company locating its factories and jobs in the country and becoming the United States’ largest EV seller while some iconic American brands choose to manufacture their most popular EV models in other countries - looking at you, Mexican-built Ford Mustang Mach-E.

Consider adding some independence to your driving with an electric vehicle and please have a safe and happy Independence Day holiday!