Electric vehicles

Regarding “Oil industry’s future not as bright as government expects” (HoustonChronicle.com, Feb. 4): Chris Tomlinson’s column sparks a worthwhile debate about the future of automotive transport and fuel demand. However, several assertions in this piece need a closer look.

Tomlinson’s commentary suggests that consumer preference should dictate demand for electric vehicles. U.S. refiners agree. We believe that the numerous tax credits and subsidies put in place by the government to promote electric vehicles growth are an ineffective attempt to influence consumer choice. Currently, three-fourths of federal tax credits go to households making more than $100,000 a year. Despite innumerable electric vehicles incentives, EV sales are currently just 2 percent of total auto sales. What’s more, data from the National Automobile Dealers Association shows that 70 percent of all U.S. vehicle sales in 2018 were gasolinepowered, light-duty trucks (including SUVs and crossovers). This further highlights the ongoing appeal to consumers of vehicles powered by traditional fuels that truly meet their needs.

Bottom line: Consumers continue to choose the internal combustion engine because of superior range, cost, durability in hot and cold weather, and refueling time. Until electric vehicles can compete on a level playing field and without help from marketdistorting mandates, consumers will not be inclined to switch. Chet Thompson, president and CEO, American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers