As the 2024 presidential race heated up, promises were made that could potentially reshape the energy landscape of the United States. Donald Trump assured oil executives he would remove environmental regulations in exchange for substantial campaign contributions. Although it remains unclear how much financial backing he received, the oil industry’s investments appear to have yielded significant returns.
One notable outcome of Trump’s policies has been the financial windfall for major oil companies following a military confrontation with Iran. ExxonMobil saw its profits nearly double in the second quarter from $7.5 billion in 2025 to $14.5 billion in 2026. Similarly, Chevron’s profits soared from $2.5 billion to over $12 billion during the same period. These gains occurred even without oil shipments passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
While the U.S. benefits from being a net exporter of petroleum products, resulting in only increased prices, the global scenario is more dire. Many regions worldwide face fuel shortages, and countries in Africa and Asia are grappling with food scarcity due to diminished fertilizer availability.
Amid this backdrop, a growing number of Americans are considering alternatives to traditional fuel sources, particularly electric vehicles (EVs). Transitioning to EVs could potentially shield the country from volatile oil prices and provide environmental benefits. Approximately 60% of Americans feel the nation is on the wrong track, and if just half of them opted for an EV as their next vehicle, it could significantly mitigate the impact of oil price shocks within a decade.
Despite efforts by certain groups to portray EVs as costly and impractical, the facts suggest otherwise. The average new vehicle price in the U.S. was $48,949 in the second quarter, while many EVs, like the Chevy Bolt, are available for under $30,000. Other manufacturers, including Toyota and Subaru, have introduced competitively priced EVs with impressive features, widening consumer options.
The cost advantages of EVs extend beyond the initial purchase. Charging an EV equates to paying $1.10 per gallon for gasoline, a stable rate regulated by utilities commissions. EV owners also benefit from lower maintenance costs due to the absence of oil changes and other traditional vehicle components.
Charging infrastructure for EVs is rapidly expanding, with public charging stations becoming more prevalent. During a recent journey to northwestern Ohio, drivers found an increased number of DC fast chargers compared to the previous year. Tools like PlugShare.com assist EV users in locating reliable charging stations along their routes.
Most modern EVs offer a range of at least 250 miles per charge, allowing drivers to plan charging stops at convenient locations, such as dining establishments. The charging process is often completed by the time a meal is finished, making the transition to EVs more seamless than ever.
While Tesla has been a prominent player in the EV market, it is not the sole option available. Many other manufacturers offer EVs that may better suit individual needs at lower price points. Overcoming misinformation and embracing EVs could pave the way for a more sustainable future.
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Dave Erb
Automotive engineer Dave Erb has developed vehicles using gasoline, diesel, biodiesel, alcohol, methane, electric, and hybrid electric powertrains. He hasn’t bought gas since 2019.
This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Opinion: Tesla is not a synonym for EV, other well-made electric vehicles on the market
Original Story at autos.yahoo.com