What's Happening?
The Trump administration has ordered a halt to a national program aimed at expanding fast electric vehicle (EV) charging stations along highways. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) issued a memo to state transportation officials, suspending all approved plans under the program until further notice.
Background
The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program was launched under the Biden administration as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The program allocated $5 billion in grants to states to address gaps in the EV charging network. Former President Trump has repeatedly criticized the program, often misrepresenting its spending and effectiveness during the 2024 campaign.
What the Data Shows
So far, 55 charging stations have been built under the program.
Over $2 billion has been allocated, but much of it remains unspent.
Trump falsely claimed that the Biden administration spent $9 billion on just eight stations.
What Does It Mean?
States with finalized contracts for chargers can proceed.
Unfinished contracts may be put on indefinite hold.
The legal authority of the FHWA to suspend a program approved by Congress is uncertain.
What Experts Say
Loren McDonald, an EV charging analyst, doubts that the FHWA has the legal power to halt the program.
Ryan Gallentine of Advanced Energy United urged states to continue the projects unless new official guidance is issued.
Lawsuits from states challenging the decision are expected soon.
Bigger Picture
This move is part of Trump’s broader efforts to roll back EV policies. He previously scrapped Biden’s goal of making half of all U.S. vehicles electric by 2030. Experts anticipate he may also target the federal EV tax credit.
Impact on Tesla
Tesla, one of the largest beneficiaries of NEVI grants, has already received $31 million in government funding. CEO Elon Musk has supported eliminating the EV tax credit, as it would hurt competitors more than Tesla.
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