US Auto Industry Says Committed to Cutting Emissions

Both Ford and General Motors say US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement does not affect their views on climate change, or their plans to reduce carbon emissions.

And some auto industry analysts are skeptical the decision will have that much of an effect on the operations of global car companies, which sell and manufacture automobiles around the world, CNBC reported.

Traditional automakers are considered by some to be one of the sectors that would benefit from any policy change that could relax emissions standards.

“GM will not waver from our commitment to the environment and our position on climate change has not changed,” the company said in a statement sent to media outlets. “International agreements aside, we remain committed to creating a better environment.”

The company said it advocates for “climate action and awareness” and is the only automaker to have signed the Ceres Climate Declaration, and one of the first companies to sign the American Business Act on Climate Pledge.

“Nothing showcases our commitment more than our leadership in electric vehicles and the Chevrolet Bolt EV,” General Motors said.

Ford told CNBC the company believes “climate change is real, and remain deeply committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in our vehicles and our facilities. Our commitment to sustainability is why we’re investing so heavily in electrification and adding 13 new electrified vehicles to our lineup.”

Some industry analysts also point out that both companies, as well as just about every other major automaker, will continue to do business in countries that remain committed to the agreement.

Even cars sold in the US will still have to comply with regulations overseen by government entities such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the California Air Resources Board.