U.S. EV CEOs Do Not Expect Stronger Federal Support Under Democratic Congress

Executives at Rivian Automotive, Lucid Group and Scout Motors said they do not expect stronger federal support for electric vehicles even if Democrats take control of Congress in January. According to Sina Finance, the executives shared that view after Democrats’ historic midterm election victory. Scout CEO Scott Keogh said the company was built from the outset without relying on legislation or other uncertain support. Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe said the company does not plan around government policy and expects progress to face significant obstacles, though he hopes Democrats and U.S. President Donald Trump can find common ground. Lucid CEO Silvio Napoli said the company would welcome any positive measures. Lucid is backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. The Trump administration has ended or rolled back Biden-era support for climate initiatives and electric vehicles, including consumer incentives of up to $7,500. Automakers, including General Motors, had relied on such tax credits to support sales and help make electric vehicles profitable. Democrats are expected to focus on health care, data centers, oversight of the Trump administration and affordability. Rachel McCleery, executive director of the Coalition for Reimagined Mobility, a program of the nonprofit policy advisory group SAFE, said affordability could encompass vehicle costs and expected legislative debate over electric vehicles and supply-chain incentives. She said reducing car costs is a priority for Democratic policymakers and that electric vehicles are part of that agenda. Keogh said he would prefer support for vehicle production, which could lower costs and eventually prices for consumers. Electric vehicles typically cost more than internal-combustion models. Before the Trump administration ended incentives of up to $7,500 in September 2025, electric vehicle sales had surged; sales have since fallen from their peak. Cox Automotive data showed that, through September, the average price of a new electric vehicle exceeded $54,800, while the industry-wide average price was slightly above $51,100 in the previous month. Cox Automotive director of industry insights Stephanie Valdez Streaty said incentives can accelerate adoption, but the industry should aim to make electric vehicles affordable and appealing with or without them.