Bringing everyone to the transportation future: justice lessons in the electric vehicle (eV) transition

The purpose of this research was to understand the historical context, current factors and practices that will advance environmental justice and public health as the transportation sector transitions from personal vehicles powered by internal combustion engines (ICE) to electric vehicles (eVs). Community-based leaders, coalitions, health practitioners and those working in the automotive industry from three US Midwestern states that have had a significant manufacturing footprint in the automotive industry were interviewed and illuminated five key considerations for stakeholders at the state and local levels that are engaged and can influence the elements of the eV transition. Study participants/Interviewees noted it essential to define and carefully consider the public health, environmental, and economic impacts of the auto industry of the past century to avoid praxis that may continue to disfavor the wellbeing of frontline communities, both legacy & emerging. Secondly, transitions to electric vehicles need to account for health, sustainability, and worker safety issues across the global supply chain. Third, the electrification of commercial fleets and public transportation, in addition to personal eVs, will yield considerable more environmental justice and social benefits through the reduction of air pollution, traffic, and associated health risks, while increasing healthy and affordable access to active, public, and shared forms of transportation. Fourth, climate challenges of the parallel clean energy and auto transitions is an opportunity space for integrating climate goals with community benefits and improved eV access. And finally, sharing power and rebuilding trust between community, industry & government is required for an equitable eV transition.