Greening the Auto Industry with Jim Motavalli
Jim Motavalli outlines issues consumers have with green autos. Photo by Robin J. Phillips
Jim Motavalli, longtime auto reporter for news organizations including the New York Times “Wheels” blog and NPR’s “Car Talk”, spoke about how the greening of the auto industry is in a new period of innovation.
For years, Motavalli said, automakers have tried to introduce electric vehicles (EVs), but today’s models are coming out in greater numbers than before.
“We’re seeing a totally evolving industry,” Motavalli said. “Names like ‘Think’ are going to have to become a part of your vocabulary as a journalist.
However, althought there has been such an increase in EV interest, Motavalli spoke about how the public’s persona will have to change drastically for EVs to succeed.
Some of the stumbling blocks standing in the way include cost, consumer’s expectations and charging stations.
Motavalli gave a few tips for business journalists covering the auto industry:
- - Think about the fact that the industry is asking people to pay more and get less- As a journalist, should we believe the hype?
- What fundamentals (like dealer networks, parts suppliers or service) will be in place in your area?
- Can EV startups survive in a suddenly crowded industry?
