WASHINGTON, D.C., Aug. 13, 2024 –The Automotive Service Association (ASA), a national trade association governed by independent automotive service and repair professionals and dedicated exclusively to their interests, has adopted a policy position on vehicle choice in the automotive market.

ASA’s position statement underscores unequivocally that the organization “strongly supports the rights of consumers to purchase vehicles that best fit the needs of themselves, their families, and their businesses.” The “Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Years 2027 and Later Light-Duty and Medium-Duty Vehicles” – regulation finalized by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – will limit consumers’ choice in powertrain. ASA warns that “This inorganic transformation in the automobile market will likely subject independent auto repairers to severe hardship.” These businesses have already made investments under the assumption that EVs will gradually become more prevalent. This sudden change to the market undermines those investments. Now, thanks to this new rule, “by 2032, repairers will have needed to spend heavily on EV training for technicians, acquire large amounts of new commercial property for safe EV storage, purchase new and costly equipment, and more just to remain in business.” The statement concludes by calling on the federal government to not leave independent auto repairers behind as it imposes this change.

Aaron Clements, Mechanical Director on the ASA Board of Directors and Chairman of the Southern Automotive Service Association (SASA), commended ASA for adopting this position, commenting that, “the automotive repair industry isn’t pro- or anti- EV. We just want to make sure that we can repair the vehicles that our customers bring to us. This statement accurately reflects where our industry stands and allows us to educate lawmakers on our industry’s needs.”

ASA is the largest and oldest national organization committed to protecting the automotive repair industry with ONE VOICE. Our members own and operate automotive mechanical and collision repair facilities responsible for the majority of all, post warranty, repair services in the United States. ASA advocates for the interests of its members and their customers in Washington, D.C. The education, resources, and services ASA provides empowers its members in all 50 states to remain trusted stewards of mobility in their communities. www.ASAShop.org

The Southern Automotive Service Association (SASA) works hand-in-hand with the Automotive Service Association (ASA) to uphold and propagate industry values. Focusing its efforts on servicing the Southeastern states, SASA’s mission revolves around three core pillars: championing the industry, connecting industry stakeholders, and promoting a culture of excellence. Join us if you share our values and are in the Southeast by calling or texting (321) 394-8324.