President Trump's decision to withdraw from the 2015 Paris international climate treaty hasn't shaken automakers' resolve to continue developing cleaner, more fuel-efficient vehicles. General Motors, Ford Motor and industry groups didn't condemn Trump's decision last week, but told Automotive News that their sustainability plans remain unchanged. "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. "International agreements aside, we remain committed to creating a better environment." Ford affirmed its position that "climate change is real," saying it remains "deeply committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in our vehicles and our facilities." Most outspoken was Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who wrote in a Twitter message that Trump's decision would prompt him to resign from two presidential advisory panels on which he serves. "Climate change is real," wrote Musk, who has touted his electric-vehicle and solar-energy businesses as direct responses to the dangers of climate change. "Leaving Paris is not good for America or the world." Prior to Trump's announcement, Musk said he had done all he could to persuade Trump on the matter. GM CEO Mary Barra, a member of the White House's top business advisory council along with Musk, has no plans to quit that group.
General Motors, Ford and industry groups will maintain their commitment to their sustainability plans in line with the 2015 Paris international climate treaty, the car makers have said. The announcements came despite President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the accord, citing the treaty's negative impact on the US automotive industry. In a statement released Monday, GM said it would continue its efforts "to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 2 percent per year through 2025.