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Plans to build charging stations across the country are being crushed by groups backed by industry giants like Exxon Mobil and Koch Empire. According to utility commission filings, these groups have challenged electric companies’ across the United States. Electric utilities are seeking approval on building charging networks in locations such as shopping centers and rest stops across the nation. Whereas the petroleum sector, represented by multiple trade associations and industry-funded political groups, and consumer advocates say they should not have to pay for these services. Stating, their customers will have to pay for the investments helping utilities “pad” their balance sheets. Fossil fuel interests control about 90 percent of the transportation fuel market in the U.S. but are feeling more and more pressure from the electric wave.

Shortly after closing the doors in Lordstown, OH, GM is in discussions to sell the facility to an Electric Truck company named Workhorse.  GM made the decision in November to close down four U.S. based production plants, one of which was located in Lordstown, OH and home of the Chevrolet Cruze Sedan.  According to Tom Colton, head of investor relations for Workhorse, the talks are still in the preliminary stages.  There is no time table for speculation of the potential returning jobs to the area.  The United Autoworkers Union (UAW) has a different agenda in mind.  The UAW is trying to push for a reemergence of a petrol powered vehicle plant in the old GM facility, speculated to harbor more employees than Workhorse.