President Trump wasted no time targeting electric vehicles (EVs) on his first day back in office, but pulling off his plans might be trickier than he thinks. In a recent executive order, Trump claimed he was scrapping an “electric vehicle mandate.” But here’s the catch: there’s no such federal rule banning gas-powered cars.

Even if Trump manages to push through some of his goals, it’s likely to spark legal battles and require Congress to step in. For example, the $7,500 EV tax credit, which helps buyers afford these greener cars, was signed into law in 2022. Rolling it back would need congressional approval—something that’s far from guaranteed.

Then there’s the issue of state-level rules. California and eight other states are planning to ban the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035. Trump wants to block these regulations too, but that could lead to drawn-out court fights.

Here’s the twist: automakers aren’t exactly on board with Trump’s vision. Despite his efforts to weaken EV incentives, car companies are doubling down on electric models. They’ve already invested billions in factories and batteries, and they’re betting on EVs to drive future profits. Tesla, for instance, has shown that EVs can be more profitable than traditional cars, with fewer moving parts and lower production costs.

While Trump might aim to boost gas-powered cars and the oil industry, the auto world is moving in the opposite direction. U.S. EV sales hit 1.3 million last year, making up 8% of new car sales. That number is expected to grow as more models hit the market.

Even Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO and a Trump supporter, has said EV subsidies should end. Analysts believe eliminating the tax credit could actually help Tesla by making its competitors less competitive.

In short, Trump’s executive order might slow down the EV shift, but it’s unlikely to stop it. With so much money and momentum behind electric vehicles, the industry’s future seems unstoppable—regardless of who’s in the White House.