Seems like some interests are threatened by the prevalence of electric cars.
While engine braking it is not about the weight of the engine used to slow the vehicle down, but rather forcing the wheels directly connected to the engine to a fixed speed. When you clamp your brake, you are trusting the tyre's stickiness to slow the car down, pushing them into an abrasive surface, ultimately wearing them down.
Ever wondered why on a slippery surface the engine brake works while braking don't?