Otis Singleton
California has been a trailblazer in the push for electric vehicles (EVs) in the United States. The state has set a target of 100% zero-emission vehicles by 2035, which means all new cars, trucks, and SUVs sold in California from that year onwards will need to be electric or plug-in electric hybrids. This target is part of the Advanced Clean Cars II rule, which aims to rapidly grow the EV market and reduce climate-warming pollution. While California's EV sales have stalled, and there are concerns about the state's infrastructure being unprepared for the shift to EVs, the state is taking steps to improve EV affordability and accessibility, with incentive programs and investments in charging infrastructure.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Year of all-electric vehicles | 2035 |
| Zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) | Battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and fuel cell electric vehicles |
| Advanced Clean Cars Program | Advanced Clean Cars I (2012) and Advanced Clean Cars II (2022) |
| California's vehicle standards (2022) | 100% of new passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs sold are electric or hydrogen-fueled |
| California's zero-emission rules | Cut smog-causing pollution from light-duty vehicles by 25% by 2037 |
| Governor's ZEV budget | $400 million for Clean Cars 4 All and clean transportation equity projects; $525 million for the Clean Vehicles Rebate Project (CVRP); $300 million for charging infrastructure |
| Battery-electric vehicles | 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on the battery required from 2026 |
| ZEV powertrain components | Warranted for at least 3 years or 50,000 miles |
| Sales of zero-emission vehicles | Stalled |
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What You'll Learn
California's zero-emission vehicle regulation
California's Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Program is part of the California Air Resources Board's (CARB) Advanced Clean Cars package of coordinated standards. The ZEV program was first adopted in 1990 as part of LEV I standards and has since undergone significant modifications.
The program is designed to achieve the state's long-term emission reduction goals by requiring car manufacturers to offer specific numbers of the cleanest car technologies for sale. Zero-emission vehicles include battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and fuel cell electric vehicles.
In 2022, California exceeded its goal of selling 1.5 million ZEVs, two years ahead of schedule. As of 2024, about a quarter of all new cars registered in California were zero-emissions, up from 20% in 2022. However, sales have plateaued, raising concerns about meeting the state's ambitious targets.
To accelerate the transition, California approved the Advanced Clean Cars II rule, which sets a roadmap for 100% of new cars, trucks, and SUVs sold in California to be zero-emission by 2035. This rule includes requirements for increasing ZEV sales and durability and warranty standards to ensure permanent emission reductions.
The state is also investing in charging infrastructure and incentive programs to support the widespread adoption of ZEVs. These efforts are aligned with Governor Newsom's Executive Order N-79-20 and budget, which aim to make ZEVs accessible to a wide range of economic groups and promote environmental protection, economic growth, and improved quality of life in California.
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Electric vehicles are more expensive
California is on a path to rapidly increase its zero-emission car market, with a target of 100% of new cars and light trucks sold in the state being zero-emission vehicles by 2035. This includes battery-electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and fuel cell electric vehicles. While this initiative is aimed at reducing emissions and improving air quality, one of the challenges faced is the higher upfront cost of electric vehicles.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are generally more expensive than their gas-powered counterparts. In mid-2023, the average price of an electric vehicle was about $12,000 more than the average price of a gas vehicle. This price difference is significant and can be a barrier for consumers considering the switch to electric cars. However, it is important to note that gas cars themselves are also expensive, and the price gap between the two types of vehicles is expected to shrink in the coming years.
One of the main reasons for the higher cost of EVs is the battery. Batteries are the most significant component of an EV, and they are expensive. The battery cost constitutes a considerable portion of the overall vehicle cost. Additionally, batteries need to be replaced every few years, adding to the overall ownership expenses. However, battery technology is improving, and prices are expected to drop as production scales up and becomes more profitable.
The higher upfront cost of EVs can be a deterrent for potential buyers. For example, the 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning, an electric truck, starts at about $56,000, while the entry-level gas-powered F-150 starts at approximately $34,000. Luxury electric vehicles, such as those offered by Tesla and Rivian, can be even more expensive due to their high-performance capabilities and upscale designs. However, it is worth noting that the running costs of EVs are typically lower than those of gas-powered cars.
While the initial purchase price of an EV may be higher, the total cost of ownership over the vehicle's lifetime should also be considered. EVs have lower operational and maintenance costs compared to gas-powered cars. This is because electricity prices are generally more stable than gasoline prices, and EVs require less maintenance and fewer repairs. Additionally, public charging stations and infrastructure are becoming more widely available, making it more convenient to charge electric vehicles.
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California's infrastructure is unprepared
California has been a trailblazer in the push to electrify its cars, with Governor Gavin Newsom making electric vehicles a cornerstone of his agenda to fight climate change and clean the air. The state has set ambitious targets, with a mandate for 100% of new cars, trucks, and SUVs sold to be zero-emission vehicles by 2035. However, there are concerns that California's infrastructure is unprepared for this transition.
The state's infrastructure faces significant challenges in terms of its ability to support the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. One of the main concerns is the electric grid's capacity to handle the increased demand for electricity that will come with more electric vehicles on the road. During recent summer heatwaves, utilities have been forced to impose rolling blackouts to manage both hot-weather demands and fire danger. The strain on the power grid is expected to intensify as more electric vehicles are adopted, as an electric vehicle can consume as much electricity as three households at its peak draw while charging.
While charging and battery technology are expected to improve in the coming years, it is uncertain if these advancements will be enough to address the infrastructure shortfalls. One potential solution is solar energy, combined with battery storage (power walls). This approach could reduce the strain on the power grid and lower the operating costs of electric vehicles. However, to gain widespread acceptance, solar energy will require more incentives and support from both state and federal governments.
Another challenge for California's infrastructure is the availability and accessibility of charging stations. While the state is working to rapidly expand its electric vehicle charging infrastructure, there are concerns about whether there will be enough charging stations to meet the demand. This is especially true for consumers who may not have access to home charging options, such as those without garages. California has allocated significant funds to address this issue, with $300 million dedicated to expanding charging infrastructure and making it more accessible to all consumers.
In addition to the electric grid and charging station concerns, there are also worries about the potential impact on poverty levels. Compulsory electric vehicles tend to be more expensive than traditional gas-powered cars, which can limit access to vehicles for lower-income individuals. This, in turn, can affect their access to jobs, schools, and other opportunities. While the state has initiatives to support low- and moderate-income consumers in purchasing electric vehicles, it is unclear if these efforts will be sufficient to offset the potential negative impact on poverty levels.
Overall, while California has shown strong leadership in the push for electric vehicles, the state's infrastructure faces significant challenges in its preparedness for the transition. Addressing these infrastructure gaps will be crucial to ensuring a smooth and equitable shift towards electrification.
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Automakers are over-complying
California is on a path to rapidly growing its zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) market, with a goal of 100% of new cars and light trucks sold in the state being zero-emission by 2035. This includes battery-electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and fuel cell electric vehicles. The state has already made significant progress towards this goal, with ZEVs accounting for 25% of new vehicle sales in 2023, up from 20% in 2022. This has automakers over-complying with California's existing Zero-Emission Vehicle Regulation.
The Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) regulation, adopted in 2022, sets a requirement that 35% of new vehicle sales be zero-emission by 2026. This is a year-by-year roadmap, with the proportion of zero-emission vehicles required to increase to 68% by 2030 and 80% by 2035. The regulation includes updated emission standards for light- and medium-duty internal combustion engine vehicles to mitigate air quality impacts and prevent potential emission backsliding. It also addresses the durability and warranty requirements for ZEVs, ensuring that they can be full replacements for gasoline vehicles and hold their market value.
To support the transition to zero-emission vehicles, California has implemented various incentive programs and investments. The Governor's ZEV budget includes $400 million for the expansion of Clean Cars 4 All and clean transportation equity projects, $525 million for the Clean Vehicles Rebate Project (CVRP), and $300 million for charging infrastructure. These initiatives aim to increase access to ZEVs for all Californians, including moderate- and low-income consumers. Additionally, there are incentive programs for both new and used battery-electric vehicles, and California is working to expand its electric vehicle charging stations and hydrogen fueling stations.
While California's push for electrification faces challenges, such as stabilizing EV sales and concerns about consumer demand, the state remains committed to its goals. The state mandate offers some flexibility, with a multi-year formula for manufacturers to meet the 2026 zero-emission vehicle sales target. Automakers are also taking initiatives to increase the availability of ZEVs, with over 100 different makes and models of battery-electric, plug-in hybrid electric, and fuel cell electric cars currently available, and more expected in the coming years.
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Electric vehicles save money
California is on a path to rapidly increase the number of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) on its roads and highways. The state has approved the Advanced Clean Cars II rule, which mandates that by 2035, 100% of new cars, trucks, and SUVs sold in California will be zero-emission vehicles. This includes battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and fuel cell electric vehicles.
While the sales of zero-emission vehicles in California have plateaued, with about a quarter of all new cars registered in 2024 being zero-emission, the state is still pushing for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. This push is driven by the potential cost savings and environmental benefits that electric vehicles offer.
Secondly, electric vehicles have fewer mechanical components and require less maintenance. The absence of spark plugs and the need for oil changes contribute to lower maintenance costs. The regenerative braking feature in electric vehicles also saves on brake pad replacements. Overall, EV drivers can save up to 40% on repair and maintenance costs.
Moreover, the purchase price of electric vehicles has been decreasing. A study by Atlas Public Policy found that the total cost savings for electric models increased compared to gasoline vehicles, driven by the lower upfront price of electric vehicles. For example, the Chevrolet Bolt EV offers savings of over $10,000 compared to a Toyota Corolla.
In addition to the direct cost savings, electric vehicles also provide environmental benefits. They reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 75% compared to conventional vehicles, leading to cleaner air and less pollution, especially for communities near roadways.
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Frequently asked questions
California has mandated that all new vehicles sold in the state by 2035 be electric or plug-in electric hybrids.
The mandate aims to reduce California's carbon emissions and improve air quality.
After three years of strong growth, sales have stabilized, with about a quarter of new cars registered in California in 2024 being zero-emission vehicles.
Yes, California offers various incentives to promote the adoption of electric vehicles, including the Clean Vehicles Rebate Project (CVRP) and programs for both new and used battery-electric vehicles.
CARB is the agency responsible for overseeing and implementing California's electric vehicle mandates and regulations. It was formed in 1967 under Governor Ronald Reagan to address the state's poor air quality.
