In this series, CalMatters is examining the impacts of California’s new zero emission mandate on all segments of society and the economy.
California is about to undergo a transformation like none other. In less than four years, more than a third of all new cars purchased in California must be zero-emissions, and beginning with 2035 models, no new gasoline-powered cars will be sold in the nation’s most populous state.
No mandate will have had such a dramatic impact on Californians’ lives and daily routines. The transformation doesn’t stop at cars: big rigs and other trucks will be electrified, too. And the state’s move to rapidly electrify all vehicles will likely spread to other states and nations. For more than 50 years, California has led the way in cleaning up cars. Now, with the threat posed by climate change, its efforts have ramped up. The deadlines are aggressive, the transformation rapid: Under the state’s measure enacted last August, sales of electric cars will have to almost triple beginning with 2026 models, before ramping up to 100% in 2035. The cost: An estimated $30 billion.
If this mandate works as California intends, it will be an enormous step toward reducing dependence on fossil fuels, cleaning the state’s dirty air and helping eliminate greenhouse gases that are causing the climate crisis. But it carries with it many uncertainties and lingering questions, including the affordability and practicality of the vehicles and the reliability of the power grid.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
The Markup, now part of CalMatters, wins Online News Award for General Excellence; CalMatters a finalistCalifornia, explained
Read more »
‘Democracy at its best’: How VotingMatters creates space for civil dialogueCalMatters is working to educate voters across California on statewide issues for the 2024 elections.
Read more »
CalMatters kicks off VotingMatters 2024 in EurekaCalMatters is working to educate voters across California on statewide issues for the 2024 elections.
Read more »
How Smith's 'Zero Hunger Zero Waste' initiative helps local food pantriesJohn Franchi is a morning anchor and reporter for 'Good Day Utah' on FOX 13 News.
Read more »
California Republicans urge EPA to reject waiver for zero-emissions regulationsPolitical News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government
Read more »
Your guide to California's Assembly District 40 race: Gipson vs. SchiavoIn the race to represent the northwestern L.A. County swing district in the state Assembly, Patrick Lee Gipson aims to flip Democrat Pilar Schiavo's seat back to Republicans.
Read more »