In a major move towards tackling climate change, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has granted California approval to implement stricter vehicle emissions standards, including a ban on the sale of new gasoline-powered cars by 2035. This decision could lead to significant changes in the automotive landscape, with zero-emission vehicles becoming the norm in the state by the mid-2030s.
California Takes the Lead on Emission Standards
On December 18, 2024, the EPA granted California two waivers allowing the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to enforce new emissions rules that go beyond federal regulations. The first rule mandates that all new cars, SUVs, and small pickups sold in California be zero-emission by 2035, with a gradual increase in the percentage of zero-emission vehicles starting in 2026. By 2026, 35% of new car sales must be zero-emission vehicles, with the percentage rising each year.
California’s new rules also include provisions for heavy-duty trucks and off-road vehicles, which will also be subject to stricter emissions standards. Notably, the rules will not affect used vehicles, meaning that gas-powered cars currently on the road will continue to be legal.
Other States May Follow California’s Lead
Other states that have historically adopted California’s stricter emissions rules are considering whether to implement similar bans on gas-powered cars. However, the future of these regulations is uncertain, as the incoming Trump administration is likely to challenge them.
Trump Administration’s Opposition to California’s Emission Standards
President-elect Donald Trump has already signaled his intention to block California from setting its own emissions standards, a policy that the Trump administration first introduced in 2019 when it revoked California’s EPA waiver. This action led to a lawsuit from California and 22 other states, which became moot when President Joe Biden reversed the Trump administration’s policy.
California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed his support for the EPA’s decision, emphasizing that California is committed to reducing pollution and fostering innovation in the clean energy sector. Newsom also announced that the state would renew its rebate program for electric vehicles if the Trump administration moves forward with its plan to eliminate the $7,500 federal tax credit for EVs.
Legal Challenges Likely to Delay Action
The Trump administration’s efforts to block California’s emissions standards are expected to prompt a series of legal battles. Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a case to determine whether the oil and gas industry has the legal standing to challenge California’s tailpipe emissions regulations.
EPA’s Commitment to Reducing Emissions
In granting the waivers, the EPA emphasized California’s longstanding authority to request exemptions from the federal Clean Air Act to protect residents from harmful air pollution. EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan stated that the agency is committed to partnering with states to reduce emissions and address the growing threat of climate change.
Automakers Adopt California’s Emissions Rules
Major automakers, including BMW, Ford, Honda, Stellantis, and Volkswagen, have already adopted California’s current emissions standards. More than two million zero-emission vehicles have already been sold in California, with millions more expected to follow as the state moves closer to its 2035 target.
Environmental Groups Applaud the EPA’s Decision
Environmental organizations, such as Earthjustice and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), have praised the EPA’s decision, highlighting the long-term health benefits of reducing pollution and the significant economic opportunities that transitioning to zero-emission vehicles will create. Earthjustice emphasized that the shift toward cleaner cars and trucks will reduce smog, lower household energy costs, and support California’s clean energy workforce.
Conclusion: A Step Toward a Cleaner Future
California’s groundbreaking move to ban gas-powered cars by 2035 marks a significant step forward in the fight against climate change. While challenges from the Trump administration are expected, the EPA’s approval of California’s regulations underscores the state’s authority to set ambitious environmental standards that protect public health and drive innovation in the automotive industry.
Source: CBS News