California is fighting back against the Trump administration’s efforts to unplug its zero-emissions strategy—with state officials doubling down on plans to cut vehicle pollution.
The details: The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has released a new report detailing several courses of action aimed at increasing the number of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) on the road, several of which could benefit EV buyers and current owners.
Expanding private investment initiatives like the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFC) program, which generates $4B annually from clean fuel producers and infrastructure companies, lowering EV ownership costs.
Incentives—including providing point-of-sale rebates, vouchers, or other credits for new and used EV purchases; reinstating HOV lane access for ZEVs; and providing ZEVs with free or lower fee access to Express Lanes.
Enhancing infrastructure and charging initiatives, including collaborative build-out efforts; increasing charging reliability and access; and options that could reduce the cost of charging an EV.
The CARB report was prompted by an executive order issued by California Governor Gavin Newsom on June 12, calling on several state agencies to find ways to make ZEVs more affordable, reliable, and accessible.
What they’re saying: “Clean air efforts are under siege, putting the health of every American at risk,” said Liane Randolph, chair of the California Air Resources Board (CARB). “California is continuing to fight back and will not give up on cleaner air and better public health—we have a legal and moral obligation,” she added (via The Hill).
Why it matters: The course of action spotlighted in the CARB report could help sustain or even boost California’s EV sales—amid President Trump’s move to revoke the state’s ZEV mandate and the elimination of the federal $7,500 tax credit for electric vehicles.
Between the lines: That said, California voters appear to be mixed on the approach to transitioning to zero-emission vehicles, based on a Politico Pro poll.
Nearly two-thirds or 64% of registered voters in the state indicated they’re open to California financing EV incentives.
Only 47% of state voters said they support legislation that would ban the sale of gas-powered vehicles in 2035.
Bottom line: California’s move to double down on its ZEV expansion plans despite the federal pushback signals the state’s willingness to find new ways to ensure that it remains the nation’s most important EV hub. However, the road to convincing Californians to give up their gas vehicles could be longer than expected.
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