California Gas Car Ban 2035: EPA Approval

EPA Approves California's 2035 Gas Car Ban

The Environmental Protection Agency has announced its approval of California’s plan to prohibit the sale of most new gas-powered and diesel-powered cars and light trucks beginning in 2035.

Clean Air Act Authority

California possesses the longstanding ability to establish its own, more rigorous emissions standards under the provisions of the Clean Air Act. Exercising this authority, the state unveiled a phased approach in 2022 to gradually eliminate fossil fuel vehicles, ultimately leading to the 2035 ban.

Phase-Out Timeline

The initial phase of California’s plan is slated to begin in 2026. At this point, automakers will be required to ensure that 35% of their sales consist of zero-emission vehicles (ZEV), encompassing both electric and hydrogen powered options.

Currently, as of the third quarter of this year, ZEVs represent 26.4% of the market share.

Further milestones include a requirement for 68% of new car sales to be zero-emission by 2030. By 2035, the target reaches 100%.

Plug-in hybrid vehicles will be permitted, constituting up to 20% of sales, but must offer a range of at least 50 miles.

Potential Reversal Under New Administration

Despite this approval, the decision is anticipated to be overturned by the forthcoming Trump administration. The previous Trump administration previously revoked California’s waiver in 2019.

This waiver was subsequently reinstated by the EPA under the Biden administration following legal action initiated by 23 states.

State Adoption of California Standards

Beyond California, 16 other states and the District of Columbia have adopted versions of California’s emissions standards. Many of these jurisdictions also have plans in place to phase out gasoline-powered vehicles.

Complexity of Revocation

Revoking these standards is not a simple process. The prior administration required 18 months to successfully rescind the waiver.

Automaker Positions

Automakers have exhibited a fluctuating stance regarding the waiver. While many have acknowledged California’s authority and committed to reducing emissions and phasing out fossil fuel vehicle sales within the state, they have also requested extensions and urged intervention from the Trump administration.

John Bozzella, CEO of Alliance for Automotive Innovation, stated, “We expect President Trump will revoke the waiver in 2025.”

This indicates a potential shift in policy and a challenge to California’s ambitious goals for zero-emission vehicles.