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By banning the sale of new gasoline-only automobiles by 2035, California will significantly contribute to the fight against climate change.
The new rules are intended to pressure automakers to speed up with the market introduction of cleaner vehicles. In addition, it complies with Governor Gavin Newsom’s objective of accelerating the switch away from fossil fuels by 2020.
The ruling is significant since California is the most populous state in the US and has one of the greatest economies in the world.
By 2026, 35% of new vehicles sold in the state must have an electric, hybrid, or hydrogen powertrain, according to regulations set forth by the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
By 2030 and 2035, respectively, 100% of vehicle sales would be subject to the requirements.
According to CARB chair Laine Randolph, the decision was historic because it charted a course for a future with no emissions for California, its partner states, and the entire world. The declaration is the latest move taken by California, which continues to enact stricter pollution limits even more than the US federal government.
California, which has a population of over 39 million, is the most populous state in the US. It would surpass the United Kingdom to become the fifth-largest economy in the world by gross domestic product if it were a separate nation.
Tesla’s senior counsel Joseph Mendelson praised CARB’s feasible approach and opened the door for California to take the lead in electrifying the light-duty sector.
To increase demand for electric vehicles, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, which represents automakers such as General Motors, Volkswagen, and Toyota, said more needed to be done (EVs).
Prior to going into effect, the US government must still approve the new regulations.
American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers, a trade group, urged President Biden and the Environmental Protection Agency to turn down California’s request for a waiver of the Clean Air Act so that this illegal restriction may go into effect.
California is ahead of other US States in its green initiative
The US government enacted the Inflation Reduction Bill in August. The legislation aimed at assisting the United States in using fewer fossil fuels is thought to be the cornerstone of the country’s aspirations to create a better environment. The Inflation Reduction Act, which the administration believes would help move the country’s economy and consumers away from fossil fuels and toward renewable energy, is primarily driven through tax credits. The new law extends several existing tax advantages for renewable energy. It also creates new incentives for investing in renewable energy technology.
Read Also: How the Inflation Reduction Act will fight Climate Change
The proposal offers tax credits to encourage people to buy and use heat pumps, electric appliances, and other energy-efficient home technologies. Solar energy systems, battery storage, and electric cars are also eligible for tax incentives. It also extends a $7,500 tax credit for purchasing a new electric vehicle and a $4,000 credit for used electric vehicles. Credits are also available for buying electric vehicles for business use.
Climate experts estimate that the strategy might reduce US emissions in 2030 by around 40% below 2005 levels. This would be a significant step in limiting the worst effects of climate change.
