California takes another step to fight climate change by phasing out gas-powered vehicles. On Thursday, California Air Resouces Board shared phasing out gas-powered cars with electric or hydrogen by 2030. In addition, the transition to zero-emission vehicles will result in an evident decrease in carbon emissions via transportation.
As a result, a drastic reduction will be seen in emissions and air pollutants. California’s transportation accounts for approx 40% of greenhouse gas emissions – making it the single largest source. Furthermore, the California Air Resouce Board is working on several motorcycle and larger truck regulations. Currently, new cars, pickup trucks, and SUVs are the center of the shift to electric cars.
California hasn’t imposed a ban on gas-powered cars as of yet.
By 2045, California envisions powering most of its economy with electricity. However, California’s policy doesn’t impose a ban on gas-powered cars.
The ambitious move to switch to electric vehicles will pose challenges too. For instance, majority of the people charge their electric cars at night. To meet the rising electricity demand, California will have to increase the electricity supply. However, the California Energy Commission predicts electric vehicles will add a small amount of power use in the coming ten years.
The commission estimates that 3.7 million electric vehicles will be on the road by 2030 and, will account for only 2.6% of electricity use during peak hours.
Daniel Sperling, a board member and founding director of the Institute of Transportation Studies, said, “It’s going to be very hard getting to 100%.” Gavin Newson told the state regulators to adopt a ban on gas-powered cars by 2035 – in California’s aggressive policy to combat climate change and reduce pollution. If the policy works, California will potentially cut half of its emissions from vehicles by 2040.
Other states are joining California in phasing out gas-powered cars.
As of now, 17 states have adopted California’s gas emissions requirements. As a result, it accounts for about 40% of all new vehicle sales. Massachusetts and the state of Washington have also shown interest in phasing out gas-powered cars with electric and hydrogen cars. Washington has begun the process to follow EV sales requirements. According to reports, it may take longer for other states to implement. California has a massive charging infrastructure and demand for electric vehicles, with other states currently lacking.
