California’s “2035 Complete Stop of New Gasoline Car Sales” and other zero-emission plans may be at risk due to the latest actions by both houses of the U.S. Congress. What impact will this have on the public and the automotive industry?
On Thursday (May 22), the U.S. Senate passed H.J.Res.88 resolution with a vote of 51 to 44. This resolution aims to repeal California’s strict emission standards for phasing out gasoline cars gradually, which also affects the plans of several other states.
John Bozzella, Chairman of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, a lobbying group representing most U.S. automakers, expressed support for the congressional vote, stating that the mandatory sales regulations for electric vehicles were fundamentally unattainable.
Bozzella said, “The Senate and the House of Representatives should be commended for not passing the buck and waiting for regulatory failures and consequences but voting to restore a degree of balance to U.S. automotive emissions regulations.”
So, what is the background of California’s zero-emission and ban on gasoline vehicles starting from 2035? And how does it directly relate to consumers?
As early as 2020, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced plans to ban gasoline-powered vehicles in order to reduce air pollution. However, according to the U.S. Clean Air Act, states cannot establish emission standards for cars and trucks unless granted a waiver by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Once such a waiver is obtained, California can set emission regulations.
Thus, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) passed a regulation called “Advanced Clean Cars II” in 2022, aiming to phase out gasoline-powered cars, trucks, and SUVs in new vehicle sales in California by 2026. By 2035, all new gasoline-powered vehicles will be prohibited from being sold in California, ultimately achieving the goal of zero emissions.
Industry professionals had previously raised warnings that this regulation was too radical and could impact the entire U.S. automotive manufacturing industry. However, this did not halt California’s progress.
On December 18 last year, California was granted a waiver by the EPA, allowing the state to fully implement its laws. From 2035 onward, all new vehicles sold in California must be zero-emission.
Upon hearing the news, some car dealers in California expressed concerns that if the state government were to enforce the plan by penalizing car manufacturers, it could lead to shortages and price increases in the gasoline car market. For consumers, the regulation would limit choices and raise purchase costs.
With the recent efforts under the Trump administration, the fate of California’s plan has once again come into focus. Until May 22, when the U.S. Senate made its decision to pass H.J.Res.88 with a vote of 51 to 44, thwarting California’s plan to phase out gasoline cars. The bill will now be sent to Trump’s desk for approval.
Federal actions have triggered strong opposition from California politicians. Governor Newsom and California Attorney General Rob Bonta accused the Senate vote of casting a shadow over the U.S., and they plan to appeal the decision.
Additionally, Newsom announced on Friday (May 23) that California would join a coalition of 11 states to continue promoting the development of clean vehicles.
So, what do Californians think about this development? Jeffrey Nuhfer said, “I like electric cars, but it shouldn’t be all-electric. We shouldn’t completely rely on electricity, especially to achieve this plan within 10 years. I believe gasoline cars are still necessary for the market economy and people’s daily travel.”
Jai Slimmings expressed, “I don’t think electric car technology has progressed enough to close down all gas car factories. In case of a natural disaster or power outage, at least we can drive gasoline cars.”
Some individuals believe that while protecting the environment is crucial, policymakers should consider practicality when drafting regulations. Francesca Cafarchi stated, “I support California’s laws. However, I think sometimes it goes too far, and there should be some middle ground and compromise. I’m not sure if California is fully prepared, including whether the necessary infrastructure for electric cars is in place. So, we need to review the law and be more practical.”
Bozzella, Chairman of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, believes there is a significant gap between the market and the requirements for selling electric vehicles. He mentioned that the gasoline car ban “does not contribute to the widespread adoption of electric vehicles or the construction of charging infrastructure, but will instead cause a domino effect leading to job losses, manufacturing decline, increased car prices, and reduced vehicle choices.”
On the flip side, he pointed out that the U.S. automotive industry has invested billions in electrification, with 144 electric car models currently available in the market. The issue lies not in technology but in “mandated regulations.” After all, while some consumers prefer electric cars, others lean towards gasoline or hybrid models.
“It’s about balance. Balance is not only beneficial for consumers but also crucial for maintaining a healthy and globally competitive U.S. automotive industry,” he said.