California, the most populous state in the USA and the center of automobile culture, has officially banned the sale of new cars that run on gasoline or diesel fuel. The reason for this move by the state is climate change. It is thought that the fires that broke out in the state and caused serious forest losses accelerated this decision process.
Other states may also follow
Starting in 2026, automakers will only be able to sell zero-emission cars, pickup trucks and SUVs in the state, according to a decision by the California Air Resources Board. This decision is also expected to have a snowball effect, with similar consequences in other states of the country. Because other clean and emission-free car decisions taken by California were adopted by at least 15 states, including New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.
Climate change is a serious problem
Liane Randolph, chair of the California Air Resources Board, says their goal is to reduce pollution from trucks and cars by 50 percent by 2040. With the decision taken, by 2026, 35 percent of all vehicles sold in the state will be electric, hybrid or hydrogen fueled. By 2030, this figure will cover 68 percent of the vehicles, and by 2035 all of them. Vehicles currently in use will not be affected by the regulation.
The world’s first hydrogen-powered train begins service
State officials say the new legislation is critical to achieving 100 percent renewable energy targets by 2045. However, let’s underline that meeting these targets will not be possible only with legal regulations. Establishing adequate charging stations across the state and adequate battery supply for electric vehicles is critical.
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