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California Accelerates Clean Car Transition with New Executive Order

8540
14
Jun

SACRAMENTO, CA – Governor Gavin Newsom has signed an executive order solidifying California’s commitment to clean cars and trucks, pushing forward the state’s leadership in zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) technology. This action comes in response to federal challenges to California’s clean air standards and aims to accelerate the adoption of affordable clean vehicles across the state.

Key Initiatives of the Executive Order

  • Advanced Clean Cars III: Initiates development of next-generation regulations for emissions reduction, fostering innovation and job creation in California’s clean transportation sector.
  • State Vehicle Purchasing: Prioritizes vehicle purchases from manufacturers complying with California’s stringent clean vehicle regulations.
  • Incentive Programs: Directs funding towards clean manufacturers and fleets, incentivizing the transition to ZEVs.
  • Clean Truck Partnership: Continues collaboration and requires progress reports every six months.
  • ZEV Adoption Strategies: State agencies will assess and recommend actions to accelerate ZEV adoption within 60 days, focusing on consumer protection, infrastructure development, and local partnerships.

Why This Matters

California faces significant air quality challenges, with five of the ten most polluted cities in the U.S. located within the state. Millions of Californians suffer from respiratory illnesses due to poor air quality. This executive order reaffirms the state’s commitment to cleaner air, protecting public health, and reducing healthcare costs.

“We are doubling down on our efforts to transition to cleaner cars, ensuring California remains a leader in combating climate change and protecting our communities from harmful pollution,” stated Governor Newsom.

California’s ZEV Leadership

California is a national leader in ZEV adoption:

  • Approximately 25% of new car sales in California are ZEVs.
  • The state has surpassed its goal of two million ZEVs ahead of schedule.
  • 56 ZEV and ZEV-related manufacturers operate in California, creating numerous jobs.
  • Over 178,000 public and shared private electric vehicle chargers are installed statewide.

Economic and Health Benefits

Investing in clean car technology not only improves air quality but also yields significant economic benefits. ZEVs are often less expensive to operate due to lower electricity prices and reduced maintenance costs. California’s clean air efforts have already saved billions in healthcare costs.

California’s commitment to clean energy continues to grow. The state recently approved plans for what is poised to be the world’s largest battery energy storage system.

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Ngoc Vy

Ngoc Vy is a tech journalist specializing in artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and their societal impact. She combines technical rigor with on-the-ground coverage of Vietnam’s startup ecosystem, from AI ethics debates to gov-tech adoption. Ngoc Vy is also passionate about bridging the gender gap in STEM journalism.

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