California's plan to end the sale of gasoline-only vehicles by 2035 seems to have come to a screeching halt. Once hailed as a landmark move towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and accelerating the transition to clean transportation, the initiative is facing federal resistance. Despite 11 other states adopting the doctrine, the U.S. senate has voted to bar the plan.
Industry defenders claim the proposed timeline is unrealistic and could lead to increased costs, supply chain disruptions, challenges for rural consumers, and job loss. Environmental advocates see the Senate vote as a clear example of politics and business standing in the way of progress.
The future of the policy remains uncertain. Further legal disputes and challenges are expected, and questions loom over whether states will be able to retain autonomy in setting restrictions more strict than those at the federal level, especially if the issue is brought to the Supreme Court. The legal battle over the next few months will determine whether California's ambitious vision will survive.
Heavy anti-EV lobbyists included General Motors and Toyota.
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