California adopts historic zero-emission car standards
Electric cars cut out the gas pump and eliminate the pollution that is harming our lungs and making drought, wildfires and smog even worse - especially in frontline communities.
On August 25, 2022, the California Air Resources Board adopted the new Advanced Clean Cars program (ACCII) that put the state on the path to achieving 100% electric car sales by 2035.
California's leaders must continue to work with automakers and community groups to spur additional electric car sales and cut pollution further.
Equity, Business, Health and Clean Air Advocates Respond to Historic Clean Transportation Action
“ACCII is a critical step toward addressing California’s unique and inequitably borne climate and air quality problems by setting a floor – not a ceiling – for electric car adoption. This program is a common-sense tool that we can now apply to cut climate and air pollution across the country to reduce impacts of climate and air pollution in communities that suffer the most harm. States should waste no time in adopting these standards, which will inarguably save lives and improve health outcomes in Latino/x and other environmental justice communities.”
“Transportation is by far the largest cause of heat-trapping emissions in California and passenger vehicles are the single largest source. The new standards will drive down the tailpipe emissions that are fouling the air in California and fueling the climate crisis. Today’s action also means other states now have the opportunity to adopt these standards so they can improve their air quality and cut climate pollution.”
“California’s decision will create even more momentum for innovation in the clean transportation sector. It also sets a clear and smart path for other states on the road to a better environment and economy in America. It’s good for the environment and the economy - not just for California but for the country.””
“States look to California to set the bar for health-protective standards. California’s adoption of the Advanced Clean Cars program today offers a new clean air tool – states must take advantage of California’s clean air programs and bring the health protections they offer to their residents. We look forward to California adopting these lifesaving rules and encourage all states to share in the health benefits the rules offer by opting into these rules, using their authority under the Clean Air Act.”
“California is once-again leading the way by establishing common-sense standards that will transition to sales of all zero-polluting cars and light-duty trucks in the state. Given its unique air pollution woes and the risks to residents from climate-fueled wildfires, California desperately needs these rules to slash tailpipe pollution.”
Eliminating pollution from cars is good for everyone.
Electric vehicles are pollution-free. Strong standards that put more electric vehicles on the road faster will protect public health, fight the climate crisis and create jobs.
Now states can lead the nation.
The ACCII program is a common-sense tool for states to cut climate and air pollution. State leaders should adopt it as soon as possible to start reaping the benefits of cleaner air and an economy that is less reliant on expensive fossil fuels.
“For California, you can’t get serious about climate change unless you get serious about tailpipes.”
— Governor Gavin Newsom