Considering 2035 is quite some time away and that executive orders could theoretically be repealed by the next governor(s), it’s more of a symbolic one than one with guaranteed consequences. Still, it’s an important step in the right direction. Specifically, the order requires the California Air Resources Board to create “passenger vehicle and truck regulations requiring increasing volumes of new zero-emission vehicles sold in the State towards the target of 100 percent of in-state sales by 2035.” It also asks for medium and heavy-duty vehicles to be zero-emission by 2045 “everywhere feasible.” [Read more: Are EVs too expensive? Here are 5 common myths, debunked] To be clear, you’ll still be able to own gas vehicles — you just can’t buy a new model that creates emissions after 2035. That also doesn’t bar you from purchasing an older car with an internal combustion engine after 2035. Notably, it’s the first such move by a US state, although certainly not the first such action globally. The UK, for instance, originally banned gas-powered cars by 2040, but then pushed it up to 2035. Norway has a ban on gas vehicles due as soon as 2025 — over half of that country’s new vehicle sales are already electric. The move is expected to cut emissions in the state by 35 percent. Hopefully, other states will follow suit soon — or you know, the entire country. You can read the executive order in full here. So you like mobility? Then join our online event, TNW2020, where you’ll hear how data, autonomy, and connectivity are fueling the future of mobility. SHIFT is brought to you by Polestar. It’s time to accelerate the shift to sustainable mobility. That is why Polestar combines electric driving with cutting-edge design and thrilling performance. Find out how.
