In a bold effort to combat climate change, 12 U.S. states are planning to ban the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035. This policy, initially adopted by California in 2022, aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote the widespread use of electric vehicles (EVs).
However, this transition has sparked concerns among consumers regarding charging availability, driving range, high costs, safety, and the environmental impact of batteries. Recent findings by Consumer Reports indicate that electric vehicles encounter nearly 80% more problems than their gas-powered counterparts, with frequent issues related to batteries, charging systems, and build quality. These challenges may influence consumer confidence and impact the adoption of electric vehicles.
US States Banning Gas-Powered Cars
- California
- Washington
- Oregon
- New York
- New Jersey
- Rhode Island
- Massachusetts
- Delaware
- Maryland
- Vermont
- Maine
- Pennsylvania
Advanced Clean Cars II Rule
The Advanced Clean Cars II rule, which was adopted by California in 2022, requires automakers to sell only zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) in the state by 2035. The rule also sets interim targets for ZEV sales, requiring automakers to sell at least 35% ZEVs by 2026 and 68% ZEVs by 2030.
How the Ban Will Work?
The ban on gas-powered cars will not affect existing vehicles on the road, and residents will still be able to own and drive gas-powered cars. However, automakers and dealerships will be prohibited from selling new gas-powered cars in the states that have adopted the Advanced Clean Cars II rule.
Benefits of the Ban
- Reduced greenhouse gas emissions: Gas-powered cars are a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, and reducing their use is expected to help combat climate change.
- Improved air quality: Gas-powered cars also emit pollutants that contribute to poor air quality, and reducing their use is expected to improve air quality in urban areas.
- Increased adoption of EVs: The ban on gas-powered cars is expected to drive up demand for EVs, which will help to reduce costs and improve the efficiency of EV production.
Challenges and Criticisms
While many environmentalists and public health advocates have praised the ban on gas-powered cars, it has also faced criticism from those who argue it will be difficult to implement and could have negative economic impacts.
Infrastructure: One of the main challenges of the ban is the lack of infrastructure to support widespread adoption of EVs. Many states will need to invest in new charging stations and other infrastructure to support the increased demand for EVs.
Cost: EVs are currently more expensive than gas-powered cars, and some critics argue that the ban will disproportionately affect low-income households who may not be able to afford EVs.
Economic impacts: The ban is also expected to have negative economic impacts on the automotive industry, which will need to adapt to the new regulations.
In conclusion, the planned ban on new gas-powered cars by 2035 aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and encourage the use of electric vehicles, but it faces several challenges. Addressing concerns about infrastructure, costs, and economic impacts will be vital for a smooth transition. Building consumer confidence and achieving the policy’s environmental goals will require overcoming these obstacles.
