The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved California’s ambitious plan to ban the sale of gasoline-only vehicles by 2035, as part of the state’s efforts to transition towards cleaner energy.
The move, endorsed on Wednesday by the EPA under President Joe Biden’s administration, stems from a regulation announced in 2020. Under the plan, at least 80 per cent of new cars sold in California by 2035 must be electric, while up to 20 per cent may be plug-in hybrid models, according to the California Clean Air Act.
Governor Gavin Newsom welcomed the decision, stating, “Clean cars are here to stay.” He criticised opposition, including President-elect Donald Trump, who has vowed to reverse the EPA’s approval and align with the oil industry instead of advancing clean energy.
California’s regulations are expected to spur innovation in the automotive market, as it has long been a leader in environmental initiatives. The state’s push for stricter emissions standards and increased adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) aligns with its broader strategy to combat climate change.
In addition to the EV plan, the EPA also approved other measures, including California’s “Omnibus” low-nitrogen oxide (NOx) rules for heavy-duty vehicles. These rules target harmful emissions from highway and off-road engines. Six additional requests from California for waivers are still under review.
Other states, including New York, Oregon, and Massachusetts, have adopted similar rules to California’s, though their ability to implement these changes may depend on future federal decisions. The incoming Trump administration has signalled a willingness to rewrite or revoke such approvals, which could create legal and regulatory uncertainties for states following California’s lead.
This landmark decision reflects California’s commitment to driving the U.S. toward a cleaner energy future while setting a precedent for other states to follow. As the transition to EVs continues to gain momentum, the battle between federal and state policies on clean energy is likely to intensify.