California, USA’s most populous region makes history by becoming the first state to ban the sale of new gasoline-powered vehicles.
The California Air Resources Board issued the rule forcing automakers to speed up manufacturing of greener vehicles. By 2040, the decision will result in a 50% reduction in pollution from cars and light trucks. At least 15 states, including New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, have based earlier clean-car legislation on California’s vehicle standards.
After 2035, the policy will not prohibit people from driving gas cars or purchasing and selling them on the used market. The law will also allow automakers to sell up to 20% plug-in hybrids, which have gas engines, by 2035.
The policy requires 35% of total new vehicle sales to be powered by batteries or hydrogen by 2026, 68% by 2030 and 100% by 2035.
Clean Cars 4 All comes as a new program introduced by the legislation. It will offer up to $9,500 to low-income drivers who scrap their old vehicles and buy new, low- or zero-emissions automobiles. In addition, the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project will provide $7,500 to income-qualified drivers. Finally, there’s Clean Vehicle Assistance Program which provides low-income automobile buyers with special financing and up to $5,000 in down payment assistance.
