US approves California plan to ban gasoline cars by 2035

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved California's plan to phase out the sale of gasoline-only vehicles starting in 2035. The decision, welcomed by Governor Gavin Newsom, faces opposition from President-elect Donald Trump, who promises to reverse the measure. The plan, adopted by 11 other states, seeks to meet emissions reduction goals but raises concerns about costs and viability in the automotive market.

California, pioneer in the transition to electric vehicles

In a historic decision, The EPA has approved California's ambitious plan to ban the sale of gasoline-only vehicles starting in 2035. The effort, initially announced in 2020, seeks to make at least 80% of new vehicles electric and 20% plug-in hybrids by that date. The measure also includes stricter emissions standards for heavy vehicles, with the aim of reducing smog-generating pollutants.

California Governor Gavin Newsom said that “Clean cars are here to stay” and stressed that the state will continue to encourage automotive innovation. However, the move comes at a critical time, as President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to reverse the EPA's approval, arguing that it favors regulators over consumers.

Trump's opposition and the automotive industry

President-elect Trump has made it clear that repealing this regulation will be a priority of his administration. The automotive industry has also expressed concerns, highlighting that these rules could increase production costs and limit the options available to consumers.

The Alliance for Automotive Innovation, which represents giants such as General Motors and Toyota, warned that many states following California's lead are not prepared to meet these requirements. “Achieving these goals under current market conditions will be a miracle,” the group noted, suggesting that some states should abandon California's emissions program.

Impact on emissions and climate goals

California says these rules are crucial to meeting its climate goals. The state seeks to significantly reduce greenhouse gases and improve air quality, especially in urban areas affected by high levels of pollution.

By 2026, the rules require 35% of vehicles sold to be zero-emission, rising to 68% by 2030. This effort is part of a broader strategy to combat climate change, aligning with net-zero emissions goals adopted by the state. However, energy industry groups have taken the case to the Supreme Court, questioning the validity of the plan under federal law.

The dilemma of incentives and infrastructure

As California moves forward with its plan, questions are emerging about the infrastructure needed to support the transition to electric vehicles. The state currently leads in the installation of charging stations, but the pace of growth will need to accelerate dramatically. to meet projected demand.

Additionally, Newsom announced that if Trump eliminates the $7,500 federal tax credit for electric vehicles, he will propose an expansion of the state's Clean Vehicle Rebate incentive program. These incentives are essential to ensure that the transition is economically viable. for consumers and businesses.

A model for other states and countries

California is not alone in this transition. Eleven states, including New York and Oregon, have adopted these standards, consolidating a national movement toward electrification. This model could also influence international policies, positioning the U.S. as a leader in clean and sustainable technologies.

However, the path is not without challenges. The adoption of electric vehicles still faces barriers, such as the perception of high initial cost and concerns about battery life. In addition, the dependence on critical raw materials, such as lithium and cobalt, poses geopolitical and environmental challenges.

A legacy at stake

The EPA's approval marks a significant achievement in the final days of the Biden administration, cementing its legacy on climate policy. The Biden-Trump standoff over this regulation highlights the polarization around the energy transition, with profound implications for industry and consumers.

Meanwhile, state leaders like Gavin Newsom see these measures as an opportunity to innovate and create green jobs. “California will not only lead in electric cars, but in the industries that support them, such as renewable energy and battery recycling,” the governor said.

The future of cars in the United States

Backed by regulations like those in California, the electric vehicle market is poised for rapid growth. The rise of electrification promises to transform the automotive industry, but it will also require a careful balance between innovation, cost and accessibility for consumers.

While Trump's promises could slow progress, growing demand for clean technologies, both in the US and abroad, suggests the transition is inevitable. The real challenge will be to ensure that the benefits of this transformation reach everyone, without compromising climate goals or economic stability.