Fact Check: California outlaws the sale of internal combustion vehicles

Fact Check: California Outlaws the Sale of Internal Combustion Vehicles

What We Know

California has implemented the Advanced Clean Cars II regulations, which mandate that by 2035, all new passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs sold in the state must be zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) (source-1). This regulation is part of a broader initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality in California. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has established a roadmap for this transition, starting with 35% of new vehicle sales being zero-emission by 2026, increasing to 100% by 2035 (source-2).

However, it is important to note that this regulation does not ban the use or sale of existing internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Californians will still be able to drive, register, and sell their gasoline-powered cars as used vehicles after 2035 (source-1).

Analysis

The claim that California has outlawed the sale of internal combustion vehicles is partially true. While the state has set a clear goal to transition to zero-emission vehicles for new sales by 2035, it does not prohibit the sale of existing gasoline-powered vehicles. This distinction is crucial as it means that while new sales will be limited to ZEVs, the current fleet of ICE vehicles will still be operational and transferable.

The source of this information, the California Air Resources Board, is a credible authority on environmental regulations and vehicle emissions. Their documentation outlines the goals and timelines for the transition to zero-emission vehicles, emphasizing the state's commitment to reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions (source-2). However, it is also essential to consider the political context surrounding these regulations. Previous attempts to implement similar bans have faced challenges, including federal interventions that have sought to block California's regulatory authority (source-3, source-4).

The ongoing political landscape may affect the implementation of these regulations, as seen in past events where federal actions have attempted to reverse California's vehicle emissions policies (source-5, source-7). This uncertainty adds complexity to the claim regarding the outlawing of internal combustion vehicles.

Conclusion

The claim that California has outlawed the sale of internal combustion vehicles is partially true. While the state has set ambitious goals to ensure that all new vehicle sales will be zero-emission by 2035, it does not ban the existing gasoline vehicles from being sold or used. Therefore, while the future of new vehicle sales is directed towards zero-emission options, the current fleet of internal combustion vehicles remains unaffected by this regulation.

Fact Check: California outlaws the sale of internal combustion vehicles