What Year Will California Require Electric Cars?

All vehicle sales of new light-duty passenger vehicles in California must either be zero-emissions vehicles (electric or fuel cell) or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles by 2035. That is the firm cut-off for manufacturers in dealerships in Santa Clarita and throughout California. 

As of August 2022, the California Air Resources Board has introduced new a regulation, the Advanced Clean Cars II Standard. Starting in 2026, 35% of automotive sales from manufacturers and dealers will need to consist of zero emissions or plug-in hybrid electric inventory. From there, the percentage will increase each year until 100% is reached in 2035. 

Read more about the “why?” of this shift towards vehicle electrification with Hello Mazda of Valencia. We’ll also answer the question, “Can I still drive my gas car after 2023?” Then, fill out a pre-approval and contact us to schedule to test drive electric vehicles near Santa Clarita!

Why Was Advanced Clean Cars II Standard Introduced? 

Cars are responsible for 80% of California’s greenhouse gases, and California has some of the highest pollutions in the United States. In fact, two of the places most impacted by climate change in the world are California. In light of the rapid increase in climate-caused wildfires, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) revisited the legislation they established for vehicle electrification in 2012, the Advanced Clean Cars 1 Standard, and updated regulations for 2022.

This strategy has two angles. Not only does the updated protocol increase the required percentage of zero-emissions vehicles produced, but it also dramatically increases emissions regulations for gas-powered vehicles that are produced in the interim as the automotive industry scales electric vehicle production.

Can I Still Drive My Gas Car After 2035? 

While auto manufacturers won’t be able to produce new fully gas-powered vehicles after 2035, our Valencia neighbors will still be able to operate gas cars that they already own. In fact, it will remain legal to sell and purchase used gas cars as well. This legislation is meant to phase out the production of the combustion engine, but not to punish Californians who just looking to get the most out of the vehicle they’ve been driving. 

Test Drive Electric Vehicles for Sale Near Sylmar 

You now know what year California will require electric vehicles. If you’re thinking about buying a new car, buying a gas model is still a viable option, but you may consider electric vehicles as well, like the Mazda MX-30 EV for sale at Hello Mazda of Valencia. Call our staff at (844) 361-5010 to learn more about your options!