EPA Approves California's Plan to Phase Out Gas Cars by 2035

The decision allows California to enforce stricter emissions rules, but legal challenges are expected under the incoming Trump administration.

The EPA granted California a waiver to implement its Advanced Clean Cars 2 regulations, requiring all new cars sold in the state to be zero-emission by 2035.
The waiver also permits stricter emissions standards for heavy-duty trucks and off-road vehicles, targeting reductions in smog-forming pollutants like nitrogen oxides.
California's mandate, which other states can adopt, sets interim targets starting with 35% zero-emission vehicles for 2026 models, increasing annually to 100% by 2035.
President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to challenge California's authority, potentially leading to legal battles over the waiver's validity and related emissions policies.
Environmental groups and automakers have expressed mixed reactions, with some supporting the transition to zero-emission vehicles and others citing challenges in meeting the mandates.