California Air Quality Regulators Stand Firm Against New-Car Dealers’ Campaign

California has long been at the forefront of environmental protection and sustainability, and this includes efforts to reduce air pollution caused by vehicles. However, a recent ad campaign launched by new-car dealers has sparked controversy and opposition to the state’s efforts. The “Calibrate” campaign, an initiative of the California New Car Dealers Association, argues that the state’s proposed zero-emissions targets would have a devastating impact on the economy. But California’s air quality regulators are pushing back, determined to stay on track with their plans to improve air quality and protect public health.

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has proposed the Advanced Clean Cars II rule, which would require all new cars sold in the state to be zero-emission vehicles by 2035. This means that traditional gas-powered cars would no longer be allowed to be sold in California after this date. The goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality, as transportation is a major contributor to air pollution in the state.

However, the Calibrate campaign argues that these targets are unrealistic and would harm the economy. They claim that the shift to electric vehicles would result in job losses in the automotive industry and higher costs for consumers. They also argue that the infrastructure needed to support electric vehicles, such as charging stations, is not yet in place and would require significant investment.

But CARB and other environmental groups are standing firm in their support for the Advanced Clean Cars II rule. They argue that the benefits of transitioning to zero-emission vehicles far outweigh any potential negative impacts. According to CARB, the rule would save Californians $1,650 per year in fuel and maintenance costs, as well as reduce the state’s greenhouse gas emissions by 35%.

Furthermore, the state has already seen success in promoting electric vehicles. California’s Zero-Emission Vehicle program, which requires car manufacturers to sell a certain percentage of electric vehicles, has resulted in a 30% increase in electric vehicle sales in the state. This shows that the market for zero-emission vehicles is growing and consumers are willing to make the switch.

In response to the Calibrate campaign, CARB has released a statement saying, “The Calibrate campaign is spreading misinformation and fear to protect the profits of the auto industry at the expense of public health and the environment.” They also point out that the automotive industry has a history of opposing environmental regulations, but has ultimately been able to adapt and thrive.

California’s air quality regulators are not only focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but also on improving air quality for the health and well-being of its residents. The state has some of the worst air pollution in the country, and it disproportionately affects low-income and minority communities. By transitioning to zero-emission vehicles, these communities would see the most benefits in terms of improved air quality and public health.

In addition, the shift to electric vehicles would also create new job opportunities in the clean energy industry. According to a report by the Union of Concerned Scientists, the transition to electric vehicles in California could create up to 100,000 new jobs by 2030.

It is clear that California’s air quality regulators are committed to their goal of reducing air pollution and improving public health. They are not swayed by the Calibrate campaign’s arguments and are determined to see the Advanced Clean Cars II rule through. As the state continues to face the impacts of climate change, it is crucial that we take bold and necessary steps to reduce our carbon footprint. The transition to zero-emission vehicles is a crucial part of this effort, and California is leading the way for other states to follow.