Executive order starts development of Advanced Clean Cars III emissions regulations.
State to align vehicle purchases with clean car–compliant manufacturers.
Over 10 million Californians affected by poor air quality targeted by new strategies.
Governor Gavin Newsom has signed an executive order directing the next phase of California’s clean vehicle policies, reinforcing the state’s zero-emission transportation goals as federal authorities move to roll back related standards.
The executive action follows President Donald Trump’s endorsement of Congressional resolutions aimed at dismantling California’s clean car and truck regulations. In response, Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta filed a legal challenge earlier the same day to protect the state’s clean air authority.
The order initiates the development of the Advanced Clean Cars III regulation, intended to introduce updated emissions strategies. It also mandates that state agencies recommend further measures to support affordable ZEV adoption within 60 days. These recommendations are expected to include strategies on infrastructure, consumer protection, voluntary programs, and local partnerships.
Under the order, California will update vehicle procurement policies to prioritize manufacturers who comply with clean vehicle standards. Funding will also be directed to manufacturers and fleets that align with state clean transportation goals. The Clean Truck Partnership will continue with mandated progress reports every six months.
Although California’s clean air programs have led to improved air quality, over 10 million residents in the San Joaquin Valley and Los Angeles regions continue to live under severe nonattainment conditions for ozone. These areas face elevated rates of asthma and cardiopulmonary disease.
According to state data, clean air measures have prevented an estimated $250 billion in health-related costs over the past five decades. Diesel-related cancer risks have declined by approximately 80%. State officials estimate that if recent federal rollbacks are upheld, California could face $45 billion in additional healthcare costs. Conversely, current clean vehicle regulations are expected to provide $91 billion in cumulative net benefits by 2040.
The state has already exceeded its two-million ZEV target ahead of schedule. One in four new vehicles sold in California is now an EV, supported by more than 178,000 public or shared private chargers across the state, over 50% more than the number of gasoline pumps. California is also home to 56 ZEV and related manufacturing companies, leading the nation in ZEV job creation.
As the fourth-largest global economy, California’s sustained ZEV mandates will undoubtedly continue to shape similar mandates in other countries, such as Canada.
