Auto and oil interests are pulling out all of the stops to derail the innovative and successful program and spread misinformation about promising new vehicle technologies. The proposed 75 percent reduction in the number of true ZEVs jeopardizes continued investment in fuel cell and battery technology, and fails to provide a path for ZEVs to achieve the volume production needed to bring down costs of these promising new vehicle technologies. Local governments in California face a host of challenges in addressing air quality and livability issues, and depend on the state to set strict standards for auto pollution. Despite incredible success in reducing the smog that persists in so many of California's cities, some 95 percent of us still live in areas that fail to meet health-based standards. Much of the success has come from controls on factories and businesses, and by reformulating consumer products such as charcoal lighter fluid and house paint.
Vehicles still account for two-thirds of our air pollution.
Some major programs intended to reduce vehicle-related pollution have failed to produce the anticipated results, including Smog Check and vehicle scrappage. Those in Vacaville who were able to get vehicles before every manufacturer sold out are ecstatic. In Sacramento, EV drivers can park free in city lots. Dozens of cities have moved aggressively to add ZEVs to their fleets, with much success. Electric vehicles have been deployed in a full range of municipal fleet applications, and have been embraced by drivers and residents alike.