The B2B platform for full-electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles: Policy News

Lisa Jackson, EPA administrator, yesterday announced that California could finally set a US precedence in applying its own emission standards for cars and light trucks. Eight years after its first call to adopt stricter GHG car standards, California, the US hub of EVs, should see its number of low-emitting vehicles multiply.

One week after the new Obama administration came into function, A.Schwarzenegger, California Governor asked the EPA to reconsider its request for a waiver to be granted. As the first state to apply stricter GHG standards for cars, California will be able to lead the US in curtailing tail-pipe emissions to improve its air pollution conditions. Thirteen other states are said to follow California’s footsteps.

Waiver granted after thorough scientific findings

"This decision puts the law and science first. After review of the scientific findings, and another comprehensive round of public engagement, I have decided this is the appropriate course under the law," argued Lisa Jackson on 30 June.

The standards will cover 2012 through 2016 model year engines. The waiver will be put an end to a lengthy 8-year battle between the automobile industry and environmental protectors. While California was denied the waiver in the past, it jumped on the opportunity of a new greener administration and within one week of official investiture, had already stated its case. Hence, in February, President Obama called on the EPA to assess the state’s case as soon as possible.

The new standards could pave the way for more low-emitting cars such as PHEVs and EVs as California is right now distinguishing itself as being the nucleus of EV-related R&D services and technologies with companies such as Fisker, Better Place already distinguishing themselves as important players in the electrification of mobility.

California setting the standard

“The burden is on those that object. This is a welcome step toward improving automobile emissions, which is an absolutely necessary step toward widespread carbon dioxide reductions,” added Lisa Jackson.

The rules in California will cut emissions from new vehicles by 14 percent from 2008 levels in 2011. States can now choose to either adopt federal standards or those set by California. Thirteen states and the District of Columbia should be adopting the California rules in an effort to combat global warming.

In May 2009, Obama announced new fuel efficiency standards covering model years 2012-2016 which will require an average fuel economy standard of 35.5 mpg in 2016, about 10 mpg more than today’s standards. California’s emissions rules are expected to be congruent with the new federal fuel economy standards and both standards should lead to a GHG 30% cut in 2016.