Electric vehicles (EVs) are taking off and California is leading the way. With its reputation for innovation and technology, California has been at the forefront of electric car adoption and electric vehicle adoption, as well as infrastructure development. With a big car market and rapid EV tech advancements, Southern California is driving the future of transportation. 

California’s EV Leadership 

California’s vehicle fleet is getting more electric, with over 4% of its vehicles being EVs, that’s 342,000 vehicles. This includes a significant number of electric cars sold in recent years. EV sales are rising rapidly, driven by state incentives and market factors. That’s more than any other state, with New York second. The state’s goals are 1.5 million EVs on the road by 2025 and 5 million by 2030. This is being driven by state incentives, a growing network of charging stations and a commitment to sustainability. 

How Has California Paved the Way to a Greener Future? 

Technological Advancements 

California, home of Silicon Valley, is a national leader in technology. The number of battery electric vehicles in California has been steadily increasing, reflecting the state’s commitment to green technology. According to the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation, 119,700 workers in the LA area are employed in the EV industry, with Zero Emissions Vehicles (ZEVs) registrations up 84%. Fuel cell electric vehicles are also part of California’s zero-emission vehicle progress, contributing to the diversification of the EV market. The state’s clustered communities where tech and innovation professionals live create an environment for EV adoption. Electric vehicle manufacturers like Tesla and Faraday Motor Works are based in California, introducing newer, greener, more innovative EVs. That concentration of tech and innovation has put California at the forefront of the EV market. 

Sustainability-Focused Public Policy 

California’s government has implemented many policies and programs to support EV adoption. The California Public Utilities Commission approved a $436 million green program to install EV chargers in long-term parking areas, like corporate garages, public parking lots and apartment buildings. The California Energy Commission sponsors the California Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Project (CALeVIP) to build EVSE infrastructure in San Diego. Southern California’s Charge Ready 2 program, an extension of the initial Charge Ready pilot program, will expand EV infrastructure. With a $364 million budget, the program will install the necessary electrical infrastructure to support around 22,000 charging ports at apartments, workplaces and destination centers. California is also leading the way in making all trucks, from medium duty to big rigs, electric by 2024. Governor Gavin Newsom has said California will be the first place in the world to require zero-emission trucks by 2045. 

Additionally, the state is focusing on increasing the sales of light-duty zero-emissions vehicles, which include battery-electric, plug-in hybrid, and fuel cell powered vehicles. 

Community Pledge to a Greener Future 

California’s population is green-minded and always votes for green. EV ownership is anticipated to grow significantly, with various incentives and support available to boost adoption. Social clubs and friend groups, like clustered communities, connect EV drivers together, helping each other find EVSE and encourage green technology in neighboring communities. One such group is the Tesla Club SoCal, for Tesla owners. Founded by Marty Morrise, the club has over 900 members and is one of the largest Tesla clubs in the country. This sense of community and shared commitment to sustainability is driving EV adoption. 

Making EV Adoption Easy 

Incentives and Rebates 

The California Public Utilities Commission offers incentives to make EV adoption easier. The rise in EV sales in California highlights the growing popularity of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) and the impact of these incentives. Time-of-use (TOU) energy rates for EV users tell them when to charge when rates are lowest. Southern California Edison has a Clean Fuel Rewards program, giving EV buyers $1,000 back if they are SCE customers. State incentives are $2,000 back for EVs, up to $4,500 for those who meet vehicle and income requirements. The state is also increasing rebates in lower-income communities to improve air quality and reduce disease. The Cars 4 All Program, according to Greenlining.org, offers incentives for lower-income consumers living in disadvantaged communities to trade in their old vehicle and buy a new or used hybrid, plug-in hybrid or fully electric vehicle. Incentives are also available for home vehicle charging infrastructure. 

Blink Mobility: Leading the Charge in Car Sharing 

A Smarter Way to Get Around Town 

Blink Mobility is a 100% electric car-sharing service as part of Los Angeles’s mobility solutions. Available to anyone 18+ with a valid driver’s license, Blink Mobility provides access to a network of shared electric vehicles 24/7 at self-service locations throughout central LA.Blink Mobility stations are on-street, with one self-service kiosk and five parking spots, each with an electric charger. Users can pick up and drop off vehicles at any Blink Mobility location, without having to return the car to the starting point or during regular business hours. 

Advantages: 

• Easy to use 

• Flexible and green 

• Affordable 

Disadvantages: 

• None! 

Community Engagement and Support 

Community-based organizations are key to Blink Mobility’s outreach and engagement efforts. By getting input from local residents, Blink Mobility is always improving its services to meet the needs of the community. This collaborative approach ensures the car-sharing service is tailored to the neighborhood it serves. Blink Mobility’s community engagement goes beyond just transportation solutions. The company participates in local events, educational programs and sustainability initiatives. By building relationships with community organizations, Blink Mobility has a positive impact that goes beyond car-sharing. 

Bottom Line 

California is the nation’s leader in EV adoption and EVSE infrastructure, making it easier for everyone to go electric and live greener. The state’s focus on technology, sustainable public policy and community engagement has put it at the top of the EV industry. Blink Mobility’s car-sharing service is flexible, affordable and green for when you need a car. Visit their website and download the app to get started today. Join the future of transportation with Blink Mobility and experience the freedom and benefits of car-sharing.