California has surpassed 2.5 million cumulative sales of new zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) as of 2025, according to a recent report from the California Energy Commission (CEC).
Rapid Growth in ZEV Sales
The CEC defines ZEVs as including battery-electric vehicles, fuel-cell electric vehicles, and plug-in hybrids. Since the end of 2019, ZEV sales in California have increased by more than 300%, fueled by state policies, incentives, and consumer demand. California Energy Commissioner Nancy Skinner stated, “No state in the union can match California’s five-year growth in ZEV sales.”
California Air Resources Board chair Lauren Sanchez highlighted the state’s continued leadership, noting that Governor Newsom has proposed a new $200 million rebate program to support EV demand and innovation despite weakening federal support. She described the move as “smart economic policy” in addition to its environmental benefits.
Sales Resilience and Infrastructure Development
Notably, California’s ZEV sales remained strong in the fourth quarter of 2025, even after federal incentives ended on September 30, 2025. In contrast, national ZEV sales dropped to 5.8% of new vehicle sales in Q4, down from 10.5% in the previous quarter. As of late 2025, California offered consumers a choice of 149 ZEV models.
The state is also actively expanding its charging infrastructure. California currently has over 200,000 public and shared private charging stations, with an estimated 800,000 chargers already installed in homes. The CEC has allocated $98.5 million for light-duty ZEV infrastructure in fiscal year 2025-26, with a focus on Level 1 and Level 2 charging, particularly in multi-family housing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vehicles are included in California’s ZEV sales figures?
The CEC’s “ZEV” tally includes battery-electric vehicles, fuel-cell electric vehicles, and plug-in hybrids.
How did California’s ZEV sales perform after federal incentives ended?
California’s ZEV sales remained relatively stable in Q4 2025, with 18.9% of new car sales being ZEVs, despite the end of federal incentives on September 30, 2025.
What is California planning to do to further support ZEV adoption?
Governor Newsom has proposed a new $200 million incentive program, and the CEC has allocated $98.5 million for ZEV infrastructure development in fiscal year 2025-26.
Given the state’s commitment to infrastructure development and continued incentives, what further steps might California take to maintain its leadership in ZEV adoption?
