With over 178,000 electric charging stations compared to approximately 120,000 gas nozzles, the state is setting a new standard for EV infrastructure. This shift is further underscored by the fact that 25% of new cars sold in California are now electric—a testament to the growing adoption of EVs.
Orville Thomas, CEO of the California Mobility Center, highlighted the significance of this development: "When you see that number, it really takes you by surprise." He emphasized how the increase in charging stations has transformed the perception of EVs. Gone are the days when finding a reliable and fast charger was a challenge. "California has done a really, really good job in making sure they're investing in public chargers being put into the ground," Thomas added.
The impact extends beyond public charging stations. According to Gil Tal, a professor at the UC Davis Research Center, California is home to about a million private home chargers. Additionally, businesses are increasingly installing chargers to attract customers, creating a win-win scenario for both merchants and EV owners. "We see commercial retail places that know that if you stop to charge by their place, you are most likely to spend a little bit more money while waiting for your car to charge," Tal explained.
This progress aligns with Governor Gavin Newsom's ambitious goal to ban the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035. To support this transition, California lawmakers have allocated over $1 billion to expand the network of electric and hydrogen charging stations. They have also streamlined the permitting process for new EV chargers, ensuring that infrastructure keeps pace with demand.
As battery technology improves and becomes more cost-effective, the future of electric vehicles looks brighter than ever. California's leadership in this space serves as an inspiring example for other states and countries aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and embrace sustainable transportation.
