California, October 14, 2025
News Summary
In Q3 2025, California made headlines by recording an all-time high of 29.1% in zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) sales, with 124,755 units sold. This marks a significant increase compared to 26.9% from Q3 2023. The rise in sales is driven by higher consumer demand and improved charging infrastructure, coinciding with the expiration of federal tax credits for electric vehicles. California’s progress in ZEVs and clean energy positions the state as a leader in sustainable transportation.
California has achieved a significant milestone in zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) sales, recording its highest-ever quarterly share during the third quarter of 2025. ZEVs accounted for 29.1% of new car purchases in the state, with a total of 124,755 ZEVs sold from July to September 2025. This sales figure represents a substantial increase from the previous record of 26.9% set in the same quarter of 2023.
The surge in ZEV sales can be attributed to various factors, including the growing consumer demand for clean vehicles and enhanced charging infrastructure across the state. Specifically, 108,685 of the ZEVs sold in this period were battery-electric vehicles, reflecting a nearly 30% increase compared to the sales in the second quarter of 2025. Cumulative ZEV sales in California have now reached 2,468,158 since tracking began.
The timing of this surge coincided with the expiration of federal tax credits for electric vehicles, which offered up to $7,500 for qualifying buyers. These credits ended on September 30, 2025. The impact of these incentives and their expiration highlights the changing dynamics of the electric vehicle market in the state. In the first quarter of 2025, there were 146 ZEV models available for consumers, up from 105 models in the same quarter of the previous year.
Alongside the increase in ZEV sales, California has made considerable strides in its clean energy efforts, adding over 30,000 megawatts of clean energy and storage since 2019, while phasing out coal-fired power generation. Governor Gavin Newsom has emphasized that California’s progress in clean vehicles positions the state as one of the largest economies globally.
In 2024, clean truck sales in California reached nearly 25% of the truck, bus, and van market, achieving the state’s targets two years ahead of schedule. This advancement is also credited to the enhanced charging infrastructure, which ensures that nearly every Californian lives within 10 minutes of a fast charger. Currently, California boasts over 200,000 publicly accessible charging stations located in various settings, including grocery stores, workplaces, and multifamily housing units.
The California Energy Commission plans to set regulations to improve the reliability of EV chargers, further enhancing the charging experience for all motorists. Investments in public charging stations are particularly aimed at expanding access for low-income and disadvantaged communities. The recent rise in sales is also reflective of an increasing consumer preference for electric vehicles, especially as federal EV subsidies have diminished.
The ongoing development of zero-emission vehicle technology and infrastructure in California highlights the state’s commitment to transitioning towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation model. This transformation serves as a guide for other states and countries aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and embrace clean energy solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of new car purchases in California were zero-emission vehicles in Q3 2025?
In Q3 2025, zero-emission vehicles accounted for 29.1% of new car purchases in California.
How many zero-emission vehicles were sold in California from July to September 2025?
A total of 124,755 zero-emission vehicles were sold in California during that period.
What is the cumulative total of zero-emission vehicle sales in California since tracking began?
Cumulative zero-emission vehicle sales in California now total 2,468,158.
Key Features of California’s Zero-Emission Vehicle Sales
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Q3 2025 ZEV Sales Percentage | 29.1% |
| Total ZEVs Sold (July – September 2025) | 124,755 |
| Previous Record Percentage (Q3 2023) | 26.9% |
| Cumulative Sales Since Tracking Began | 2,468,158 |
| Battery-Electric Vehicles Sold (Q3 2025) | 108,685 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Yo! Venice: California Hits New Record for ZEV Sales
- CleanTechnica: California Reaches 29.1% EV Share of Auto Sales in 3rd Quarter
- Electric Cars Report: Over 100,000 EVs Sold in California in Q2 of 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Electric Vehicle
- Google Search: California zero-emission vehicles
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
