California, October 14, 2025
News Summary
In the third quarter of 2025, California recorded its highest-ever quarterly share of zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) sales, with ZEVs making up 29.1% of new car purchases. This reality reflects a remarkable growth trend in the state’s adoption of cleaner vehicles, culminating in a total of 124,755 ZEVs sold during this period. Battery-electric vehicles saw a significant increase, and advancements in charging infrastructure have further supported this surge in consumer demand for sustainable transportation.
California has recorded its highest-ever quarterly share of zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) sales in the third quarter of 2025. ZEVs accounted for an impressive 29.1% of new car purchases during this period, reaching a total of 124,755 ZEVs sold in California from July to September 2025. This significant figure represents an increase from the previous record of 26.9% set in the same quarter in 2023.
Of the ZEVs sold, 108,685 were battery-electric vehicles, marking a nearly 30% increase compared to Q2 2025 sales. Cumulative ZEV sales in California have now reached a staggering 2,468,158 since tracking began, showcasing a growing trend towards cleaner vehicle options among consumers.
This surge in ZEV sales coincided with the expiration of federal tax credits that had previously provided up to $7,500 for qualifying buyers, which ended on September 30, 2025. This change has not deterred consumer interest; rather, the demand for clean vehicles has increased as subsidies decreased at the federal level. In Q1 2025, there were 146 ZEV models available for purchase, showing significant growth from 105 models in Q1 2024, which has provided consumers with more choices in the market.
One reason behind this remarkable increase in sales is the improvement in charging infrastructure across the state. Thanks to ongoing investments, nearly every Californian now lives within 10 minutes of a fast charger, with California boasting over 200,000 publicly accessible charging stations, which include locations at grocery stores, workplaces, and multifamily housing units. This enhanced accessibility is particularly beneficial for low-income and disadvantaged communities, who may have limited options.
The state’s commitment to clean energy has also played a significant role in embracing ZEVs. Since 2019, California has added over 30,000 megawatts of clean energy and storage while phasing out coal-fired power. Furthermore, clean truck sales in 2024 accounted for nearly 25% of the truck, bus, and van market, meeting state targets two years ahead of schedule.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has noted the unprecedented nature of ZEV sales, praising the state’s leadership in the clean vehicle movement, especially in light of the state’s position as the fourth largest economy in the world. Contrarily, he drew attention to what he described as federal policies from the Trump administration, which he claimed undermined ZEV incentives.
Additionally, the California Energy Commission is working on setting regulations for electric vehicle (EV) charger reliability to enhance the charging experience for motorists. These efforts aim to ensure that the growing infrastructure continues to meet consumer demand and expectations.
In summary, California’s automotive market is experiencing a transformative shift towards zero-emission vehicles. With significant increases in sales, product availability, charging infrastructure, and a focus on equity in access to clean energy, the state is leading the way in promoting cleaner, sustainable transportation solutions.
FAQ
What percentage of new car purchases in California were zero-emission vehicles in Q3 2025?
ZEVs accounted for 29.1% of new car purchases during this period.
How many zero-emission vehicles were sold in California from July to September 2025?
A total of 124,755 ZEVs were sold in California during this period.
What was the previous record of zero-emission vehicle sales in Q3 2023?
The previous record of zero-emission vehicle sales was 26.9% set in Q3 2023.
How many battery-electric vehicles were sold in California in Q3 2025?
Of the ZEVs sold, 108,685 were battery-electric vehicles, indicating a nearly 30% increase compared to Q2 2025 sales.
What is California’s cumulative zero-emission vehicle sales figure since tracking began?
Cumulative ZEV sales in California now total 2,468,158 since tracking began.
What major change coincided with the surge in ZEV sales?
The surge in ZEV sales coincided with the expiration of federal tax credits, which offered up to $7,500 for qualifying buyers and ended on September 30, 2025.
How many zero-emission vehicle models were available in Q1 2025?
In Q1 2025, there were 146 ZEV models available for purchase, up from 105 models in Q1 2024.
How many publicly accessible charging stations does California have?
California now has over 200,000 publicly accessible charging stations, including at grocery stores, workplaces, and multifamily housing units.
What percentage of the truck, bus, and van market did clean truck sales reach in 2024?
Clean truck sales in 2024 reached nearly 25% of the truck, bus, and van market, achieving state targets two years early.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- YoVenice: California Hits New Record for ZEV Sales
- Wikipedia: Zero-emission_vehicle
- CleanTechnica: California Reaches 29.1% EV Share of Auto Sales in 3rd Quarter
- Google Search: Charging Infrastructure California
- Electric Cars Report: Over 100,000 EVs Sold in California in Q2 of 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Electric Vehicle
- Clean Trucking: West Coast Fleets Pause Commercial ZEV Purchases
- Google News: California ZEV Sales
- EV Magazine: California EV Sales Stall
- Google Scholar: Zero Emission Vehicles
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange 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 major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
