Electric vehicles. We’re all in, and we know you are too.
With 2035 approaching quickly, California has its sights on an electrified future. With an unprecedented number of new electric vehicle makes and models, and as federal and state investments reach historic levels, there has never been a better time for consumers to purchase an EV. But the goal of phasing out internal combustion engine vehicle sales by 2035 is ambitious, to say the least.

What will the role of new car dealers be? How can you help facilitate this electrified transition?

There is no question that new car dealers play a critical role in helping consumers make the transition to EVs. Local dealers are where consumers can shop for the make and model of their liking, learn about the differences in EVs, inquire about available incentives and rebates, and get assistance installing chargers and accessing public charging stations. Dealers also make substantial investments in our workforces and facilities to sell and service electric vehicles.

But as our economy continues to reel from high inflation, pandemic-induced supply chain challenges and critical material shortages, California needs to level set about how we get to an EV future. Production shortages and inventory-demand imbalances are driving up the costs of EVs, making them generally harder to reach and even more so for those who are moderate- to low-income.

As industry professionals, we can see the writing on the wall. Car dealers can only sell the vehicles we have on our lots. Without significantly more supply, it is impossible for California to reach its goal. Communicating this to legislators and regulators has been a priority for our team this summer. That’s why we submitted comments on the California Air Resources Board’s Advanced Clean Cars Regulations and why we continue to actively participate in the proceeding.

As an organization representing the interests of more than 1,200 new car dealer members, collective concerns need to be recognized because, without you, California’s all-electric future is nothing more than a headline.

Dealers have decades of experience and understand the opportunities and challenges of such a dramatic shift in new vehicle development and adoption. You will be a critical step in helping the Golden State reach its electrification goals.

As your voice in Sacramento, we’ll continue to advocate for new car dealers as California barrels toward 2035. Remarkable dealers like you keep us going, and we’re always here to provide you with what you need to keep your dealership running smoothly.

As always, please contact our team if you need compliance support, have questions about new rules and regulations, want to be informed about pending legislation and how it could affect your business, or if you’d like to attend one of our upcoming events. Thank you for your support and membership.