What they’re saying: strong support for Governor Newsom’s $200M ZEV program
SACRAMENTO – Last week, Governor Gavin Newsom released his official proposal with additional details on the administration’s proposed zero-emission vehicle incentive (ZEV) program. The program includes a dollar-for-dollar match from participating automakers, effectively doubling the investment, and will provide point-of-sale incentives to first-time ZEV buyers for both new and used vehicles.
The program comes as California surpassed 2.5 million cumulative ZEV sales, far exceeding the state’s original 1.5 million vehicle goal despite federal headwinds. During Q4 2025, Californians purchased 79,066 new ZEVs—representing 18.9% of new car sales—even after federal tax credits expired on September 30.
Here is a snapshot of what leaders are saying across the state:
Matt Petersen, CEO of Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator: “Governor Newsom’s proposed passenger EV purchase incentive sends a strong market signal to automakers and entrepreneurs alike that California remains committed to growing the clean transportation economy. By leveraging public investment to unlock private capital and support EV market adoption, this proposal will provide critical market certainty to help scale innovation, attract manufacturing and infrastructure investment, and continue improving air quality.”
Michael Berube, CEO and President of CALSTART: “Governor Newsom’s proposal is a step in the right direction to build confidence in the light-duty market and to help consumers and businesses transition to EVs. We look forward to working with the administration to further support all segments of the transportation system, including medium and heavy-duty trucks and innovative mobility options for consumers that cannot afford a vehicle.”
John Bozzella, Alliance for Automotive Innovation: “At this stage of the transition and given current market conditions, consumer incentives can lead to more EV adoption and affordability in California – and support the automotive and battery industrial base across the country.”
Coverage also seen in U.S. Politics Today, American News Observer, American Financial Tribune, Market Forecasts Report, American Governance Today.