California has seen a significant decrease in gasoline consumption over the past decade, despite adding six million more passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs to the roads. The state has witnessed a drop of over two billion gallons of gasoline since its peak in 2005, showcasing a shift towards more fuel-efficient and cleaner vehicles. The rise in electric vehicles (EVs) being sold in California is expected to further drive down gasoline use in the coming years.
The transition from fossil fuels like gasoline to cleaner electricity sources is crucial in meeting climate and air pollution goals. While this trend is evident, the phase-out of gasoline production needs to accelerate to reduce emissions rapidly. However, it is essential to plan and implement this transition carefully to protect workers, communities, and consumers from potential negative impacts of the oil industry.
The number of passenger vehicles on California roads has continued to increase, reaching almost 29 million in 2023. Despite the rise in vehicles, gasoline consumption has decreased by more than two billion gallons per year since 2017. The shift towards electric vehicles is a significant contributing factor to this reduction, with EVs making up five percent of passenger vehicles on the road in 2023. With EVs accounting for 25 percent of new vehicle sales in the state, the displacement of gasoline vehicles by electric ones is expected to grow, further reducing gasoline consumption.
Reducing gasoline consumption offers several benefits, including a decrease in tailpipe emissions that contribute to climate change and poor air quality. Electric vehicles produce lower emissions compared to gasoline-powered vehicles, especially when charged on California’s increasingly clean grid. Eliminating gasoline combustion also helps in reducing harmful pollutant emissions that lead to the formation of fine particulate matter, which poses health risks to the public.
As the transition to electric vehicles accelerates, the demand for gasoline is expected to decline rapidly. This shift will impact the fuel sector, from oil extraction to refining and distribution. Strong oversight and regulation are necessary to prevent anti-competitive behavior by major oil refiners. Planning for a safe and fair phase-out of gasoline is crucial to protect workers, communities, and ensure a reliable fuel supply for those who need it.
While the reduction in gasoline use in California is a positive step, there is a need to expedite the transition to limit emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change. State regulations requiring all new vehicles sold in 2035 to be zero-emission vehicles will aid in reducing gasoline use and emissions. Incentives for transitioning to electric vehicles and expanding charging infrastructure are essential for a seamless shift from gasoline to electricity. Planning for a future with more EVs and the phase-out of gasoline is crucial for a sustainable and equitable transition.
