Suggested Citation:
Robinson, Anya and Scott Hardman (2025)

Brief: Enhancing Equity in the Plug-In Electric Vehicle Transition: Lessons from Rural California Electric Vehicle Owners

. Institute of Transportation Studies, University of California, Davis, Brief UCD-ITS-RR-25-64

Abstract:

In California, 38% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions come from the transport sector, and 27% of these transport emissions come from passenger vehicles. To reach carbon neutrality by 2045, as directed under Executive Order B 55 18, electrification of passenger vehicles is required. To facilitate an equitable transition to electric vehicle technologies, policymakers must account for the diverse needs and challenges faced by residents in rural communities. Rural areas often have greater travel distances and a reliance on passenger vehicles, due to a lack of alternative modes. While rural areas account for only 7% of the state’s population, California policy decisions can be far reaching and serve as guidance for other states with higher rural populations.