EPA Grants $135 Million for Zero-Emission Vehicles in California

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is awarding $135 million in grants to California to fund 13 projects aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels and phasing out diesel-powered vehicles. The funding will enable the purchase of 455 zero-emission vehicles, including school buses and trucks, as part of a broader $735 million initiative for 70 projects nationwide, financed by the Inflation Reduction Act. These efforts are expected to significantly cut air pollution and improve public health in affected communities. In California, heavy-duty vehicles, which comprise only 3% of vehicles on the road, are responsible for over half of nitrogen oxides and fine particulate pollution. As part of California's commitment to clean air, a mandate will prohibit new fossil-fueled medium- and heavy-duty trucks by 2036. The transition to electric vehicles is seen as essential for addressing climate change and enhancing air quality.