California’s Electric Car Mandate: Auto Experts Weigh In

Updated Date: 10/23/2025

In September 2020, California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a groundbreaking executive order requiring all new passenger vehicles sold in the state to be zero-emission by 2035. The mandate sent ripples through the automotive industry, raising questions about how this transition would affect car sales and consumer behavior.

David Shapiro, founder of Cartelligent, a Bay Area auto broker and auto expert, shared his insights on the mandate in an interview with a local CBS station. His take? The car sales industry will maintain its momentum — as long as EV adoption in California keeps pace with the timeline.

The Charging Habit Adjustment

One of the biggest shifts for new electric car owners isn’t the car itself, but developing new fueling habits. Unlike the familiar routine of stopping at a gas station, electric car owners must think about charging at home, at work, or at public charging stations.

“It takes getting used to,” Shapiro explains, “but it doesn’t take long.” The key is establishing a routine that fits your lifestyle, whether that’s plugging in overnight at home or topping off while at the office.

The Electric Car Advantage

The benefits of electric cars are compelling:

• Significant fuel savings – Electricity costs far less than gasoline per mile
• Zero tailpipe emissions – Better for air quality and the environment
• Time savings – No more trips to the gas station; charge while you sleep or work
• Lower maintenance costs – Fewer moving parts mean less wear and tear

A Familiar Transition

Shapiro draws an interesting parallel to another technology shift we’ve all experienced: the move from cell phones to smartphones. Fifteen years ago, the idea of relying entirely on a touchscreen device seemed daunting to many. Today, it’s second nature.

The transition to electric cars will likely follow a similar path. As charging infrastructure expands and EVs become more mainstream, the habits that seem foreign today will become routine. With 15 years until the 2035 mandate takes full effect, California drivers have ample time to adapt—and the technology will only improve along the way.

For those considering making the switch sooner rather than later, working with an experienced auto broker like Cartelligent can help navigate the growing EV marketplace and find the right vehicle for your needs.