gas powered cars
Newsletter
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Rich nations exporting old gas cars could damage climate goals
As wealthy countries electrify their fleets, they are exporting millions of used gas-powered vehicles to developing nations, threatening efforts to curb emissions and worsening air quality.
In short:
- Rich nations are sending millions of gas cars to the Global South, adding to emissions rather than reducing them.
- These used cars are often outdated and lack modern emissions or safety features, worsening pollution and road conditions.
- Developing countries have weak regulations, making it easy for low-quality vehicles to flood their markets.
Key quote:
"I'm really worried that everything is going to be gas vehicles for many years, maybe decades."
— Godwin Ayetor, senior lecturer, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
Why this matters:
A surge in gas-powered cars in developing nations will increase global emissions, hindering efforts to tackle climate change. Without stricter regulations, these countries risk becoming dumping grounds for polluting vehicles, undermining long-term sustainability and health outcomes.
Related EHN coverage: A century of tragedy: How the car and gas industry knew about the health risks of leaded fuel but sold it for 100 years anyway
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A 1960s effort to ban gas-powered cars offers lessons for today
In the late 1960s, California Senator Nicholas Petris nearly succeeded in banning gas-powered cars, a battle echoing today’s climate debates.
In short:
- Nicholas Petris pushed for a ban on gas-powered cars in California starting in 1975, responding to growing concerns over smog and air pollution.
- Despite initial ridicule, Petris’ bill passed the state Senate but was ultimately defeated due to intense lobbying by the auto industry.
- The movement to phase out gas cars gained traction nationwide, influencing future emissions standards.
Key quote:
“The damage has been done The car is now looked upon like some kind of dangerous drug.”
— San Jose car dealer, reflecting on public sentiment
Why this matters:
The struggle to phase out gas-powered cars has a long history, revealing that industry resistance and public advocacy play critical roles in environmental change efforts.
Related:
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Newsletter
EU approves 2035 ban on sales of gas-powered cars
EU countries have approved an end to the sale of gas-powered cars in 2035, allowing the law to enter into force.
California to ban the sale of new gasoline cars
California is expected to put into effect on Thursday its sweeping plan to prohibit the sale of new gasoline-powered cars by 2035, a groundbreaking move that could have major effects on the effort to fight climate change and accelerate a global transition toward electric vehicles.
Newsletter
Ford F-150 Lightning is cheaper to own than a gas-powered Ford F-150
Not buying gas saves you quite a bit of money over the lifetime of a car.
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