By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff
California lawmakers introduced bipartisan SEMA-sponsored legislation (A.B. 2350) that would incentivize consumers to convert gasoline- and diesel-powered motor vehicles into zero-emissions vehicles (ZEV). If enacted, A.B. 2350 would provide eligible motorists who convert their vehicle with a $2,000 rebate.
At the 2021 SEMA Show, Salvage to Savage decided to take a completely unique path with its ’85 Chevy C10. Instead of using a V8 engine, the team yanked the electric drivetrain out of two Teslas to create a twin-motor, all-wheel-drive truck.
In recent years, California has implemented various programs, including the Clean Vehicle Rebate Program and the Clean Cars for All Program, to promote the purchase of new zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). However, none of the programs currently offer benefits for vehicles that started their life with an internal combustion engine and can be converted to a ZEV via an aftermarket motor package.
The adoption of ZEVs by consumers and industry is growing, as is the demand for aftermarket technology that can convert used gasoline-powered vehicles into hydrogen or electric ZEVs. At the 2021 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, ZEV conversions were on full display, including vehicles powered by electric crate motors. Additionally, a recent article by the Los Angeles Times demonstrated that demand for aftermarket ZEV conversions is rapidly growing, with some shops featuring long waiting list for customers.
A.B. 2350 helps preserve California’s rich car culture while creating new ways to make ZEV ownership more accessible.
SEMA encourages its members and enthusiasts in California to contact their lawmakers in support of A.B. 2350 by clicking here.
For further details, contact Christian Robinson at stateleg@sema.org.