Earlier this month, we reached out to Essential California subscribers to discover if they have joined the rising number of electric vehicle (EV) owners in California. Over 30 responses came in, with most affirming their switch. This aligns with current trends, as zero-emission vehicles now account for about 1 in every 12 cars and trucks on California’s roads. Nearly 1 in 6 newly sold cars in the state is fully electric.
Incentives such as $3,500 off new EVs and $1,750 off used ones encourage this shift. Unlike the federal tax credits that ended in September, these offers provide an immediate discount, eliminating the need for future credit applications.
Despite the advantages, some Californians hesitate to convert from gas-powered vehicles. Governor Gavin Newsom recently enacted legislation to simplify the development of charging projects, yet access to EV charging remains a significant issue, especially in lower-income areas of Los Angeles. According to a 2025 UCLA study, residents in these areas face not just a lack of chargers but also frequent malfunctions. Dr. Yifang Zhu, involved in the study, noted that this presents a dual challenge, especially for those unable to charge at home.
There are also concerns about the maintenance of EVs and the limited number of mechanics skilled in their repair. Kerri W., a reader from Palm Springs, shared her experience. She found few mechanics capable of servicing her hybrid and ultimately returned to a gasoline vehicle.
Reader feedback reflects both enthusiasm and reservation about EVs:
“Owning a BMW i3, I appreciated its EV capabilities. However, frequent power outages created anxiety about being unable to use it when needed. Rolling blackouts made it impractical despite the convenience of home charging. High electricity costs, especially while living in an apartment, also deterred me. My energy bill rose to $750 last month, a burden with my work-from-home needs,” said Krista P.
“My EV, the affordable Chevy Bolt EV, has been the best purchase. I enjoy its quiet operation, quick acceleration, and reduced carbon footprint. Though public charging can sometimes be stressful, it’s worth it to avoid gas stations,” commented Michael B.
“As a 28-year-old from Los Angeles, I transitioned from a Smart Car to a Fiat 500e, and now drive a Subaru Solterra. The quick acceleration of electric cars makes them delightful. I see no reason to switch to gas,” shared Carrington W.
“With gas prices nearing $6 a gallon, EVs seem practical. After owning gas vehicles for over six decades, I’m seeking a late-model EV with advanced safety features. I’m an older driver with shorter travel distances now. While retaining one gas vehicle, the EV will serve daily needs,” noted Darrel W.
“Despite years of considering EVs and hybrids, we haven’t committed. Our annual trips into areas with few services make us cautious about EV range, and the compromises with hybrids don’t suit us,” said Stuart G.S.
“A year with an EV has been wonderful. Avoiding gas stations and relying on our rooftop solar means no PG&E bill,” expressed Harvey P.
Recent developments in Los Angeles and beyond:
- Mayor Karen Bass and Nithya Raman, her election challenger, discussed issues including the Palisades fire and police staffing in their campaigns.
- The state’s insurance crisis is affecting low-risk buyers in the Inland Empire due to carriers withdrawing, pressuring more into the FAIR Plan.
- Federal grand jury subpoenas in L.A. County aim to probe suspected voter fraud, despite the lack of evidence.
- Entertainment and cultural updates include Paramount-Warner Bros. merger discussions, the closure of a top doughnut shop, and challenges to Trump’s press ban by major media outlets.
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