By Lauren Fix, The Car Coach
There’s nothing “clean” about policies that undermine America’s car culture. The growing push against gas-powered vehicles is intensifying—often through programs that appear helpful on the surface but carry unintended consequences for everyday motorists.
Remember “Cash for Clunkers”?
In 2009, the federal government launched “Cash for Clunkers” to stimulate the economy and promote cleaner air. Nearly 700,000 functional vehicles were scrapped. The program disrupted the used car market, disproportionately affected lower-income drivers, and ultimately benefited automakers already supported by taxpayer bailouts.
Now, a similar initiative is gaining traction—this time rebranded as Clean Cars for All.
A Familiar Idea, A New Label
“Clean Cars for All” is more than a California effort—it reflects a growing national trend. These programs aim to retire older, gas-powered cars in favor of electric vehicles (EVs), public transit, or even e-bikes. While well-intentioned, many motorists face practical challenges, including limited EV charging access, affordability concerns, and infrastructure gaps, especially outside urban areas.
On June 12, 2025, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order reaffirming the state’s commitment to “clean” transportation. The order updates vehicle purchasing requirements for state fleets and directs new actions to increase access to affordable clean vehicles.
How the Program Works
California’s version offers up to $12,000 to eligible Bay Area residents who scrap a 2007 or older gas-powered vehicle and switch to an EV, transit pass, or e-bike. Other states have similar versions under names like “Vehicle Replacement Program,” “Drive Clean Rebate,” or “Mobility Options.”
The fine print? Once accepted, the car must be destroyed. It can’t be sold, donated, or passed on to someone else, even if it’s still safe and roadworthy. While marketed as environmentally friendly, these programs reduce the availability of affordable vehicles and remove usable cars from the road.
A Policy That Misses the Mark
While such initiatives aim to help low-income families, they may unintentionally make things harder:
- They reduce the supply of used cars, making affordable options scarce.
- They artificially increase demand (and prices) for EVs.
- They leave rural and suburban drivers at a disadvantage where charging access is limited.
- They prevent the reuse of scrapped cars or parts, impacting small repair shops and mechanics.
Even with incentives, many buyers still face a large price gap between EVs and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Insurance costs are often higher for EVs, and range limitations in extreme weather conditions add uncertainty. For many, this doesn’t feel like help; it feels like pressure.
A Culture Shift with Lasting Impact
California has long been a hub of American car culture—from hot rods and lowriders to performance shops and restoration garages. But new regulations could put that heritage at risk.
Recent policies have:
- Set a 2035 ban on new gas-powered vehicle sales.
- Tightened emissions rules for modified and classic cars.
- Increased scrutiny on aftermarket parts and custom modifications.
- Discouraged registration of older vehicles.
- Promoted scrapping over preservation.
Programs like “Clean Cars for All” could see thousands of reliable sedans, trucks, and SUVs (vehicles ideal for students, families, or rural workers) permanently removed from circulation.
Consumers Pay More While Options Shrink
As these policies take hold, American drivers may find themselves with fewer affordable choices. Meanwhile, international EV manufacturers, especially those backed by aggressive government subsidies, are gaining market share abroad. Countries like China are expanding exports of low-cost EVs, prompting Europe, Brazil, and Mexico to respond with protective measures.
The U.S. has taken steps to limit these imports, but domestic parts and vehicle industries may still be affected by shifting supply chains. Policies that limit consumer choice while encouraging global dependence deserve closer scrutiny.
More Than Just Cars: A Lifestyle at Stake
At its core, this debate isn’t just about fuel types or environmental policy. It’s about the future of transportation choice and personal independence.
Restrictions on vehicle ownership (whether direct or indirect) can reshape how and where Americans live and work. For rural residents, tradespeople, and car enthusiasts, private vehicle ownership is a necessity, not a luxury.
A Better Path Forward: Let Consumers Decide
Rather than mandating what people drive, we should trust them to make the best choices for their needs. If EVs are truly the superior option, market demand will reflect that, without coercive incentives or regulations.
To preserve driving freedom and promote innovation, it’s critical to:
- Protect ICE vehicles and support advancements in clean fuel technologies.
- Maintain access to affordable, serviceable older cars.
- Safeguard the right to repair and modify vehicles.
- Push back against forced obsolescence and unnecessary scrappage programs.
One positive development is SB 301, known as “Leno’s Law,” a California measure co-sponsored by car enthusiast Jay Leno. The law protects low-volume and specialty vehicle manufacturers, including custom and restoration shops. It allows limited registration of custom-built vehicles that would otherwise face harsh emissions regulations.
This represents a small but meaningful victory for drivers who value car culture, mechanical skill, and consumer choice.
Final Gear: Protect the Freedom to Drive
Programs like “Clean Cars for All” may be framed as environmental progress, but their consequences ripple far beyond emissions. They risk eliminating options, increasing costs, and narrowing the path for millions of drivers.
Car culture, hands-on knowledge, and the right to choose your own vehicle are not outdated relics; they are integral to American life.
Let’s ensure that driving remains a freedom, not a privilege tied to policy trends. It’s time to speak up, not just for cars, but for the people who rely on them.
You can support me by buying me a cup of coffee. Thanks for subscribing and your support! https://www.
Looking for more automotive news? https://www.
Total Car Score Podcast ► https://www.
Lauren Fix is an automotive expert and journalist covering industry trends, policy changes, and their impact on drivers nationwide. Follow her on X @LaurenFix for the latest car news and insights.
Editorial Disclaimer
The views and opinions expressed in this blog post are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the National Motorists Association. We believe in fostering open dialogue and welcome diverse perspectives on issues affecting motorists. If you would like to submit a response or opposing viewpoint, we encourage you to contribute. Please email us at greg@motorists.org for submission guidelines.
