In nationwide first, California plans to rev up sales of electric motorcycles

California is planning new rules to ramp up sales of zero -emission motorcycles.

The state Air Resources Board will vote on the proposed rules on Nov. 7 after a public hearing.

Motorcyclists point out California ’s inadequate network of public charging stations and limited range of electric models that are unsuitable for long-distance rides.

By 2045 , the rules are expected to eliminate about 20,000 tons of reactive gases and nitrogen oxides that form smog.

That would be about half of the emissions from all California motorcycles.

California is proposing a tiered credit system for manufacturers.

An electric motorcycle purchased in 2020 cost on average $ 5,365 more than a gas-powered one.

Some motorcyclists believe that mandating electric motorcycle technology isn’t necessary for a vehicle that produces relatively small emissions compared to other vehicles.

Motorcyclists ride motorcycles as a hobby, to socialize with others and ride in the mountains or other remote areas.

“We basically need to get to zero emissions everywhere feasible”.