[EV Shift Series②] Cities Want EVs, But Industry Slows Down – Trump, Cities, and the North American Divide
Los Angeles, New York, and Vancouver: North America's EV Transition Led by Cities
The shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is a global trend. But in North America, a unique pattern is emerging: cities are taking the lead, often outpacing national governments and the automotive industry.
This article explores how Los Angeles, New York, and Vancouver are transforming into EV-centric cities. We’ll examine each city’s approach, the speed of change, and the political tensions that lie beneath the surface.
Factors like the return of Donald Trump, shifts in federal policy, and infrastructure limitations are making this transition more complex. This is the story of a region grappling with the clash between “speed and direction.”
Los Angeles: California's Regulatory Testbed
Los Angeles serves as a testing ground for EV policies in North America. Under California’s stringent emissions regulations, the entire city is steadily moving toward a Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) ecosystem.
As of 2025, a significant portion of LA’s public transportation has already transitioned to electric, including city buses, government vehicles, and some taxi fleets. More than half of newly registered vehicles are EVs.
The city boasts one of the highest public charging station densities in the U.S., thanks to partnerships with private companies. This is accelerating the shift for commercial fleets as well.
Its goal to achieve 100% zero-emission new vehicles by 2035 is already backed by actionable policies. Notably, EV subsidies for low-income residents make LA a standout example of urban EV transition.
New York City: Public Transport and Shared Mobility First
New York is a city built around usage, not ownership, and this structure extends to its EV strategy.
The city is heavily focused on electrifying its bus fleet. As of 2025, over half of the city’s buses are electric, with a target of 100% zero-emission buses by 2030.
Electric vehicle mandates have also been placed on ride-sharing platforms like Uber and Lyft. License priority is given to EVs to incentivize adoption.
While charging infrastructure remains limited, the “EV Make-Ready” program is fast-tracking collaborations with private sector providers to fill the gap.
Vancouver: North America's Leading ZEV City
Vancouver has declared its intent to become a Zero Emission City by 2030, positioning itself as a leader in urban sustainability.
By 2025, more than 50% of new vehicle registrations are electric. Commercial vehicles like taxis and delivery vans are also subject to EV mandates.
Federal and provincial subsidies, combined with strong policies for expanding public and residential charging stations, have driven rapid progress. A notable initiative includes incentives for installing chargers on multi-unit housing walls.
With coordinated policy, infrastructure, and public support, Vancouver stands out as a model of a “lifestyle-oriented EV city.”
EV Adoption Rates: Comparing the Three Cities
- Los Angeles: ~28% of all registered vehicles are EVs; 45% of new vehicles are electric.
- New York: Lower overall registration, but high conversion rates for public transit and shared fleets.
- Vancouver: ~50% of new registrations are EVs, far above Canada’s national average (15%).
Each city uses a different mix of incentives, infrastructure, and regulation to push EV adoption. But the pace of transition still varies depending on budget and market conditions.
City vs. Federal Policies: A Clash in Motion
In the U.S., federal EV policies often fluctuate. The Biden administration targeted a 50% EV share, but political resistance and funding issues limited implementation.
In contrast, cities and states are pushing forward with independent EV policies, funded through local budgets and ordinances. Cities like LA, New York, and San Francisco are charting their own courses.
This dynamic is creating policy gaps and inter-city disparities, while simultaneously highlighting the growing importance of local governments in climate action.
Trump’s Presidency and the Uncertainty of EV Transition
As of 2025, President Trump maintains a skeptical stance toward EVs. Since taking office, he has ordered a reduction in EV subsidies and rolled back federal emissions standards.
His administration views the EV shift as something that “undermines consumer freedom and industrial competitiveness.” As a result, efforts are underway to reduce federal incentives, ease regulations on internal combustion engines, and revise national energy priorities.
This poses challenges for cities relying on federal support. Still, cities like LA, New York, and Vancouver are staying on course with their own transition roadmaps.
Public Perception and Equity Challenges
Overall, EV policies in these cities are well received, but public response varies.
LA and Vancouver enjoy high levels of environmental awareness and EV acceptance. In contrast, New York faces practical concerns over charging access and vehicle affordability.
To improve equity, some cities have launched programs like public charging expansion and targeted subsidies for low-income households.
Comparing City Strategies: One Goal, Many Roads
- Los Angeles: Regulation-driven approach with a focus on public and commercial EV adoption.
- New York: Public transit and shared mobility centered; aligned with the city’s car-lite structure.
- Vancouver: Integrated urban design and community engagement define its lifestyle-based model.
Though they share a common destination, each city is tailoring its path based on local culture and urban realities.
The Future of Urban EV Leadership in North America
City-led EV transitions represent more than just a technological shift—they are reshaping urban life.
LA, New York, and Vancouver are laying the groundwork for zero-emission cities, and their experiences are serving as key benchmarks for urban EV policy worldwide.
In the next article, we’ll explore how Asian,Oceania cities like Seoul, Tokyo, Singapore and Australia are navigating their own EV transitions!
Comments
Post a Comment