The California Energy Commission (CEC) reported this week that the state passed 2.5 million cumulative new zero‑emission vehicle (ZEV) sales in 2025. In CEC‑speak, that “ZEV” tally includes battery‑electric vehicles, fuel‑cell electric vehicles, and plug‑in hybrids (even though plug‑in hybrids aren’t exactly “zero‑emission”). Still, the headline number underscores how quickly California’s plug‑in market has grown. Since the end of 2019, cumulative ZEV sales in the state have jumped more than 300%, driven by a mix of state clean‑transportation policies, incentives, and consumer demand. “No state in the union can match California’s five‑year growth in ZEV sales,” California Energy commissioner Nancy Skinner said. “Each quarter, even in the face of increasing federal headwinds, tens of thousands of consumers are purchasing a ZEV in the Golden State, enjoying a great driving experience, and knowing they never have to go to a gas station again.” Advertisement – scroll for more content California Air Resources Board chair Lauren Sanchez struck a similar tone, pointing to a global EV market that continued to grow even as US policy support weakened. “Governor …