Carson received the Zero Emission Vehicle Readiness Award from the California New Motor Vehicle Board during this week’s City Council meeting.
The award distinguishes the city as a “best-in-class” municipality in its efforts to prepare for a future of sustainable transportation by developing infrastructure and policy. The ZEV readiness award, which Carson received on Tuesday, April 21, goes to California cities that have demonstrated significant progress facilitating the transition to zero-emission vehicles.
“This award is a testament to Carson’s commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future,” Carson Mayor Lula Davis-Holmes said in a written statement. “By prioritizing ZEV readiness, we are not only supporting the state’s ambitious climate goals but also ensuring that Carson residents and businesses have the infrastructure they need to thrive in a green economy.”
Measurable efforts from the city include increasing electric vehicle charging capacity and launching the EV Charging Wallet Program.
The program, funded by an $86,900 grant from the Clean Power Alliance, provides eligible motorists with up to $250 in charging reimbursement.
The program was created in response to the barriers many residents face when finding chargers because of the increased presence of EVs in the city. There were a little more than 2,500 EVs registered in Carson as of 2024.
“This pilot program isn’t just about helping individual residents; it’s about creating long-term benefits for our entire community,” Reata Kulcsar, energy and sustainability officer with Carson, said in a written statement. “We know that one of the biggest challenges that residents face is not having the ability to charge their vehicles at home.”
Currently, there are nine approved EV charging locations at Anderson Park, Carson Park, the Carson Community Center, Dolphin Park, Dominguez Park, Hemingway Park, Hemingway Aquatic Center, Stevenson Park and Veterans Park. There will also be another approved EV charging station available at the Carriage Crest Park when construction is finished in the spring.
“As California moves toward its goal of 100% zero-emission new car sales by 2035, the city of Carson’s ‘best-in-class’ status underscores its role as a vital partner in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving local air quality,” the city said in a press release. “The award reinforces the city’s dedication to environmental stewardship and technological innovation.”