Marin County continues to be a leader in California for zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) sales, according to recently released state data. The county maintained its position in 2024 with a market share of 40.1%, according to the California Energy Commission. This figure encompasses battery-electric, plug-in hybrid, and fuel cell electric vehicles.
Anne Richman, executive director of the Transportation Authority of Marin, noted at a February 27 board meeting that this rate significantly surpasses the state average of just over 25%. She emphasized Marin’s continued leadership in electric vehicle adoption, especially considering that certain other areas experienced a decline. With this in mind, the Transportation Authority of Marin continues its efforts to support this trend.
Marin’s market share places it second among California’s 58 counties. The data show a steady increase in the county’s ZEV rate over more than a decade; in 2014, the rate was 7.7%, rising to 25.9% by 2021 and 37.7% in 2023.
Santa Clara County recorded the highest market share at 42.8%. Alameda County, which was in second place in 2023, dipped below Marin, with 37.7%. San Francisco’s rate was 35.6%.
In 2024, Marin drivers purchased 4,929 battery-electric, plug-in hybrid, or fuel cell electric vehicles, reflecting an increase from 4,416 the previous year. The Tesla Model Y was the most popular, accounting for 1,025 purchases. Other Tesla models purchased by Marin drivers included 478 Model 3s, 81 Model Xs, 61 Cybertrucks, and 58 Model Ss. Furthermore, popular choices included: the Rivian R1S, the Audi Q4 e-tron, the Audi Q5, and the BMW i4.
Across California, drivers bought a total of 443,374 zero-emission vehicles. The top-selling models in the state were the Tesla Model Y and Model 3, along with the Hyundai IONIQ 5. The California Air Resources Board reports that roughly 30% of new zero-emission vehicle sales in the U.S. occur in California.
Cory Bytof, sustainability program manager for San Rafael, credits the state’s leadership for driving this shift. According to the California Air Resources Board, the state’s zero-emission vehicle regulation mandates that all new vehicles must be 100% zero-emission and clean plug-in hybrid-electric by the 2035 model year.
Bytof indicated that manufacturers have responded well, and a wide range of vehicles with improved range are now available, which makes it simpler for customers to identify a vehicle that meets their functional needs. Furthermore, local programs and policies provide additional support by streamlining charger permitting, increasing workplace charging options, and addressing knowledge gaps through collaborations with partners such as MCE, the Transportation Authority of Marin, and Ride and Drive Clean.
Ride and Drive Clean, which comprises various nonprofit organizations, agencies, cities, schools, and businesses, aims to lower carbon emissions through widespread adoption of electric vehicles. Executive director Carleen Cullen acknowledges Marin’s progress in electric vehicle adoption; however, she points out that many residents living in apartment buildings and low-income communities are being excluded.
Cullen further explained that new low-cost charging and purchasing solutions are available now to aid apartment buildings and low-income drivers. She said that programs can offer savings up to $20,000 on new or used EVs, and the challenge that remains is spreading awareness.
Cullen expressed concern about potential tariffs and the possible cancellation of the federal EV tax credit. Those events could make it more difficult for drivers to make the switch. She also noted that while there is uncertainty, people considering electric vehicles may want to consider buying soon rather than waiting.
On a positive note, she said that EV charging has become more accessible, as most drivers can now use Tesla’s Supercharger network, or will be able to very soon.
Bill Carney, a San Rafael resident and board member of the Marin Climate Action Network, highlighted gas cars’ significance as major contributors to climate pollution. He emphasized how crucial Marin’s leadership in zero-emission vehicles is towards meeting county and state goals. He also emphasized that to achieve the county and state’s goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions within the next 20 years, it is critical to continue improving and closing the gap. Otherwise, the climate crisis is likely to spiral out of control.
Carney encourages the county and Marin municipalities to continue annual zero-emission vehicle education, as well as test-drive events. He also stated that the state and MCE should maintain rebates and incentives, especially given the likelihood of federal cutbacks.
On Wednesday, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District launched its “Charge!” grant program, which will provide at least $10 million in funding to offset the cost of purchasing and installing new chargers for light-duty electric vehicles. Qualifying projects include apartment buildings, transit parking locations, workplaces, and other sites. The funds are available to businesses, homeowner associations, nonprofits, public agencies, and tribes.
Philip Fine, executive officer of the district, stated that prioritizing funding for disadvantaged and low-income communities will help make electric driving the best option for all Bay Area residents. The application period for the program is open through June 6. Information is available at bit.ly/3Fay2ii.
