California's Clean Vehicle Rebate Project, which offers incentives for the purchase of zero-emission vehicles, recently recorded its 10,000th rebate.
The program aims to reduce the amount of greenhouse gases released into the environment while also creating jobs, reports The New York Times. Beginning in 2008, the project is part of the state's broader mission to encourage innovation in the transportation sector. It also pushes prospective buyers to forgo expensive auto repair in favor of purchasing new, environmentally-friendly vehicles.
The news about the success of California's rebates comes just as rumors swirl about the state linking its emissions program to international cities. According to Reuters, California is close to joining with the Canadian province of Quebec in an effort to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide emissions. Both areas are a part of the Western Climate Initiative, which works to limit the introduction of greenhouse gases into the environment.
This new relationship would not only expand the market but would also reduce the cost of compliance for businesses. Some other areas are also looking at the program, with Washington State and several Chinese provinces in talks to join. As the project spreads, more prospective buyers may consider choosing an electric vehicle over traditional fuel-run models.