October DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsWindows FixRecommendedWindows errors stealing your time? Find the fix fastScan stability, cleanup and performance issues.Fix NowOctober DealsAmazon USDeal season is back - check today's better picksAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
CarCodyAdvertise
Service recordThe Garage

Is GM Ending Sales of Gas-Powered Cars by 2035? What Its Pledge Says

GM said it aspired to eliminate tailpipe emissions from new light-duty vehicles by 2035. Here’s what that pledge covers, how it differs from regulation, and what it does not require of current owners.
Entry134 Date Time3 min MechanicCarCody Team
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

GM’s 2035 statement was an aspiration, not a binding ban: on January 28, 2021, the automaker said it aspired to eliminate tailpipe emissions from new light-duty vehicles by 2035. That goal points toward a shift away from new gasoline-powered vehicles, but it did not require owners to give up cars they already own or establish that GM has since achieved the target.

What GM actually committed to

GM’s January 28, 2021 announcement used careful wording: it “aspires to eliminate tailpipe emissions from new light-duty vehicles by 2035.” The company described a move toward battery-electric vehicles or other zero-emissions vehicle technology, while also saying it would continue improving the fuel efficiency of its conventional internal-combustion vehicles. GM’s announcement therefore set a direction for its new-vehicle portfolio; it did not state that all combustion-engine development, production, or use would end immediately.

“Ending sales of gas-powered cars” is a shorthand for the intended direction, not the precise wording of the pledge. GM framed the 2035 target as an aspiration, not a statutory sales prohibition. The announcement establishes what GM said it planned, not whether it later met the target.

Which vehicles the 2035 goal covers—and which it does not

The target concerns new light-duty vehicles. That category includes passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks, so the pledge is relevant to the kinds of cars, SUVs, and pickups sold for everyday use. The announcement does not establish an end date for every vehicle class, such as heavy-duty commercial trucks.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Academy Joe's Power Plus Service Station
  • 1/24th scale
  • Detailed reproduction of an air compressor and hydraulic lift
  • Accessory reproduction of a water can, creeper, wrench, battery and other gas station tools
  • Reproduction of a gasoline pump and building
  • Paint and glue not included

It also concerns vehicles sold new, not vehicles already on the road. GM’s statement did not tell drivers to scrap or replace their gasoline cars by 2035. It did not impose a deadline on owners’ use of existing vehicles.

How GM’s other electric-vehicle targets fit in

GM announced several related ambitions in 2021, but they have different scopes and should not be confused with the central 2035 aspiration.

Rank #2
Playz Large V8 Engine Model Kit Build Your Own Mini V8 Engine kit that Runs
  • GET HANDS ON with Playz V8 engine model kit that works for adults and kids alike. Engage young minds into STEM with a working replica of a classic 8-cylinder internal combustion car engine, while adults enjoy the rewarding experience of building their own mini V8 engine kit that runs like a dream.
  • REALISTIC MODEL THAT WORKS: Deliver the action of a classic car engine with powerful pistons and interactive cables! Watch the motor fans turn on with real engine sounds from your visible V8 engine model kit, making it a perfect STEM toy for curious minds seeking a fun blend of education and entertainment.
  • FUEL THE FUN: Our complete toy V8 engine assembly kit provides hours of fun as you tinker with cranks, pulleys, belts, and exhaust valves, bringing this miniature engine kit to life before your very eyes! Conquer long boring days with a small V8 engine kit that runs. (Requires 3x AA Batteries not included)
  • CHALLENGE ACCEPTED: Supercharge your critical thinking skills with our mini engine build kit! Expand your creativity, think logically, and refine your motor skills as you build a model V8 engine kit all while having fun. Get ready for a brain-boosting build challenge that works wonders!
  • POPULAR GIFT THAT INSPIRES: Make the world of STEM amazing with our DIY engine kits for adults, teens, young boys and girls! Whether it's for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion, Playz V8 model engine kit will keep them captivated as they build and operate their own engine from start to finish.
Commitment What it meant
2035 vehicle goal GM aspired to eliminate tailpipe emissions from new light-duty vehicles by 2035; this was a corporate aspiration, not a law. (GM, 2021)
2040 climate goal GM separately planned to be carbon neutral in its global products and operations by 2040. GM said use of its products accounted for 75% of emissions within the boundary of that commitment. That figure describes GM’s stated commitment boundary, not an independent measurement of its current emissions. (GM, 2021)
2030 U.S. EV-sales aspiration GM, Ford, and Stellantis jointly aspired for electric vehicles to make up 40–50% of their annual U.S. volumes by 2030. This was a joint aspiration, not a GM-only target or a reported sales result. GM said its own contribution meant battery-electric vehicles. (Joint statement, 2021)
Models planned for mid-decade and 2025 GM announced plans for 30 all-electric models globally by mid-decade and for battery-electric vehicles to represent 40% of the models it offered in the U.S. by the end of 2025. These were announced plans; the announcement alone does not verify whether either target was met. (GM, 2021)

The 2040 carbon-neutrality goal is broader than the 2035 vehicle goal: it concerns GM’s global products and operations, not just the tailpipe emissions of new light-duty vehicles.

GM’s pledge is not the same as a government rule

California’s Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) framework is a regulation, distinct from GM’s voluntary corporate aspiration. It established an increasing annual path toward 100% zero-emission sales of new light-duty vehicles by 2035 and includes plug-in hybrids in its zero-emission vehicle category. California Air Resources Board’s ACC II overview describes the framework; it should not be treated as the source of GM’s company pledge.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Associated 6047 RC10gb Nitro Buggy Kit
  • Made by the renowned brand Team Associated for high-performance RC enthusiasts
  • UPC: 784695060470 - Part Number: ASC6047
  • Compatible with the Associated RC-10GB Nitro Buggy model
  • Combines the durability of the RC10GTS gas-powered model with the suspension and styling of the classic RC10 Team Car
  • Reinforced chassis, tough drivetrain, and stealth-inspired transmission for high-speed off-road racing

The legal status of particular rules has also been subject to change. In its 2025 annual report, GM said Congress passed resolutions in June 2025 invalidating EPA waivers for California’s ACC II and Advanced Clean Trucks programs, and that legal challenges were ongoing as described in the filing. GM also reported that Canada had begun a review after announcing removal of the 2026 federal EV Availability Standard target; Quebec had announced it would lift its new-vehicle internal-combustion-engine ban and reduce its 2035 zero-emission sales requirement; and British Columbia’s 100% new-EV sales requirement for 2035 remained unchanged. These descriptions reflect the filing’s account at the time, not a definitive statement of the legal position after it. GM’s 2025 annual report details those jurisdiction-specific developments.

GM presented its aspiration globally, but that does not create one worldwide legal ban. Rules differ by jurisdiction, and the company’s goal remains separate from any applicable law.

Rank #4
Sale
MPC: 1:25 Scale Model Kit - 1967 Pontiac GTO - Blue, 85+ Parts - Skill Level 2, Authentic Vehicle Building Kit, Replica Classic Car, Age 14+
  • V8 POWER: The model features a 400 cubic inch V8 engine, reflecting the muscle and power that defined the GTO's reputation.
  • DETAILED SUSPENSION & EXHAUST: The kit incorporates separate rear suspension and exhaust detailing, adding to the realism of the model.
  • BUCKET SEATS & CONSOLE: The model's interior features bucket seats and a floor shifter with a console, capturing the iconic look and feel of the GTO.
  • OPTIONAL SUPERCHARGER: For those seeking more power, the kit offers an optional supercharger, allowing you to customize your model.
  • CLEAR & COMPREHENSIVE INSTRUCTIONS: The included instructions are clear and user-friendly, making the kit accessible to modelers of different skill levels, from beginners to experienced hobbyists.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Charging infrastructure is part of the transition

GM said charging infrastructure was necessary to meet its electrification goals and described work with EVgo to expand public fast charging. That makes charging access one practical part of the shift toward electric vehicles. It does not amount to a recommendation of a specific home charger or mean every driver can install one; charging options depend on a driver’s home, location, and access to public stations.

Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 1
Academy Joe's Power Plus Service Station
Academy Joe's Power Plus Service Station
1/24th scale; Detailed reproduction of an air compressor and hydraulic lift; Reproduction of a gasoline pump and building
$46.54
Bestseller No. 3
Associated 6047 RC10gb Nitro Buggy Kit
Associated 6047 RC10gb Nitro Buggy Kit
Made by the renowned brand Team Associated for high-performance RC enthusiasts; UPC: 784695060470 - Part Number: ASC6047
$399.99
Best Value
10L0L Golf Cart Light Kit for Club Car Precedent Gas and Electric 2004-2018
  • Club Car Precedent Fitment: Designed for 2004-2018 Club Car Precedent gas and electric golf carts, 12V street-legal light kit with headlight, taillight, turn signals, horn, brake pad, and hazard functions
  • Integrated Control: Centralized switch lever and red button operate headlights, taillights, turn signals, horn, brake lights, and hazard lighting
  • All-Weather Durability: IP65-rated water-resistant housings and impact-resistant lenses withstand rain, dust, and extreme temperatures in harsh outdoor conditions
  • Plug-and-Play Installation: Pre-wired harnesses and vehicle-specific mounting hardware enable installation. For 2008.5-up Precedent models, replace the original wiring harness with the included main harness
  • Complete Kit: Includes headlight, taillights, turn signal switch, hazard switch, wiring harness, steering column cover, brake pad, and horn

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from the Garage

  1. Entry001Date09 OCT 26Time3 minWhich Brake Pad Should You Buy From RockAuto or Elsewhere?Section: Blog
  2. Entry002Date09 OCT 26Time5 minThe Pros and Cons of Touchless Car Wash SystemsSection: Blog
  3. Entry003Date09 OCT 26Time3 minCan a Trickle Charger or Battery Tender Properly Charge a Car Battery?Section: Blog

Thanks for visiting Carcody

Carcody.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.co

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.