It doesn’t take Thomas Edison to confirm that electric-powered vehicles have far surpassed the theoretical stage. As the auto industry moves toward the ‘eco-friendlier’ initiative, that is zero-emission vehicles, the fossil-fuelled alternative might soon become obsolete. Almost all vehicle manufacturers have followed Tesla’s example and begun producing electric-powered vehicles to keep up with society’s demands to tackle the ecological issues that surround non-renewable fuel sources.

Several months ago, British Columbia took aim at gas-powered vehicles. The province passed a law requiring 10% of all new vehicles sold to be emission-free by 2025, giving consumers till 2040 to reach complete zero-emission status. The law is called the Zero Emissions Vehicle Act(ZEVA), and they’re not the only ones to take such a radical stand against gas-powered vehicles. A number of cities in the US, most notably California, have called for similar gas-burning vehicle bans in the near future.

Europe has been way ahead of the game for quite some time, with Norway being the pinnacle of low emission examples. In Norway, 1 out of every 3 cars purchased is electric-powered, compared to BC having only 6%. The US is even further behind, with only 1.2% of all new cars sold being emission-free.

It’s not a certainty these bans will take effect exactly within the timelines given, or if BC’s decision will affect other provinces. It is clear though, that with the growing number of government-backed initiatives designed to combat emissions, the gas guzzlers we’ve become accustomed to, may soon be a thing of the past.

This will undoubtedly result in costly changes for many, including manufacturers, dealers and consumers alike, but building towards a future with sustainable and eco-friendly fuel alternatives is a move that will, in time, prove beneficial to the planet and everyone on it. Plus, you have at least 20 years to leave the fossil fuels of your forefather’s behind and embrace the less toxic and refreshing ‘new car smell’ of zero-emission vehicles.