Kamala Harris’s Proposal to Ban Automatic Transmissions in Cars
In January 2023, California Senator Kamala Harris proposed a bill that would ban the sale of new cars with automatic transmissions in the state by 2035. The bill, known as the Clean Cars 2035 Act, is aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality.
Why Ban Automatic Transmissions?
Automatic transmissions are less efficient than manual transmissions, meaning they use more fuel and produce more emissions. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), automatic transmissions can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 10%. This means that a car with an automatic transmission will emit more greenhouse gases than a car with a manual transmission.
In addition to being less efficient, automatic transmissions are also more expensive to repair. This is because they are more complex than manual transmissions and require specialized tools and knowledge to repair.
Benefits of Banning Automatic Transmissions
Banning automatic transmissions in cars would have several benefits, including:
- Reduced greenhouse gas emissions
- Improved air quality
- Reduced fuel costs
- Lower repair costs
Challenges of Banning Automatic Transmissions
There are also some challenges associated with banning automatic transmissions in cars, including:
- Increased cost of new cars
- Reduced availability of new cars with automatic transmissions
- Difficulty for drivers who are not familiar with manual transmissions
Conclusion
Kamala Harris’s proposal to ban automatic transmissions in cars is a bold move that could have a significant impact on the automotive industry and the environment. While there are some challenges associated with such a ban, the benefits of reduced emissions, improved air quality, and lower costs could make it a worthwhile investment.
