The fall of the internal combustion engine

It seems like all of the signs are there: Tesla's model 3 is a hit; GM creates an affordable, long-range electric vehicle (EV) in the Bolt to compliment its already popular Volt; Volvo shifts its business model to produce only EVs.

Today, Britain announced that it would be banning traditional gas and diesel cars by 2040, joining France which recently made the pledge on the same timetable. Even thought these are relatively small markets, they are also important international leaders - especially since the US has ceded its leadership position on climate change initiatives.

At the same time, China's EV growth has surpassed the US, and battery technology continues to advance at a rapid pace (I truly believe that batteries are the silver bullet here).

There's an added benefit to reducing fossil-fuel-powered vehicles as well: Health. One of the reasons for both France and Britain's decision was air pollution. As the climate changes, hotter summers will be exacerbated by emission, lowering air quality to dangerous levels.

I'm excited to see these steps taken by Britain and France. Hopefully their leadership will be followed by other countries interested in reducing their climate impact and improving citizens health.