Gas prices in Los Angeles have surged, reaching $6.50 a gallon, causing frustration among individuals like Ross Gerber, a TSLA investor and CEO at Gerber Kawasaki Wealth & Investment Management. Gerber took to social media to express his concerns about skyrocketing energy prices, pointing out that just a few months ago, gas prices were at $5 a gallon. The recent increase in energy prices can be attributed to supply concerns triggered by production cuts from Saudi Arabia and Russia.
The rise in gas prices is not limited to Los Angeles alone. Nationwide, the average price of regular-grade gasoline currently stands at $3.876 a gallon, compared to $3.682 a year ago. Unsurprisingly, California has the highest prices, averaging $5.658 a gallon. These rising prices have prompted individuals like Gerber to consider transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs).
Gerber mentioned that the influence of Saudi Arabia on global oil prices is gouging drivers who rely on internal combustion engines (ICE). He believes this is further evidence supporting the case for EVs. Interestingly, California, the state facing the highest gas prices, has already announced a ban on new gasoline car sales by 2035 as part of its efforts to combat climate change.
The focus on climate change and the need for sustainable transportation has led to the emergence of electric vehicle startups and the transition of legacy automakers towards EV manufacturing. This shift can be observed in the performance of the KraneShares Electric Vehicles and Future Mobility Index ETF (KARS), which ended Friday’s session slightly down at $29.36.
As energy prices continue to rise, individuals are seeking alternatives to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. The transition to electric vehicles offers a solution that is not only environmentally friendly but also shields consumers from the volatility of the oil market. With the advancements in EV technology and infrastructure, the adoption of electric vehicles is becoming increasingly viable and appealing to consumers.
Sources:
– Benzinga Pro data
– American Automobile Association