However there is nothing to stop California from indexing new car registration fees to some sort of measurement of MPG, pollution, etc. If they tack on HUGE fees to some of the worst offenders, wouldn't it have the same effect?
The object becomes more desirable (the complete opposite intention of the fees) in part because wealthy influencers buy the object.
A law acts differently because rich purchasers have to follow the same rules (almost!).
That's a great suggestion and actually one of the ones that has been tossed around in the Capitol if SCOTUS upholds Trump's decision, and possibly even if it doesn't.
Not that I agree with the outcome in this case. The interstate commerce clause is a horrible abuse. But that is what it is.
Essentially, they would just be an extension of existing state vehicle registration fees.
Would the solution of only creating one model and selling that have been a valid reason for a federal court to dismiss such a suit? I think it unlikely, as that would give CA de facto control over a huge amount of economic activity outside of its borders.