The state of New Jersey announced November 21 that it is adopting new rules that will require vehicle manufacturers to make zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) an increasing percentage of their new light-duty vehicle sales beginning in model year 2027, ramping up to 100% ZEVs by 2035. The Department of Environmental Protection reports that the measure will protect public health while reducing climate pollution from the transportation sector, the greatest source of planet-warming pollution in New Jersey and the nation.
New Jersey will become the eleventh state to adopt the Advanced Clean Cars II rule, joining California, Vermont, New York, Washington, Oregon, Massachusetts, Virginia, Rhode Island, Maryland, and Connecticut.
When the new rule becomes effective on January 1, 2024, vehicle manufacturers will need to ensure that 43% of their annual production volume in 2027 is composed of ZEVs. The percentage increases each year, peaking at 100% in 2035 and thereafter.
New Jersey notes that “the rule does not impose obligations on consumers or car dealers and provides compliance flexibilities for manufacturers.” It does not ban the use of gasoline cars, nor does it force consumers to buy electric vehicles.
