In a bold move aimed at tackling climate change and improving air quality, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette announced the filing of the Advanced Clean Cars II rule.
LaTourette on November 21, 2023, said that the rule, set for adoption on December 18, commits New Jersey to a future where gasoline-powered vehicles are prohibited from being sold by 2035.
New Jersey joins a growing number of states, including California, Vermont, New York, Washington, Oregon, Massachusetts, Virginia, Rhode Island, Maryland, and Connecticut, in pushing for a transition to zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs).
The move is part of a broader effort to combat climate change and reduce planet-warming pollutants.
The Advanced Clean Cars II rule requires vehicle manufacturers to increase the percentage of ZEVs in their new light-duty vehicle sales, starting in model year 2027. The goal is to reach 100% ZEV sales by 2035.
The rule also mandates more stringent exhaust emission standards for traditional gasoline- and diesel-fueled vehicles, contributing to improved air quality in communities across the state.
The rule does not impose any obligations on consumers or car dealers, providing flexibility for manufacturers to comply but it aims to create certainty for the industry, encouraging long-term investments crucial for the large-scale deployment of ZEVs and consumer choice.
U.S. Representative Frank Pallone, Jr., praised the move, stating that it would reduce climate pollution, save money for New Jerseyans at the pump, and spur investments in clean car manufacturing.
The rule received widespread support from various stakeholders, including mayors, environmental organizations, and business leaders. Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka highlighted the positive impact on public health and economic opportunities, especially in urban transportation hubs.
Environmental advocates, such as the New Jersey Sierra Club and the Natural Resources Defense Council, lauded the decision for its potential to significantly reduce emissions and improve air quality. Kathy Harris of the Natural Resources Defense Council emphasized the health benefits and cost savings for New Jersey vehicle owners.
To ensure a successful transition, the state continues to invest in charging infrastructure. Since 2019, New Jersey has funded nearly 3,000 charging stations at over 600 locations. The Advanced Clean Cars II rule aligns with the state’s broader efforts to reduce emissions, as outlined in the Global Warming Response Act and subsequent legislative amendments.
As the state prepares for the electric vehicle revolution, the adoption of the rule positions New Jersey as a leader in the transition toward a cleaner transportation sector.
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