Zero Emission Vehicles: Quieter Roadways and Cleaner Air

NYS is moving into a cleaner future by increasing the number of zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) on the road. ZEVs include battery electric, hydrogen fuel cell, and plug-in hybrid electric-powered vehicles. Governor Kayth Hochul recently directed DEC to propose the adoption of California’s Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) regulations.

Starting in 2035, all new passenger cars, pickup trucks, and SUVs sold in NYS must be ZEV. The regulation mandates minimum percentages of ZEV sales within NYS from 2026-2035, which will improve air quality by reducing vehicle tailpipe emissions. These emissions reductions will be particularly significant in communities disproportionately impacted by transportation-related air pollution. The regulation will is also expected to help address disproportionate risks and health and pollution burdens affecting communities.

ACC II would augment existing rules by progressively increasing the number of electric vehicles over time. The light-duty passenger ZEV sales requirements will increase to 35 percent in 2026, 68 percent by 2030, and 100 percent by 2035. During that same period (2026-2034), new internal combustion engine emission standards will also slash tailpipe emissions even further. These actions support NY’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 85 percent by 2050, as well as helping NY meet National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).

To support the adoption of ACC II, NYS is expanding existing programs and tapping additional funding sources. The Drive Clean Rebate program was increased by $10 million to help New Yorkers purchase or lease electric vehicles. The EVolve NY Fast Charging Network, administered by the New York Power Authority, has installed over 100 direct current “fast” charger ports across the state.

Additionally, $175 million in federal funding from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Plan will allow for further expansion of NYS’ electric vehicle charging network. Using NYS Volkswagen Settlement funds, $11 million was dedicated to direct current fast charging station installations along travel corridors throughout NYS, and $6.2 million was used to fund the Charge Ready NY Level 2 charging program.

Photo of electric vehicle courtesy DEC.