New Jersey bans sale of new gas cars by 2035

On Tuesday, New Jersey proclaimed its commitment to zero-emission vehicle standards by banning the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035.

Democratic Governor Phil Murphy and Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn LaTourette announced the upcoming December 18 adoption of the Advanced Clean Cars II rule, which will foster “better air quality and cleaner choices for new car buyers while combatting the worsening climate crisis,” a press release from the governor’s office stated.

“New Jersey joins a growing number of states that are requiring 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,” it added.

The new rule will not put restrictions on used car sales. However, it does add “more stringent exhaust emission standards” on traditional gasoline and diesel vehicles starting in model year 2027.

The rule “provid[es] time for auto industry transition and continued development of charging infrastructure and a more robust and cleaner electrical grid in New Jersey.”

“It does not ban gasoline cars, nor does it force consumers to buy EVs,” it continued. “Rather, the rule will provide certainty to vehicle manufacturers, suppliers, utilities, and charging infrastructure companies to make the long-term investments that will be crucial to large-scale deployment of light-duty ZEVs and consumer choice.”

Murphy called it a “landmark” rule that builds upon New Jersey’s “standing as a national leader in climate action and its participation in the global Accelerating to Zero commitment.” The governor claimed the rule would improve air quality and combat climate change while providing consumers with more electric vehicle options.

“[T]ogether with my Administration’s continuing investments in voluntary electric vehicle incentives, charging infrastructure, and the green economy, these new standards will preserve consumer choice and promote affordability for hardworking New Jerseyans across the state,” he added.

LaTourette blamed gas- and diesel-powered vehicles for the city’s poor air quality.

“As New Jersey transitions to a zero-emission vehicle future, we will improve our quality of life and public health. At the same time, we will reduce climate pollutants from the transportation sector, the greatest source of planet-warming pollution in New Jersey and the nation,” LaTourette stated.

According to the governor’s press release, vehicle emissions comprise 37% of the state’s “largest source of climate pollution.”

The new rule will force automobile manufacturers to ensure that 43% of vehicles are ZEVs by 2027. Each year, that percentage increases until it reaches 100% in 2035. Currently, 12% of new vehicle sales in New Jersey are EVs.

Last year, California was the first to spearhead the initiative to ban gas-powered car sales by 2035. Following Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom’s announcement, Vermont, New York, Washington, Oregon, Massachusetts, Virginia, Rhode Island, Maryland, and Connecticut adopted similar plans.

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