New Mexico has taken a significant step towards a greener future with the adoption of new rules that will require automakers to increase the availability of zero emission vehicles in the state. The New Mexico Environmental Improvement Board and the Albuquerque Air Quality Control Board and Bernalillo County approved the rules, which will come into effect starting the 2027 model year.
Under the new regulations, automakers will be required to deliver a certain percentage of zero emission vehicles to the New Mexico market. This percentage will start at 43 percent for new passenger cars and light-duty trucks, and 15 percent for heavy-duty commercial trucks. Over time, these percentages will increase, reaching 82 percent for passenger cars and light-duty trucks by 2032.
This measure is a major win for consumer choice, climate goals, and air quality in New Mexico, according to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. The rule aims to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles and reduce the state’s dependence on fossil fuels. However, some concerns have been raised about the rapid timeline, especially regarding the limited charging infrastructure for electric vehicles in rural communities.
To support the new regulations, the state has already invested over $11.5 million in charging stations, and has secured additional funding of $38 million from the United States Department of Transportation. Additionally, starting in January, federal incentives will be introduced that will allow consumers to save up to $7,500 on the purchase of an electric vehicle.
By adopting these rules, New Mexico joins other states such as California, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, Oregon, Vermont, Washington, and Colorado in prioritizing zero emission vehicles. The new regulations are expected to not only reduce air pollution but also provide economic benefits by attracting manufacturers to deliver electric vehicles to the state.
Overall, the adoption of these clean vehicle standards represents an important step towards achieving climate and air quality goals, as well as promoting environmental justice and supporting the most affected communities. Residents of New Mexico will have the opportunity to breathe cleaner air, acquire affordable clean vehicles, and contribute to the fight against climate change.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are zero emission vehicles?
Zero emission vehicles refer to cars and trucks that produce no tailpipe emissions, eliminating pollutants that contribute to air pollution and climate change. These vehicles can include plug-in hybrids, electric cars, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.
2. How will the new rules affect vehicle availability in New Mexico?
The new rules will require automakers to deliver a certain percentage of zero emission vehicles to dealerships in New Mexico. This will increase the availability of clean and environmentally friendly vehicles for consumers in the state.
3. What are the concerns related to the fast timeline of the new rules?
Some concerns have been raised about the limited charging infrastructure for electric vehicles in rural communities. The fast timeline may pose challenges in ensuring sufficient charging infrastructure to support widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
4. What incentives are available for the purchase of electric vehicles in New Mexico?
Starting in January, federal incentives will allow consumers to save up to $7,500 on the purchase of an electric vehicle. These incentives aim to make electric vehicles more affordable and promote their adoption.
5. Which other states have adopted similar clean vehicle standards?
In addition to New Mexico, other states that have adopted clean vehicle standards include California, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, Oregon, Vermont, Washington, and Colorado. These states prioritize the transition to zero emission vehicles and the reduction of carbon emissions in the transportation sector.