FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 4, 2018
Contact:
Noah Barnes, Plug In America, nbarnes@pluginamerica.org
Plug In America applauds release of national zero-emission vehicle mandate standard
LOS ANGELES – Last week, Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) introduced the Zero-Emissions Vehicle Act of 2018, a bill that would require auto manufacturers to have 50% of new car sales be zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) by 2030 and 100% of sales by 2040. If the auto manufacturer cannot achieve compliance, the automaker can purchase credits from other auto manufacturers. The revenues from the sales of ZEV credits will help support public infrastructure through the Highway Trust Fund.
“This is a huge step in the right direction for America’s transportation policy,” said Joel Levin, executive director of Plug In America. “The 10 states that have already adopted a ZEV mandate are leading the way in electric vehicle adoption. A national ZEV mandate would send a huge signal to automakers and consumers that the future of transportation is electric, and would significantly accelerate the adoption of EVs across the country.”
“The growth of the EV sector promotes jobs in the U.S. in the fields of technology and innovation, and keeps us competitive with countries like China,” continued Levin. “Not only this, but EVs provide cleaner air, reduce our reliance on foreign oil, and reduce carbon emissions. EVs are a win-win for everyone.”
“We look forward to working with Senators Merkley and Whitehouse on this very important legislation.”
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About Plug In America
Plug In America is the nation’s leading independent consumer voice for accelerating the use of plug-in electric vehicles in the United States. Formed as a non-profit in 2008, Plug In America provides practical, objective information collected from our coalition of plug-in vehicle drivers, through public outreach and education, policy work and a range of technical advisory services. Our expertise represents the world’s deepest pool of experience of driving and living with plug-in vehicles. We drive electric. You can too. pluginamerica.org
