Vermont Pauses Advanced Clean Cars Regulations Amid Feasibility Concerns
In a significant move, Vermont Governor Phil Scott has announced a pause on the implementation of the Advanced Clean Cars (ACC II) mandate, initially adopted in 2022. This decision stems from growing concerns regarding the feasibility of meeting the state’s ambitious zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) targets.
In a recent episode of Inside Automotive, Matt Cota, managing director of the Vermont Vehicle and Automotive Distributors Association (VADA), discussed the response from local dealerships. Vermont had aimed for 35% of new vehicles by model year 2026 to be electric or zero-emission—a target that now appears increasingly out of reach. Currently, ZEV adoption in the state stands at roughly 12%, far from achieving the mandated goal by 2026, despite a steady annual growth rate of 2%.
Cota expressed early optimism among dealerships; however, that optimism has diminished as practical challenges have mounted. While state and federal incentives have fueled some EV interest, the existing market lacks affordable and capable electric options tailored to Vermont’s unique needs, such as its predominance of trucks and SUVs.
The setback is not just an environmental issue; it poses risks to Vermont’s agricultural sector, the state’s largest industry. The Advanced Clean Truck (ACT) rule adds further strain, mandating a transition to electric alternatives for dairy-hauling trucks, which are vital for transporting milk over long distances. Current electric options are significantly costlier and lack necessary infrastructure for such operations.
Both the ACC II and ACT regulations are under review for 18 months as stakeholders reassess their strategies. A coalition of 15 trade associations has advocated for this pause, recognizing the necessity of aligning climate goals with realistic implementation timelines. This pause may prompt similar actions in other states grappling with comparable challenges.
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