Regional

ICYMI: Delaware Adopts Advanced Clean Car II Program, Boosting Zero-Emission Vehicles

- by Maryann Pugh
Electric vehicle© Olivier Le Moal / Getty Images / Canva

DELAWARE — The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) has finalized regulations to adopt the Advanced Clean Car II (ACC II) program. This initiative aims to reduce pollution from light- and medium-duty vehicles and improve air quality while addressing climate change.

Key points about the new regulations:

  • The ACC II program requires automakers to deliver an increasing number of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) for sale in Delaware from 2027 onwards.
  • By 2032, 82% of new cars and trucks delivered to Delaware must be ZEVs.
  • The regulations will expire in the model year 2033. They do not prohibit the sale or use of internal combustion engine vehicles.
  • The decision was announced by a DNREC Secretary’s Order and will be published in the Delaware Register of Regulations on Dec. 1, 2023.

DNREC Secretary Shawn M. Garvin said, “By adopting the revised regulation, DNREC aims to protect public health, reduce emissions, and align with Delaware’s climate goals – all while providing consumers with cleaner and more sustainable transportation options.”

Transportation is a leading contributor to Delaware’s greenhouse gas emissions. The new regulations aim to reduce these emissions and contribute to the improved health of underserved communities that are more likely to be near busy roadways.

Increasing the number of ZEVs on Delaware roads, along with building out the state’s electric vehicle charging network, are key strategies outlined in Delaware’s Climate Action Plan. DNREC currently offers a rebate up to $2,500 to support the purchase of a new electric vehicle, which can be added to federal tax credits.

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The department will evaluate progress using tracking tools to conduct annual reviews of the program. These reviews will confirm the delivery of zero-emitting vehicles to Delaware and indicate that advancements in technology, supply chains, affordability, and battery performance are occurring in the automotive industry as anticipated.

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