Massachusetts To Delay Implementation of Advanced Clean Car Rules Two Years

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has delayed the implementation of its Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) electric vehicle sales requirements by two years. The regulations, which mandate escalating percentages of zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) sales, will now begin with model year 2029 vehicles (arriving in late 2028), instead of the originally planned model year 2027.

This decision follows significant feedback from auto dealers who raised concerns about insufficient EV inventory, inadequate charging infrastructure, high EV costs, and lagging consumer demand. While Massachusetts' ultimate goal of achieving 100% ZEV sales by model year 2035 remains unchanged, the initial ramp-up period has been adjusted. Under the new timeline, the first mandated sales percentage will be 61% ZEVs for model year 2029.

Environmental groups expressed disappointment, viewing the delay as a setback for climate and air quality goals. Conversely, the Massachusetts State Automobile Dealers Association praised the move as a "realistic approach," allowing more time for market and infrastructure development. MassDEP stated the delay provides more time for these necessary developments while affirming its commitment to the 2035 target. For model years 2027 and 2028, Massachusetts will now align with "ZEV state" requirements rather than the stricter ACC II rules.

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