EPA proposes tough emissions standards that could boost electric vehicle sales by 60%

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has proposed tough new emissions standards for cars, trucks and other light-duty vehicles that could lead to a nearly tenfold increase in electric vehicle sales by 2032.

In what EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan called a “very ambitious proposal” on a call with reporters, the rules would be significantly expanded. current emissions standardswhich are due to expire in 2026, and adopt clean car technology that was not available when previous standards were set.

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What does this mean for consumers? If the regulations were followed by automakers, the EPA said, electric vehicles would represent a growing segment of car sales in the coming years, reaching 67% of the market by the time 2,032 models roll off the assembly line.

Additionally, requirements for better fuel mileage and lower maintenance costs could save car owners an average of $12,000 over the life of their vehicle.

Regan did not have a timetable for adopting the new standards, which will go through a lengthy public comment period and could be significantly revised.

The EPA has also proposed stricter emission standards for heavy vehicles such as delivery trucks, school buses and tractor-trailers. The combined result of the new rules would be a reduction of around 10 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide through 2055, Regan said.

“By delivering the most ambitious pollution standards ever designed for cars and trucks, we are delivering on the Biden-Harris administration’s promise to protect people and the planet, by ensuring critical reductions in dangerous air pollution. air and climate and ensuring significant economic benefits like reduced fuel and maintenance costs for families,” he added in a statement.

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