U.S. EPA Standards Highlight the Need for Canadian ZEV Sales Regulations
April 12, 2023
Canada must have its own set of regulations in order to meet its own climate and EV adoption goals, according to EMCApril 12, 2023 – If adopted, the new standards proposed today by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and accelerate ZEV adoption in the U.S., but Canada must have its own set of regulations in order to meet its own climate and EV adoption goals, according to Electric Mobility Canada (EMC.)
The US EPA projects that EVs could account for 67% of new light-duty vehicle sales and 46% of new medium-duty vehicle sales in model year 2032. The proposed MY 2032 light-duty standards are projected to result in a 56% reduction in projected fleet average greenhouse gas emissions target levels compared to the existing MY 2026 standards. The proposed MY 2032 medium-duty vehicle standards would result in a 44% reduction compared to MY 2026 standards.
“We’re pleased to see that the Biden administration has been inspired by Canada’s leadership, following the Canadian government’s decision to adopt a ZEV sales regulation program to lower greenhouse gas emissions by accelerating ZEV adoption. Some vehicle manufacturers argue that Canadian specific regulations aren’t necessary and our country should simply follow the U.S. EPA emission rules. Although the US rules certainly are a step in the right direction, we must remind Canadians that our country has a target of 83% ZEV sales by 2032 and 100% by 2035. Contrary to Canada, there is no gas vehicle sales ban proposed in the US.
Because of the many uncertainties surrounding EPA’s final rules, timeline and even its adoption, EMC support Canada’s will to adopt its own ZEV sales regulation as soon as possible instead of having to wait for another country to decide if and how it will regulate its own GHG emission reductions.” ” said Daniel Breton, president and CEO of Electric Mobility Canada.
A policy approach that relies on the U.S. standards alone would make Canada dependent on regulatory, legal and even electoral outcomes from another country. Canada needs to continue to lead on this issue through its national ZEV sales regulation program, which will ensure market stability and EV supply, while hoping the U.S. government is able to follow through on its own plans.”