New Mexico is proposing new regulations that would require 82 percent of vehicles sold in the state to be zero-emission by 2032. The rules were proposed by the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) as part of efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector and address climate change.
The regulations would apply to auto manufacturers, dealers, state agencies, and any other entity involved in selling or delivering vehicles in the state. If enacted, the rules would go into effect on January 1, 2024, and would apply to model years 2027 to 2032, covering passenger cars, light, medium, and heavy-duty trucks and vehicles.
The aim of these regulations is to align New Mexico’s standards with California’s, which means vehicles not certified by California emissions standards would be prohibited from being sold in the state. However, exemptions would be granted for military, emergency, and agriculture vehicles, as well as vehicles with mileage higher than 7,500 or those rented with a destination outside of New Mexico.
The proposed rules would complement existing clean car rules and other initiatives aimed at reducing transportation pollution in New Mexico. They would also increase reporting requirements for auto manufacturers selling vehicles in the state.
While the regulations have been justified as necessary to tackle climate change, representatives from the auto industry have expressed concerns. Some argue that the goals set out in the rules are too aggressive and could have adverse effects on rural and low-income communities. They claim that electric vehicles are still too expensive and have limited range, making them impractical for drivers in remote areas.
However, proponents of the regulations argue that transportation is the second-largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in New Mexico and that these rules would significantly reduce emissions by 64 percent. They also point to potential health and economic benefits, with estimates suggesting that the rules could prevent 85 premature deaths by 2050 and save up to $1 billion in public health and environmental costs.
By adopting these rules, New Mexico aims to become a national leader in curbing air pollution and addressing climate change. The state believes that automakers can meet the requirements through federal incentives for electric vehicle development, positioning itself for a cleaner and more sustainable transportation future.
FAQs
1. What vehicles would be covered by the proposed rules?
The proposed regulations would apply to passenger cars, light, medium, and heavy-duty trucks and vehicles sold in New Mexico.
2. When would the rules go into effect?
If enacted, the rules would go into effect on January 1, 2024.
3. Are there any exemptions?
Exemptions would be granted for military, emergency, and agriculture vehicles, as well as vehicles with mileage higher than 7,500 or those rented with a destination outside of New Mexico.
4. What are the concerns raised by the auto industry?
Representatives from the auto industry argue that the goals set out in the rules are too aggressive and could have adverse effects on rural and low-income communities. They also believe that electric vehicles are still too expensive and have limited range.
5. What are the potential benefits of the regulations?
The rules could significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, prevent premature deaths, and save up to $1 billion in public health and environmental costs in New Mexico.