Virginia Takes Bold Step Toward Clean Transportation Future with Adoption of Advanced Clean Cars II Rule

Richmond, VA  – Today, Virginia’s adoption of the Advanced Clean Cars (ACC) II Rule was published. This rule, which becomes legally effective on March 13, 2024, requires auto manufacturers to ensure that every new light-duty car sold in the Commonwealth is a zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) by 2035. ACC II would set Virginia on a path to lower vehicle emissions and kickstart a healthy transition to electric vehicles and cleaner air.

A Southern Environmental Law Center report found that adopting the ACC II program would not only combat climate change and improve public health, but would also save Virginians money at the pump and provide economic growth through job opportunities. The report states:

• The electricity to power an EV in Virginia emits less than 17% of the CO2 emitted by an equivalent gas car
• The ACC II regulations are projected to reduce Virginia’s CO2 emissions by approximately 139.2 million metric tons from 2026 to 2040, as measured along the entire well-to-wheel lifecycle
• A widespread transition to EVs could, by 2050, yield more than $1.3 billion in avoided annual health costs in Virginia and avoid 115 premature deaths, more than 1,780 asthma attacks, and nearly 8,190 lost workdays each year
• Owning an EV also saves the typical driver between $6,000 and $10,000 over the lifetime of the vehicle, compared to a fossil fuel powered car, due to reduced fuel and maintenance costs
• The ACC II regulations could produce almost 30,000 new jobs in Virginia and result in $814.5 million in total net benefits

“Virginia's decision to adopt the Advanced Clean Cars II Rule demonstrates strong leadership in transitioning towards a sustainable and equitable transportation system," said Connor Kish, Director of the Virginia Sierra Club. “By embracing the ACC II Rule, Virginia is not only reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions but also creating economic opportunities and improving public health outcomes for communities across the Commonwealth.”

With over 85 billion miles driven each year in Virginia, transportation generates almost half of all statewide carbon pollution and is an immediate health risk.  A 2020 report from Virginia Clinicians for Climate Action found that transportation pollution creates toxic particulate matter that contributes to more than 3,000 premature deaths and 3,500 hospitalizations in Virginia every year.   

Thirteen states plus Washington D.C. have already adopted the ACC II rule: California, Colorado, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and Washington D.C.