Maine Lags in Clean Car Standards as EV Popularity Surges
Electric vehicle (EV) popularity is surging in Maine, with 98% of owners recommending them to friends. However, the state is falling behind in adopting clean car and truck standards, which could hinder its progress towards a greener future.
Currently, 90% of Maine's EV drivers primarily charge at home. The Natural Resources Council of Maine (NRCM) is pushing for stronger clean car and truck standards to meet the growing demand and prevent Maine from being left behind as new EV models emerge.
Maine's Clean Transportation Roadmap recommended adopting these standards in 2022, but the state is now a year behind schedule. The Plan for Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment (PEVID) is expanding the charging network, with over $26 million invested in the last three years. However, the Maine Department of Environmental Protection is the authority overseeing the implementation of these standards.
ACCII and ACT standards define zero-emission vehicles and prioritize their sale. Transitioning to these vehicles could result in up to 330 fewer deaths and $3.6 billion in public health benefits across Maine by 2050, according to a 2023 American Lung Association report. Zero-emission cars and trucks are becoming more common due to their benefits, such as quiet operation, fun driving experience, lower maintenance costs, and reduced pollution.
Adopting clean car and truck standards is crucial for Maine, as pollution from cars and trucks is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the state. The Advanced Clean Cars II (ACCII) and Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) standards would increase the availability of zero-emission vehicles, starting with the 2027 model year. With the benefits of EVs and the potential health and environmental impacts, Maine should prioritize the implementation of these standards.
