Low and Zero Emission Vehicles

Background

The Rhode Island Low and Zero Emission Vehicle (LEV/ZEV) program requires that new vehicles sold in the state meet the same emission requirements as new vehicles sold in California. The LEV/ZEV program has evolved over the years, furthering criteria pollutant emission reductions and controlling greenhouse gas emissions in Rhode Island. In December 2023, Rhode Island adopted the Advanced Clean Cars II regulation which further opts-in to California’s more stringent standards.

Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) Program

Requires manufacturers to meet fleet-average emissions targets through the sale of vehicles that emit low levels of pollutants that contribute to ozone formation such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), and other pollutants such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and particulate matter that pose risks to public health.

The purpose of the program is to ensure that motor vehicle standards in Rhode Island are consistent with California's Advanced Clean Cars (ACC) program.
Rhode Island incorporated ACCP's rules under its Air Pollution Control Regulation No. 37.

Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEV) Program

Requires manufacturers to meet a certain portion of sales with electric, plug-in hybrid-electric, or fuel cell (hydrogen) vehicles.

The purpose of the ZEV mandate is to help to reduce petroleum consumption while furthering the development and deployment of advanced technology vehicles.
The 2012 ZEV amendments enhance compliance flexibility and extend program requirements through model year 2025:
- Increase sales percentage requirements for ZEVs and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, which become more stringent over the course of the program.
- Manufacturers receive more credit for a vehicle with greater "all-electric" driving range.
- Allow manufacturers to "pool" or trade emission and ZEV credits among other states that have adopted California standards.

Annual ZEV Credit Reports

Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) report their sales of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) annually at the conclusion of each model year to states that participate in the California Zero Emission Vehicle Program. The annual ZEV Credit Report compiles the data and statistics that are reported once all requirements have been met.

Public data for each model year includes: