Abstract:

Zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandates on manufacturers can result in increased model options in the market. Insufficient model options can deter consumers from purchasing ZEVs even after adequate emphasis on consumer incentives and charging infrastructure. This paper evaluates and compares the key program elements of ZEV mandate policies in California, China, and the voluntary target mechanism in the European Union. These markets collectively account for about 90% of the ZEV market. ZEV mandates alongside stringent CO2 standards and grid decarbonization can provide for an effective policy to accelerate the rate of greenhouse gas reduction from transport. The ZEV programs reviewed in this paper exclusively focus on passenger vehicles and their interplay with fuel economy regulations. There are a variety of other programs that can achieve similar goals as a mandate for manufacturers.