Workshop report
Supporting governments with 100% ZEV targets
A commitment to move to all zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) sales requires careful planning and coordination among many stakeholders. The members of the International ZEV Alliance commissioned and hosted four webinars on different aspects of 100% ZEV targets: the state of 100% ZEV targets, regulations to ensure the ZEV transition, working with cities to achieve ZEV targets, and the economic impacts of the ZEV transition. The discussions led to the following key takeaways:
- The number of governments setting 100% ZEV targets is accelerating. At least 15 national governments, as well as the European Commission and numerous U.S. states and Canadian provinces, have set targets for the full phase-out of combustion engine vehicle sales. Some national governments, including Canada and the United Kingdom, have advanced their targets in light of promising market and technology developments and increased urgency to reduce emissions.
- The early ZEV market has grown in large part due to vehicle CO2 standards, present in every major market, and ZEV regulations, present in California, China, British Columbia, and Quebec. Strengthened regulations will be similarly crucial for ensuring that the market moves toward 100% ZEVs, although different regulatory designs may be needed in the late stages of the transition, with more restrictions on use of flexibilities and the inclusion of plug-in hybrids.
- Cities have strong ZEV ambitions and innovative policies but would gain from national support. At least a dozen major cities have set targets for fully transitioning to ZEVs. However, the scope of authority varies widely across cities, and most lack the funding or authority to regulate vehicle sales or support a full transition to combustion vehicles. Cities also must rely on national vehicle regulations to ensure an increasing supply of ZEV models in far greater volume to reach their goals.
- To realize broad long-term benefits, industrial policies will need to be tailored to each market. Beyond climate mitigation and clean air, the ZEV transition brings direct fuel and maintenance benefits, as well as broader economic benefits. Tailored industrial policies that are aligned with national and city-level market development policies will help realize these benefits. For example, jurisdictions with a strong automotive industry presence can work in partnership with companies, local governments, and trade unions on unique regional transition strategies. Other jurisdictions can similarly use public-private partnerships to support the growing ecosystem of ZEV component suppliers, specialty vehicle manufacturers, and raw material providers.
