WASHINGTON (May 10, 2019)—Today, the state of Colorado’s Air Quality Control Commission voted to move forward with a rulemaking to adopt a Zero Emissions Vehicles program. If the regulation is finalized later this year, Colorado would become the 11th state to do so. This is a positive step and a sign of Colorado’s leadership on fighting climate change and air pollution, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS).
Below is a statement by Michelle Robinson, director of the Clean Vehicles Program at UCS.
“With today’s decision, Colorado has chosen to move towards a cleaner future. It’s never been more urgent to deploy and develop cleaner technologies, and Colorado’s leaders recognize that urgency. If adopted, this program will help cut oil use, reduce emissions, and give Colorado drivers more choices for how to get around.
“According to our analysis, electric vehicles in Colorado can cut global warming emissions nearly in half compared to comparable gasoline cars. And they can save drivers money on fuel and maintenance, with the biggest savings going to rural drivers, who’d save $600 a year switching from gasoline to electricity.
“In a growing number of states, Zero Emissions Vehicle programs have helped spur innovation in the auto market and put more electric vehicles on the road. We’re encouraged to see Colorado enact a rulemaking to join these states and show its commitment to environmental leadership, public health and advanced technology.”