Vermont Slams the Brakes on EV Mandates: Governor Cites Unrealistic Targets and Lack of Infrastructure

Governor Phil Scott has issued Executive Order 04-25, instructing the Agency of Natural Resources to pause enforcement of multi-state mandates requiring auto manufacturers to meet specific electric vehicle (EV) sales targets. The move comes amid growing concerns over Vermont’s readiness to support such rapid transitions, particularly in charging infrastructure and technology development for heavy-duty vehicles.
The rules—Advanced Clean Cars II, Advanced Clean Trucks, and the Heavy-Duty Engine and Vehicle Omnibus—were adopted in late 2022 to align Vermont with stricter emission standards aimed at increasing zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) adoption starting with the 2026 model year. However, Scott says the state needs more time and realistic planning.
“I continue to believe we should be incentivizing Vermonters to transition to cleaner energy options like electric vehicles. However, we have to be realistic about a pace that’s achievable,” said Governor Scott. “It’s clear we don’t have anywhere near enough charging infrastructure and insufficient technological advances in heavy-duty vehicles to meet current goals.”
The executive order reflects Scott’s broader approach—supporting climate goals without mandating changes that outpace consumer readiness or technological feasibility. While reaffirming his commitment to addressing emissions and promoting EV adoption, Scott emphasized that mandates alone won’t work.
Under the order, Vermont’s Department of Environmental Conservation will refrain from penalizing manufacturers who fail to meet ZEV sales quotas, provided those manufacturers do not impose zero-emission sales ratios on local dealerships and continue to supply internal combustion engine vehicles in sufficient numbers. The pause will remain in effect through December 31, 2026.
Manufacturers seeking flexibility must also report their EV education efforts, infrastructure investments, and dealership support to the state by mid-2025 and mid-2026. In turn, the state will monitor whether any automakers are unfairly limiting inventory for local dealers based on ZEV performance.
This decision places Vermont among a growing number of states re-evaluating the feasibility of sweeping EV mandates, citing concerns about consumer access, cost, grid capacity, and rural limitations. While the long-term goal of lowering emissions remains, Scott’s order signals a pragmatic step back in favor of common-sense flexibility and a focus on affordability and accessibility for all Vermonters.
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