EPA Finalizes More Flexible Vehicle Emissions Rules Aiming to Cut Pollution, But Path to EV Adoption Remains Uncertain

The EPA has finalized new vehicle emissions rules that aim to cut pollution and lower costs, but they are more lenient than originally proposed.

The rules allow carmakers flexibility to meet targets through fuel efficiency, hybrids, EVs, and other options - not just EVs.

EVs are growing in popularity but still only make up a small percentage of vehicles sold, due to concerns about pricing, performance and charging availability.

Automakers will likely lean more heavily on hybrids under the new rules, rather than go all-in on EVs.

Shifting consumer preferences and making cleaner vehicles affordable will be critical to meet climate goals, since cars stay on roads for over a decade on average.