What are ZEV Mandates & why do they matter?

The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is crucial for tackling climate change and improving air quality. While consumer interest and technological advancements are growing, Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandates are emerging as a primary policy tool to accelerate this shift effectively and at scale.

Unlike road user charging or efforts to encourage modal shift, ZEV mandates put the onus on multinational car companies to invest in and produce clean vehicles. There is a fairness principle at their heart: those who have profited off creating polluting products ought to bear the cost of transitioning to the clean alternative.

On this page you can see the mandates of the world, and track the latest regulatory developments as mandates come under increasing pressure from lobbyists pressing politicians to weaken their climate ambition.