ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — In a landmark decision for environmental and consumer choice, the Environmental Improvement Board and the Albuquerque-Bernalillo County Air Quality Control Board have approved the Advanced Clean Vehicles Rules. This decision, as detailed in a New Mexico Environment Department press release, will bring an influx of electric, hydrogen, and hybrid vehicles to the state from 2026.
These regulations, which support Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's vision for an eco-friendly future, mandate that a growing percentage of new vehicles shipped to New Mexico by national auto manufacturers be zero-emission. Starting with 43 percent of passenger cars and light-duty trucks and 15 percent of commercial heavy-duty trucks in 2026, these percentages are set to increase over time.
The initiative is expected to yield substantial economic and health benefits. By 2050, New Mexicans could see savings of $300 million in vehicle-related costs and a $62 million reduction in health care expenses due to improved air quality. The measures will also lead to a significant decrease in harmful emissions from the transport sector.
Supporting the transition, New Mexico has invested heavily in electric vehicle infrastructure, including over $11.5 million in charging stations, and plans to request an additional $55 million to expand these facilities, focusing on rural areas. These steps, as per the press release, aim to accelerate the adoption of clean vehicles in line with the state’s climate goals.
The new rules also provide flexibility for manufacturers in meeting these standards, aligning New Mexico with other states like California and Maryland that have adopted similar measures.
Under the new rules, national auto manufacturers are required to increase the percentage of zero-emission vehicles shipped to New Mexico dealerships annually. Starting in 2026, 43 percent of new passenger cars and light-duty trucks and 15 percent of new commercial heavy-duty trucks must be zero-emission. These percentages will gradually increase over the years.
The adoption of these rules is expected to generate significant savings and health benefits for New Mexicans. By 2050, it is projected that the state will save $300 million in vehicle lifetime fuel and maintenance costs. In a press release, Lujan Grisham’s office said these rules could cause up to $62 million to be saved in healthcare costs, primarily in Bernalillo County, due to reduced air pollution. The rules will also contribute to a significant reduction in carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter emissions from the transportation sector.
The state plans to request an additional $55 million this legislative session to expand its network of charging stations, focusing on rural areas. Environment Department Cabinet Secretary James Kenney emphasized the importance of more clean cars and trucks on the roads to achieve the state's climate and air quality goals.