Delaware’s mandate requiring car dealerships to steadily increase the number of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles on their lots appears headed for repeal under the state’s new Governor.
The rule, finalized in late 2023 under former Gov. John Carney, would have required that 43% of new vehicles delivered to dealerships be zero-emission by the 2027 model year, rising to 82% by 2032. Carney originally aimed for 100% by 2035 but settled on a phased approach following public pushback. Thousands submitted comments opposing the regulation during the review process.
Gov. Matt Meyer, who took office in January, has publicly stated he does not support mandates on consumers and intends to halt implementation of the regulation. While he supports clean energy and oversaw an electric fleet expansion during his time as New Castle County executive, Meyer says vehicle choices should be left to individuals and businesses.
The regulation was part of a broader strategy to cut transportation emissions, the state’s largest contributor to air pollution. Despite the planned rollback, Delaware continues to see a rise in electric vehicle adoption, with EVs accounting for 12% of new registrations in 2024, up from 2% four years earlier.
Environmental groups have criticized the governor’s announcement, warning it could slow progress on air quality. Meanwhile, local dealers expressed relief, arguing the original rule would have limited inventory flexibility. Meyer has not detailed how the repeal will proceed, but formal steps are expected to follow regulatory protocols.
