Garden State Times

Jim Appleton, former president of the New Jersey Coalition of Automotive Retailers (NJCAR), expressed concerns that New Jersey’s electric vehicle (EV) mandates limit the availability of gas-powered vehicles for consumers. Appleton made this statement during a rally on June 18, 2024.

"Starting next year [2025], automakers will be restricted in the number of combustion vehicle engines that they can send into the State of New Jersey, and they'll be forced to send New Jersey dealers an increasing number of electric vehicles," said Appleton. "If the state can't afford to follow the [California] rules, which appears to be the case at this point, then the administration should acknowledge its mandates are unrealistic and walk away."

In November 2023, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) adopted California's Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) rule. This regulation mandates that all new light-duty vehicles sold in the state must be zero-emission or plug-in hybrid electric by 2035. Automakers are required to incrementally increase the percentage of zero-emission vehicle sales annually, beginning with model year 2027.

According to a Rutgers-Eagleton Poll conducted in 2023, half of New Jersey residents oppose the plan to phase out the sale of new gas-powered vehicles by 2035. Additionally, more than half of those surveyed indicated they are unlikely to consider purchasing an electric vehicle.

The New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA) has also weighed in on the ACC II rule. The association states that the mandate to eliminate new gas-powered car sales by 2035 imposes unrealistic targets on electric vehicle sales starting in 2026. NJBIA argues that such stringent requirements could hinder electric vehicle adoption and negatively impact the state's economy.

Appleton served as NJCAR's president for over two decades. NJCAR represents more than 500 franchised new car and truck retailers across New Jersey, advocating for fair business practices and policies that support both dealers and consumers.

The New Jersey Coalition of Automotive Retailers was established to promote principles of commercial honor and integrity in motor vehicle sales and service. Representing over 500 franchised dealerships, NJCAR provides its members with services such as education, compliance assistance, and advocacy. The organization actively engages in legislative and regulatory matters to create a balanced environment where automotive retailers can thrive while serving New Jersey consumers' interests.