Business leaders in New Jersey are advocating for a reassessment of the state's ambitious electric vehicle (EV) sales targets. The New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA) has called upon Governor Murphy’s administration to follow Maryland's lead and delay imposing penalties on automakers and dealerships struggling to meet unrealistic EV quotas set to begin with the 2027 model year. This push comes amid concerns over consumer affordability, business costs, and the feasibility of achieving these goals within the given timeframe.
In an editorial published recently, NJBIA Deputy Chief Government Affairs Officer Ray Cantor highlighted the challenges posed by the Advanced Clean Cars II rule (ACC II), which mandates that 43% of all new cars sold in New Jersey must be zero-emission vehicles by fall 2026. Despite improvements, current figures show that EVs accounted for only 14% of total car sales in 2024, significantly short of the required benchmark. The ultimate aim of ACC II is to ensure all new car sales are zero-emission vehicles by 2035.
Cantor emphasized the need for practical adjustments, stating that while the administration's environmental objectives are commendable, the initial milestones remain unattainable. He pointed out that such stringent requirements could impose substantial financial burdens on both consumers and businesses during an already challenging economic period. To mitigate these pressures, Cantor suggested adopting Maryland's approach, where penalties for the 2027 and 2028 model years have been suspended. Such a move would provide relief to automakers who have heavily invested in EV infrastructure and technology.
This temporary reprieve could also discourage New Jersey residents from purchasing vehicles in neighboring states not bound by ACC II regulations. By aligning with Maryland's strategy, New Jersey could foster a more supportive environment for the automotive industry while continuing its transition towards sustainable transportation solutions.
By pausing enforcement of these penalties, New Jersey can offer much-needed stability to automakers and dealerships navigating the complexities of transitioning to EV production. This strategic adjustment will not only address immediate economic concerns but also enhance long-term compliance with environmentally friendly practices. As the state continues its journey toward cleaner energy alternatives, collaboration between policymakers and industry stakeholders will prove essential in crafting realistic and effective policies.
Ferrari is set to launch its first-ever electric vehicle (EV), the Elettrica, which aims to blend modern technology with the brand's storied heritage. Two European patents reveal Ferrari's plans to simulate traditional driving experiences through virtual gears and a sound reproduction system that mimics internal combustion engines (ICE). This move reflects the company's commitment to preserving the emotional connection drivers feel with their vehicles while embracing the future of electric mobility.
Revolutionizing EV Dynamics with Virtual Gears
The Elettrica introduces an innovative approach to electric car performance by incorporating artificial gear shifts. Ferrari’s engineers have developed a mechanism that uses electric motors to replicate the torque changes of conventional engines, creating a more engaging driving experience.
This patent outlines a system where virtual gears can be engaged either manually via paddle shifters or automatically based on throttle and brake inputs. The transition between these simulated gears occurs within 200 to 600 milliseconds, offering responsiveness akin to high-performance ICE vehicles. This feature not only appeals to enthusiasts accustomed to manual transmissions but also aligns with Ferrari's dedication to crafting driver-focused machines. By drawing inspiration from Hyundai's Ioniq 5 N, Ferrari demonstrates its willingness to innovate while respecting tradition. The integration of such technology ensures that even in an all-electric world, Ferrari remains synonymous with exhilarating performance and dynamic handling.
Recreating the Roar: Sound Design for the Electric Era
Complementing the virtual gear system, Ferrari has also devised a sound reproduction device aimed at replicating the iconic roar of ICE engines. This auditory innovation seeks to address concerns among purists who may miss the acoustic drama associated with traditional Ferraris.
The second patent details a sophisticated audio system designed to provide an immersive driving experience by generating sounds reminiscent of powerful combustion engines. Recent test drives of the Elettrica have showcased this technology, revealing a deep, resonant rumble that mirrors the characteristic growl of Ferrari's past models. Although opinions vary on whether synthetic sounds can fully replace authentic engine noises, Ferrari's efforts underscore its determination to maintain the brand's allure. As the automotive industry transitions toward electrification, this dual focus on tactile engagement and sensory satisfaction positions Ferrari as a leader in redefining what it means to drive a supercar in the 21st century.
Revolutionizing urban transportation, Tesla is set to unveil its much-anticipated robotaxi service powered by the Full Self-Driving (FSD) Unsupervised system in June. This cutting-edge initiative aims to redefine how people move within cities through autonomous driving technology. Over recent months, Tesla has been actively testing and preparing for this milestone. The company has engaged hundreds of test operators in Austin, navigating city streets with vehicles equipped with advanced self-driving software as part of an internal project named "Project Rodeo." These tests are meticulously designed to cover both routine and challenging scenarios, ensuring the technology's reliability under diverse conditions.
Expanding beyond Austin, Tesla's efforts to deploy its robotaxi service involve multiple layers of safety measures and collaboration with local authorities. In preparation for public deployment, Tesla has organized training sessions with first responders from various departments, including fire and police forces, in cities like Austin. These collaborative exercises simulate real-world traffic situations using dedicated test tracks, involving dozens of drivers and vehicles to ensure readiness in emergency scenarios. Furthermore, while initial services remain restricted to employee use in limited areas, discussions have progressed regarding transitioning to remote operator oversight when launching to broader consumer audiences. Pilot programs have already begun in select regions such as San Francisco Bay Area alongside continued expansion into other major U.S. cities.
The automotive industry stands on the brink of transformation thanks to innovations like Tesla's autonomous taxi ambitions. Despite setting ambitious deadlines internally—such as aiming for early-June launches—realistic timelines suggest gradual rollouts may better align with technological refinement needs. Such initiatives underscore humanity's relentless pursuit of safer, more efficient mobility solutions that benefit society at large. By integrating sophisticated AI systems into everyday life through projects like these robotic taxis, we pave the way toward smarter cities where convenience meets sustainability without compromising passenger safety or environmental responsibility.