NYC Gazette

Andy Guelcher, owner and operator of Mohawk Chevrolet in Ballston Spa, has voiced concerns regarding New York's Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) rule. This regulation mandates that 35% of all new vehicle sales be electric by 2025. Guelcher said in an op-ed on February 10 that this rule will limit consumer options and increase vehicle prices.

"This year, the law requires 35% of vehicle sales to be zero-emission, meaning approximately one out of every three new vehicles a dealership orders and sells must be an electric vehicle," said Guelcher. "While setting environmental sustainability goals is laudable, hitting 35% is next to impossible — and consumers will be left holding the bag. For consumers, this law will increase vehicle prices and decrease choice. Here's how. It is unrealistic to assume a 300% year-over-year increase in demand for zero emission vehicles, especially as federal EV tax credits dry up and New York's public charging infrastructure lags behind expectations."

According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), the ACC II regulation was adopted in 2022, with a goal for all new passenger cars and trucks sold in New York State to be zero-emission by 2035.

As reported by the New York Post, auto dealers have expressed concerns about the feasibility of the ACC II mandate's timeline due to inadequate infrastructure and market readiness. They argue that the lack of charging stations and a sharp rise in demand for zero-emission vehicles may not be achievable within the given timeframe. The state Department of Environmental Conservation clarified that the regulation targets manufacturers rather than dealers and offers some flexibility; however, dealers caution that this mandate could lead to increased prices for gas-powered vehicles and compel consumers to purchase out-of-state.

10News highlights that the national growth rate for electric vehicle sales recently stood at just over 7%, a stark contrast to the previous year's gain of over 30%. Concerns about driving range, charging accessibility, and higher price points have contributed to this slowdown in electric vehicle sales.

Guelcher co-founded Mohawk Chevrolet in Ballston Spa, New York, in 2019. He has been recognized for his contributions to the automotive industry, including a nomination for the 2025 Ally TIME Dealer of the Year. According to Ally, Guelcher is an advocate for consumer choice and market-driven policies during the transition to electric vehicles.