Murphy administration releases zero-emission vehicle roadmap, highlights new investments to accelerate EV adoption
TRENTON, N.J. — Gov. Phil Murphy on Wednesday highlighted new and ongoing investments aimed at decarbonizing New Jersey’s transportation sector as the administration released a Zero-Emission Vehicle Roadmap detailing progress, challenges and strategies to accelerate electric vehicle adoption statewide.
The roadmap, developed by New Jersey’s Partnership to Plug-in and led by the Governor’s Office, outlines steps to expand incentives, strengthen charging infrastructure, upgrade the electric grid and promote equitable access to zero-emission vehicles, particularly in underserved communities. The report also addresses consumer concerns related to cost, range and convenience and identifies workforce development as a key component of continued growth.
“On day one of my Administration, I directed a whole-of-government approach to expand customers’ access to cleaner vehicles and charging ports – improving air quality and supporting a cutting-edge EV market and green jobs,” Murphy said. “In New Jersey, transportation is the largest greenhouse gas emitting sector, with many overburdened communities in New Jersey facing disproportionate environmental and health issues due to pollution. I am proud of the progress we’ve made as part of our broader effort to ensure that affordable and clean energy solutions reach everyone in New Jersey.”
State officials said the roadmap reflects years of infrastructure buildout and policy development while setting priorities for continued market transformation. Among the recent investments cited by the administration are $75.5 million for Phase 3 of the New Jersey Zero-Emission Incentive Program to support commercial medium- and heavy-duty vehicle electrification, $25 million for low-interest loans through the NJ ZEV Financing Program, and $50 million expected in early 2026 for the Take Charge pilot program to support charging infrastructure for private fleets. An additional $16 million has been allocated for electric buses and related infrastructure for NJ TRANSIT in South Jersey.
“The Roadmap report is a valuable resource to further strengthen the state’s continued investment in an electric future for New Jersey – one that better protects public health and reduces greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change,” said Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette. “By expanding access to incentives for residents, businesses and communities, and building out critical charging infrastructure, New Jersey is making significant progress toward achieving its emissions reduction goal.”
Christine Guhl-Sadovy, president of the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, said the state’s EV adoption has surged since incentive programs launched in 2020.
“New Jersey is a national leader in electric vehicle adoption,” Guhl-Sadovy said. “Since BPU programs began in 2020, EV ownership has grown more than 800 percent. This roadmap charts the course for our continued transition, focusing on expanding charging infrastructure and strengthening our grid. Transportation electrification isn’t just about cleaner air – it’s an opportunity to address grid capacity needs and help lower costs for all customers by better utilizing our infrastructure.”
Transportation officials said infrastructure expansion remains a priority along major travel corridors.
“The New Jersey Department of Transportation is committed to developing the charging infrastructure needed to support electric vehicles along major travel corridors in the State,” said NJDOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor. “In addition, we have converted a significant portion of the Department’s light-duty vehicle fleet to hybrid and electric vehicles to do our part to reduce vehicle emissions.”
Economic development officials credited incentive and financing programs with driving adoption and supporting clean-energy jobs.
“The investments taken by the Murphy Administration has helped put hundreds of thousands of new electric vehicles on New Jersey’s roadways, helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support our clean energy future,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Together, the NJEDA’s New Jersey Zero Emission Incentive Program (NJ ZIP), New Jersey Zero Emission Vehicle Financing Program (NJ ZEV), and Take Charge Program, are supporting the expansion of the state’s fleet of zero-emission vehicles, bolstering New Jersey’s green economy, generating new jobs, and creating a cleaner environment for the next generation.”
State data show electric vehicle registrations increased from 10,911 in 2016 to more than 280,000 by November 2025. EVs now account for more than 14% of new vehicle sales in New Jersey.
The administration also pointed to the launch of a One-Stop Shop online tool in 2025 that helps residents, local governments and nonprofits identify funding opportunities for efficiency and electrification projects by matching users with available federal, state and utility incentives.
Murphy’s efforts build on legislation signed in 2020 that established EV adoption goals, incentives and a requirement for NJ TRANSIT to transition to zero-emission bus purchases by 2032. The state has also adopted vehicle emissions regulations requiring manufacturers to sell increasing percentages of zero-emission vehicles across all sectors.
