This section provides users with guidance on SSR policy design and a discussion around each design element. This section is split into two pathways (Figure 1):
- The ZEV pathway
- Guide & manual
- The GHG/FE pathway
- Manual
A policy design guide provides guidance on different options for ZEV sales standard policy design based on a simplicity hierarchy. Policy design manuals (one for the ZEV pathway and one for the GHG/FE pathway) provides background information on regulatory scope, standard setting, vehicle and credit accounting, reporting, compliance and enforcement, and flexibilities for each of the pathways. Users who know which pathway their region wishes to take may just read through the relevant pathway. Otherwise, users can read through both pathways to determine the design options available to their region.
Figure 1. ZEV & GHG/FE pathways
Design elements
In the context of vehicle SSRs, design elements refer to the foundational policy features that collectively define how a regulation operates. These elements determine the regulatory scope, the compliance mechanisms, and the policy's ability to drive technological transformation effectively and equitably.
Design elements are not isolated provisions, but rather integrated components that must be carefully calibrated to ensure the regulation achieves its intended goals—whether those be greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction, accelerated zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) adoption, or enhanced fuel economy. Well-designed elements contribute to regulatory clarity, administrative feasibility, market responsiveness, and long-term policy credibility.