Oregon Low Emission Vehicles

Oregon’s ”LEV” emission standards apply to 2009 and newer vehicles and require manufacturers to reduce their overall fleet emissions. These rules are based on what can be achieved using available technology. The standards mirror California’s landmark emission standards for light-duty vehicles and will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from cars and trucks 30 percent by 2016.

Most of the reductions will be achieved by improving vehicle efficiency. DEQ expects the fuel efficiency of all 2016 model-year cars and trucks to average more than 35 miles per gallon.

Emission Reductions for 2025

In the future, DEQ plans to propose another round of greenhouse gas reductions from new vehicles sold in Oregon. If approved by the Environmental Quality Commission, the new limits will reduce emissions an additional 20 percent. These new regulations are based on available technology and were developed with the participation and agreement of the auto industry.

DEQ expects manufacturers to meet these requirements by further improving vehicle efficiency. We expect the average fuel efficiency of 2025 model-year cars and trucks will be approximately 50 miles per gallon.

These rules will also reduce traditional tailpipe pollution 70 percent.

Oregon’s LEV Standard is Cost Effective

Rules setting standards for reduced emissions may increase the average cost of new cars and trucks. However, the savings from the reduced operating expenses of more efficient vehicles will more than offset any increased up-front costs. New car and truck owners can expect “off the lot” savings—savings that begin the first month of ownership. In addition, because Oregon has no petroleum industry, dollars spent on fuel quickly leave the state. Dollars saved on fuel will circulate within our economy for a longer period and will help multiply the overall benefits to Oregon’s economy.

An Important Part of Oregon’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Goals

The Low Emission Vehicle program was one of the first significant actions taken toward Oregon’s goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 75 percent by 2050.

These reductions are in addition to the reductions DEQ proposes to achieve through the Oregon Clean Fuels Program which would also cut the greenhouse gas emissions of gasoline and diesel another 10 percent.

Additional Pollution Reductions

Oregon's LEV requirements reduce other types of pollution in several ways. The rules decrease emissions that cause ground-level ozone and a host of other toxic pollutants. The program also promotes the production of pollution free vehicles.

More Information

• Fact Sheet: Low Emission Vehicles Program
• Learn more about technology used to reduce vehicle emissions on DEQ’s Advancing Technology site.

For more information about the development of Oregon’s LEV rules and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from transportation sources, please see these Reference Materials.

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