Colorado Gov. Jared Polis has signed an executive order designed to support a transition to zero-emission passenger vehicles (cars and light trucks) and help the state reach 100% renewable electricity by 2040.

Directives of the executive order include creating an interdepartmental transportation electrification workgroup to support transportation electrification programs and strategies; establishing a Colorado Zero Emission vehicle program; revising how the state will allocate nearly $70 million received in trust funds due to the settlement of the federal Volkswagen emissions case; and developing a department electric vehicle policy and plan designed to assure that state transportation investments and programs support widespread transportation electrification, according to the executive order.

"Today's executive order will strengthen our economy and protect the wallets of consumers across the state," said Polis. "As we continue to move towards a cleaner electric grid, the public health and environmental benefits of widespread transportation electrification will only increase."

The state currently offers a $5,000 tax credit for passenger electric vehicles; partners with the private sector to build fast charging stations along Colorado’s major highways; allocates a portion of Volkswagen settlement funds to support vehicle electrification; and adopted a goal of 940,000 EVs on the road by 2030.