A new state-funded initiative in Washington is set to accelerate the adoption of zero-emission commercial vehicles and equipment, offering financial incentives across a wide range of sectors including transport, construction, and agriculture.
The programme, known as the Washington Zero-Emission Incentive Program (WAZIP), is backed by $112 million in funding from the state’s Climate Commitment Act and will be administered by the Washington State Department of Transportation. Officials said the scheme is designed to support the transition to cleaner technologies by reducing upfront costs for businesses.
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Speaking at a launch event at the Port of Seattle, Governor Bob Ferguson highlighted the programme’s economic and environmental potential. “It helps businesses modernise their fleets, dealerships increase their sales, and residents live healthier lives through reduced emissions,” Ferguson said, describing the initiative as “an economic powerhouse for our state.”
Under the scheme, vouchers will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and can be applied directly at approved dealerships at the point of sale. More than 100 types of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles are eligible, alongside a broad range of equipment such as construction machinery, agricultural vehicles, airport loaders, commercial boats, forklifts, freight locomotives, and charging infrastructure.
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Authorities said the incentives are expected to cover roughly 40% of the purchase cost, although the exact amount will vary depending on the type of vehicle or equipment. Smaller businesses, defined as those with less than $10 million in annual revenue, will qualify for higher levels of support.
An initial list of eligible vehicles published on the programme’s website includes battery-electric models from manufacturers such as BYD, Freightliner, Kenworth, Mack Trucks, and Volvo. Officials added that a more detailed catalogue with full technical specifications will be released in the coming weeks.
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“It’s exciting to see so many interested in the programme,” said Julie Meredith, Washington State Transportation Secretary. “Our state continues to be at the forefront of innovative opportunity with this programme and opens up clean transportation to those who otherwise may not have thought about it before,” Meredith added.