The Canadian government has decided to march in step with California in setting net-zero emissions goals for the auto industry and drivers.

The Liberal administration in Ottawa announced that the national target for banning sales of new cars and light-duty passenger trucks with internal combustion engines has been advanced by five years to 2035.

The accelerated Canadian requirement for zero-emissions vehicles follows examples set by California, the UK, as well as British Columbia and Quebec.

“The Government of Canada remains committed to aligning with the most ambitious light-duty vehicle greenhouse gas emission regulations in the United States,” officials announced. “Supporting a strong and unified North American automotive sector to transition towards zero-emission...