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EPA looks to add new regulations for trucks

January 20th, 2020 by Dakota Software Staff

EPA looks to add new regulations for trucks

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is looking for comments from the public on a plan to add new emission standards for commercial vehicles. The new standards, together called the Cleaner Trucks Initiative, would target emission of nitrogen oxides, or NOx, as well as some other pollutants.

The EPA also hopes that the new measure will help to streamline regulations, according to Transport Topics.

Cutting Emissions

EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler announced the new initiative at a livestock exchange in rural Virginia. In his statement, Wheeler gave credit to the work that has already been done to cut NOx, while looking forward to the new plan.

"The U.S. has made major reductions in NOx emissions, but through this initiative we will continue to reduce emissions, while spurring innovative new technologies, ensuring heavy-duty trucks are clean and remain a competitive method of transportation," Wheeler said.

According to the EPA, NOx emissions from commercial vehicles have been reduced significantly in recent years, with emissions dropping by 40% between 2007 and 2017. The sector, however, remains one of the largest contributors of NOx emissions in the U.S. The last regulatory change on the issue took place almost 20 years ago, in 2001.

Working with California

One potential issue that Wheeler believes will be addressed is the EPA's current struggle with the state of California over tailpipe emissions standards. The state unveiled tailpipe emissions standards that are stricter than the federal ones created by the EPA. Both the EPA and Department of Transportation have challenged California's ability to set its own standards, an issue which is currently in court.

The EPA believes that all of the involved players, including truck manufacturers, are willing to work with officials in California, according to the Washington Post. The state has not yet published specific updated standards for NOx tailpipe pollution, but plans to in 2020.

In addition to being willing to work California specifically, truck manufacturers are generally supportive of new regulations, although they hope to make sure they have enough time to implement them.

"By doing so [having a lengthier timeline] we can achieve real-world NOx reductions, implement modern in-use compliance protocols, and streamline current redundant regulations," said Jed Mandel, President of the Truck and Engine Manufacturers Association, according to a press release from the organization.

The EPA plans to make its proposed guidelines public in 2020 and publish a final rule in 2021. If everything goes according to the EPA's timeline, these new rules would take effect in 2027.

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