On Tuesday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced extensive new emissions standards for heavy-duty trucks that will take effect starting in Model Year 2027.
EPA Introduces “Strongest-Ever” National Clean Air Standards
The EPA unveiled a Final Rule on heavy-duty truck emissions standards on December 20. The agency claims that these new emissions regulations are the “strongest-ever national clean air standards,” stating they are over 80% more stringent than the existing regulations.
This change represents the first modification to federal heavy-duty truck emissions standards since 2001. The new rule will come into force 60 days following its publication in the Federal Register.
Beginning no later than Model Year 2027, truck manufacturers will need to meet nitrogen oxide emissions benchmarks that are more than 80% lower than current levels. According to an EPA news release, “Compared to current regulations, the new standards are more than 80% stronger, extend the useful life of the regulated vehicles by 1.5–2.5 times, and provide warranties on emissions that are 2.8–4.5 times longer.” This final rule includes provisions for extended useful life and warranty periods, ensuring that as vehicles age, they remain compliant with EPA’s stricter emissions standards. Additionally, manufacturers will be tasked with ensuring that vehicle engines and emissions control systems function effectively on the road, including measures to limit access to tamper-prone electronic pollution controls.
Tuesday’s ruling marks the initial phase of the EPA’s three-part Clean Trucks Plan, with the agency planning to announce the subsequent steps in the coming months.
“The EPA is taking important steps to safeguard public health, especially for the 72 million individuals residing near truck freight routes in the U.S., including vulnerable populations in historically underrepresented communities,” remarked EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “This is just the first move in the EPA’s Clean Trucks Plan, aimed at moving towards a zero-emissions future. These stringent standards, combined with significant investments from the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will help to accelerate President Biden’s ambitious goal of transforming the trucking industry and ensuring cleaner air for all.”
Concerns From Trucking Groups Over New Emissions Standards
The new EPA regulations have sparked concerns among trucking organizations like the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), which argues that smaller trucking businesses may struggle to afford compliant vehicles. OOIDA President Todd Spencer stated, “If small business truckers find it too expensive to obtain new compliant trucks, they may continue using older, inefficient models or exit the industry altogether. Once again, the EPA appears to have overlooked the concerns raised by truckers in their latest rule.”
The Truck and Engine Manufacturers Association (EMA) has also cautioned about the financial implications of the new emissions standards. EMA President Jed R. Mandel indicated, “While we are in the process of reviewing the specifics of the newly introduced NOX emissions regulation, it is clear that the rule is very strict and will be difficult to implement. Our members are committed to collaborating with the EPA and other stakeholders to ensure this rule is successfully enacted. Ultimately, the rule’s success will depend on the willingness and ability of trucking fleets to invest in new technology to replace their older, more polluting vehicles.”
