A group of trucking associations is urging governors in nine states to reconsider the Advanced Clean Trucks initiative and collaborate with the industry to explore more effective methods for reducing truck emissions.
On December 17, eight state trucking associations sent a letter to the governors of nine states that have implemented Advanced Clean Trucks regulations, voicing their apprehensions regarding the new mandates. These associations represent motor carriers in Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Washington, addressing the current governors as well as Washington Governor-elect Bob Ferguson.
Advanced Clean Trucks Overview
The Advanced Clean Trucks regulations require manufacturers to progressively sell a larger share of zero-direct-emission trucks through the model year 2035, with some states beginning these requirements as early as model year 2025. Specifically, in those states, 7% of new truck sales must consist of zero-emission trucks starting January 1, 2025.
A total of 11 states, including California, have adopted the Advanced Clean Trucks standards. Five states will begin enforcing the rules next year: Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and Washington. Vermont is set to start in 2026, while the remaining states will implement the regulations in 2027.
Request for Delay
In their letter, the trucking associations are not advocating for the elimination of Advanced Clean Trucks but rather requesting a delay in the implementation of the new rules. They argue that the current truck technology does not support the new manufacturer requirements, which may lead to job losses and keep older, less eco-friendly trucks on the roads for longer periods.
One significant concern highlighted is the absence of adequate charging infrastructure. Since New York adopted Advanced Clean Trucks in 2021, no charging stations for medium- or heavy-duty trucks have been developed. The letter emphasizes the urgent need for this infrastructure, stating that even with ongoing efforts to secure federal funding for an EV truck charging corridor along Interstate 5, it could take years to complete.
Challenges Faced by Dealers
Truck dealers in New York have already begun to feel the adverse effects of the Advanced Clean Trucks policy even before it officially commenced. Burr Truck, a dealer based in Vestal, N.Y., reported a loss of 200 orders for diesel trucks, citing Volvo’s requirement of selling one battery-electric truck before being allowed to order or sell 13 diesel trucks, despite the lack of demand for zero-emission trucks.
The trucking associations express that many dealers across the U.S. are struggling to adapt to the new situation, with many on the brink of closure after serving their communities for generations. They also note the trucking industry’s history of collaborating with governments to lower emissions without the need for mandates, such as the EPA’s SmartWay program established in 2004. This initiative has effectively reduced the environmental footprint of carriers without imposing strict governmental regulations.
In their letter, the associations call for a deferral of the ACT implementation date to mitigate the negative impacts on dealers and trucking firms, advocating for a cooperative effort to achieve the states’ environmental objectives.
