Stakeholders in the trucking industry, including truck dealerships, are requesting that New York state officials delay the implementation of the Advanced Clean Trucks initiative, which is scheduled to commence next year.
Industry Concerns During Webinar
On October 17, the Trucking Association of New York conducted a webinar to advocate for postponing the Advanced Clean Trucks regulation. New requirements mandating the sale of zero-direct-emission trucks are slated to take effect in January. Starting with model year 2025 trucks, a specified percentage of new truck sales must consist of zero-emission vehicles, escalating annually until model year 2035. Ultimately, these regulations will necessitate that 40% of new Class 7-8 tractor sales are zero-emission, with other Class 4-8 vehicles facing a staggering 75% requirement.
Sales Targets and Current Registration Challenge
Trucking stakeholders are demanding an immediate halt to Advanced Clean Trucks, arguing that the proposed sales targets are unrealistic. Kendra Hems, president of the Trucking Association of New York, highlighted that New York sees an average of 4,000 Class 8 trucks registered annually. Starting next year, 7% of those, equating to 280 trucks, will need to be zero-emission; however, fewer than 40 Class 7-8 zero-emission trucks are currently registered in the state.
Support for Zero-Emission Vehicles, but Practical Limitations
Hems emphasized the association’s commitment to zero-emission vehicle adoption while noting the impracticalities of the regulation. “This policy imposes a mandate on our truck dealers in New York, compelling them to sell vehicles to an industry that presently has limited use, making regulatory compliance unattainable,” she said.
Challenges Faced by Truck Dealerships
Chuck Burr, president of Burr Truck in Vestal, N.Y., who has advocated for zero-emission trucks, expressed concerns that the Advanced Clean Trucks initiative could jeopardize his business. Burr supports New York’s goal of achieving zero emissions by 2040 but fears the regulations may threaten his company’s survival.
Infrastructure Shortcomings Hindering Adoption
One major obstacle to adopting electric trucks is the insufficient charging infrastructure. Hems pointed out that since New York adopted the Advanced Clean Trucks initiative in 2021, no publicly available heavy-duty chargers have been established in the state. Tom Heiland, president of Utica Mack, reiterated that while the state is investing in charging facilities for passenger vehicles, none are designated for electric trucks.
Legislative Support for a Delay
There appears to be growing support in the New York legislature for delaying the Advanced Clean Trucks initiative. Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo expressed her intention to continue discussions when the legislative session opens in January. While lawmakers are committed to state climate objectives, Lupardo emphasized the importance of realistic timelines that align with industry capacities.
As of now, ten states have adopted California’s Advanced Clean Trucks rule, with some opting for later implementation dates, while states like Washington are set to begin enforcement next year. The Advanced Clean Trucks rule is also facing legal challenges, with a federal court case pending following a petition from 19 state attorneys general and a coalition of stakeholders, including the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, alleging the rule’s unconstitutionality.
