The EPA has implemented a new rule that will require heavy-duty trucks to reduce their nitrogen dioxide emissions by 50% by 2045. This will significantly increase operating costs for trucking companies, which will likely be passed on to consumers.
The goal of the rule is to encourage trucking companies to switch from diesel-powered vehicles to electric vehicles. However, the costs associated with complying with the rule may cause financial strain on small and medium-sized trucking companies that cannot afford to transition to EVs. These regulations are not as strict as those in California, where heavy vehicles are required to cut nitrogen oxide emissions by 75% by 2024 and 90% by 2027.
These regulations caused issues during the COVID-19 pandemic as non-compliant trucks were not allowed into ports, leading to delays in unloading ships.
This will increase operating costs for trucking companies, according to industry experts and representatives. The Texas Trucking Association President stated that the costs associated with the rule will not only be borne by the industry but will also lead to higher prices for consumers. A former EPA Chief of Staff during the Trump administration and a senior policy analyst for the Independent Women’s Forum characterized the rule as an “overreach” that caters to the goals of activist groups rather than maintaining a balanced approach.
The rule, which is more than 80% stricter than the previous regulation, will require large trucks, delivery vans, and buses manufactured after 2027 to reduce nitrogen dioxide emissions by nearly 50% by 2045. The goal of the rule is to encourage trucking companies to switch to electric vehicles instead of diesel-powered ones. However, the compliance costs associated with the rule may be difficult for some companies to bear, particularly if they are not ready to transition to electric vehicles.
Mandy Gunasekara, a senior policy analyst for the Independent Women’s Forum and former EPA Chief of Staff during the Trump administration, stated that the new EPA rule is an “overreach” that prioritizes the goals of activist groups over maintaining balance. She also warned that the rule may financially strain small and medium-sized trucking companies as they may not be able to afford the expensive equipment required to comply with the new standards.