The EPA is set to issue a proposed rule today that would significantly increase fuel efficiency in heavy duty trucks while at the same time limiting greenhouse gas tailpipe emissions. The proposed rule is important to petroleum marketers not only because it would reduce diesel fuel consumption in heavy duty trucks by 33 percent but also add $10,000 to $12,000 onto the cost of new cargo tank trucks.
According the proposal, the rule will apply to trucks built between 2019 and 2027, and is expected to achieve reductions of about one billion tons of greenhouse gases. In addition, the proposed rule will set emissions targets for other types of trucks larger than light-duty pickups, including delivery vehicles, dump trucks and buses. Fuel efficiency for heavy duty trucks would rise from a current average of 6 MPG to 9 MPG under the rule.
The trucking industry is divided over the proposed rule. Some truck engine manufacturers are skeptical of aspects of the proposal, including the technical feasibility of making such a large leap in fuel efficiency over a short period of time. However, other engine manufacturers, including Cummings, support the proposed rule. In response to the trucking industry’s concerns, the EPA is completing a new “truck treadmill” testing lab in Michigan specifically intended to handle the testing of big rigs, and to guide development of the new regulations. The proposal to be announced on Friday will be open to public comment. The EPA, in conjunction with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is expected to release a final version of the rule next year.
PMAA will closely analyze the proposed rule when it becomes available and formulate a response that reflects the interests of petroleum marketers.
