The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recently announced the implementation of the toughest standards yet for greenhouse gas emissions from heavy-duty vehicles such as big rigs and buses. These new rules, which apply to model years 2027 to 2032, aim to significantly reduce emissions from a major contributor to climate change. Heavy-duty vehicles account for 25% of transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions in the United States.

According to the EPA, these stringent standards are projected to eliminate a billion tons of emissions by 2055, equivalent to removing the pollution caused by 13 million tanker trucks filled with gasoline. This move comes as part of the Biden administration's commitment to meeting climate goals outlined in the Paris climate accord and addressing the largest portion of the country's carbon footprint, which stems from transportation.

In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the new regulations are expected to have a positive impact on air quality for approximately 72 million Americans residing within 200 meters of truck freight routes. By curbing the production of soot and smog-forming pollutants, the EPA aims to improve the overall well-being of communities affected by heavy-duty vehicle emissions.

During a press call with EPA Administrator Michael Regan, Paul Billings, the national senior vice president of public policy at the American Lung Association, expressed gratitude for the implementation of the new standards, stating, "On behalf of everyone who breathes, thank you for responding to the comments from health experts and community voices and recognizing the innovation that is occurring every day in the heavy-duty vehicle sector."

The proposed rule received an overwhelming response, with over 175,000 comments submitted before its finalization. While some industry stakeholders voiced concerns, including the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, which worried that the stricter greenhouse gas standards could lead to a delay in upgrading to cleaner vehicles, the Biden administration assured that the rules would be "technology-neutral." This allows businesses to choose between hybrid, electric, fuel cell, or advanced internal combustion engine vehicles.

The Biden administration estimates that these regulations will generate significant cost savings for businesses. Heavy-duty trucks purchased in 2032, for example, could see fuel and maintenance cost reductions ranging from $3,700 to $10,500 annually.

Earlier this month, the EPA also announced new standards for pollution from light and medium-duty vehicles, with the aim of accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles. Although these regulations are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 50% by 2032, they are not as strict as initially proposed, due to opposition from car companies and labor unions.