California Sets Ambitious Target: Only Zero-Emission Trucks Permitted in the State by 2045

 
California Implements Groundbreaking Regulation: All Trucks Must Be Zero-Emission by 2045

In a pioneering move, California has unveiled a landmark regulation that mandates all medium- and heavy-duty trucks operating in the state to be zero-emission by 2045. This ambitious Advanced Clean Fleets rule, recently approved by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) in Sacramento, seeks to gradually transition commercial fleet operators toward nonpolluting alternatives such as battery-electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles. Furthermore, the regulation also sets a deadline of 2036 for the prohibition of internal combustion engine truck sales, while certain high-impact areas like ports and warehouse districts must comply with zero-emission requirements by 2035.

CARB asserts that this regulation is the first of its kind worldwide, highlighting the board's authority to establish more stringent emissions standards compared to federal regulations. To facilitate the transition, California currently offers incentives of up to $120,000 for battery electric semis and $240,000 for hydrogen trucks, ensuring a market and demand for zero-emission vehicles among manufacturers, truck owners, and fuel providers. CARB estimates that the shift to clean trucks will generate health savings of approximately $27 million through improved air quality and result in potential cost savings of up to $48 billion for fleet operators by 2050.

CARB Chair Liane Randolph emphasized the availability of existing technology to commence the journey towards a zero-emission future. She stated that the Advanced Clean Fleets rule represents an innovative and reasonable approach to mitigate vehicle emissions, enabling Californians to enjoy the clean air they desire and deserve.

California's pursuit of cleaner air stems from its unique challenges, including a dry climate, frequent wildfires, and a substantial number of vehicles on the roads. Although passenger vehicles outnumber commercial trucks in the state, the latter accounts for over 35% of nitrogen oxide emissions from transportation and 25% of on-road greenhouse gas emissions. Nationally, cars and trucks contribute to more than a quarter of the total carbon dioxide emissions in the United States.

Leading manufacturers such as Volvo, Freightliner, Kenworth, Peterbilt, Hyundai, Tesla, BYD, as well as startups like Nikola and Hyzon, have already begun supplying battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell trucks to California fleets. Additionally, Cummins, the world's largest diesel engine producer, is expanding its electric propulsion offerings through the Accelera brand.

However, the American Trucking Associations, representing freight haulers, expressed concerns about the new rule, citing unrealistic targets and unattainable timelines. They anticipate potential repercussions such as increased prices for goods and services delivered to the state, coupled with reduced consumer options. ATA Criticizes California's Zero-Emission Truck Rule, Raises Concerns Over Cost and Infrastructure

Chris Spear, President, and CEO of the American Trucking Associations (ATA), expressed discontent with California's recent decision to enforce the purchase of zero-emission trucks. In an emailed statement, Spear criticized the California Air Resources Board's (CARB) ruling, highlighting the steep costs, lack of charging and refueling infrastructure, and the need for additional trucks to compensate for potential limitations of zero-emission vehicles. The ATA's statement did not clarify whether they intend to take legal action against the new rule.
This funding is part of a comprehensive $9 billion package for zero-emissions vehicles, previously agreed upon by Governor Gavin Newsom and the state legislature in 2021.

CARB stated that fleets will be permitted to continue operating their existing trucks until the end of their useful life, providing some flexibility during the transition period. As a result of the new regulation, CARB estimates that approximately 1.7 million zero-emission trucks will be in operation in California by 2050.

Notably, CARB's announcement regarding the truck regulation closely follows its commitment to reducing exhaust pollution from diesel trains, further emphasizing California's determination to tackle emissions across various transportation sectors.