
A federal court has put off indefinitely the implementation for trailers under the federal government’s heavy-duty truck fuel efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions standards (GHG2).
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit granted the stay, as requested by the Truck Trailer Manufacturers Association (TTMA) in its petition for a of review the trailer component of GHG 2, reports Fleet Owner.
Trailers were included in the emissions program as an integral part of the vehicle, requiring them to be equipped with aerodynamic devices, fuel efficient tires, and other technologies to improve the overall fuel efficiency of the combination vehicle.
TTMA, however, argued that EPA doesn’t have the authority to regulate trailers under the Clean Air Act.
The stay is being described as indefinite. Until EPA comes out with a final review of the rules for trailers, they can be built not to comply with the GHG2 rules, Fleet Owner reports.
In August, the Environmental Protection Agency announced that the government would “reconsider” portions of GHG 2 that pertain to trailers and truck glider equipment. A week ago, the Office of Management and Budget posted notice that it had received from EPA a draft Proposed Rule that would repeal the GHG 2 emission requirements for glider vehicles, glider engines, and glider kits, reports Fleet Owner.
The court’s grant of a stay pending judicial review will not affect other provisions of the truck standards.
In Canada, the Canadian Trucking Alliance is monitoring the situation and will be working with Environment and Climate Change Canada to determine next steps in light of the US situation.