Truck Drivers Expose Flaws in EPA Emissions Fix
The Environmental Protection Agency is reviewing more than 13,500 public comments on proposed changes to heavy-duty truck emissions rules, including revisions to how vehicles respond to diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system problems. With the comment period closed, the agency could issue a final rule after completing its review.
OOIDA seeks changes to DEF warnings
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association said an audible warning system could give drivers more time to address DEF-related problems safely without forcing them to significantly reduce speed, miss deliveries or remain out of service for extended periods.
Under current emissions-control systems, unresolved problems such as low DEF levels or system faults can trigger inducements that reduce engine power, commonly known as a derate. Trucking organizations have criticized the potential operational and financial consequences of those measures, particularly when repairs or parts are not immediately available.
OOIDA has urged the EPA to provide drivers with clearer warnings and additional time to correct DEF problems before severe speed or power restrictions take effect.
Industry groups divided over proposed changes
The proposed revisions would affect work trucks, including tractor-trailers and dump trucks. The plan also includes changes to emissions warranty periods and the “useful life” requirements that determine how long vehicles must continue meeting pollution standards.
In addition, the proposal would establish non-conformance penalties that could allow manufacturers to pay a fee when engines do not meet certain emissions requirements. Critics argue that the changes could weaken the effectiveness of the standards and increase pollution near freight corridors and other heavily trafficked areas.
The National Association of Convenience Stores said the EPA should allow existing DEF guidance to be implemented before making further changes. The group noted that DEF is available at more than 100,000 retail locations in North America, including more than 95% of North American truck stops.
NACS also warned that changes suggesting DEF is optional could reduce demand for the fluid and undermine the performance of emissions-control systems.
EPA27 standards remain in place
The proposal would not eliminate the underlying EPA27 emissions standard. PACCAR Senior Director of Powertrain Planning Carl Hergart said the standard remains a significant technological step, with a nitrogen oxide limit of 0.035 grams per horsepower-hour.
That limit represents more than an 80% reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions compared with the current standard and would be among the most stringent heavy-duty emissions requirements in the world, according to Hergart.
Environmental advocates and other critics have raised concerns that reducing warranty periods, delaying useful-life requirements and changing DEF inducements could lead to higher emissions. The EPA’s analysis of the proposal found that the changes could result in additional air pollution, even without fully accounting for the effects of removing or reducing DEF-related inducements.
EPA review now underway
With the public comment period complete, the EPA must review the submissions before deciding whether to finalize, revise or withdraw portions of the proposal. The agency’s final action will determine how emissions warranties, useful-life requirements, DEF warnings and inducement strategies apply to future heavy-duty trucks.
