The state Department of Environmental Protection recently outlined a series of mandatory emissions reduction rules it will propose that mirror California’s advanced clean truck rules. Those rules require manufacturers to sell an increasing proportion of zero-emissions trucks and also include a reporting requirement to help develop the next phase of rules related to fleet purchases.
The NJDEP is also proposing rules requiring nitrogen oxide emissions standards for new medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. Another new regulation would subject medium-duty vehicles to periodic inspections to ensure they’re in compliance with emissions standards rules and to prevent tampering with controls. The NJDEP will also look to eventually ban the sale of heavy fuels.
While these proposals are primarily aimed at vehicle manufacturers, they would directly impact medium and heavy truck dealerships here in New Jersey. Dealers want to sell what consumers want to buy, including individuals and businesses in the market for medium or heavy trucks. It is critical that any new rules take consumer demand into consideration.
The rule proposals will be published in the New Jersey Register in Spring 2021, followed by public hearings. Once NJ CAR sees the details of the proposals, we will communicate the industry’s concerns to the NJDEP to ensure the Department considers the impact of any new rules on New Jersey’s medium and heavy truck retailers. More information to follow.