The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has unveiled the GHG Emissions Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles – Phase 3 rule (HDV rule), aiming to reduce heavy-duty vehicles’ reliance on oil. This move addresses energy security, economic vulnerabilities, and public health concerns associated with petroleum consumption. The EC has actively campaigned for a robust final rule, garnering support from businesses and mayors to advocate for stronger regulations.
Ben Prochazka, executive director of the Electrification Coalition, issued the following statement in this regard:
“By outlining a reduction in tailpipe emissions through 2032, today’s ruling is an important step towards ending our nation’s dependence on oil for transportation. Despite strong light-duty EV sales growth in recent years, progress in the heavy-duty space has been slow, so this announcement provides much-needed certainty for the heavy-duty market and supports the charging infrastructure necessary to power the electric trucks of tomorrow.
“Heavy-duty electrification strengthens national security by reducing our dependence on global oil markets controlled by bad actors who do not share our democratic values and protects public health, particularly in underserved communities.
“Today’s announcement by the EPA is a keystone element of a comprehensive suite of federal and state policies which will spur generational investments in heavy-duty electrification, creating good American jobs while accelerating us into an electric future. However, there is much more work to be done at the state and local level to accelerate truck electrification, including efforts like Advanced Clean Trucks and expanding charging infrastructure for heavy-duty vehicles.
“Complimented by a recent flurry of federal action, including last week’s update to the EPA’s light- and medium-duty GHG emissions standards, the U.S. Department of Energy announcement of an updated fuel economy formula for EVs, and National Zero Emission Freight Corridor Strategy, we appreciate the Biden-Harris administration’s comprehensive push towards an electrified transportation network.”
