EPA Sets New Emissions Rules for Trucks to Cut Pollution, Address Climate Change

The EPA issued new emissions standards for heavy-duty trucks to cut air pollution and address climate change. The rules aim to curb 1 billion tons of greenhouse gases and provide $13 billion in annual public health and economic benefits.

California enacted similar but tougher rules last year that will supersede the federal regulations for large truck fleets operating in the state. California's rules mandate increasing electric truck sales through 2042.

The federal rules allow more flexibility in fuels as long as emissions standards are met, but will still likely require more electric trucks.

Transitioning to zero-emission trucks could save nearly 67,000 lives by 2050 but will be expensive, with electric big rigs costing 2-3 times more than diesel trucks.

Truck manufacturers and industry groups welcomed the flexibility but note the challenges around infrastructure and costs to achieve zero-emission trucking.