The Biden-Harris Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently finalized the strongest-ever greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions regulations for heavy-duty trucks. These rules represent a major push from the federal government to encourage the trucking industry’s eventual transition to zero-emission freight transportation and the reduction of pollution.

While electric vehicles may be an inevitability, the standards restricting carbon emissions may push the trucking industry to adopt them before the costs make sense for the companies involved.

Supporters of the EPA Regulations

Environmental and Health Advocates – Heavy-duty trucks represent 5% of the vehicles on the country’s roads, yet make up 20% of emissions. This makes sense, considering how much they are on the road, and environmental advocates have made trucks a target for reduction of emissions. Environmental groups, such as the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), support the new regulations from the EPA. Climate change is not the only issue on the table, as lower emissions also reduces air pollution. This is why groups such as the American Lung Association also applaud the rulings.

Electric Industry Leaders – While the burden for decarbonization will fall on existing truck manufacturers, a winner of the new EPA policy will be the companies creating the trucks of tomorrow. Electric heavy-duty trucks may not be ready for prime time yet, but these regulations will help expedite their eventual adoption. The new EPA emissions standards are supported by companies the develop electric and hydrogen fuel cell trucks, such as Tesla and Nikola Motors.

Opponents of the EPA Regulations

Trucking Associations – Certain trucking associations express concerns over the economic impact of implementing these stringent regulations. The American Trucking Associations calls the new EPA rules “unachievable standards”. The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) says that the Biden-Harris administration is placating “environmental activists” over those who run the important business of trucking. Some in trucking argue that the transition to cleaner technologies will prove too financially difficult for smaller trucking companies.

Legacy Manufacturers – As with any political policy, there are winners and losers. If electric truck manufacturers hope to see a boost with these regulations, legacy manufacturers of heavy-duty trucks will see their investment in the diesel-driven trucks become increasingly irrelevant. Some manufacturers are cautious about the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of meeting the new standards. They fear increased production costs and potential loss of competitiveness in the market.

In summary, trucking associations and certain manufacturers voice concerns about the financial consequences and viability of compliance, while environmental advocates and progressive business executives applaud the EPA’s new requirements as a critical step towards sustainability. A major obstacle to putting these policies into effect is continuing to strike a balance between economic and environmental benefits.