March 2024

Interesting news coming out from California this month as regulators unanimously vote to ban new diesel big rigs by 2036 and mandate all trucks to be zero-emission by 2042 in the state. With much resentment from the automobile and shipping industries, this new regulation will be implemented in the not-so-distant future. Although controversial, this Advanced Clean Fleets rule positions California as a leader in combatting national tailpipe pollution.

The regulation, the first of its kind globally, requires new commercial trucks, including garbage and delivery trucks, to be electric. The directive is projected to generate approximately $26.5 billion in public health advantages within California by preventing health-related consequences and fatalities associated with diesel pollution. One of the first industries to be impacted is the Californian ports. The initial deadline pertains to drayage trucks, which are responsible for transporting cargo to and from major ports. These trucks are mandated to transition to electric models by 2035. Additionally, starting in 2024, any new sales of these trucks must adhere to zero-emission standards. Moreover, vehicles such as garbage trucks and school buses are required to achieve zero-emissions status by 2027.

Major truck manufacturers oppose this regulation change due to costs and lack of EV infrastructure currently in place. The mandate targets companies with 50+ trucks, pushing for electric or hydrogen models and zero emissions by 2042. California's influence could spur other states to follow suit. This aligns with California's commitment to 100% renewable energy by 2045, with the state taking aggressive regulatory action to achieve this goal.