Source: ACT News

Dive into the roots of the Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) rule and you’ll find a response to escalating concerns regarding the adverse environmental impacts from the goods movement. Originating in California from a need to curb air pollution and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, this regulatory initiative emerged as a pivotal strategy to decarbonize and reduce the environmental footprint of the trucking industry.

The ACT rule aims to transition medium- and heavy-duty vehicles from Class 2b to Class 8 to zero-emission models, backed by a comprehensive framework that includes manufacturer sales requirements and reporting mandates for large employers and fleet owners. Developed by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the rule signals a strategic move to address the environmental impact of heavy-duty trucks. It aligns with broader goals of decreasing the transportation sector’s contribution to overall emissions and catalyzing the adoption of cleaner technologies in the trucking industry.

California’s adoption of the zero-emission truck sales mandate quickly mobilized other states to follow suit. In 2020, 15 states and the District of Columbia signed a Multi-State Medium- and Heavy-Duty Zero-Emission Vehicle Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to align states with the goals of the ACT rule. This commitment aims to speed up the adoption of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) in the medium- and heavy-duty trucking sectors, fostering innovation and addressing environmental concerns.

Participating states have pledged collaborative efforts with industry stakeholders to develop programs promoting the integration of ZEVs into their fleets. The original signatories include California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia. Since the creation of the MOU, Nevada, Virginia, and the Province of Quebec in Canada have also signed on. The goal is to enhance the availability of clean transportation options, creating a market environment that supports the development and adoption of zero-emission technologies. The MOU emphasizes the establishment of guiding principles and action plans, outlining specific targets and strategies for integrating ZEVs. This reflects a shared vision among participating states, prioritizing decarbonization and sustainability in the transportation sector.

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