The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) seems intent on killing off heavy-duty truck glider kits with the latest round of greenhouse gas emission reductions. The EPA announced in the July 13 Federal Register that it is proposing to require that rebuilt engines installed in new incomplete vehicles (glider kits) meet the emission standards applicable in the year of assembly, including all applicable standards for criteria pollutants.
The US House of Representatives moved to block the agency plans by passing an amendment to prohibit EPA from using funds to finalize, implement, administer, or enforce proposed restrictions on the manufacture and sale of glider kits and vehicles built from them. The amendment was offered by Rep Diane Black (R-TN) as part of the debate on HR 2822, the Department of the Interior, Environment and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2016.
EPA also is looking at non-GHG emission standards relating to the use of auxiliary power units installed in tractors. In addition, the agency is proposing to clarify the classification of natural gas engines and other gaseous-fueled heavy-duty engines, and is proposing closed crankcase standards for emissions of all pollutants from natural gas heavy-duty engines.
Phase 2 of the comprehensive program for reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and fuel consumption for heavy-duty on-road vehicles would launch with the 2018 model year and would continue to be rolled out through 2027.