CARB call proves productive

UMA Staff

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The California Air Resource Board (CARB) facilitated a video conference call with the California Bus Association (CBA) earlier today to discuss:

1)   Accelerating the 2027 Environmental Protection Agency derate schedule;

2)   Significantly reduced engine availability for 2024, 2025, and 2026.

3)   Advanced Clean Fleets

Summarizing the call, CARB advised they had taken an earlier request under advisement, conversed with EPA and were amenable to program modifications to pre-2027 vehicles. The burden now rests with the engine manufacturers to contact CARB with their program changes.

Regarding the 2024-2026 shortage of engines, the CARB representatives seemed perplexed as the most recent engine manufacturer agreement sought to avoid imposing hardships. CARB advised the one manufacturer indicated they would likely meet 91-95% of demand under the agreement. While CARB requires additional information to get to the bottom of the issue, they currently feel the current language is sufficient.

At this time, the CARB Advanced Clean Fleets regulation promulgated with the goal of achieving a zero-emission truck and bus California fleet by 2045 everywhere feasible does not have broad flexibility but offers provisions for individual operating companies to file for exceptions. 

“The California Bus Association did a great job of preparing for this meeting,” said UMA’s Ken Presley. “We are proud to participate in support of their efforts as the outcome affects UMA Members across the U.S., and a special shoutout to Phil Strief for his tireless work in the area of obtaining a more favorable inducement schedule.” Join the UMA Town Hall Thursday, September 7, 2:00 PM (ET), for further updates and more.