The California Air Resources Board has taken a significant step toward combating air pollution and enhancing environmental sustainability by implementing the Clean Truck Check regulation.
This groundbreaking initiative, set to take effect later this year, marks a pivotal moment for truck owners operating in California.
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Understanding the Clean Truck Check Regulation
Previously called the Heavy Duty Inspection and Maintenance (HD I/M) Program, the Clean Truck Check regulation in California operates under the framework of the Clean Air Act.
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is entrusted with the task of developing comprehensive strategies to mitigate the emission of smog-forming and toxic pollutants from heavy-duty, non-gasoline vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) exceeding 14,000 pounds, including trucks, buses and other heavy-duty vehicles.
Recognizing the persistent contribution of these vehicles to the state’s air quality challenges, the regulation aims to address the gaps in previous efforts over the last four decades. Previous initiatives included regulations on new engine standards, warranties, durability requirements, in-use truck rules and incentive programs for environmental-friendly technology.
The Clean Truck Check Program introduces a robust Heavy-Duty Inspection and Maintenance system, ensuring that modern heavy-duty diesel vehicles, equipped with advanced after treatment systems, are well-maintained and promptly repaired when needed.
The program employs an integrated strategy incorporating roadside emissions monitoring, improved emissions testing procedures utilizing onboard diagnostics data, regular emissions checks and mandatory data reporting intervals.
Why Is the Clean Truck Check Regulation Important?
The trucking industry is responsible for a significant number of deaths, mainly due to road accidents. There were 5,700 fatal trucking accidents in 2021. This number represents an 18% increase from 2020 and a 49% increase over the last decade.
A percentage of these crashes are a result of vehicle problems including brake issues, tire problems and cargo shifts. Companies could’ve prevented many of these accidents if they had properly maintained and regularly checked the conditions of their trucks.
Additionally, trucks and other heavy-duty vehicles accounted for 23% of transportation emissions, making them the second leading contributor of greenhouse gas emissions in the sector. These emissions can have a detrimental effect on drivers’ health, air quality, human health and climate change.
By imposing compliance verification requirements on freight contractors, seaports and railyards, the regulation aims to level the playing field for businesses operating these vehicles. When fully implemented, the Clean Truck Check regulation is projected to significantly reduce statewide nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions by over 81 tons per day and particulate matter (PM) emissions by 0.7 tons per day in 2037, resulting in an estimated 7,500 avoided premature deaths.
What Does This Mean for Truck Owners?
This new regulation will affect all fleets entering the state of California, even if they were registered out of state. This program doesn’t apply to zero-emissions vehicles.
Starting on January 1, 2024, CARB only permitted zero-emissions drayage trucks to register on the online platform. CARB also requires all drayage trucks entering the state through railyards or seaports to be zero-emission by 2035.
Commencing on April 1, 2024, the Clean Truck Check program is set to bring about a transformative shift for truck owners in California, mandating periodic emissions testings. Owners are now obligated to register their trucks in the Clean Truck Check vehicle inspection system, with a $30 per vehicle compliance fee.
The ARB has rolled the program out in three phases, with the initial phase commencing in January 2023. During this phase, roadside emissions monitoring equipment was deployed to assess vehicles for potential high emissions. Those identified as potential high emitters received a “notice to submit to testing” and were required to undergo a compliance test within 30 days of receiving the notice.
The second phase, initiated in September 2023, requires owners to register their trucks and pay the associated fee. Effective from April 2024, vehicles falling under regulation must undergo emissions compliance tests twice a year, with the exception of motorhomes and agricultural vehicles, which must pass once a year.
The first testing cycle begins in July 2024. After the initial three years of periodic testing requirements, the frequency escalates to four times per year starting April 1, 2027, specifically for vehicles equipped with onboard diagnostics systems.
Vehicles with 2013 or more recent model engines can undergo inspections with a certified diagnostics scan. However, engines older than 2013 will need to undergo visual inspections. This phased approach underscores the program’s commitment to promoting cleaner air and maintaining the integrity of California’s environmental standards.
What Does This Mean for Truck Drivers?
Truck drivers will need to ensure they have the necessary documents indicating compliance. Truck owners must ensure that they maintain their fleets and emission controls are working properly. Both drivers and owners are responsible for picking up any issues and repairing them promptly.
Drivers must be able to access proof of successful testing during roadside inspections. If emissions are potentially higher, CARB will send out a notice and liable parties will be required to submit a passing test within 30 days. Continue the biannual periodic testing to ensure the vehicle is safe and adequately maintained.
What Does This Mean for the Trucking Industry?
The implementation of this regulation will likely bring about significant changes in the trucking industry, with many states expected to follow California’s lead. The mandatory periodic emissions testing, focusing on vehicles’ compliance with environmental standards will instigate a heightened awareness and commitment toward reducing emissions among truck owners and operators. This shift toward cleaner and well-maintained vehicles aligns with the broader environmental sustainability goals.
The introduction of certified diagnostics scans and visual inspections, depending on the engine’s model year, reflects a technological advancement in monitoring and ensuring emissions compliance. These inspections encourage the adoption of modern, more eco-friendly trucks and even the possibility of electric trucks (EVs) in the future.
What Does It Mean for the Environment?
CARB expects the program to have a positive environmental impact by targeting a major source of air pollutants. This regulation will likely result in significant reductions in NOx and PM emissions.
By enforcing compliance with emission control measures, the program contributes to improving air quality across the state. The reduction in harmful pollutants has direct implications for public health, as decreased NOx and PM emissions are linked to lower rates of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
Additionally, the shift toward cleaner and properly maintained trucks will likely promote the adoption of advanced technologies and cleaner fuels within the trucking industry. As a result, the overall carbon footprint of the sector may decrease, contributing to California’s efforts to combat climate change.
A Driving Force for Change
The Clean Truck Check regulation represents a crucial stride toward a cleaner and healthier environment, demonstrating the commitment of the state to pioneering sustainable practices within the trucking industry.
As truck owners and trucking companies adapt to these changes, the collective impact promises to be a positive force in mitigating the longstanding air quality challenges faced by the state.