When you travel on the road during the day, it can be difficult to attend a webinar from your computer. Internet Truckstop recently held a webinar series “Will you be able to drive in California?” and we have summarized the information for Team Run Smart members to read at your convenience below.
Here is the important information drivers need to know about CARB.
Most drivers are aware of the new regulations California Air Regulations Board (CARB) has put into place in an effort to reduce the pollution levels in California. These regulations will affect those who live in California, and those truckers who are simply driving through the state of California. Only 2% of all traffic in California are heavy-duty vehicles. However, this small percentage creates 65% of the total
PM10 emissions inventory. CARB emissions regulations are in effort to reduce this percentage.
CARB’s Diesel Risk Reduction Plan.
The goal of the Diesel Risk Reduction Plan is to reduce harmful emissions by at least 85% by 2020. They now have regulations in place to manage diesel engines and monitor the amount of diesel particulate matter (DPM) being produced. The major aspects of the plan are as follows:
-
Retrofitting engines with emission control systems such as diesel particulate filters or oxidation catalysts.
-
Replacement of existing engines with new-technology diesel engines or natural gas engines.
-
Restrictions placed on the operation of existing equipment.
-
Cleaner diesel fuel requirements (< 15 ppm) i.e. low sulfur fuel
Truck and Bus Regulation.
The Truck and Bus Regulation applies to both private and federal fleets. Diesel trucks over 14,000 lbs. GVWR that will operate in California must have their engines upgraded to 2010 Model-Year engine technology or be removed from fleets by 2023. The engines must meet the 2010 engine emission standards; it does not necessarily have to be a 2010 or older truck model. Trucks 26,000 lbs. GVWR or more are required to have a Particulate Matter (PM) filter installed with 85% or greater efficiency in addition to the upgraded engine standard.
Below is the compliance schedule for trucks over 26,000 lbs. having a compliant engine and PM filter installed.
Engine YR PM Filter 2010 MY Engine
|
1996-1999 |
January 1 2012 |
January 1, 2020 |
|
2000-2004 |
January 1, 2013 |
January 1, 2021 |
|
2005 or newer |
January 1, 2014 |
January 1, 2023 |
|
2007-2009 |
Are already equipped January 1, 2023 |
When you get a filter installed, you must use an ARB approved installer. They will do a pre-installation engine assessment. The engine must be well maintained and perform data logging; then the installer will determine where to place the filter. If your engine needs to be modified to comply with the new regulations, do that before installing your filter. You cannot modify your engine once the filter is installed.
Transportation Refrigeration Units.
There are some specific regulations for Transportation Refrigeration Units (TRUs) coming into California. They must:
-
Replace TRU engine with one that meets ULETRU (Ultra Low Emission)
-
Retrofit engine with correct level of verified diesel controlled emission, or a diesel particulate filter (DPF). These filters will limit the amount of harmful particulates that are dispersed into the air, and bring the truck up to an acceptable CARB standard.
-
Use a CARB-approved alternative technology such as electric standby, hybrid electric, hybrid cryogenic system, pure cryogenic temperature control, electrically driven with cold plates (no engine)
Enforcement.
The California health and safety code has given CARB authority for pollution enforcement. ARB will be working with highway patrol units doing random inspections. They also have agreements with air districts and ports to help enforce compliance of their regulations. Fines and penalties of $300-$10,000 per vehicle, per day can be issued for non-compliance. Liens on real estate, personal property or assets can be put in place if fines are unpaid; even for out-of-state truckers. They also have agreements with the DMV and can prevent license renewal or registration. You don’t want to get caught ignoring these new regulations.
Vehicle Inspection.
If ARB decides to inspect your vehicle, they will look for excessive smoke, engine tampering and illegal diesel. Trucks from anywhere can be subject to inspection. California Highway Patrol (CHP) scales, ports, agricultural inspection stations, rail yards, distribution centers, truck stops and rest areas are likely spots for inspections. Trucks likely to be inspected are those emitting excessive smoke, reefers and trucks not registered in California. Vehicles that don’t comply with the new regulations will be prohibited to operate in California and could face hefty fines. Drivers must be able to provide bill of lading, tractor trailer registration and their driver’s license if requested.
It is only a matter of time before other states begin to adopt similar regulations. So, complying with these standards now will make it easier for you and your business in the future. Did you attend the webinars? Share your feedback below and we will share it with Internet Truckstop!