Back in 2010, CARB implemented a greenhouse gas rule that required California carriers to outfit their vehicles with SmartWay verified equipment to improve aerodynamics and reduce fuel consumption. Unfortunately for CARB, the rule was unenforceable as it conflicted with a previous federal ruling from the EPA. Now, however, the EPA has granted permission for the CARB rule to be enforced, leaving carriers scrambling to become compliant with a 4-year-old rule that they never expected to see again.
The rule stipulates that all model year 2011 and on trailers in California must be outfitted with certain equipment to improve aerodynamics. The specific equipment includes SmartWay verified tires and aero skirts which CARB claims can be purchased for an estimated cost of $1,250, the cost of which would be recouped within 18 months in fuel savings.
However, according to OOIDA, that estimate of $1,250 falls a bit short of a realistic figure. In their comment on the ruling, OOIDA wrote that “…the regulation imposes arbitrary, expensive and inequitable burdens…” on small carriers, especially those operating in California only part time. OOIDA’s estimate places the cost of compliance at between $7,520 and $9,325.
The ATA meanwhile didn’t take a formal stance on the decision, but did note in their comments that the previous lack of enforcement has “likely disadvantaged companies that made timely investments (due to higher initial technology costs) as well as those companies that have observed little to no fuel efficiency benefit from the mandated equipment.”
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Source: federalregister, overdrive
Image Source: truckinginfo
fordconvert says
try to imagine being a trucker who went into a coma in 2009, and woke up today wanting to get ready to hit the road again.
Sam castillo says
No kidding I started in 2009 driving and I’ve seen big changes in the industry during the last 5 years.
Steve Heglmeier says
I put the full SmartTruck UT-6 system on my trailer and it paid for itself in less than 37,000 miles. So if your running your own trucks, the fuel savings on the right device will pay for the system.
Tnt says
Sure makes inspecting the trailer & air lines a pain in the a$$. Someone will die because of it you watch…
Stephen says
I have run these trailers and found them to improve my mileage significantly..in the range of about 0.7mpg. I have no problem with them. I’m still able to get underneath to do an inspection. This rule is fairly innocuous and harmless as far as I’m concerned. There are other battles that need fighting.
Brian W says
Innocuous and harmless? Not “all” trailers are configured to handle this equipment. I pull a tank, have been for 15 years, and I’ve NEVER seen a tank with these skirts on them. As far as tires are concerned, have you priced one of the Michelin X1 tires lately? That tire is supposed to be the best as far as being “green” is concerned. At $1000 each, that’s a pricey way to comply with the almighty CARB. New rims for those super single tires will ding you for $1000 each.
So yeah, let’s all bend over and get compliant with what CARB wants.
And go bankrupt in the process.
California will never see my truck cross their border.
Ross says
I dont have a problem with the devices. I think they can be great. I just have a problem with them being mandated. More over reaching government.
Jeff says
Of course the ATA has nothing to say. It’s a blessing and a curse both to them. It’s a hit to their pocketbook, but just as much of the one to the small fleets in independents they’re doing their best to run into the ground.
james helmuth says
If California wants to push all independent truckers out then fine. Your loads out there don’t pay enough to cover the additional cost for all these major upgrades. I song have 1000 trucks and don’t just pay for drivers. I am my own company and still believe in free enterprise. I hope someday the stupid decisions finally hit them were it hurts most. California keep your crap rules. We don’t need you. 47 other states to run. Mid and east pay better anyways.
james helmuth says
As far as tires. They come with less tread and cost much more. That makes sense. I like my 32/32 drives better than 18/32 drives. It is a big lie.