Fleets operating in California will need to phase out large spark-ignited forklifts in favor of zero-emissions models, as mandated by a new regulation from the California Air Resources Board (CARB). This rule, approved on June 27, stipulates that manufacturers will be prohibited from producing or selling Class IV and Class V large spark-ignited (LSI) forklifts — typically powered by propane, gasoline, and natural gas — in California starting in 2026.
Furthermore, large fleets with 26 or more forklifts must begin phasing out these forklifts in 2028, following a model year-based schedule that ensures no forklift is required to be retired before it is 10 years old. Smaller fleets will follow this phase-out beginning in 2029.
Impact and Scope of the Regulation The regulation specifically targets:
- All Class IV forklifts
- Class V forklifts with a rated capacity of 12,000 pounds or less
This will affect over 89,000 spark-ignited forklifts currently operating in California. CARB has recognized that zero-emission forklifts have higher upfront costs, but the agency argues that fuel savings over time will result in overall savings for most fleets.
Compliance and Timeline The regulation includes provisions for compliance extensions due to delays in infrastructure construction, site electrification, zero-emission forklift delivery, and operational issues where a zero-emission forklift cannot meet an operator’s needs. The phase-out schedule by model year and fleet size is as follows:
- Starting in 2026: Manufacturers cannot produce or sell targeted forklifts in California, and fleet operators cannot acquire these forklifts.
- From 2028 to 2038: Existing targeted forklifts must be phased out by model year. No forklift will be phased out before it is 10 years old. There are less stringent provisions for small fleets, with the first compliance date limiting required turnover to 50% of forklifts for large fleets and 25% for small fleets.
Fleet operators are advised to contact their electric utility providers by March 31, 2026, to discuss potential electrical-service installations or necessary upgrades.
Technology and Adoption Forklifts are well-suited for the adoption of zero-emission technology, with about half of current forklift sales in California already being zero-emission models. These forklifts are commonly used in indoor settings such as warehouses. Emerging technologies for zero-emission forklifts include lithium-ion models, which offer higher energy density and longer lifespans, and fuel cell models, which allow for quick refueling.
CARB’s regulation aims to support the transition to zero-emission forklifts, improving air quality and reducing emissions from industrial operations.
Source:
https://www.truckinginfo.com/10224337/california-requiring-zero-emissions-forklifts
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