Emissions Gear Seen Cutting ’07 Trucks’ Carrying Capacity

ruck makers and fleet managers said they are concerned new diesel particulate filters and engine-cooling systems in 2007 trucks could decrease hauling capacity.

Manufacturers estimated carriers could lose between 200 and 300 pounds because of the weight of filters and systems needed to meet stricter federal emission standards that take effect in January.

“Anyone that runs maximum loads is always concerned” about losing capacity, said Jerry Warmkessel, marketing product manager for Mack Trucks. “More weight on the truck means less payload in the trailer, and there’s not much we can do about that. The problem is that all trucks will increase in weight by several hundred pounds.”