EPA Considers Further Cut In Truck Emission Limits

The Environmental Protection Agency is reportedly planning to cut truck tailpipe emissions up to 90% more than the already strict new levels that diesel engine makers have agreed to meet by 2002.

To enable engine manufacturers to meet the stringent requirements, which would apparently go into effect in 2007, the EPA will also unveil plans early next year to cut sulfur levels in diesel fuel, according to sources who have seen the proposal.

Even as engine makers work to live up to a bargain to meet stricter emissions standards two years earlier than originally planned – part of a settlement they crafted in October with the EPA to settle alleged emissions cheating – the federal government is said to be readying the even tighter controls.

table width=110 align=left border=0>Engine makers say they can meet tougher standards without affecting engine performance but not without a reduction in the amount of sulfur in diesel fuel. What effect a dramatic drop in sulfur would have on the price of fuel is uncertain.

For the full story, see the Oct. 4 print edition of Transport Topics. Subscribe today.