Although the deadline has passed for small fleet owners to opt for California’s phased-in greenhouse gas compliance schedule, officials have hinted registering soon might yield them leeway.
In July, the board extended the reporting deadline to Sept. 1 for small companies that want to use the more relaxed compliance deadline. This schedule allows small fleets up to four years to install Environmental Protection Agency SmartWay verified aerodynamic equipment on their trailers, including side skirts and trailer tails, instead of requiring this by Jan. 1.
It defines small fleet as having no more than 20 model year 2010 and older model 53-foot or longer trailers operating on California highways and applies to dry van and reefers. It does not include drayage tractors and trailers that operate within a 100-mile radius of a port or intermodal rail yard.
CARB has stated that small carriers that have not registered still should do as soon as possible.
“[CARB] can exercise discretion in how we implement the regulation, and may take into consideration a good faith effort in determining compliance,” the board recently posted on its website. Clarification of what this discretion could mean for owners was not available by deadline.
Regardless of which schedule owners choose, they also must have fuel efficient, low-rolling resistance tires on their trailer by 2017.
More information may be obtained by calling 866-6-DIESEL (866-634-3735) or emailing [email protected] or visiting CARB’s website.
