Resetting NHTSA's Fuel Economy Program: Commercial Medium- and Heavy-Duty On-Highway Vehicles and Work Trucks
What happened
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued an interpretive rule defining its authority to set fuel economy standards. This rule, signed by Donald Trump, clarifies that NHTSA's authority covers vehicle standards for commercial medium- and heavy-duty on-highway vehicles and work trucks, but not separate standards for their engines. NHTSA will review existing standards for consistency and enforce them in line with this new interpretation during a separate rulemaking process.
Why it matters
This policy action changes how fuel economy regulations will be applied to commercial vehicles by limiting the scope of NHTSA's regulatory power. It means that future or existing standards for engines in these vehicles may be removed or altered, potentially impacting fuel efficiency requirements for manufacturers.
Who it affects
- ›National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
- ›Manufacturers of commercial medium- and heavy-duty vehicles
- ›Manufacturers of work trucks
- ›On-highway commercial vehicle operators
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