Washington, D.C. – Clean transportation nonprofit CALSTART sent a joint letter, signed by 36 companies and advocacy groups, to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today calling on the agency to swiftly advance the waiver process for California’s Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) regulation.

The letter supports the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) November Request for Waiver and Authorization Action Pursuant to Clean Air Act Sections 209(b) and 209(e) for the ACF regulation. The ACF regulation, approved by CARB on April 28, 2023, aims to transition the state’s drayage truck fleet to zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) by 2035. 

“Delayed enforcement has created uncertainty and raised concerns among industry stakeholders, threatening investments and progress toward California’s clean transportation goals. Today’s letter emphasizes the need for prompt action from the EPA to avoid further uncertainty and delays,” said Trisha Dello Iacono, Head of Policy for CALSTART. “This move is crucial as diesel-powered fleets emit an outsized share of harmful air pollutants, contributing to serious health issues such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, cancer risks, and climate instability.” 

 Leaders in the clean transportation industry recognize the urgent need to address environmental challenges posed by traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. California’s ACF regulation offers a comprehensive approach to accelerating ZEV adoption in the medium- and heavy-duty transportation sectors and could prove to be a model for other states.  

Timely approval of this waiver process is essential to electrifying transportation, safeguarding public health, and reducing climate risks.