WASHINGTON — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency implemented new, more stringent limits on smog-producing emissions from heavy-duty trucks Tuesday.
It is the first time tailpipe standards have been tightened for the heaviest class of vehicles — such as semi-trucks, garbage trucks and tractor-trailers — in more than 20 years and are more than 80% stronger than current standards.
The new standards, which will go into effect for Model Year 2027 vehicles, are expected to reduce nitrogen oxide output by 48% by 2045. They are also expected to reduce carbon monoxide by 18%, particulate matter by 8% and volatile organic compounds by 23% in the same timeframe.
