Call for Delay on New EV Truck Sales Regulations in New York

COHOES — Industry leaders from the trucking sector, along with Assembly members and local highway officials, convened on Monday in Cohoes to urge Governor Kathy Hochul to reconsider new state regulations mandating the sale of medium- and heavy-duty electric vehicles (EVs) starting in January 2024.

Understanding the Regulations

These rules are part of the Advanced Clean Truck (ACT) initiative established by the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) in 2021. The regulations require truck manufacturers to ensure a specified percentage of their sales consist of electric trucks. These electric units can cost up to $500,000, significantly exceeding the cost of traditional diesel-powered trucks.

Concerns Over Infrastructure

Executives from the trucking industry and legislative supporters of New York’s climate policies contend that the existing charging infrastructure is insufficient to support long-haul electric trucks across the state. Currently, more than 90% of goods transported in New York rely on trucking.

Economic Climate Impact

They further point out that the regulations were developed in 2021, before the full economic repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic became apparent. Since then, factors such as inflation and geopolitical events have complicated the financial viability of implementing zero-emissions policies.

Advocacy for a Pause

Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner emphasized a need for a pragmatic approach, stating, “We have to take a step back,” and voiced a call for common sense amidst these challenges. Kendra Hems, president of the Trucking Association of New York, affirmed her members’ commitment to the state’s climate initiatives while expressing deep concern over the potential negative impacts of the new rules.

Possible Solution

Hems suggested a two-year postponement for the regulations, aiming for an implementation that makes economic sense for the industry. The press conference took place at SM Gallivan, a local trucking and landscaping supply firm, where president Sean Gallivan expressed hope that the governor would rethink the regulations based on updated information.

Industry Implications

Scott Collins, from Tracey Road Freightliner, noted that under the new rules, truck dealerships would need to sell one electric truck for every ten traditional trucks sold within the first year, leading to potentially significant job losses if sales goals are not met. Meanwhile, the DEC announced plans to propose new regulations aimed at providing more flexibility for manufacturers and delaying compliance requirements until March 2029.

Conclusion

Assemblywoman Patricia Fahy echoed the sentiment for a temporary halt, emphasizing the necessity for the government to strengthen the underlying infrastructure and incentives needed to achieve these ambitious climate goals. “We need these two years,” she asserted, highlighting the importance of planning for the future.