Last Updated on June 27th, 2025.
June 2025 has brought significant developments in the EV emissions regulatory landscape, with federal rule finalizations and escalating tensions between federal and state authorities over emissions standards. These updates represent critical shifts that fleet operators and industry stakeholders need to monitor closely.
EPA Phase 3 GHG Rule Finalized
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has officially released its Phase 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions standards for heavy-duty vehicles, concluding the final review process that began earlier this year. This comprehensive rule covers model years 2027–2032 and establishes increasingly stringent CO₂ emissions reductions from heavy-duty trucks, effectively mandating manufacturers to significantly expand their zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) offerings. The final rule represents one of the most ambitious federal emissions standards to date, setting the stage for accelerated fleet electrification across the heavy-duty sector. Fleet operators should begin evaluating their long-term procurement strategies in light of these new requirements, as compliance will become mandatory starting with the 2027 model year. (EPA.gov)
Congressional Action Escalates California Waiver Challenge
Adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing legal battles, the U.S. Senate has taken direct action to revoke California’s Clean Air Act waiver authority. This congressional move represents a significant escalation beyond the Supreme Court case scheduled for fall 2025, creating multiple avenues of challenge to California’s independent emissions authority. If successful, this action would immediately strip California of its ability to set emissions standards that differ from federal rules, potentially invalidating the Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) rule, Low-NOx Omnibus standard, and similar regulations. The Senate action also puts copycat rules in states like New York, Washington, and Oregon at immediate risk, creating unprecedented regulatory uncertainty for multi-state fleet operations. (Senate.gov)
CARB Amendment Process Continues
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has concluded its public comment period for the proposed Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) rule amendment, receiving extensive feedback from industry stakeholders, environmental groups, and fleet operators. The revised rule, which extends ZEV sales targets through 2031 rather than the original 2030 deadline, reflects CARB’s response to both industry concerns and the pending legal challenges to California’s regulatory authority. With the comment period now closed, CARB is analyzing the input and preparing for the anticipated August 2025 board vote on the final amended rule. Industry sources suggest that the extended timeline may include additional flexibility mechanisms for smaller manufacturers and fleets operating in rural areas where charging infrastructure remains limited. (Arb.ca.gov)
NYC Zero-Emission Freight Zones Progress
New York City’s Department of Transportation has finalized operational details for its Zero-Emission Freight Zones (ZEFZ) pilot program, marking a significant milestone in urban freight policy. The pilot will officially launch in late 2025, covering designated areas in Manhattan and Brooklyn where non-ZEV delivery trucks will face access restrictions during peak hours. This groundbreaking initiative, modeled after London’s successful Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), makes NYC the first major U.S. city to implement comprehensive ZEV freight zones. The program includes provisions for phased enforcement, exemptions for specialized freight, and coordination with state-level EV incentive programs to support affected fleet operators in their transition to zero-emission vehicles. (nyc.gov)
West Coast Charging Infrastructure Advances
Oregon and Washington have made substantial progress on their joint West Coast ZEV Freight Corridor initiative, with both states confirming that the first wave of NEVI-funded heavy-duty EV charging stations will begin installation in Q4 2025. The updated progress report identifies specific locations along I-5 and I-205 corridors and confirms that 75% of targeted infrastructure will be operational by 2027. This timeline aligns with the EPA’s Phase 3 rule implementation and provides critical support for fleet operators planning ZEV transitions in the Pacific Northwest region. The corridor represents the most comprehensive interstate heavy-duty charging network planned in the U.S., covering over 1,000 miles of critical freight routes. (driveelectric.gov)
These June developments underscore the dynamic nature of the current regulatory environment, with federal rules advancing even as state-level authority faces unprecedented challenges. Fleet operators should closely monitor both the Supreme Court case and congressional actions while preparing for the practical implementation of new federal emissions standards and expanding ZEV infrastructure networks.
Last Updated on May 29th, 2025.
Following the April announcement, the U.S. Supreme Court has officially scheduled oral arguments for fall 2025 in the case challenging California’s Clean Air Act waiver. This legal challenge, if successful, could strip California of its ability to set independent emissions rules, which underpin regulations like the Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) rule and the Low-NOx Omnibus standard. This case also puts the legality of copycat rules in states like New York, Washington, and Oregon at risk. (Energynews.com)
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has submitted its Phase 3 GHG rule for heavy-duty vehicles to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for final review — the last step before official release. This rule, covering model years 2027–2032, will mandate increasingly stringent CO₂ emissions reductions from heavy-duty trucks, effectively pushing manufacturers to expand ZEV offerings. The final rule is expected to be released in June 2025. (Reginfo.com)
In direct response to industry feedback and the pending Supreme Court case, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) has issued a proposed amendment to its ACT rule. The updated plan extends ZEV sales targets across a longer timeline, with full compliance now phased through 2031, rather than 2030. The board is accepting public comment through June and is expected to vote on the revised rule in August 2025. (Arb.ca.gov)
New York City DOT has finalized plans for its first Zero-Emission Freight Zones (ZEFZ) pilot, which will roll out in late 2025 in parts of Manhattan and Brooklyn. This initiative will restrict access for non-ZEV delivery trucks during peak hours and is modeled on London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). NYC is the first U.S. city to implement this kind of ZEV freight zone officially. (nyc.gov)
Oregon and Washington DOTs have jointly published a progress report on their West Coast ZEV Freight Corridor initiative. The report outlines key logistics zones along I-5 and I-205 and identifies locations for the first wave of NEVI-funded heavy-duty EV charging stations, set to begin installation in Q4 2025. Both states reaffirmed their goal of having 75% of targeted infrastructure operational by 2027. (driveelectric.gov)
Last Updated on April 29th, 2025.
As of late April 2025, new developments at the federal and state levels are reshaping the landscape of EV adoption and emissions compliance for the heavy equipment industry. One of the most significant updates is the nearing completion of the EPA’s Phase 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions standards for heavy-duty vehicles. The rule, now in final review, is expected to be released by June 2025 and will introduce stricter CO₂ limits for trucks starting with model year 2027. These standards are likely to accelerate the industry-wide shift toward battery-electric, hydrogen fuel cell, and other zero-emission powertrains (EPA.gov).
Simultaneously, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and Department of Energy (DOE) have announced an additional $1.3 billion in funding aimed at expanding the nation’s electric vehicle infrastructure, with a special emphasis on commercial and heavy-duty vehicle charging. This funding, under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, will prioritize underserved freight corridors and urban logistics zones to better support ZEV deployment in high-traffic areas (Energy.gov).
As of late April 2025, a significant legal development has emerged that could significantly impact the future of emissions policy nationwide. The U.S. Supreme Court announced it will revisit a case challenging California’s authority to set its own vehicle emissions standards, which it has done under a Clean Air Act waiver for decades. The outcome of this case could determine whether California — and by extension, states that follow its emissions programs — can continue to enforce stricter rules like the Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) and Heavy-Duty Omnibus regulations. A decision is expected later in 2025 and could significantly impact the regulatory landscape for the adoption of zero-emission vehicles (Energy News, OE Digital).
In New York, the city’s Department of Transportation has announced a major expansion of its Clean Freight NYC program. New mandates and incentive packages are being introduced to promote the use of zero-emission delivery vehicles in urban centers. As part of this initiative, low-emission delivery zones will be enforced in Manhattan and Brooklyn starting in early 2026, affecting all last-mile freight operators. The plan mirrors successful European urban clean air models and marks a significant shift in local freight policy (nyc.gov).
Meanwhile, Oregon and Washington have launched a joint strategy to create a West Coast Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Freight Corridor along major highways, such as I-5 and I-205. This multi-state collaboration includes infrastructure mapping, NEVI-funded charging stations, and the eventual establishment of ZEV-only freight zones. The corridor is slated to begin phasing in by 2027, furthering the region’s commitment to reducing transportation emissions in key logistics routes (Oregon.gov).
These updates underscore a growing alignment between infrastructure investment and regulatory planning at both the state and federal levels. While California and the EPA refine long-term timelines, the influx of funding and city-level programs, such as Clean Freight NYC, suggests that pressure is increasing on fleets to begin their transition to low- and zero-emission technologies now rather than later.
Last Updated on April 1st, 2025.
The heavy equipment industry continues to adapt to the evolving landscape of emissions regulations. As of March 2025, significant developments at both federal and state levels are shaping the future of fleet operations. With California’s regulatory power facing legal challenges and federal rules in flux, there’s a mix of uncertainty and opportunity for operators focused on compliance and electrification. Below are the latest EV emissions by state and what fleet managers need to know.
At the federal level, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is in the final stages of introducing its Phase 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) standards for heavy-duty vehicles. These standards, expected to apply to model-year 2027 trucks, aim to tighten emissions limits and accelerate the transition to zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), especially in the freight sector (FleetOwner). However, these efforts face resistance. A growing number of lawsuits—filed by coalitions of states and industry groups—are challenging the EPA’s ability to harmonize national regulations with California’s more ambitious emissions targets. These legal hurdles could delay implementation or result in softened rules, adding a layer of complexity for fleet planning.
Traditionally at the forefront of emissions policy, California has experienced a notable shift following legal setbacks. In January, Governor Gavin Newsom’s proposed ban on gas-powered vehicles was overturned in court, signaling a major blow to the state’s long-term electrification strategy (California Globe). In response, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) has officially paused the enforcement of new deadlines tied to the Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) rule. This rule mandated increasing ZEV sales among truck manufacturers. Similarly, the Omnibus rule, which targets significant nitrogen oxide (NOx) reductions from diesel engines, is under review, with CARB expected to introduce a more gradual phase-in by mid-2025. Nevertheless, California has reaffirmed its climate commitment through a newly announced $1 billion Clean Truck Incentive Program, designed to support ZEV adoption and expand related infrastructure.
Other states aligned with California’s emissions standards are also adjusting course. Oregon’s Department of Environmental Quality has officially delayed ACT rule implementation by 12 months, moving full enforcement to 2026 (SCDigest). The state has also rolled out grant programs to help fleets invest in electric and hydrogen-powered trucks, aiming to ease the financial burden of compliance. In Massachusetts, the ACT rule remains in place, but the state has shifted focus toward incentive-based strategies, offering tax credits for fleets purchasing electric medium- and heavy-duty trucks.
While maintaining its commitment to ACT, Washington is scaling back enforcement timelines for small and mid-sized fleets. The state has also launched a Clean Truck Infrastructure Fund to build out EV charging along key freight corridors. New York’s 2025 ZEV targets remain in effect, but lawmakers are considering a pause on enforcement in rural areas where charging access is limited. Meanwhile, the state continues exploring stricter mandates for urban fleet electrification by 2026.
New Jersey, which has taken a more moderate stance than its coastal neighbors, is now expanding its EV voucher program to include Class 6–8 trucks. Rather than leaning into mandates, the state continues to rely on incentives to promote the shift toward low-emission freight.
These developments mark a crucial moment in the national emissions strategy. While California’s rollback has sent ripples through state-level policymaking, the federal government’s upcoming standards and the continued availability of incentives suggest that momentum for fleet electrification remains strong. For fleet operators, staying informed about legal decisions and infrastructure developments is essential as the regulatory environment continues evolving.
Last Updated on February 20th, 2025.
The heavy equipment industry continues to navigate shifting EV emissions by state, with significant developments at both federal and state levels. Recent legal challenges have led to the rollback of some of California’s most aggressive emissions mandates, creating uncertainty for fleet operators nationwide. Below, we provide an updated overview of federal policies and state-specific changes.
Federal Emissions Regulations Updates
The administration remains committed to strengthening emissions regulations, but legal and political challenges have slowed implementation. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is reviewing new greenhouse gas (GHG) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) standards for heavy-duty trucks, which may align with California’s previous mandates.
However, with California’s regulatory power in question, industry groups are pushing back against federally imposed rules, arguing that aggressive emissions targets could increase costs and disrupt supply chains. Fleet operators should prepare for delays or modifications to upcoming federal emissions mandates.
State-by-State Emissions Regulations Updates
Several states have followed California’s lead in adopting stricter emission standards by state, but recent court rulings could change their implementation timelines. Here’s the latest update:
California: ACT and Omnibus Rule Impacted by Policy Rollbacks
California has long been a leader in emissions reductions, but a recent legal challenge has significantly altered the state’s trajectory.
- Governor Gavin Newsom’s ban on gas-powered vehicles has been overturned, halting the transition toward a full zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) market.
- The Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) rule, which required manufacturers to increase ZEV truck sales, is now under review, with expected rollbacks or delays.
- The Omnibus rule, designed to reduce NOx emissions from heavy-duty trucks, also faces legal scrutiny. While CARB initially pushed for full enforcement by 2025, compliance deadlines may now be extended.
With these setbacks, California’s ability to set its emissions standards is questioned. This could have nationwide implications, as several states have adopted California’s regulations as a model.
Oregon
Oregon had previously committed to California’s ACT rule but may reassess its stance in light of the recent rollback. The state’s Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) will issue a revised implementation timeline in the coming months.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts remains committed to stricter emissions regulations but may adjust deadlines following California’s legal challenges. In 2025, the state is expected to focus more on incentives rather than strict mandates.
Washington
Washington has proactively adopted California-aligned EV emissions by state, but state lawmakers are now debating whether to proceed with previously planned restrictions. The Clean Vehicles Program may shift towards voluntary compliance and incentive-based solutions.
New York
New York has consistently supported aggressive EV emissions by the state, but recent court rulings could force it to reconsider its approach. Fleet operators should watch for possible changes in electric truck sales requirements.
New Jersey
New Jersey had taken a more moderate approach to EV emissions by state, focusing on incentives rather than strict mandates. The latest developments in California may reinforce this strategy, keeping New Jersey’s policies flexible for fleet operators.
Looking Ahead
The recent rollback of California’s most stringent EV emissions by state marks a significant shift in national policy. Fleet operators should stay informed as federal and state governments reassess their strategies in response to these legal challenges.
With uncertainty surrounding California’s leadership on emissions policy, 2025 may bring more flexibility in compliance requirements. However, businesses should remain prepared for ongoing regulatory shifts.
Learn more about our electric offerings here. Stay tuned for our next update as we track the latest developments in truck emissions regulations.
*Custom Truck One Source cannot and does not provide legal advice. The information provided represents Custom Truck’s best information regarding the changing regulatory landscape as of February 2025. All facts and laws are subject to change. Contact your legal counsel for the current state of the law and for all legal advice.
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