EPA issues on-board computer rules for heavy-duty truck emissions

Federal environmental regulators have issued final rules requiring onboard emission monitoring systems for heavy-duty vehicles.

   The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency rules require that 2010 and newer heavy-duty vehicles more than 14,000 pounds have onboard diagnostic systems, or OBD, installed to monitor emission control systems and detect malfunctions. The computerized systems -- similar to those required on passenger cars since the mid-1990s -- are required to provide status and alerts to drivers on a vehicle's emission system components, store data on any malfunctions, and provide diagnostic capabilities for mechanics to analyze and repair problems.

   The EPA is also mandating that vehicle makers provide all necessary service, maintenance and repair information on OBD systems and other emission-related engine components to the heavy-duty vehicle repair industry.

   The new rules also modify certain existing OBD requirements for smaller on-road, heavy-duty diesel trucks.

   Under the phase-in schedule of the new rules, the EPA is requiring that one engine family per maker meet the new OBD requirements for each model year from 2010 to 2012. Starting in 2013, all on-road engines by all manufacturers must meet the new OBD requirements.

   The EPA developed the rules in conjunction with the California Air Resources Board, which had already implemented stringent OBD rules for the state. The EPA-California partnership is an effort to standardize the differing federal and California OBD requirements. 

Source: American Shipper