EPA introduces stricter vehicle emissions rules

These regulations, which will apply to 2027 models and beyond, set stricter standards for pollutants and greenhouse gasses

On March 20th, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced new emissions regulations for light and medium-duty vehicles, designed to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions over time. These regulations, which will apply to 2027 models and beyond, set stricter standards for pollutants and greenhouse gasses.

The new regulations, taking effect in 60 days, exempt heavy-duty trucks but encompass medium-duty vehicles such as Class 2b and 3 trucks, weighing between 8,501 and 14,000 pounds. Stemming from existing regulations governing models from 2023 to 2026, these standards are geared towards mitigating both climate pollution and emissions of smog and soot.

The automotive industry has expressed concern, citing a slowdown in electric vehicle sales, which are necessary to meet the regulations. The EPA indicates that sales should consist of 56% electric vehicles by 2032, with at least 13% plug-in hybrids or other partially electric vehicles, along with more fuel-efficient gasoline cars.

Final standards for light and medium-duty vehicles

The EPA is finalizing the same proposed standard for fiscal year 2032, providing additional time for the automotive sector to expand clean vehicle supply chains in the first three covered years.

These standards are estimated to generate annual net benefits to society of $99 billion and avoid 7.2 billion tons of CO2 emissions by 2055, equivalent to four times the emissions from the entire transportation sector in 2021. Additionally, they will reduce air pollution, preventing up to 2,500 premature deaths by 2055 and mitigating cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.

Compared to the current standards for 2026, the new standards for 2032 represent a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions for light-duty vehicles and a 44% reduction for medium-duty vehicles. Furthermore, a reduction of over 95% in emissions of harmful fine particles is expected, improving air quality, especially for communities near major roads and with environmental justice concerns, along with $62 billion in reduced annual fuel, maintenance and repair costs for drivers.

The final standard reflects significant investments in clean vehicle technologies, both nationally and internationally, as well as changes in the U.S. market and growing consumer interest in cleaner vehicles. According to Michael Regan, EPA administrator, these standards will improve air quality in affected communities and offer drivers a variety of clean vehicle options while saving them money.