Feb 1, 2008 12:00 PM

Question: There seems to be a lot of confusion about this next compliance phase. Does it institute stringent requirements in terms of TRU diesel engine emissions, limit TRU engine operation, or ban TRU engine operation entirely?

Answer: The regulation establishes in-use performance standards for TRUs that operate in California. Owners and operators of TRUs are responsible for making sure that TRUs that operate in the state meet the in-use emission standard requirements.

The regulation establishes two levels of in-use performance standards: low emission and ultra low emission. These will be phased in based upon model year of the TRU engine

In general, the TRU ATCM doesn't limit or ban engine operations. However, if the owner chooses an alternative technology compliance option, such as electric standby or hybrid cryogenic temperature control, diesel engine use at a distribution center must be eliminated as a condition of compliance.

Question: The in-use performance standards part of the rule applies to any TRU that operates in California, including those based outside of California. What about a carrier that seldom runs in California? Can it get an exemption to the in-use performance standard requirements?

Answer: No. CARB considered this during rulemaking but found that it would require an overly complicated recordkeeping and reporting program to confirm such occurrences and make the provision enforceable.

In proposing the regulation, the staff weighed the costs that the regulation could impose on owners/operators who want to continue limited operations in the state against the difficulties that exemptions would pose for effective enforcement and the consequential health risks to persons who live and work near TRU distribution facilities.