EPA Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicle Program Seeks Input

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is investing $1 billion in funding for clean heavy-duty vehicles between now and 2031 through the Inflation Reduction Act, focusing on zero-emission vehicles, infrastructure, and personnel training.

Until June 5, the EPA is accepting submissions for a technical Request for Information (RFI) related to zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles and port equipment to inform development of the new Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles and Clean Ports Program.

A new funding opportunity for this program is expected later in 2023. The agency plans to offer grants and/or rebates to replace existing heavy-duty vehicles with zero-emission alternatives. It also expects to fund vehicle infrastructure, workforce development and training, and planning and technical activities.

Who Can Submit Information?

The EPA seeks information from:

• Manufacturers.
• Fleets.
• Ports.
• Municipalities.
• School districts.
• Utilities.
• Other stakeholders with zero-emission technology experience.

What Zero-Emission Information is Requested?

The EPA specifically wants information about:

• Class 6 and 7 zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles (including school buses).
• Port equipment.
• Associated charging or other fueling infrastructure.

Regarding those topics, the EPA seeks:

• Availability, including manufacturer production capacity.
• Performance, including durability and maintenance requirements.
• Pricing, including payback period and lifecycle costs relative to those operating on conventional fuels.
• Practical considerations for program design, including project development best practices and workforce training needs.

Build America Buy America Considerations

Respondents also are asked to explain if equipment and components are currently manufactured in the United States or should be soon to help the EPA gauge availability of U.S. manufactured equipment and components “to better create targeted funding programs and address Build America Buy America requirements,” according to the EPA website.