Today’s Pickup: EPA seeks to exempt glider kits from GHG rules

Good day,

The EPA is preparing to formally rescind the requirements that glider kits comply with Phase 2 greenhouse gas emissions rules.

The Office of Management and Budget sent a notice for a proposed rule that would formally exempt gliders from the rules, noting that it was “economically significant.” Scott Pruitt, EPA administrator, said in August he would look to do this.

Glider kits are new trucks using reman’d powertrains. They became extremely popular in the years before 2010 emissions rules went into effect, allowing small fleets and owner-operators the opportunity to get new trucks without exhaust gas recirculation or diesel particulate filters.

Under the new rules, they would have had to meet 2010 emissions regulations and were limited to 300 glider trucks per manufacturer per year.

Did you know?

 As recently as 2015, about 10,000 glider kit trucks were sold in the U.S., but under current Phase 2 GHG rules, that number will likely drop into the hundreds starting next year as the government caps production at 300 vehicles per manufacturer.

Quotable:

“We will not micro-manage apprenticeships from Washington. You are in the best position to find what your industry needs and react to those needs. The bureaucratic barriers that stand between your industry and apprenticeships are coming down.”

– Alex Acosta, Labor Secretary

In other news:

Value of logistics solutions goes beyond just logistics

Many companies value logistics solutions by the return on investment they provide to the organization, but the data available may be even more valuable. (Logistics Viewpoint)

Imports rise in September

Imports coming into the U.S. by ship rose 4.9% in September, showing continued confidence in a robust economy. (Wall Street Journal)

Amazon receives 238 bids for headquarters

Amazon closed the process for submissions for its second headquarters last week, and the company received 238 bids from cities and states. (Wall Street Journal)

A look at platooning

The Washington Post breaks down platooning, and how it might not only help trucking, but the economy as whole. (Washington Post)

Who’s who in the Pilot Flying J case?

Eighteen former employees of Pilot Flying J have been charged in connection with a fuel rebate scam. Many have reached plea deals, but four go on trial next week. Here’s a look at the people involved. (Plain Dealer)

Final Thoughts

The ATA just completed its MCE 2017 show in Orlando and there was plenty of news and optimism from industry leaders. By all accounts, 2017 is turning out to a good year and bigger things are expected out of 2018.

Hammer down everyone!

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