The EPA has removed the requirement for Diesel Exhaust Fluid sensors on trucks, citing safety concerns and potential savings of $13.79 billion.
Diesel Exhaust Fluid sensors will no longer be required on trucks and other diesel-powered equipment, reports New York's FreightWaves.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the policy change, citing safety and productivity concerns stemming from sudden shutdowns caused by faulty sensors. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin stated that Americans were 'fed up with failing DEF system issues.'
The agency collected data from 11 manufacturers, revealing that sensor failures were a major source of warranty claims. The Small Business Administration estimated that shutdowns were costing farmers US$4.4 billion annually, with total savings from eliminating the requirement projected at $13.79 billion.
DEF sensors, formally known as urea quality sensors, can now be replaced by nitrous oxide sensors. The EPA also outlined changes made in August that require manufacturers to update software to avoid 'deratements,' which occur when engines slow dramatically due to DEF readings.
Under the new rules, trucks can operate normally for up to 4,200 miles or two work weeks before speed limits apply. Nonroad equipment will face no impact for the first 36 hours before slight torque reductions take effect.
The American Trucking Associations welcomed the move, calling it a pragmatic solution that reflects real-world performance. The EPA stated that the policy shift was announced in conjunction with the 'Great American Agriculture Celebration.'
