Daimler Truck North America has resumed the sale of diesel powered commercial vehicles in Oregon less than a month after halting them.
Daimler halted sales in the state of Oregon on December 20th, 2024 due to uncertainty over an Advanced Clean Trucks rule implemented by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality’s (DEQ) on January 1st. The company was concerned that the sale of its commercial vehicles in the state would violate the new rule. Since then, the company has determined that it received incorrect information regarding its potential violations, and announced its plan to resume sales on Monday, January 13th, reported Oregon Public Broadcasting.
“This situation underscores the necessity for feasible, obtainable, and clearly defined regulations, enabling companies to align their business practices accordingly,” a Daimler Truck North America spokesperson told OPB in an email. “Commercial vehicles are vital to Oregon’s economy, and Daimler Truck North America values the ability to support our customers, the fleets of this nation, and the state’s economy,”
The Clean Truck Rules do require stricter emissions standards for medium and heavy duty trucks, and require electric commercial vehicles to make up at least 7% of Daimler’s total sales, starting with the 2025 model year. This means that Daimler diesel vehicle sales will be limited in the state, but not halted entirely.
“As the lead agency tasked by Oregon’s Legislature to reduce tailpipe and greenhouse gas emissions, and as a state committed to California’s emissions standards, it is DEQ’s job to find a balance among cleaner air, public health and business interests,” she said. “We take all concerns seriously and are always willing to talk through any questions or misunderstandings with interested parties. Our goal is to achieve a program that reduces harmful emissions and is workable in Oregon.”