California's updated emission regulations could impact motorhome sales, sparking disagreement between regulators and industry reps. (Shutterstock)
- CARB amends regulations, requiring gradual increase in zero-emission vehicle sales for manufacturers of vehicles over 8,500 pounds.
- Industry representatives argue that technology for zero-emission motorhomes is not readily available, potentially halting new sales.
- RV Industry Association seeks exemption, warning of potential ban on motorhome sales and registration in California by 2025.
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California’s new emission regulations could significantly impact motorhome sales in the state. The California Air Resources Board recently amended its Advanced Clean Truck regulations, requiring manufacturers of vehicles over 8,500 pounds to gradually increase the percentage of zero-emission vehicles sold in California.
Industry representatives argue that this change will primarily affect large, diesel-powered models like Class A motorhomes and Super C recreational vehicles. They express concerns about the lack of readily available technology for zero-emission motorhomes.
Joe Snyder from Freightliner Custom Chassis said at the Oct. 24 CARB meeting: “RVs are low mileage, low fuel, and thus low-emission vehicles due to the low usage. Not allowing sales of new RVs doesn’t stop consumer demand.”
Related Story: California Enacts New Climate Rules. Will They Boost Gas Prices?
CARB Clarifies: No Motorhome Ban
CARB spokesperson Lys Mendez clarified, “There is no motorhome ban.” The board explains that manufacturers have flexibility through a credit system and can focus ZEV production on other vehicle types where the technology is more viable.
Several other states, including Oregon, Washington, and New York, have aligned with California’s regulations. As a result, major sellers are withdrawing from specific markets. RV Travel reported that two major diesel chassis builders, Spartan and Freightliner, have informed Newmar RV they cannot meet the new requirements.
RV Industry Seeks Exemption
The RV Industry Association is actively seeking an exemption for motorhomes, arguing that the requirement is too costly and would impact availability and overall costs. An industry spokesperson told SFGATE, “While we are continuing to work with manufacturers, dealers and CARB to find a solution, if nothing changes, motorhomes will not be able to be sold and registered in California beginning in 2025.”
For California buyers, purchasing used motorhomes with over 7,500 miles on the odometer remains an option.
Read more at SFGATE
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