As sustainability becomes a defining metric of operational success, fleet managers across the country are under growing pressure to balance business goals with environmental responsibility. With both federal and state-level agencies introducing new emissions regulations, the gap between fleet emissions vs regulations is narrowing—and compliance is no longer optional.

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Non-compliance can significantly disrupt operations, from cost implications to reputational risks. For fleet operators looking to stay ahead of upcoming requirements and reduce long-term liabilities, now is the time to understand the evolving emissions landscape and invest in sustainable, compliant practices.

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The Impact of Fleet Emissions on the Environment and Public Health

Fleets play a major role in national greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) output. Combustion engines in commercial vehicles release significant quantities of carbon dioxide (CO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and particulate matter into the atmosphere.¹ These pollutants contribute to climate change, air quality degradation, and respiratory conditions that impact communities nationwide.

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Fleet emissions are not just a technical challenge—they are a public health issue. As transportation continues to account for over 28 percent of U.S. GHG emissions², regulators are tightening oversight to ensure fleets reduce their environmental impact through cleaner engines, better technology, and improved operational practices.

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Key Regulatory Bodies and Emission Standards

Understanding which agencies are driving regulatory change is essential for achieving ongoing compliance.

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The Role of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

The EPA oversees national emission standards for commercial vehicles and plays a leading role in reducing transportation sector pollution. In 2023, the EPA finalized its Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for light-duty and medium-duty vehicles, which apply to model years 2027 through 2032.³ These rules introduce more stringent limits on tailpipe GHG emissions and criteria pollutants, requiring manufacturers to accelerate the rollout of low- and zero-emission vehicles.

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For fleet managers, these updates translate into real-world decisions: Should you delay purchasing new vehicles, invest in electric vehicles, or retrofit your current fleet? As the rules take effect, businesses will need to reassess their short- and long-term fleet procurement strategies.

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California Air Resources Board (CARB) Initiatives

Known for setting some of the strictest emissions policies in the nation, CARB is spearheading the transition to cleaner fleets with two major regulatory programs:

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• Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) Regulation: This regulation requires manufacturers to sell an increasing percentage of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) starting with the 2024 model year.
• Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) Regulation: This regulation targets fleet operators and mandates a gradual phaseout of combustion-engine vehicles in favor of ZEVs by 2045, depending on the fleet type and use case.

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While CARB’s rules are California-based, their reach extends well beyond state lines. More than a dozen states have committed to adopting similar requirements, and the Advanced Clean regulations have become the blueprint for nationwide sustainability efforts. Despite ongoing legal challenges, CARB's standards continue to shape industry-wide expectations and fleet regulations.

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Major Emission Regulations Impacting Fleets in 2025

With the compliance clock ticking, 2025 marks a pivotal year for fleets adapting to new regulatory frameworks.

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EPA's Updated Emission Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles

Beginning in model year 2027, updated EPA rules will apply to heavy-duty vehicles, including long-haul trucks, delivery vans, and vocational vehicles. The rules aim to reduce carbon and nitrogen oxide emissions by introducing stricter standards for engines, extended compliance timelines, and enhanced durability testing.

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Requirements of the EPA’s updated emission standards include:

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• Lower allowable emissions per mile for both CO₂ and NOₓ
• Incentives for manufacturers of low-emission engines
• Tighter certification processes for aftermarket components

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Fleet operators should begin exploring opportunities to acquire newer vehicles or retrofit existing ones that comply with these standards, especially if they operate in sectors with frequent exposure to EPA audits or penalties.

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CARB’s Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) Regulation

Starting in 2025, CARB's ACF regulation will take stronger hold, requiring specific types of fleets—including government, drayage, and high-priority private fleets—to begin transitioning to ZEVs. This mandate affects both purchase decisions and overall fleet planning.

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Some of the requirements are:

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• Restrictions on the purchase of new combustion-engine vehicles for covered fleets
• Annual reporting to track ZEV integration progress
• Long-term compliance targets based on fleet size and model year averages

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For companies operating in California or adjacent states that have adopted CARB policies, these changes will require operational, financial, and logistical shifts to stay compliant.

State-Level Adoption of CARB Regulations Beyond California

States such as New York, New Jersey, Oregon, and Washington are already aligning with CARB’s Clean Fleets framework. This means fleet operators that move goods across regions must be mindful of cross-border compliance standards.

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Strategies for adaptation include:

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• Investing in region-specific vehicles that meet the strictest emission standards
• Coordinating with legal teams to understand regional regulations
• Monitoring new state announcements as more jurisdictions adopt CARB-aligned policies

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Failing to plan for these changes could result in fleet Roadcheck violations, operational delays, and unexpected costs tied to non-compliance penalties.

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Strategies for Ensuring Fleet Compliance

As regulatory deadlines approach, fleet managers must be proactive—not reactive. Developing a clear compliance roadmap will help reduce risks, lower costs, and support long-term sustainability goals. The following strategies can help your organization align with both federal and state emissions requirements.

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1. Assessing Your Fleet’s Current Emissions Status

A strong compliance plan starts with understanding where your fleet stands today. Conduct a full emissions audit to evaluate each vehicle’s output against current and pending emission standards.

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You can use telematics systems to:

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• Collect real-time data on fuel use and idle time
• Monitor emission-related error codes and diagnostics
• Track vehicle age, engine type, and overall efficiency

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By integrating data analytics with vehicle diagnostics, fleet managers can identify high-emission vehicles, track performance trends, and prioritize upgrades that align with new regulations.

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2. Implementing Necessary Vehicle Upgrades or Replacements

Once you have identified non-compliant or inefficient assets, determine whether retrofitting or replacement is the best solution.

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It is essential to consider:

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• Retrofitting older trucks with emission-reduction technologies such as diesel particulate filters
• Transitioning to zero-emission vehicles where appropriate
• Exploring alternative fuel options like compressed natural gas (CNG), renewable diesel, or hydrogen fuel cell vehicles

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When selecting new vehicles, prioritize those that meet or exceed the latest EPA and CARB requirements. Planning ahead can also help avoid supply chain disruptions tied to new model year restrictions or Clean Fleets purchasing limits.

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3. Establishing an Ongoing Compliance Monitoring System

Meeting emissions rules is not a one-time event—it is an ongoing process. Establish continuous monitoring protocols to ensure sustained compliance across your entire fleet.

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Here are some of the steps that you should follow:

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• Training staff on how to manage reporting processes
• Implementing a fleet management system that automates compliance tracking
• Scheduling quarterly reviews of emissions data and system updates

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These efforts also help reduce the likelihood of fleet Roadcheck violations, which can result from missing documentation or emission-related mechanical failures.

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Benefits of Emissions Compliance

While meeting regulatory requirements is necessary, it also provides tangible value to your business.

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Environmental Responsibility and Fleet Sustainability

Reducing fleet emissions supports broader fleet sustainability goals and demonstrates a commitment to corporate environmental responsibility. Fewer tailpipe emissions mean cleaner air, healthier communities, and a measurable reduction in your company’s carbon footprint.

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Moreover, organizations that proactively align with fleet emission regulations are better positioned to contribute to national GHG reduction targets while appealing to environmentally conscious stakeholders and customers.

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Economic Incentives and Cost Savings

Staying compliant can help reduce operational costs over time. Many federal and state agencies offer grants, tax credits, and rebates to help cover the expense of purchasing ZEVs, installing charging stations, or adopting low-emission technologies.

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Additional cost-saving opportunities include:

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• Lower fuel expenses through improved efficiency
• Fewer repair costs with newer, compliant vehicles
• Reduced liability from avoided fleet regulations violations or non-compliance penalties

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Reputation and Business Growth

A clean, compliant fleet reflects positively on your brand. Companies that meet environmental standards tend to attract higher-value clients, secure larger contracts, and maintain better relationships with government agencies.

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Publicly reporting on your emissions strategy also improves transparency, helping your business stand out in a competitive, sustainability-driven marketplace.

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Integrating AtoB Solutions for Sustainable Fleet Management

Navigating fleet emissions vs. fleet regulations requires more than a checklist—it demands actionable tools, clear insights, and strong financial management. AtoB empowers fleet operators to improve sustainability and ensure compliance through an integrated suite of technology-driven tools.

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As a reliable fuel card provider, AtoB offers:

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• EV-compatible payment solutions that support EV charging and fueling
• Real-time tracking and fraud prevention that promote efficiency and cost control
• Centralized reporting to help meet EPA, CARB, and state requirements with confidence

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Fleet leaders working toward greener operations can rely on AtoB’s platform to streamline everything from fuel spending to route optimization, keeping costs manageable and systems running smoothly.

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As new regulations take effect, now is the time to invest in smarter fleet management. From reducing your fleet’s carbon impact to optimizing compliance strategies, AtoB helps you drive toward a cleaner, more profitable future.

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Sources:

United States Environmental Protection Agency. Carbon Pollution from Transportation. https://www.epa.gov/transportation-air-pollution-and-climate-change/carbon-pollution-transportation#:~:text=reduce%20carbon%20pollution-,Transportation%20and%20Climate%20Change,on%20transportation%20greenhouse%20gas%20emissions

United States Environmental Protection Agency. Carbon Pollution from Transportation. https://www.epa.gov/transportation-air-pollution-and-climate-change/carbon-pollution-transportation#:~:text=%E2%80%8BGreenhouse%20gas%20(GHG)%20emissions,terms%20than%20any%20other%20sector

Green Car Congress. EPA issues final multi-pollutant emissions standards for MY 2027 and later light-duty and medium-duty vehicles. https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240321-epa.html#:~:text=EPA%20announced%20a%20final%20rule%2C%20Multi%2DPollutant%20Emissions,medium%2Dduty%20vehicles%20starting%20with%20model%20year%202027.&text=These%20standards%20will%20phase%20in%20over%20model%20years%202027%20through%202032