CARB Approves $94M in ZEV Truck Funding for Fleets

The California Air Resources Board has approved funding for incentives to help fleets in the state's mandated transition to zero-emission trucks: $80 million for drayage fleet operators and more than $14 million for a financing assistance program that targets operators and owners of small fleets.

Funding for drayage fleets is prioritized because their transition toward zero-emission options begins in 2024.

This is part of $624 million in funding for CARB incentive programs that will continue to help Californians – from truck fleet operators to commuters – make the switch to zero-emission vehicles.

The Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Funding Plan for Clean Transportation Incentives also marks the launch of an expanded outreach process that includes surveys, meetings with community-based organizations, and the addition of monthly virtual meetings held in the evenings to increase access for Californians who have barriers to participating in the public process.

“The shift toward zero emission is only possible if every Californian has access to new and emerging vehicle technology, and our funding plan reflects the importance of equitable access in working toward a clean air future,” said CARB Chair Liane Randolph.

“The funding plan also offers a wide range of tools to get Californians into cleaner options, from the trucks that transport goods across the state to e-bikes that can make it easier for residents to meet their everyday mobility needs.”

More Incentive Plan Highlights

Other highlights in the funding plan of interest to fleets include:

• $375 million to help public school districts purchase zero-emission buses.
• $10 million to launch a capacity-building educational effort that will give communities the tools they need to plan a clean mobility project and learn how to apply for funding resources.
• $14.3 million in vouchers for zero-emission off-road equipment, such as cargo-handling or construction equipment.

CARB said there are now more than 500 ZEV models available for heavy-duty vehicles and equipment.

Additionally, CARB noted that California recently surpassed its sales goals for zero-emission heavy-duty trucks two years ahead of schedule, before regulations officially kick in.