Engine makers that are using SCR technology for their 2010 engines are applauding a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency decision to stick by its Jan. 1 deadline, rejecting calls to delay the deadline
from Navistar International and the Owner Operator Independent Drivers Association.

Last month, OOIDA asked the EPA to delay or phase in 2010 emissions standards, in light of the current economic situation, citing research done by NERA Economic Consulting. The study was supported by Navistar, which, according to published reports, also asked the EPA for what it called an "economic exemption" to allow OEMs to continue building 2007 emission-level engines after the 2010 standard goes into effect. (Navistar is the only engine manufacturer that does not plan to use Selective Catalytic Reduction, or SCR, to meet 2010 emissions standards.)

In response to the OOIDA move, the Engine Manufacturers Association issued a statement in late November saying that its members are on schedule and ready to meet EPA's stringent 2010 emission standards for heavy-duty engines

This week, EPA officials were quoted in published reports emphasizing that implementation of the rules is on track and "will be a reality in 2010."

Mack and Volvo put out statements yesterday supporting the EPA's commitment to the 2010 deadline.

"EPA has clearly stated that it has no intention of changing the 2010 timetable, and it's counter-productive and misleading to suggest that the agency might change its mind in the 11th hour," said Per Carlsson, president and CEO of Volvo Trucks North America. "Our focus should be on moving forward - making the industry's transition to 2010 as smooth, efficient and uneventful as possible. That's the only way to provide a significant benefit both to customers and the environment."

Dennis Slagle, Mack president and CEO, said the development and testing of Mack's SCR solution for 2010 is in advanced stages and the company is confident it will offer enhanced performance, emission reduction and fuel savings.

"We found the recent dialogue around the proposal to delay implementation of 2010 to be an unproductive distraction," Slagle said. Mack has developed a special web site (www.mackscr.com) that includes a discussion forum called "Talking SCR" to help customers learn more about the technology.