The Environmental Protection Agency is changing the designation for tractors and trailers it lists as fuel-efficient options, from "SmartWay Certified" to "SmartWay Designated."

The agency says this will help distinguish top-performing vehicles that meet SmartWay specifications from vehicles certified to meet EPA regulatory requirements.

In addition, some critics have pointed out that the word "certified" implies the EPA has actually tested the listed equipment. The EPA does not actually test the fuel efficiency of these technologies. Instead, it requires that manufacturers conduct testing according to EPA test protocols. Depending on the type of vehicle or equipment, that testing may take place on a test track or in a laboratory. The equipment maker submits those results to the EPA's technical team, which reviews the results. If the testing meets the criteria, it is listed on the SmartWay website.

There are now updated logos for manufacturers of these technologies to sue, as well as for SmartWay Partner fleets that want to label their trucks and trailers.

Program Champions

In prior years, EPA recognized outstanding partners and affiliates with the SmartWay Excellence Awards. Selection criteria were based upon partner performance using SmartWay's partner tools.

For the years 2010 and 2011, SmartWay undertook an extensive process to refine its partner tools and approaches. As a result of these efforts, SmartWay is rolling out a new suite of partner tools this year. EPA plans to use data submitted on these updated tools for future years' SmartWay Excellence Awards.

During this transition, in lieu of holding the SmartWay Excellence Awards, EPA plans to recognize the commitment and innovation of teams or individuals who have made a strong and lasting contribution to the SmartWay program. Those honored "will have played a key role in helping the SmartWay program to complete critical milestones and achieve its goals, through their exemplary leadership, expertise, outreach, innovation and sustained support for the SmartWay program."

Nominees will be selected by EPA, so there will be no application process. EPA will honor these champions at a recognition event held in conjunction with the Council for Supply Chain Management Professional's Annual Global Conference, October in Philadelphia.