Comments sought on alternative fuel vehicle labeling rule

March 3, 2014
NHTSA proposing new information requirements related to fuel economy, GHG emissions and alternative fuels.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NTHSA) has published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to require certain new vehicles to feature badges, labels and owners manual information on alternative fuels.

The proposal, the goal of which is to increase consumer awareness, would apply to new passenger cars, low-speed vehicles and light duty trucks rated at not more than 8,500 pounds. 

The proposal results from Congress directing the U.S. DOT to develop and implement varied and wide-ranging consumer information and education initiatives related to fuel economy, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, alternative fuels and thermal management technologies in the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007.

The NTHSA proposal would require manufacturers to identify each vehicle capable of running on alternative fuel by means of a permanent and prominent display affixed to the exterior of the vehicle. The manufacturer would also have to add text to the owners manuals of alternative fuel vehicles, describing the capabilities and benefits of using alternative fuels.

Furthermore, each vehicle capable of running on alternative fuels would be identified by a label in the fuel filler compartment.

The labeling program is expected to take effect in September 2016.

A public comment period is open through April 21.

Additional details on the proposal are available on the Federal Register website.

Comments can be submitted online through Regulations.gov under Docket ID No. NHTSA-2010-0134.

Sponsored Recommendations

ZEUS+: The Cutting-Edge Diagnostic Solution for Smart, Fast, and Efficient Auto Repairs

The new ZEUS+ simplifies your diagnostic process and guides you through the right repair, avoiding unnecessary steps along the way. It gives you the software coverage, processing...

Diagnostic Pre- and Post-scan Reports are Solid Gold for Profitability

The following article highlights the significance of pre-scans and post-scans, particularly with Snap-on scan tools, showcasing their efficiency in diagnosing issues and preventing...

Unlock Precision and Certainty: TRITON-D10 Webinar Training for Advanced Vehicle Diagnostics

The TRITON-D10 lets you dig deep into the systems of a vehicle and evaluate performance with comparative data, systematically eliminating the unnecessary to provide you with only...

APOLLO-D9: Trustworthy Diagnostics for Precision Repairs

The APOLLO-D9 provides the diagnostic information and resources you need to get the job done. No more hunting through forums or endlessly searching to find the right answers. ...

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Vehicle Service Pros, create an account today!