The EPA states these new regulations will significantly reduce nitrous oxide (NOx) and particulate matter emissions to the atmosphere. To attain these emission reductions the EPA has established a comprehensive program to regulate diesel fuel along with the production of diesel engines.
The regulations require
- Model Year 2007 diesel engines will be required to use high-efficiency catalytic exhaust emission control devises (or comparably effective technology).
- On-highway diesel fuel sulfur levels be < 15ppm starting in June 2006.
It is the combination of the Model Year 2007 diesel engines and the lower sulfur diesel fuel that the EPA expects to result in reduced emissions to the atmosphere.