Small California-based fleets needing assistance in replacing their older, heavy-duty diesel trucks with new trucks can find solace in the California Air Resources Board’s Voucher Incentive Program.
The program, also known as VIP, has $15 million in available funding, open to any small business owner for heavy-duty truck replacements statewide. Between $30,000 and $35,000 is available per grant, depending on the age of the truck. Eligible trucks must operate 75 percent of the time in California with engines 1993 model year or older.
ARB marked the delivery of the first heavy-duty diesel truck purchased through the program last week. The owner of Lodi Backhoe, a small business in Lodi, California, was given the keys to a new 2009 dump truck purchased with VIP assistance, replacing an older model truck. The San Joaquin Valley air district was the first in the state to issue a voucher.
“We are happy to see the program help small business owners purchase new, cleaner-running trucks that comply with our air quality regulations,” says Mary Nichols, ARB chair.
Participating truck dealerships can help business owners check eligibility and apply for a voucher. Grants are made on a first-come, first-served basis and qualifying applications are reviewed and approved within five business days.
For a list of participating dealerships, go to:
http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/moyer/voucher/dealerlist/dealerlist.htm
VIP is part of the state’s overall plan to cut toxic diesel emissions 85 percent by 2020. In December, ARB adopted statewide clean truck and bus regulations to bring California closer to meeting federally mandated air-quality standards and deadlines.
For additional program information or to apply for a voucher, visit www.truckstop.arb.ca.gov or call the Air Resources Board’s diesel hotline at 1-866-6DIESEL.
