Daimler Opposes EPA Non-Compliance Penalties as Truckmakers Weigh Fines Over NoX Compliance

Daimler Truck North America is voicing opposition to proposed EPA amendments that would let engine makers pay fines of roughly $6,000–$7,000 per vehicle instead of meeting the 0.035 bhp-hr NoX standard, arguing the provision risks undermining the rule that takes effect in model year 2027. Dan Potter, Daimler's manager of product compliance, said some manufacturers now view non-compliance penalties as an economic strategy rather than a technological necessity, noting that engineering compliance could cost up to $15,000 per engine. PACCAR CEO R. Preston Feight suggested on the company's second-quarter earnings call that paying penalties could be "to our advantage" by allowing a more gradual product rollout. The Engine Manufacturers Association and attorneys general from several states filed comments opposing the NCP provision, calling it inconsistent with the Clean Air Act. The amendment comment period closed in late August 2026; the 0.035 standard remains unchanged. Daimler said its Detroit 6 engine, slated for the Freightliner Cascadia, already meets the standard regardless of the final rule.