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newsrel -- Voucher Incentive Program Frequently Asked Questions

Posted: 30 Jun 2010 11:37:37
Question and answer on enhancements to ARB's $28 million grant
program . 


California Truckin’ News
Voucher Incentive Program 
Frequently Asked Questions
Dated: June 30, 2010 

Contacts:
Mary Fricke
(916)322-2990

Karen Caesar
(626)575-6728
www.arb.ca.gov

The Air Resources Board has $28 million in grants available
through its Voucher Incentive Program (VIP) to help independent
truckers and small fleet owners replace or retrofit older,
high-polluting big rigs ahead of California’s regulatory
deadlines. Here’s a primer on the program and how it works:


What is the Voucher Incentive Program?
VIP grants help truck owners meet a 2008 public health
regulation that accelerates the replacement of dirty big rigs.
They are available only to owners of small fleets – one to three
trucks – for replacing the dirtier models with newer, cleaner
ones. 

What is this regulation, and why do we have it?
The big-rig regulation requires 2010 model year engines in all
heavy-duty trucks and buses by 2023. Soot traps must be installed
on older rigs by 2011 and on all models by 2014. The regulation
is the latest in a series of measures the Air Resources Board has
adopted since 2000 to reduce the public health risk from
breathing the tiny particles in diesel exhaust. Numerous studies
indicate that reducing diesel emissions results in fewer asthma
attacks, hospitalizations and deaths among those with heart and
lung problems. 


How much are the grants, and what kinds of trucks are eligible?
In May 2010, the Air Resources Board expanded the range of
trucks eligible and raised the grant limit for replacement of
high-mileage trucks to $45,000, from the previous $35,000. The
Board also established VIP grants of up to $10,000 a truck for
installing soot traps on rigs that not as close to retirement.

The trucks to be replaced must have a 2002 model year or older
diesel engine.  Those with 2004 through 2006 model year diesel
engines qualify for the soot trap installation money.  The trucks
to be retrofitted or replaced must have a gross vehicle weight of
at least 19,501 pounds.  The vehicles also must have been
registered in California for the past two years, operating within
the state at least 75 percent of the time.  

I’ve heard that only high-mileage trucks get funded.  Is that
true?
No.  The minimum mileage requirement is 15,000 miles per year,
although higher mileage trucks may receive a larger grant
amount.

Why doesn’t the VIP pay more in these tough economic times? 
The amount of the VIP grant is not based on need but on how much
cleaner the replacement truck runs.

Is there any help for financing the rest of the cost?
Yes.  ARB’s loan guarantee program provides competitive rate
financing for new and used truck purchases, soot traps and the
EPA-approved “SmartWay” aerodynamic skirts and low rolling
resistance tires. Loans are issued through participating
financial institutions.  Eligibility depends on the size of the
fleet and other conditions.  More information on ARB’s loan
program is available at
http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/truckstop/funding/loans_fa.htm


Does the replacement truck have to be brand new?
No.  Grants can be used to purchase a new or used replacement
truck.

Does it matter where I buy the truck? 
Yes. The trucks must be bought from a dealer participating in
the VIP. Participating dealers – currently about 60 statewide –
are trained in the program and have all application papers at
hand. For a list of participating dealers, please visit
www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/moyer/voucher/dealerlist/dealerlist.htm or
call the toll free ARB diesel hotline at 866-6DIESEL.

Can I get funding even if I’m not based in an urban area?
Yes.  VIP grants are available to truckers who travel anywhere
California, regardless of where they are based.

Can I use VIP funding to buy a newer port truck?
No.  Port trucks-- those working in ports and intermodal rails
for the past two or more years -- are not eligible. 

What does the public get in exchange for the grant?
Cleaner air. Recipients are bound by law to scrap the old trucks
and operate the replacements at least 75 percent of the time in
California for at least three years.

How do I apply?
Applications are available at participating truck dealers and
retrofit installers.

How long does it take to get approved?
Applicants are notified within five business days.


For other questions, please call the ARB diesel hotline at
866-6DIESEL (866-634-3735) or visit www.arb.ca.gov/truckstop

####

Columnist, Tony Brasil is the manager of ARB’s Heavy Duty
Diesel
Implementation Branch.  While he cannot answer every question,
he
will select several to answer each month.  To contact Tony,
please email CATruckinQandA@ARB.ca.gov




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