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Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Transportation unveiled its National Roadway Safety Strategy, which identified speed as a significant factor in fatal crashes and speed management as a primary tool to reduce serious injuries and fatalities. To address this industry-wide issue, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued a notice of intent in late April to solicit comments. The comments will inform a supplementary notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM), which will include a proposal to amend the regulations and set a speed limit. Federal regulators will suggest setting a truck speed limit using electronic engine devices. The proposed rule is anticipated in 2023.
The Fine Print
The notice of intent outlined the following: “The SNPRM will propose that motor carriers operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 11,794 kilograms or more (26,001 pounds or more), whichever is greater, that are equipped with an electronic engine control unit (ECU) capable of governing the maximum speed be required to limit the CMV to a speed to be determined by the rulemaking and to maintain that ECU setting for the service life of the vehicle.”
Why It Matters to Your Fleet
The FMCSA is placing the responsibility of complying with the ruling on motor carriers rather than on truck manufacturers.
“FMCSA believes that placing the requirement on motor carriers will ensure compliance with the rule and potentially avoid confusion on who is responsible,” according to the notice. “FMCSA will continue to consult with NHTSA during the development of this rule. If necessary, NHTSA will evaluate the need for additional regulatory actions concerning CMV manufacturer requirements to address issues raised during implementation that are beyond the scope of FMCSA’s authority.”
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