Massachusetts heavy-duty truck sales drop 99% due to mandate

Heavy-duty truck sales in Massachusetts have dropped dramatically due to a new electric vehicle (EV) sales mandate. This law requires that 7% of all medium and heavy-duty trucks sold in the state must be electric. Truck dealers believe this rule is too strict and say the current market for EV trucks is not ready. Dealers are also expressing concerns about inventory. Matt Preston, Vice President of Peterbilt Stores New England, mentioned that his dealership has not ordered any 2025 trucks because of the new rule. He noted that customers are seeking to order new trucks, but they can only sell what is currently available on the lot. The new rule is part of the Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) initiative. This requires manufacturers to sell a minimum number of zero-emission vehicles. To meet these targets, some manufacturers are reducing their sales of diesel vehicles. Environmentalists argue that the new regulations are necessary to improve air quality in Massachusetts. As a result of these changes, truck sales have plummeted by 99%. Kevin Weeks, from the Trucking Association of Massachusetts, shared that less than ten new trucks are on order, compared to over 1,000 last year. Buyers now have limited options and may be forced into purchasing electric trucks, which can increase the prices of gas-powered vehicles. Potential truck buyers must weigh the pros and cons of switching to electric. While EVs are better for the environment, there are many factors to consider before making a decision.