The funds pay for all or a portion of the cost difference between a new diesel engine or vehicle and a clean-fueled version and associated infrastructure. Over its life, in some cases up to 20 years, the new vehicles and equipment will reduce more than 8,000 tons of nitrogen oxides, a key ingredient in smog. Alternative-fueled engines, such as those using compressed natural gas, liquefied natural gas, propane and electricity, will be given the highest priority. Cleaner diesel engines may be considered in some cases. Program funds can be used to help purchase new vehicles, new engines or to retrofit existing engines.
Some funding also is available for alternative fuel and electric charging stations.
Crucial to converting big rig trucks to clean fuels, is developing fueling infrastructure along the routes they travel. To help, AQMD has supported development of the Interstate Clean Transportation Corridor. Since its inception in January 1996, the Interstate Clean Transportation Corridor Project has been the nation s most successful public-private partnership dedicated to accelerating the market penetration of clean fuel vehicles in interstate goods movement. This equipment will reduce emissions of NOx by over 170 tons and diesel consumption by 1.4 million gallons annually. The project s first two natural gas fueling stations begin operation in October 1999, with 72 natural gas tractors utilizing this infrastructure.