A group of major truck manufacturers suing California over its Clean Truck Partnership (CTP), calling the agreement invalid after recent federal action.
The lawsuit, filed in the Eastern District of California, includes big names like Daimler Truck, PACCAR, Volvo Group, and International Motors. These manufacturers argue that Congress’s June 2025 decision to revoke key emissions regulations under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) has stripped California of the authority to enforce the CTP’s zero-emission sales targets.
The Clean Truck Partnership
The CTP was originally formed in 2023 between California’s Air Resources Board (CARB) and several truck makers to align on ambitious targets for zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles. The partnership sought to smooth industry compliance with rules like the Advanced Clean Trucks regulation, while helping California meet its climate goals.
Why the Lawsuit?
Manufacturers say the federal rollback means these agreements now conflict with national standards, leaving them stuck between complying with California’s rules or following federal law. The U.S. Department of Justice has also indicated that the programs and the CTP could be preempted, adding weight to the industry’s position.
California’s Response
California isn’t backing down. Governor Gavin Newsom has issued an executive order reaffirming the commitment to clean vehicle policies, even as legal battles loom. California has also joined others in suing to protect its clean air waivers, signaling it will continue to pursue aggressive ZEV policies regardless of federal pushback.
Why This Is Important
The outcome of this case could reshape the future of zero-emission heavy-duty transport in the U.S. If California loses, it may have to scale back or reframe its approach. If it wins, it could reinforce state-level authority to set stricter environmental standards than federal law—potentially influencing national policy.
As the legal fight unfolds, truck makers, policymakers, and environmental advocates will be watching closely. For now, the Clean Truck Partnership stands at a crossroads.
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