MEMA raises alarm over failed California talks

The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association has issued a warning over collapsed negotiations in California.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) were negotiating with the California Air Resources Board (CARB) on the Safer Affordable Fuel-Efficient (SAFE) Vehicles Rule for passenger cars and light trucks for model years 2021-2026.

Saying it was “disappointed” with the failed talks and warning of “uncertainty” and “damaging effects,” MEMA is urging the federal government in the U.S. to come to an agreement in the country’s most populated state.

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“The collapse in discussions on a One National Program with California may trigger litigation and long-term regulatory uncertainty. This will have damaging effects on industry’s ability to invest and plan for the future,” the group said in a statement, restating its support for the program. “A One National Program with California will maintain market stability and predictability, allow motor vehicle suppliers to make important long-term business planning decisions, continue to grow supplier jobs, drive domestic investments, and secure the billions of dollars in investments motor vehicle suppliers have already made in developing these emissions-reducing technologies for the fuel efficiency and vehicle emissions programs.

“We sincerely hope that this action can be reversed and that all parties can return to meaningful negotiations.”