U.S. EPA eyes stricter emissions regulations

New diesel vehicles are set to face tougher emissions regulations, the U.S. Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) said. The new rules are expected to come into effect by 2012. The EPA stated that the changes are modeled on the Euro 5 regulation that came into effect in EU member states in 2008. Regulations allow diesel vehicle exhaust emissions to contain up to 25% smoke. This will be cut to 15% for new vehicles and 20% for older vehicles when the new rules come into effect. The EPA stated that the amount of carbon dioxide and other emissions permitted will also be lowered. The EPA also announced tougher restrictions on diesel fuel. The new rules will limit sulfur content to 10 parts per million (ppm), from 50ppm. (October 28, 2009)