EPA extends ULSD deadline

EPA announced that it will extend the transition period for retail diesel outlets to provide ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) from September 1 to October 15, 2006. During this time, the sulfur limit for on-highway diesel fuel is 22 ppm; the 15-ppm requirement goes into effect October 16, 2006.

The extension addresses concerns raised by refiners, suppliers and stakeholders that diesel sulfur levels may rise above the 15-ppm threshold because of mingling with earlier batches of higher sulfur fuels, EPA told FLEET OWNER.

This will have no effect on the planned introduction of clean diesel vehicles and engines slated for fall 2006, EPA said.