While a wide variety of technologies exist to reduce fuel costs for trucking companies, many fleets lack the up-front investment capital to benefit from them. The SmartWay Clean Diesel Finance program aims to accelerate the deployment of energy-efficient and emissions-control technologies by helping vehicle owners overcome financial obstacles.
In 2008, EPA awarded $3.4 million to support three loan programs to help small trucking companies reduce fuel costs and emissions by purchasing newer used trucks and idling and emissions reduction technologies, EPA says.
SmartWay also provides a financial clearinghouse website with access to private lenders who help carriers obtain a loan for a SmartWay-certified tractor, trailer or approved fuel savings and emissions reducing technologies. You can submit a loan application at www.SmartwayFinanceCenter.com. This website allows one free application that is distributed to participating lenders for their consideration.