Peterbilt Unveils New Electric Truck Models While Dispute With California Continues - CleanTechnica

Peterbilt, a PACCAR-owned company, has introduced three new battery-powered medium-duty electric truck models—536EV, 537EV, and 548EV—expanding its zero-emissions vehicle lineup amid an ongoing legal dispute with the state of California. This dispute centers on California’s stricter emissions regulations for medium and heavy-duty trucks, which PACCAR and other manufacturers had previously agreed to comply with under the Clean Truck Partnership. However, the federal government revoked California’s waiver allowing these standards, declaring the state’s regulations and the partnership unlawful, leading to litigation that remains unresolved. Despite the legal uncertainties, Peterbilt’s announcement highlights a strategic focus on electric vehicle development driven by both regulatory and economic factors. The new models are designed to meet diverse customer needs with zero tailpipe emissions, enhanced safety features, and configurations optimized for regional delivery, service, utility, and vocational applications. This move suggests that manufacturers may pursue electrification not only to comply with mandates but also to capitalize on market demand for