The Zero Emission Forklift Rule is currently in development, with CARB approval expected in 2023. This rule is phasing out the use of propane forklifts in California and requiring the use of Zero Emission engines (such as electric or hydrogen) instead. PineSpire is following the rulemaking closely and keeping our partners up-to-date on the latest changes. In July, CARB released the latest draft Rule. We’ve summarized major updates for you below.

Changes to Propane Lift Phase-Out Schedule

There are 3 major changes to how the phase-out of propane combustion forklifts is proposed:

• Phase Out Requirements will begin Jan 1st, 2026 and are based on the forklift model year.
• The Phase-out timeline is now different for Class IV (cushion tire) forklifts than Class V (pneumatic tire) forklifts. Class IV cushion tire forklifts are typically used indoors only, whereas Class V pneumatic lifts are capable of outdoor operations.
• There is a maximum percent of fleet required to be turned over each year. This change helps spread out the cost to fleet owners over more years. This revised timeline and fleet cap is shown in the table below.

Rentals, Reporting, Exemption Updates

CARB has changed direction on addressing rental forklifts in the Zero Emission Forklift rule, and is now proposing that all rental fleets must meet the phase-out requirements (with no percent of fleet cap). This puts the burden on rental fleet owners rather than the originally proposed fleet operator requirements. Expect this to have a significant effect on forklift rentals in California.

The updated draft Rule also has further clarifications on exemptions, such as for low-use forklifts (operated <200 hrs per year), rough-terrain forklifts, and forklifts greater than 12,000 lbs capacity.

The reporting and compliance with the rule will be done in the DOORS system. The draft Rule simplifies many of the fleet operators reporting requirements.

Give CARB Feedback

CARB is holding meetings with stakeholders that want to provide comment, or you can submit them via email. The next public meeting on the proposed rule is expected late this summer. If you want to make your voice heard, you can reach out to CARB directly at zeforklifts@arb.ca.gov. Or reach out to PineSpire about collaborating on the issues.

The Upside of Electric

When evaluating your fleets compliance and the return on investment by switching to electric fleets, there are a lot of upsides. Instead of buying propane, LCFS credits give you revenue every time you fuel your e-forklift. There are upsides in O&M and safety as well. Reach out if you’d like an evaluation of your potential LCFS revenue and fuel savings: contact@PineSpire.com