WASHINGTON, D.C. – EPA is planning to propose modernized emissions testing for new motorcycles to better reflect real-world conditions, according to the National Association of Fleet Administrators (NAFA). The new test procedures will reflect those recently adopted by the United Nation's World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations. Public health and the environment will realize the emissions control benefits of better testing, while the motorcycle industry can gain greater efficiencies by using one test procedure worldwide. This is the first time the forum has developed a global technical regulation focusing on the environment. The internationally recognized regulation is supported worldwide by the United States, Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, and several other countries. Through its standard regulatory process, EPA will propose to implement the new Forum-approved Worldwide-harmonized Motorcycle Test Cycle, which incorporates emissions testing technologies and more accurately reflects current driving characteristics. The new test procedure was developed by experts from eight nations and the European Commission, with input from the motorcycle and emission control technology manufacturing industries, as well as from motorcycle drivers. Once EPA finalizes the new test cycle regulations, they will be used to certify that new on-highway motorcycles meet U.S. emissions standards. This regulation will not affect motorcycles that are currently on the road or those certified for sale in the United States prior to final adoption of the new test procedure regulations. EPA plans to issue a proposed rulemaking in 2006. For more information, visit: www.epa.gov/otaq/roadbike.htm/.
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