Boosting Diesel Performance: Trump’s EPA Rollback May Not Mean Total Freedom

The Diesel Aftermarket’s Uncertain Future Under a New Administration
The past four years have been a rollercoaster for the diesel aftermarket. Companies that once raked in millions from performance parts now find themselves facing significant financial burdens. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has increased enforcement, leading to a perfect storm of financial struggles and regulatory woes. Diesel tuners, in particular, have been hit hard, with some facing civil penalties and even felony charges.
However, with a new administration taking office, some in the industry are holding out hope for a change in the script. As President Trump prepares to leave office, many are anticipating a shift back towards a more lenient approach to regulations and enforcement.
A Conversation with Kory Willis and SEMA’s Dean Schlingmann
To gain insight into the industry’s status ahead of Trump’s inauguration, we spoke with Kory Willis, founder and president of PPEI Tuning, and Dean Schlingmann, director of emissions compliance at SEMA. Both are deeply embedded in the diesel aftermarket and have a keen understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Willis is optimistic about the future, believing that Trump’s administration will roll back many of the regulations imposed during the previous administration. He even predicted that the requirement for CARB Executive Order numbers for certain products will be dropped by February.
Schlingmann, on the other hand, is more measured in his approach. While he acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding the industry, he believes that SEMA’s role in educating its members and staying compliant with regulations will remain crucial. He notes that the organization will continue to advocate for clearer definitions of race-only parts and engage with regulators to ensure that the industry is on the right path.
The Importance of Staying Compliant
Schlingmann emphasizes the importance of staying informed and compliant with regulations. He warns that attempting to circumvent the law will only lead to trouble, and that it’s better to be open and transparent about the products being sold.
Willis agrees, noting that attempting to hide from regulations will only result in failure. He believes that the industry must adapt to the changing regulatory landscape and focus on creating products that meet the new standards.
The Road Ahead
As the industry navigates the uncertain landscape ahead, one thing is clear: staying informed and compliant with regulations will be crucial to success. While some may attempt to hide from the law, Schlingmann and SEMA are committed to educating their members and advocating for the industry’s interests.
Willis’s optimism about the future is a welcome respite from the turmoil of the past few years. However, only time will tell if his predictions come to pass. One thing is certain: the diesel aftermarket will continue to evolve, and those who stay informed and adapt to the changing landscape will be best positioned for success.
Key Takeaways
- The diesel aftermarket has faced significant challenges in recent years, including increased enforcement and regulatory woes.
- With a new administration taking office, some in the industry are holding out hope for a shift back towards a more lenient approach to regulations and enforcement.
- Staying informed and compliant with regulations is crucial to success in the industry.
- SEMA and organizations like it play a vital role in educating their members and advocating for the industry’s interests.
- Attempting to circumvent the law will only lead to trouble, and it’s better to be open and transparent about the products being sold.