SEMA and PRI File Amicus Brief with Supreme Court, Challenge California’s ICE Vehicle Ban

The Specialty Equipment Market Association and PRI have taken a significant step in challenging California’s authority to limit the sale of internal combustion engine vehicles. On August 7, SEMA and PRI filed an amicus brief with the Supreme Court of the United States in the case of Diamond Alternative Energy, LLC v. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The brief argues against the EPA’s decision to grant California the power to enforce restrictions on ICE vehicle sales, a move that could have sweeping consequences across the nation.

California’s Advanced Clean Car II Regulations Under Scrutiny

At the heart of the issue is California’s use of an EPA waiver to adopt Advanced Clean Car II regulations. These regulations aim to phase out the sale of ICE vehicles, beginning with model years 2017 through 2025, and ultimately leading to a complete ban by 2035. As many as 16 other states have opted into California’s stringent regulations, potentially extending their impact well beyond California’s borders.

The Broader Impact on the Automotive Aftermarket Industry

SEMA’s brief highlights the nationwide importance of this case, urging the Supreme Court to review the legality of California’s actions. The organization argues that California’s non-technology-neutral approach could devastate the automotive aftermarket industry, which includes over 7,000 SEMA members. SEMA contends that this waiver would stifle innovation in an industry known for its contributions to cleaner, safer vehicles.

The potential fallout from California’s ICE Waiver could ripple through numerous associated industries, including motorsports, vehicle restoration, and automotive technology. These sectors not only contribute to the economy but also play a vital role in preserving automotive culture and fostering innovation.

SEMA’s Call for Technological Neutrality

SEMA has long championed a technology-neutral approach, reflecting the innovation that has defined the specialty automotive aftermarket industry. This sector contributes $337 billion annually to the U.S. economy and supports 1.3 million jobs nationwide. Many participants in the aftermarket are small businesses leading the charge in alternative-fuel innovations, including the conversion of older ICE vehicles to electric or hydrogen power.

“California has already declared the winner of the race,” SEMA argues in its brief, “and by extension, begins to foreclose on the innovations and unique contributions to cleaner vehicles and parts that the aftermarket has been providing for years.” The organization stresses the importance of the case not only for the specialty equipment aftermarket but also for consumers and the public, who benefit from the inventive products this industry creates.

The Path Forward

As the case progresses, the automotive industry and its supporters will be watching closely. SEMA’s appeal to the Supreme Court underscores the far-reaching implications of California’s regulations, and the decision could shape the future of automotive innovation and the aftermarket industry in the United States. SEMA is calling for a review of the ICE Waiver, arguing that it is crucial for protecting innovation, consumer choice, and the economic health of the automotive industry