Truckers Can’t Afford to Buy Cleaner Vehicles

Re: “Study Details Port Pollution Threat” (March 22):

Most of these tractor-trailer rigs have dirty engines.

Much of the blame lies in how the owner-operators are compensated. They cannot afford the newer tractors with the so-called clean engines.

Engines on the newer-model tractors cut down pollution more than 75%. Newer tractors are controlled by computers, which can be programmed to shut down the engine automatically after it idles a few minutes. The computer also controls the engine’s fuel system.

So, increase the compensation package; then the operators can upgrade to new units and won’t have to purchase the old, outdated, castoff trucks.

It’s doubtful you’ll see that happen.

Wayne McAdams

Whittier