ATD Chief Holmes Pushes United Front for Federal Excise Tax Elimination

Key Details American Truck Dealers Chairman Kevin Holmes is rallying the entire trucking industry behind a single mission: repealing the federal excise tax on new trucks. The 107-year-old tax, enacted in 1917, continues to burden carriers and dealers seeking to modernize their fleets with newer, cleaner equipment. Why It Matters The FET adds more than $20,000 to the cost of a typical Class 8 tractor, with combined tractor-trailer taxes potentially exceeding $40,000. Alternative powertrain vehicles face even steeper costs. Holmes, CEO of Advantage Truck Group, emphasizes that unified messaging from dealers, manufacturers, and carriers is essential to convince lawmakers to repeal the tax during surface transportation bill negotiations. Industry Alignment Holmes' priority as ATD chairman focuses on industry-wide cooperation rather than brand loyalty. He's working to align diverse stakeholders including American Trucking Associations, The Work Truck Association, and Zero Emission Transportation Association. This coordinated approach aims to provide legislators with complete information needed for informed decision-making. What's Next ATD is also advocating for EPA regulatory adjustments, including slower implementation of Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards and Nitrogen Oxide rules that could strain fleet investment strategies.