2022MembershipDirectory_FNLdigital

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DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES

DMV Adopts Rule Eliminating EV Pickup Weight Limits on Parkways In May, the State of NewYork adopted a regulation allowing electric and hybrid pickup trucks of any weight to use the state’s parkway system. The change, which became effective on May 25, 2022, also allows New Yorkers to register EVs over 6,000 lbs. with standard passenger plates. Since last year, GNYADA has advocated for this change with the Department of Motor Vehicles. Under the new regulation, customers can avoid the potential registration headaches when buying or leasing one of these new, but heavier EV models. Newer, EV versions of pick-up trucks generally weigh more than their internal combustion counterparts. Until now, EVs weighing more than 6,000 lbs. were prohibited from accessing the State’s parkways. GNYADA’s concern with the old rule was that the parkway weight limit might have discouraged consumers from buying electric pick-ups.

Early this year, DMV informed GNYADA and the states other dealer associations that the agency would undertake a rule change process, which began on March 2nd. The process ended when the department published an official notice of adoption and responded to public comments it received. Scan the QR code to see the notice. The Association appreciates DMV’s receptivity to the proposal and working within the administrative process to get it done. GNYADA also thanks Commissioner Mark Schroeder and his team for embracing the change. Noisy Muffler Issues The New York State Sleep Act went into effect in April. This law impacts both vehicle owners and dealers. The new law can fine motorists up to $1,000 for driving with mufflers that have been modified to make them louder. The act’s name comes from the idea that eliminating noisy muffler modifications will keep the streets quieter at night when New Yorkers are trying to get their forty winks.

But the new law also has penalties that dealers should be aware of. Parts of the act deal with service centers that offer, sell, or install “a cut-out, bypass, or a similar device which will amplify or increase the noise emitted by the motor or exhaust system.” While the law contains no decibel restrictions, it clarifies that any

modification should not be louder than the OEM configuration. Repair shops that knowingly make noisy modifications risk enforcement from the DMV, allowing the Commissioner to revoke, suspend, or refuse to renew their repair shop license.

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