Gravity-Fueled Vehicles Seek Exemption Renewal: Safe Only When Parked
Published Date: 1/16/2026
Notice
Summary
Charles Machine Works, part of The Toro Company, wants to keep using special fuel systems that work by gravity or siphon on their commercial vehicles—but only when the vehicles aren’t moving. The government is asking for your thoughts before deciding to renew this 5-year exemption. If you have opinions, speak up by February 17, 2026, so these machines can keep running safely and smoothly.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Renewal sought to allow gravity‑fed fuel use
Charles Machine Works (a Toro Company subsidiary) is asking FMCSA to renew a 5-year exemption that lets its commercial motor vehicles use gravity-fed or siphon-fed fuel systems for certain auxiliary equipment only when the vehicle is stationary. FMCSA previously granted a 5-year exemption on September 16, 2020 and CMW reports no known incidents during that exemption period. The Agency is requesting public comments on the renewal; comments are due by February 17, 2026.
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FMCSA withdraws its January 16, 2026, notice that requested public comment on an application from Charles Machine Works, Inc. (CMW) seeking renewal of a five-year exemption from the Agency's prohibition against the use of gravity-fed or siphon-fed fuel systems on commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). FMCSA has determined that the Agency's February 19, 2026, final rule titled "Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operation; Auxiliary Fuel Tanks," provided the requested relief by amending the relevant regulation in a way that resolves the concerns outlined in CMW's original exemption request. Consequently, the exemption is now unnecessary, not only for CMW but also for any other entities that might have planned to request an exemption from the prohibition on gravity-fed or siphon-fed fuel systems on CMVs.
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