SF 2143: Relating to the maximum weight of vehicles powered primarily by natural gas or electric battery, and making penalties applicable

What it does

Current law limits the maximum gross weight of a vehicle based on the highway on which the vehicle is operated and the number of axles and the distance between the axles on the vehicle. Generally, the maximum gross weight of a vehicle, including towed vehicles, is 80,000 pounds when operated on a highway in Iowa. Certain exceptions exist including but not limited to specially permitted vehicles and vehicles with six or seven axles while operated on noninterstate highways. Additionally, a motor vehicle equipped with an engine fueled primarily by natural gas may exceed the standard weight limit and is authorized to weigh up to 82,000 pounds, as long as the vehicle’s excessive weight equals the difference between the weight of the vehicle attributable to the natural gas tank and fueling system installed in the vehicle and the weight of a comparable diesel fuel tank and fueling system.

Lobbying · 1 for, 0 against

For: Tesla

In plain words

1. January 30, 2024Filed in the Senate
2. January 30, 2024Approved by the Senate committee
3. February 21, 2024Passed the Senate, 43–2