Truckers wanting to invest in fuel-saving, cleaner equipment have a new resource.

The Environmental Protection Agency has set up a Web site at smartwayfinancecenter.com to assist truck operators who want to obtain financing for SmartWay approved technologies to save fuel and reduce pollution. 

Paul Bubbosh of EPA’s Office of Transportation and Air Quality announced that the SmartWay Finance Center would be officially launched on Friday, March 28th.

The EPA does not provide the actual financing. Rather, it contracted for that with iBank, which was selected after an open bidding process.

According to Tom Markel, vice president of iBank, the bank coordinates with private sector lending institutions that are selected for their understanding of owner-operators’ and small fleets’ needs and business environment, and their willingness to work with truckers.

iBank and EPA created a standardized application form, so applicants only need to fill it out once. The form will then be circulated to all lenders in the applicant’s area. For those without computers or Web access, a toll-free phone number will be available, 1-877-767-8875.

Idle reduction technologies, aerodynamics, wheels and tires, and fuel-efficient tractors and trailers are among the product categories eligible for financing through the program.

Only affiliates in good standing are eligible to have their products financed through the SmartWay Finance Center. No makers of chemicals or fuel line devices and magnets are currently affiliates of the SmartWay program.

SmartWay says there are no guarantees of getting a lease or a loan. The SmartWay Finance Center will simply act as a facilitator between lenders or lessors and applicants, making the process easier.  Interest rates and acceptance will depend on the applicant’s credit score. An applicant can expect a response in two to five business days.