Heavy Road Transport: Pathways to Decarbonization

Transforming freight for a net-zero future

The Challenge

Heavy road transport emits 1.8 gigatons of CO₂ annually - 4% of global emissions

🌍 Global Impact

Transport sector accounts for 7.7 Gt CO₂ per year, representing 23% of global emissions

🚛 Critical Sector

Heavy and medium trucks are essential for global supply chains and economic activity

⏰ Urgent Action

Industry leaders have set targets to decarbonize by 2050 with significant planned investments

Decarbonization Pathways

⚡ Electrification

Battery electric trucks for short to medium-haul routes with charging infrastructure

💧 Hydrogen Fuel Cells

Hydrogen-powered trucks for long-haul transport with higher energy density

🌱 Alternative Fuels

Biofuels, e-fuels, and synthetic fuels as transition solutions

📊 Efficiency Gains

Aerodynamic improvements, route optimization, and load management

Technology Solutions

Battery Electric Vehicles

Suitable for urban delivery and regional transport with ranges up to 500km

Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles

Ideal for long-haul freight with faster refueling and longer range capabilities

Smart Logistics

AI-powered route planning, predictive maintenance, and fleet optimization

Implementation Challenges

💰 Cost Barriers

Higher upfront costs for zero-emission vehicles compared to diesel trucks

🔌 Infrastructure

Need for widespread charging and hydrogen refueling networks

⚙️ Technology Maturity

Ongoing development needed for battery capacity and fuel cell efficiency

📋 Policy Support

Regulatory frameworks and incentives required to accelerate adoption

Path Forward

🤝

Collaboration

Industry partnerships between OEMs, energy providers, and logistics companies

💡

Innovation

Continued R&D in battery technology, fuel cells, and alternative fuels

🎯

Policy

Supportive regulations, carbon pricing, and zero-emission vehicle mandates