Shifting Gears: The Energy Transition in Freight Transport

What do Europe, the USA, China, and Africa have in common?
Diesel engines power the majority of their heavy-duty road transport.

Climate Targets:

Here's a look at the specific targets these regions have set:

• China and Africa have a similar goal to be carbon neutral by 2060.
• Europe aims for climate neutrality by 2050, planning to achieve this by reducing net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030, compared to 1990 levels.
• The USA has a carbon neutrality target set for 2050.

The interest in cutting emissions is focusing on achieving significant reductions in heavy-duty truck emissions. Electric and hydrogen fuel cell technologies are seen as the two most promising pathways for the trucking industry.

The key challenge lies in establishing a realistic roadmap with broad public and industry support. Hydrogen and electric infrastructure development will require huge efforts and investments.

Liquid biogas (LBG) is another viable option considered, but it does have tailpipe emissions, unlike the previously mentioned electric and hydrogen technologies.

Cost-wise, all non-diesel engines currently have a 2-3 times higher upfront cost compared to diesel engines.

Ten years ago electricity wasn't seen as a feasible option but now it's taking some promising steps. It might also be that we haven't even yet discovered the main power source that will be used in 2050.

We're living in interesting times! I think one thing that is for sure is that the use of diesel will start to rapidly decline in the coming years.

What's your take on the subject?