Manufacturersof trucks and buses taking a proactive role in emissions-free road transportation

The European truck and bus industry is making a significant push towards achieving climate-neutral road transport by 2030. This ambitious goal requires a substantial increase in the adoption of zero-emission vehicles in the sector.

The EU's 2030 target implies a significant shift towards zero-emission vehicles, with European vehicle manufacturers committing to delivering at least 400,000 such vehicles by 2030. Leading automakers such as Volkswagen and Daimler, with Daimler Buses already supplying electric eCitaro buses as part of zero-emission initiatives, are among those making this commitment.

The rapid increase in the number of zero-emission vehicles is crucial for meeting the EU's 45% CO2 reduction target for new vehicles compared to 2019. Currently, at least 45 battery-electric truck models are available, with 18 different bus and coach models, according to an overview compiled by the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA).

However, achieving this target requires more than just the production of zero-emission vehicles. Approximately 50,000 publicly accessible truck chargers are necessary to power the required fleet of battery-electric vehicles, and approximately 35,000 Megawatt Chargers (MCS) for swift re- and top-up-charging during regular driving breaks. Additionally, approximately 2,000 Hydrogen Refilling Stations (HRS) with a capacity of at least two tons per day are necessary for hydrogen-powered trucks.

Enabling conditions are necessary for swift market adoption of zero-emission vehicles, including a dense network of charging and hydrogen refilling infrastructure. Effective carbon pricing and additional measures that support fleet renewal and transport operator investments are also crucial.

The latest EU sales figures for the first half of 2024 show growth for zero-emission trucks, indicating a positive trend. However, registrations of zero-emission vehicles must increase significantly and fast to align with the CO2-reduction targets.

Hydrogen-powered trucks are the second major zero-emission technology, with some already in operation. The European heavy-duty vehicle industry, which is a B2B market primarily focused on total costs of ownership (TCO), is carefully considering the long-term costs and benefits of both battery-electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles.

The 2030 target sets a clear goal for the reduction of CO2 emissions from new trucks and buses. With the number of zero-emission vehicles in operation a key factor in achieving this goal, the industry is working diligently to meet this challenge. The ultimate aim is to create a cleaner, greener Europe for future generations.

Manufacturersof trucks and buses taking a proactive role in emissions-free road transportation