We have long expected an announcement on HGV decarbonisation during COP26 and we now have a decision.
Manufacturers are investing billions in new technologies including battery electric, fuel cell, hydrogen, and other alternative fuels to ensure road transport plays its part in delivering net zero. However, there is no single technological solution for every service HGVs perform, from delivering goods to supermarkets or removing refuse, to hauling minerals from quarries or cement to construction sites.
The industry had already pledged to sell only fossil fuel-free trucks by 2040 – and will introduce zero emission vehicles earlier in many cases. But there may still be some instances – specific and limited – for which electrified technologies are not yet feasible.
We expect further consultation on the detail over coming months. However, the key enabler to this transition is a dedicated HGV infrastructure, of which there is still no sign.
