Charting the Path to Net Zero for Canada’s Class 8 Long-Haul Freight

By Cedric Smith, Pollution Probe 

Class 8 long-haul trucks represent the highest greenhouse gas (GHG) emitting segment of Canada’s medium and heavy-duty vehicle sector due to their extensive travel distances and heavy payloads. Though this sector remains a critical part of the economy, its significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions makes it a priority target for decarbonization efforts. 

In order for Canada to reach its 2030 and 2050 climate goals, changes need to be made across our transportation sector, with investment and policy support needed from both private and public organizations. Thankfully, the growing awareness of the environmental and health ramifications of diesel exhaust and the urgent need to mitigate these impacts has catalyzed the exploration of zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) technologies in the sector, including hydrogen fuel cell and battery electric options.

In response to these challenges, Pollution Probe, in collaboration with Delphi and Mobility Futures Lab and funded by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), recently completed a comprehensive study to explore the feasibility of transitioning to zero-emission Class 8 long-haul trucks in Canada. The study, “Charting the Path to Zero Emissions for Class 8 Long-Haul Freight,” identifies the barriers and opportunities associated with this transition and provides recommendations for stakeholders to facilitate the adoption of ZEV and alternative fuel technologies in the long-haul trucking sector.

While there are commercially available examples of both battery electric vehicle (BEV) and fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) Class 8 trucks on the Canadian market, challenges remain in terms of cost, weight and charging/ refueling. This report provides a critical analysis of these technologies, considering the operational challenges, infrastructure requirements and policies needed to support their adoption. Both offer pathways to decarbonization, with unique benefits, requirements and considerations. Key highlights include:

1. Technological Viability: The study found that BEV and FCEV technologies are the most promising ZEV options for Class 8 long-haul trucks. Advancements in battery energy density and hydrogen fuel cell efficiency have made these technologies increasingly viable for long-haul applications.
2. Infrastructure Requirements: A significant barrier to the adoption of ZEVs in long-haul trucking is the lack of adequate refueling and recharging infrastructure. Creating the necessary infrastructure by establishing a widespread network of electric charging stations and hydrogen refueling stations along major transportation corridors is essential to support the deployment of zero-emission trucks.
3. Economic Considerations: The initial capital costs of ZEVs are higher than those of traditional diesel trucks. Investments, incentive programs and financial support mechanisms can enhance the economic attractiveness of zero-emission trucks for fleet operators.
4. Policy and Regulatory Support: Government policies and regulations play a crucial role in facilitating the transition to zero-emission long-haul trucking. Implementing stringent emission standards, providing incentives for ZEV adoption, and investing in infrastructure development are key actions that can drive the shift towards sustainable long-haul transportation.

The transition to zero-emission Class 8 long-haul trucking would lead to significant implications for Canada’s transportation industry. Fleet operators must consider the operational changes associated with ZEV adoption. Logistics planning, driver training, and fleet management will need to adapt to the new technology landscape, but the benefits far outweigh the challenges of adoption. Transitioning to ZEVs can lead to substantial emissions reductions, improving air quality and reducing the environmental footprint of freight transportation. Investment in ZEV infrastructure will not only facilitate the transition but also create economic opportunities. The development of charging and hydrogen refueling networks will drive demand for new technologies, attract investment, and generate employment in the clean energy and transportation sectors.

The health benefits of decarbonization are also clear. Diesel exhaust, a byproduct of Class 8 vehicle operation, contains several harmful pollutants. Exposure has been documented to lead to worsening cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses, especially for residents living near highways where these trucks frequently operate, and for the operators driving these trucks day after day. The impacts of diesel exhaust from long-haul trucking on the general population’s health highlight the urgency in addressing emissions from this sector.

The transition to zero-emission long-haul trucking is an ambitious but necessary step for Canada’s transportation industry. Successful implementation of ZEVs in long-haul trucking will not only contribute to health and safety improvements across the sector, but also position Canada as a leader in clean transportation, contributing to both environmental and economic progress.

The transition to zero-emission long-haul freight is both a challenge and an opportunity for Canada to lead in sustainable transportation. By addressing technological, infrastructural, economic, and policy challenges and investing in the right technologies and infrastructure today, we can reduce emissions, improve air quality, and position our economy for a better, greener future while paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient freight sector. As Canada strives toward a zero-emission future, fleet operators, policymakers, and industry stakeholders will need to take action, leveraging studies like this in order to navigate the road ahead.