Pollution Probe Charts Path to Zero Emissions for Class 8 Long-Haul Freight
Pollution Probe, in partnership with the Mobility Futures Lab and Delphi, has released a groundbreaking new report, “Charting the Path to Zero Emissions for Class 8 Long-Haul Freight,” outlining the necessary steps to decarbonize Canada’s long-haul transport sector. The report identifies two primary pathways toward decarbonizing long-haul freight: battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs).
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. Decarbonizing this sector can help Canada meet its net-zero emissions target, but investment and policy support are needed. While there are commercially available examples of both BEV and FCEV Class 8 trucks on the Canadian market, challenges remain in terms of cost, weight and charging/ refueling. This report highlights critical actions needed to accelerate the transition to zero-emission trucking by addressing these challenges.
“The transition to zero-emission long-haul freight is both a challenge and an opportunity for Canada to lead in sustainable transportation,” said Christopher Hilkene, Chief Executive Officer at Pollution Probe. “By investing in the right technologies and infrastructure today, we can reduce emissions, improve air quality, and position our economy for a better, greener future. Through this report we’ve highlighted the necessary steps to ensure the long-haul trucking sector is able to play its part in tackling climate change.”
Key Insights
Advancing BEV and FCEV Technology
According to the report, BEVs and FCEVs represent the two most viable solutions to decarbonize long-haul transport. However, both pathways require extensive infrastructure development:
- BEVs: The future of long-haul BEVs hinges on advancements in battery technology and the establishment of widespread fast-charging infrastructure across the country.
- FCEVs: Hydrogen fuel cell trucks offer a promising solution but require green hydrogen production and a comprehensive national hydrogen distribution network to support deployment.
Policy and Incentives
The report calls for accelerated policy support and financial incentives to close the cost gap between diesel internal combustion engine (ICE) trucks and ZEVs. With the current cost of ownership for ZEVs still higher than traditional diesel trucks, ongoing support for demonstration projects and infrastructure development is essential. Moreover, regulatory measures can help drive the manufacturing and adoption of alternative technologies, enabling a smoother market transition.
Challenges and Opportunities
While both BEV and FCEV trucks currently face challenges such as limited range and payload capacity compared to diesel trucks, the report emphasizes that further research and development by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) will improve the performance of these vehicles for long-haul applications. Additionally, the total cost of ownership is expected to decrease over time, with BEVs and FCEVs potentially offering lower maintenance costs compared to diesel trucks.
The Future of Long-Haul Freight
Looking ahead, the report stresses that investments in infrastructure—for both high-powered chargers and hydrogen refueling stations—will be vital in determining which technology gains dominance in specific freight corridors.
Pollution Probe continues to work with government bodies, industry leaders, and communities to push for transformative changes in Canada’s transportation sector. Through ongoing partnerships and innovative research, the organization is committed to driving real-world solutions that address climate change while promoting economic growth.
