A recent study by the American Transportation Research Institute highlights concerns regarding the feasibility of mandating electric vehicles (EVs) in the trucking industry. The study, titled “Renewable Diesel – A Catalyst for Decarbonization,” utilizes data from the U.S. Department of Energy’s GREET model to showcase renewable diesel’s (RD) significantly lower carbon footprint over its lifecycle compared to battery-electric trucks. The report suggests that widescale adoption of RD in trucking can be achieved at a fraction of the cost of electrification.

While acknowledging the potential of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and ongoing testing by some fleets like PITT OHIO, industry stakeholders caution against one-size-fits-all mandates imposed by regulatory bodies such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB). These mandates, they argue, fail to account for the diverse operational needs of the trucking sector and overlook alternative fuel sources like RD, which offer superior environmental, operational, and financial benefits.

The report challenges the classification of BEV trucks as “zero-emission” under EPA regulations, highlighting the oversight of their full life-cycle carbon footprint. It asserts that while BEVs reduce tailpipe emissions, the sourcing and production of lithium-ion batteries, along with electricity generation, contribute significant carbon emissions. In contrast, substituting renewable diesel for petroleum diesel yields a much greater carbon reduction, nearly 70%.

Critics argue that EV mandates lack a comprehensive cost/benefit analysis and could lead to inflated costs and industry consolidation. Full electrification of the U.S. trucking fleet, as proposed by California, could require over $1 trillion in infrastructure investment alone, making it economically unviable for many trucking companies. Moreover, the limited range of current BEV technology poses practical challenges for long-haul trucking operations, whereas RD offers flexibility with no range limitations.

Trucking industry representatives emphasize their commitment to environmental sustainability and advocate for technology-neutral policies that support a range of low-carbon fuel sources. They assert that a pragmatic approach, considering factors such as cost-effectiveness and operational feasibility, is crucial for achieving a zero-emission future. Overall, the study raises important questions about the efficacy and economic viability of EV mandates in the trucking sector, calling for a more balanced and inclusive approach to decarbonization efforts.

 Inspired by: https://www.trucking.org/news-insights/ev-mandates-trucking-industry-are-disconnected-reality