Reality Check on Trucking Technology

by Allen Schaeffer (Engine Technology Forum) ... More than 97% of Class 8 trucks are powered by diesel engines. Insights from last week’s ACT Expo – the Advanced Clean Transportation event hosted by TRC – offered a compelling glimpse into the future of trucking.

Understandably, dramatic shifts and considerable uncertainty in federal emissions and energy policy occurring under President Trump dominated the airwaves. Veteran trucking journalist Jack Roberts aptly summarized the mindset on emissions standards in his assessment of ACT Expo: “Pause rather than retreat.” We agree.

Truck and engine manufacturers remain committed to a sustainable future – while continuing to provide their customers with the trucks they need. Despite ongoing policy uncertainty, OEMS are staying true to their mission: offering solutions that enhance efficiency, boost productivity, and help fleets meet their operational goals. That includes a full range of powertrain options – from all-electric models to advanced diesel and natural gas. Manufacturers acknowledged that shifting regulations and tariffs are creating challenges for their operations and supply chains.

Jennifer Rumsey, Chairman and CEO of engine maker Cummins, predicted many power solutions and alternative fuel sources will be in the mix for a long time in transportation’s sustainability journey. Her prescription for moving the industry forward? (1) The right regulations – with time and certainty to meet them, (2) considering a fuel or technology’s lifecycle emissions and not just tailpipe emissions, and (3) finding the best solution for business and application needs. She foresees the industry continuing to operate internal combustion engines for years to come.

Martin Lundstedt, CEO and President of Volvo Group, in an interview with TruckNews affirmed the company’s strategy to zero emissions would not be impacted by uncertainties around federal emissions regulations. Volvo’s strategy remains three-pronged: battery-electric, fuel-cell-electric, and internal combustion engines running on clean fuels. Volvo already has over 700 VNR electric trucks operating on U.S. roads

Mandates to transition from internal combustion engines to zero-emission technologies in commercial trucks have encountered significant roadblocks. Federal rules adopted in the past two years, which called for stricter emissions standards and a rise in the number of ZEVs (Phase 3 GHG), are now uncertain.

Many believe these rules are overly ambitious, forcing manufacturers to produce trucks the market isn't ready to buy, while also lacking the necessary charging infrastructure to support them.

California’s plan to decarbonize the trucking sector has also been partially upended. The rule requiring truck manufacturers to produce more zero-emission technologies (the Advanced Clean Trucks Rule) and limiting the sale of diesel trucks, many fleets prefer, remains in effect.

Renewable diesel and natural gas also garnered significant attention at the ACT Expo. These drop-in replacement fuels are proven to reduce emissions while utilizing advanced, near-zero emissions engines without requiring changes to vehicles or fueling infrastructure. They enable fleets to enhance their sustainability immediately, while other approaches will take more time to sort out.

Advanced internal combustion engines – powered by diesel or natural gas – remain the most proven, available, and versatile option for fleets to deliver freight. Fleets are continuing to invest in advanced diesel technology, and we project that nearly two-thirds of all Class 8 trucks in operation are now 2010 or newer models, up from 61% in 2024. This latest generation of advanced diesel engines significantly reduces particulate matter and nitrogen oxide emissions. READ MORE